Glacier Hike in Iceland: Ultimate Guide for Beginners (2025)

Like I’ve mentioned many times before, visiting Iceland has been at the top of my bucket list for years. I knew that when I finally made it to the land of fire and ice, I’d want to experience all the must-do activities—especially since I couldn’t be sure when I’d get the chance to return. One adventure I couldn’t miss was a glacier hike in Iceland. After all, where else in the world can you trek across magnificent glaciers with such stunning icy landscapes? If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, I highly recommend adding a glacier hike to your itinerary. Read on to learn about my experience!

Planning Your Iceland Trip: Things to Know Before You Go

How do you choose the Best Glacier Hike in Iceland?

Choosing the best glacier hike in Iceland depends on your experience level, location, and desired scenery. Beginners might prefer accessible options like Falljökull or Sólheimajökull, while experienced hikers can tackle more challenging treks like Vatnajökull or Skaftafell. Consider the glacier’s location relative to your itinerary – some are near popular spots like Reykjavík, while others are more remote. Opting for guided hikes is advisable for safety, as they provide necessary equipment and expert guidance. Lastly, check seasonal conditions; the best time for glacier hiking is usually late spring to early fall.

My friends and I joined Local Guide of Vatnajökull’s Glacier Discovery, which explores Falljökull Glacier. Since we were staying at Skyrhúsid HI-Hostel, conveniently located in Hali in Southeast Iceland, it was the perfect choice. The hostel is just a 45-minute drive from Freysnes Service Station, making it an ideal base for our adventure. The short drive to the meeting point meant we didn’t have to wake up super early and rush, allowing us to start our 8 AM hike feeling refreshed and ready to explore.

What is Falljökull Glacier?

Falljökull (which translates to “Falling Glacier”) is an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull, the biggest glacier in Europe. This stunning outlet glacier is known for its dramatic ice formations, striking blue crevasses, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Unlike more challenging glacier treks, Falljökull provides a manageable route that allows beginners to safely explore the icy terrain with the guidance of experienced local guides. 

How to get to Freysnes Service Station?

Getting to Freysnes Service Station is a breeze, especially if you’re renting a car in Iceland. Located about 320 kilometers east of Reykjavík, this station is easily accessible via Route 1, Iceland’s main highway. The drive takes around 4-5 hours from the capital and offers stunning views of the south coast, including iconic landmarks like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls along the way. Freysnes is conveniently positioned across the road from Hótel Skaftafell, making it easy to spot.

If you booked a trip to Iceland and looking for a reliable car rental, I suggest checking out Blue Car Rental. We never encountered any issues and didn’t need to contact customer support, which made our trip stress-free. Blue Car Rental is renowned for its excellent service and reliable vehicles, making it one of Iceland’s top local rental companies. 

What Should You Wear on a Glacier Hike in Iceland?

What I Wore for Our Glacier Hike in Iceland at the End of Winter

On the day of our glacier hike, I dressed in layers. However, our guide advised us to shed some layers since we’d likely get warm during the hike. I hesitated at first, but trusting her expertise, I followed her advice—and it was the right call! I did sweat quite a bit, but my wool base layers kept me comfortable even in the heat. While I was tempted to remove my waterproof gloves, I kept them on to protect my hands in case of a fall. My hiking boots offered excellent ankle support and grip on the ice. Also, my ski pants allowed full freedom of movement without any restrictions.

What to Wear on a Glacier Hike in Iceland

With that in mind, here’s a general guide on what to wear for a glacier hike in Iceland:

1. Base Layers – Opt for moisture-wicking base layers (top and bottom) made from merino wool or synthetic fabrics to keep you dry and warm throughout the hike.
2. Insulating Layer – Add a mid-layer like a fleece or down jacket to provide necessary insulation against the cold.
3. Outer Layer – A waterproof and windproof jacket and pants are essential for protection from rain, wind, and ice. Choose breathable materials to prevent overheating.
4. Sturdy Hiking Boots – Wear waterproof hiking boots with ankle support and good traction. Your boots should be sturdy enough to accommodate crampons (ice spikes that fit over your hiking boots). If you don’t have sturdy hiking boots, most glacier hike companies offer rentals for a small fee.
5. Warm Accessories – Pack a beanie, gloves, and a neck gaiter or scarf to shield against cold winds and snow.
6. Sunglasses and Sunscreen – The sun’s reflection off the ice can be intense, so sunglasses are a must, and don’t forget sunscreen to protect your skin.
7. Backpack with Essentials – Bring a small backpack with essentials like water, snacks, extra layers, and a camera to capture the stunning views.

The tour company provides all the necessary equipment, including a harness, ice axe, crampons, and helmet, to ensure your safety during the hike.

How to physically prepare for a Glacier Hike in Iceland?

Getting in shape for a glacier hike in Iceland doesn’t require extreme fitness—just a basic level of physical activity. Even beginners can handle the hike as long as they don’t have any physical conditions that might affect them. Regular walks, light cardio, and some leg exercises can make a big difference!

My Glacier Hiking Adventure in Iceland (Highlights and Adrenaline-pumping Scares)

Gearing Up and Learning to Hike with Crampons

Our glacier hike in Iceland began at the meeting point where we geared up with essential equipment and received a briefing on safety protocols. We then hopped into a super jeep for a 15-minute ride from Freysnes Service Station to the foot of Falljökull Glacier. The initial hike took us over rocky terrain before we reached the glacier’s edge, where we put on our crampons with guidance from the tour staff. Walking in crampons felt awkward at first due to their weight and the need for a particular stride to ensure a secure grip on the ice, but I soon got the hang of it.

Breathtaking Views and Hidden Treasures: The Beauty of Falljökull Up Close

As we ascended the glacier, our guide expertly navigated the safest path, weaving around ice formations and crevasses. She not only focused on safety but also shared fascinating insights along the way. She pointed out interesting features like the massive glacial river far below us and suggested great spots for photos. We paused at a stunning viewpoint that offered a breathtaking panorama of the glacier. Seeing the glacier up close was awe-inspiring; what looks like simple white ice from afar actually reveals intricate layers of minerals, dirt, and various shades of blue, creating a landscape full of texture and depth.

Walking Between Towering Blue Ice Formations

Another highlight of our glacier hike in Iceland was walking between towering blue ice formations that felt like stepping into a glacier cave. It was an unexpected bonus, as I had anticipated just hiking on the surface of the glacier. Instead, we ventured into accessible crevasses that revealed breathtaking shades of blue and intricate ice patterns, making the experience feel even more immersive. By the end of the hike, we all agreed that this adventure was even better than the ice cave tour we had done the day before. It felt more intimate, offering a unique perspective of the glacier’s hidden beauty.

Crossing Crevasses and Close Calls

The hike was filled with memorable moments, including a couple of adrenaline-pumping scares. At one point, we had to cross a large crevasse with the aid of a guide and a rope, which was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating. Later, one of my friends lost his footing and dropped his iPhone. It tumbled several steps down the glacier before being caught by our guide just in time to prevent it from disappearing into a nearby crevasse. This close call gave us all a fright!

After about three hours on the glacier, we took a different route down, removed our crampons, and headed back to the super jeep. The weather held out beautifully, and the entire experience was one of the best highlights of my time in Iceland. By the end, we all agreed that this adventure was even better than the ice cave tour we did the day before. It felt much more intimate.

Final Thoughts on the Glacier Hike in Iceland

Special shout-out to our incredible guide from Local Guide of Vatnajökull, Asta. She was truly exceptional—her patience, technical skills, and deep knowledge of the glaciers and Iceland made the experience unforgettable. She pointed out breathtaking features of the glacier, even discovering new aspects that she had never seen before. Asta made sure everyone was safe. This hike will remain one of the highlights of my Icelandic journey.

Is glacier hiking in Iceland hard?

Glacier hiking in Iceland can vary in difficulty, making it accessible for different experience levels. Many tours are designed for beginners and offer a manageable pace with plenty of guidance from experienced guides. These hikes usually involve walking on uneven, icy terrain, so a basic level of fitness is required. More challenging hikes are available for those with experience or looking for a more strenuous adventure, which might include steeper ascents or ice climbing. It’s always best to choose a tour that matches your fitness level and comfort with hiking in icy conditions.

Can I go on a glacier hike in Iceland without a guide?

No, glacier hiking in Iceland without a guide is not recommended. Glaciers are dynamic and ever-changing environments with hidden crevasses, unstable ice, and unpredictable weather conditions. This makes them potentially dangerous for those unfamiliar with the terrain. Guided tours provide the necessary safety equipment, like crampons and ice axes, along with expert knowledge to navigate the glacier safely. Guides are trained to recognize hazards and ensure that the hike is both safe and enjoyable.

What time of year is best for Glacier Hike in Iceland?

From my experience, the best time for a glacier hike in Iceland depends on what you’re after. Summer, from June to August, offers milder weather and long daylight hours. In winter, from December to February, you’ll encounter fewer tourists and witness dramatic ice formations, though shorter days and challenging conditions can make it tougher. Spring and fall also provide unique opportunities with fewer crowds and beautiful landscapes.

Travel Insurance for Iceland Road Trip

Before every trip, I always made sure to get travel insurance from Malayan Insurance Travel Master plan (not sponsored!). They’re a reputable travel insurance provider known for robust coverage, especially for adventure sports like glacier hikes. With Malayan, I felt secure knowing I was covered for emergency medical expenses and any unexpected trip interruptions, like tours canceled due to weather. Trust me, having that safety net makes all the difference on the road.