The Ultimate Glacier Exploration (Full Day Hike, Ice Climb & Ice Cave*)

This is the most adventurous hard ice glacier experience in Iceland full-stop. Hike, Ice Climb & Ice Cave* through Vatnajökull's crevasse fields, icefalls and ice caves*.

On this full day trip you will be guided through lesser explored glacier terrain by an experienced hard ice guide. The kind of terrain and landscape you will venture through would not be possible with any other kind of glacier tour in Iceland.

Expect to explore the depths of crevasses (cracks in the glacier), walk amongst the ice towers known as ‘seracs’.

You’ll gain coaching & instruction from the outset of how to use glacier travel equipment, and progress very quickly through to the most unreal ice formations hidden in crevasse fields and ice-falls. Here you’ll be ice climbing short pitches of crevasse walls and maybe even in meltwater holes.

Having an experienced and qualified guide with a small group simply translates into being able to get more action packed in to the trip than any other in Iceland.

There’ll also be moments to have a break, enjoy taking photos and take in the surrounding ice-scapes. As well as having a nice hot drink on the glacier.

You'll be informed on the surrounding nature & landscape formation by experienced and knowledgeable guides to make your day meaningful and giving you a newfound love of glaciers.

Each of our trips is a unique exploration as routes change often as the glacier melts and evolves.

Ice Caves typically only available in the winter time Oct-April.

Trip Difficulty

NO TECHNICAL EXPERIENCE REQUIRED
Able to hike with ease up to 15 km on uneven ground in hilly terrain.
Able to spend a day (7-8hours) outdoors in sun, rain, wind and move without physical restrictions.
Physically fit enough to have energy all day to move at a comfortable walking pace for example being able to recover quickly after short hills.
Can personally manage being at heights and with the feeling of some minor exposure.

Expert AIMG Hard Ice Glacier Guides
Coffee and/or Tea
Boots if required
Safety Equipment (Helmet, Harness, Ice Axe/s, Crampons)

Here's what you need to bring,

Mandatory ankle-supporting boots with good grip, stiff sole and preferably waterproof. Bring boots you have used previously.

If you are unsure if your clothing or footwear is suitable, prior to your trip please send us some photos ideally with the brand and model name, and we can let you know if they are suitable at info@ice-guardians.com. Otherwise, we have boots available on request.

Good fitting hiking socks, minimal seams, synthetic or merino.
Breathable base layer top (merino or synthetic)
Softshell hiking trousers
Waterproof shell jacket and pants
Insulation layer (light-medium weight synthetic puffy jacket), and if you are sensitive to the cold bring a synthetic sweater (such as fleece).
a beanie/buff are useful on those chilly days
sunglasses are good at protecting your eyes against the bright white ice.
gloves (two pairs are ideal), they will not only protect against the cold/wind they will protect your hands from the sharp ice.
Lunch (something easy to eat, such as sandwiches, bars, trail mix etc.)
Water bottle (500ml minimum)
Mobile phone/camera (we don't recommend tripods, unless it is a private trip), waterproof case can be useful.
~20-30L backpack that will fit your food, water & spare clothing.