Mýrdalsjökull

Mýrdalsjökull is Iceland’s fourth-largest glacier, covering approximately 596 km² on the southern lowlands and capping the active Katla volcano beneath its ice. The glacier is famous both for its accessibility — a relatively short drive from Vík — and for the volcanic threat simmering below its surface, which makes for an unusually dramatic geological setting.

Several outfitters offer guided snowmobile tours, glacier hikes, and ice climbing on Mýrdalsjökull year-round, since the glacier’s high altitude keeps snow conditions suitable even in summer months. Views from the glacier surface extend south to the coast and north into the highland interior, and on clear days distant Vatnajökull is visible on the horizon.

The main access is via Route 221 from Vík to the Sólheimasandur area and up to the glacier tongue. Guided tours depart from Vík or from on-site operator bases near the glacier. Independent access to the glacier ice is not recommended — always use a guide. Open year-round for guided tours; road conditions vary by season.