Embark on a Vatnajökull Expedition. Discover Iceland's largest glacier in an epic adventure!
Cross the largest glacier in Europe during this perfect combination of adventure, stunning nature and physical challenge. This is a dream tour for outdoor enthusiasts! Crossing the mighty Vatnajökull ice cap should be on the list for every ambitious adventurer.
This 9-day expedition across Iceland's Vatnajökull ice cap is designed for experienced adventurers seeking an extreme challenge. Spanning 110-130 kilometers (68-81 miles) on foot, this trek will take you through some of the harshest and most varied conditions Iceland has to offer, from bitter cold and strong winds to sweltering heat as the sun reflects off the vast snowfields.
Expect long, demanding days with 7-9 hours of walking each day, all under the leadership of a professionally qualified guide. This tour is limited to small groups of 4-12 participants for a more personalized experience.
The journey begins with a mandatory preparation meeting, where the guide will inspect each participant's gear and ensure everyone is properly equipped for the trek. On Day 1, you’ll be picked up in Reykjavík and transported by super jeep to Jökulheimar, where your real adventure begins on the west side of the glacier. From there, you’ll be fully exposed to the elements, relying on your equipment, physical training, and the guidance of your expert leader.
As you traverse the ice cap, you’ll camp under the stars in remote, snowy landscapes, alternating between nights in tents and mountain huts. Some of the highlights include the ascent to Grímsvötn, Iceland’s most active volcanic caldera, and the trek towards the towering Öræfajökull glacier. Along the way, you’ll witness stunning views of Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur, and explore the beautiful Esjufjöll mountains.
The final days of the expedition will bring you to the magnificent Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, with its awe-inspiring mountains, crevasses, and glacier moraines. After completing the trek, you’ll return to Reykjavík, weary but with a profound sense of accomplishment.
This tour is not for the faint-hearted. It requires excellent physical condition, a sense of adventure, and a strong mental attitude to face the challenges of crossing the Vatnajökull ice cap. However, for those up to the challenge, this journey promises an unforgettable experience in one of the most remote and rugged landscapes on Earth.
- Availability
- Spring
- Difficulty
- Demanding
- Duration
- 9 days
- Minimum age
- 18
- Accomodation
- Camping and mountain huts
- Max ascent
- 750 m (2460 ft)
- Total distance
- 110 - 130 km (68 - 81 mi)
TourID: EXPI51
Activity provider: Icelandic Mountain Guides by Icelandia
Need to know
In Brief:
- Duration: 5 days, 4 nights
- Group size: 4-8 participants
- Ski Touring: 4 days 1 days sightseeing
- Ski Touring per day: 4-12 hours
- Max. Height gain: 2000 m
- Flexible Cancellation
- No Booking Fees
Tour itinerary
What’s included and what to bring on this tour
It’s important to always be prepared for your next adventure in Iceland. See our list of what’s included, and what you should bring or add to your trip
Included
- Qualified English-speaking mountain guide for 5 days
- Transportation in mini-bus
- Accommodation in twin/dbl rooms 3* hotels for 4 nights
- Full board
- Safety equipment
Not included
- Sleeping bag
- Mattress
- Skiing equipment
- Accommodation in Reykjavík
Tour highlights
Are you wondering about something?
If you're planning a trip to Iceland, it's important to be prepared with the right information. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help you plan your trip
Iceland's unique and varied geography makes it an amazing choice for expedition tourism. The country's diverse landscapes include vast glaciers, active volcanoes, rugged mountains, and expansive highlands, each offering different challenges for the adventurous explorer. Furthermore, the changeable weather conditions add another layer of complexity and excitement to expeditions.
Moreover, Iceland is renowned for its isolation and the untouched nature of its wilderness areas, allowing visitors to experience true exploration, far from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Additionally, Iceland's focus on sustainable tourism ensures that expedition tours are conducted with respect for the environment, preserving these pristine landscapes for future generations. The experienced local guides add a layer of cultural richness to the journey, imbuing it with stories and insights about Icelandic history and folklore. Thus, expeditions in Iceland offer a profound connection with nature, rich learning experiences, and lasting memories.
Yes, for certain expeditions, equipment can be rented
Safety is our primary concern. Our experienced guides are well-versed in managing varying weather conditions and will adapt the itinerary if necessary.
Absolutely! While some of our expeditions are challenging, we cater to various experience levels. However, some level of physical fitness and mental resilience is required. It’s a real adventure, after all!
While specific gear may vary depending on the tour, generally, you should pack high-quality and warm outdoor clothing, hiking boots, camping equipment, and food supplies. We’ll provide a detailed list once you sign up.
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