The Skaftafell: Falljokull Glacier Easy Group Hike offers a straightforward and accessible way to stand on Europe’s largest glacier. Priced at $109 per person and lasting around 3 hours, this tour is perfect for those looking to enjoy Iceland’s icy wilderness without extensive prior experience. The tour departs from Skaftafell and includes all essential glacier gear, such as crampons, helmets, harnesses, and ice axes, making it suitable even for beginners. The small group size of up to 14 participants ensures a personal experience and attentive guidance.

An added highlight is the guides’ expertise; reviews consistently praise their knowledge and enthusiasm. They lead you through impressive ice formations, crevasses, and ice falls, with front-row views of the stunning Vatnajökull glacier. The tour also includes a hot coffee and Icelandic chocolates to warm you after the hike, creating a cozy finish to the adventure. While the ice walk itself lasts about 1.5 hours, the entire experience from meeting to departure spans three hours.

Key Points

Price and Duration: The tour costs $109 per person and takes about 3 hours from start to finish.
Location: It departs from Skaftafell, Iceland, and includes a 10-minute bus ride to the glacier.
Guides and Safety: Led by experienced, knowledgeable guides who provide all necessary safety equipment.
Highlights: Walk on the Vatnajökull glacier, see moulins, crevasses, and ice falls, and learn fascinating glacier facts.
Accessibility: Suitable for children 8 years and older, with rented gear available if needed.
Reviews: Rated 4.7/5 with glowing praise for guides, scenery, and overall value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meeting Point and Transportation from Skaftafell

The tour begins at Tröll Expeditions Skaftafell, with the meeting point times varying based on booked options. After gathering gear and instructions, participants enjoy a 10-minute bus ride into Vatnajökull National Park, followed by a 15-minute walk to the glacier entry point. The bus ride and short walk help set the scene for the glacier exploration ahead.

The transportation logistics make this outing comfortable and straightforward, especially since parking is free at the meeting location. Guides ensure everyone is prepared before setting out to Falljökull, one of the most enchanting parts of Vatnajökull.

Love the outdoors? Here are other hiking experiences we've covered in Skaftafell

Accessing the Glacier and Equipment Provided

Once at the glacier, guides brief participants on safe walking techniques and how to use the equipment. The gear supplied includes helmets, crampons, harnesses, and ice axes, which are crucial for safety. Wearing a helmet is particularly emphasized to protect your head while navigating the icy fractures and crevasses.

The equipment and professional guidance mean that even those new to glaciers can participate confidently. Renting hiking boots and waterproof jackets and pants is an option if travelers do not bring their own.

The Glacier’s Impressive Features and Scenery

During the 1.5-hour glacier walk, guides showcase key features like crevasses, moulins, and ice falls. Viewers also learn about glacier mice, moss-covered ice formations unique to the icy landscape. The ice caverns and large ice formations create breathtaking scenery, and the ice distortions in the bedrock reveal how the glacier interacts with its environment.

Participants get close-up views of the epic ice-capped peaks of Falljokull, which are rugged and dramatic. The surrounding mountains’ moss line indicates where the ice once extended just a few years ago, offering insight into the glacier’s melting and retreat.

The Journey Through Vatnajökull National Park

The tour includes a 15-minute walk within Vatnajökull National Park before reaching the glacier. This walk offers scenic vistas of the park’s landscape, setting the tone for the ice adventure. The park’s geological features, such as distorted bedrock, become visible as the guide points out natural formations shaped by ice and time.

The final ascent to the glacier involves a brief safety briefing before stepping onto the frozen surface. The enchanting landscape and remarkable ice features make this part of the journey truly memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Guides and Their Expertise

The guides are a standout feature of this tour, with reviews highlighting their knowledge, passion, and safety-consciousness. They are described as friendly, engaging, and attentive to participants of all ages and abilities. Many reviews mention guides going beyond to make the experience special—taking photos, explaining glacier geology, and ensuring everyone feels safe.

Popular guides like Magi, Christina, Elena, and Mark receive high praise for their enthusiasm and professionalism. Their ability to balance safety with fun ensures a positive experience for both families and seasoned hikers.

While you're exploring Skaftafell, here are other experiences we've looked into

Suitable for Families and Beginners

This tour is not challenging but includes some inclines on the glacier. It is well suited for children aged 8 and above. The shorter glacier walk of around 1.5 hours makes it accessible for those with moderate fitness levels. The gear and guidance help reduce the complexity, allowing beginners to enjoy the glacial environment comfortably.

The small group size enhances safety and personal attention, making it an ideal activity for families or first-time glacier hikers.

What the Tour Doesn’t Include

The tour does not include hiking boots or waterproof clothing, but these can be rented on-site. Since the equipment is provided, travelers only need to bring hiking shoes and pants. The meeting point location and timing are flexible based on booking options, but check-in should occur 20 minutes prior to departure.

The duration allows enough time on the ice but note that actual glacier walking is approximately 1.5 hours. This is a manageable amount of time to experience the glacier without feeling rushed.

The Unique Advantage of an Expert-Led Ice Walk

The glacier features like crevasses and moulins are the highlights of the walk. Many reviews mention the guides’ ability to explain glacier formation, ice dynamics, and geology, making the experience both educational and breathtaking.

Participants have the chance to see inside ice caverns and observe massive ice formations up close. The expert guidance ensures safety while allowing travelers to explore confidently.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $109, this small-group glacier hike offers excellent value considering all gear, transportation, and expert guidance included. The reviews consistently praise the quality of guides and the scenic experience. The hot coffee and chocolates add a cozy touch after the icy adventure, making the experience feel complete.

Given the positive feedback and the high rating of 4.7/5 from 1469 reviews, this tour is a reliable choice for anyone eager to walk on a glacier, especially those new to glacier hiking.

Final Tips for Participants

Dress in hiking pants and bring hiking shoes to maximize comfort. If you lack hiking boots or waterproof clothing, rent them at the meeting point. Arrive 20 minutes early to ensure timely start, and prepare for moderate physical activity—the walk involves inclines but is manageable for most.

The guides’ professionalism and scenic splendor make this a worthwhile addition to any Iceland itinerary. Be ready to be amazed by the massive ice formations and learn about glacier dynamics from passionate experts.

Ready to Book?

Skaftafell: Falljokull Glacier Easy Group Hike

4.7

(1469)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this glacier hike suitable for children?
Yes, children 8 years and older can participate, as the tour is designed to be easy and accessible for younger participants.

Do I need my own hiking gear?
No, all essential gear—including helmet, crampons, harness, and ice axe—is provided. You only need to bring hiking shoes and pants.

How long is the actual glacier walk?
The walk on the glacier lasts approximately 1.5 hours, within the overall 3-hour experience from start to finish.

What features can I expect to see on the glacier?
You will view crevasses, moulins, ice falls, and ice caverns. Guides also explain glacier formation and geological features along the way.

Is this tour challenging?
It is considered easy but involves some inclines on the ice. The guided instruction ensures safety suitable for beginners and families.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes expert guides, all safety gear, transportation to and from the glacier, and refreshments like coffee and chocolates.