Glacier Ascent: Hike & Ice Climb
A full-day, hands-on alpine adventure on Falljökull or Virkisjökull. This 6-hour expedition takes you further up the glacier than standard walking tours, combining a deep trek into fractured ice terrain with a genuine introduction to ice climbing. With a strict 1:6 ratio, you receive direct coaching to scale vertical ice walls, far from the tourist crowds.
Overview
The Glacier
Falljökull is one of the steepest outlet glaciers in the Vatnajökull region, descending directly from Iceland's tallest glacier-covered volcano. Where most glacier experiences loop the lower ice and turn back, this six-hour expedition pushes further up, into terrain where the ice fractures, steepens, and becomes something you climb rather than walk. The day covers 7 to 10 kilometres and splits between a deep glacier trek and a hands-on introduction to ice climbing.
The Ascent
The trek begins from the Skaftafell area with a short drive to the glacier's roots, then straight onto the ice through the terminal moraine. The route moves past blue crevasses and meltwater channels before your guide scouts a vertical ice wall suited to the group's ability. You learn to read the ice, place your axes, trust your crampons on vertical terrain, and work your way up a face most people would not attempt without years of training. No previous climbing experience is needed. The pace is set by the group, not a schedule. By the end of the day, you will have climbed ice.
The Local Difference
Your guide moved to this region two decades ago and never left. He knows where the best walls form each season, which glacier outlet is in the best condition on any given day, and how to match the route to the people in front of him. Because the group is kept to six, you get direct coaching on the wall rather than a demonstration from a distance. This is for travelers who want to leave the glacier knowing they did something physical and real. It is not for those looking for a casual walk on flat ice.
Included
- Expert glacier guide (specialized in technical climbing)
- Small group guarantee (max 6 participants)
- Transport from Skaftafell base to the glacier
- Extended glacier hike and ice climbing session
- Technical gear: helmet, crampons, harness, and ice axes
What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support and a stiff sole
- Waterproof breathable jacket and pants
- Warm base layer (wool or synthetic) and mid layer (fleece or wool)
- Warm hat and gloves
- Small backpack with packed lunch and water
Meeting Point
Skaftafell Vatnajökull
Meet on Location
Meeting point is located in Skaftafell near Vatnajökull National Park (4.5+ hour drive from Reykjavík). Specific location will be given upon booking. We ask that you kindly arrive 30 minutes prior to the start of the tour.
Reviews(19)
A legendary experience! We booked as a couple and were extremely lucky to be just the two of us! Jan was an extraordinary guide who took us through an exceptional morning of crevasses, ice tunnels, and ice axe climbing. We had time to fully enjoy the glacier, take photos, and listen to his fascinating explanations about the glacier and how it evolves. I 100% recommend this young company, which will help you discover the wonders of Iceland in their best light.
Excellent day hiking on the glacier with Laurent. French-speaking guide, of excellent quality, organizing small group hikes (we were alone with him when we had not asked to privatize the excursion). Very attentive to everyone’s safety, shares a lot of information, adapts to everyone’s desires (video of our teenagers 😅). He took us away from the other groups, to feel the immensity of the place. It was magical! Recommend without hesitation.