Ice Climbing Captured in Skaftafell

ITINERARY

Meeting with Your Guide
Your ice climbing adventure begins at the Skaftafell Airport Terminal located within Vatnajökull National Park. Please note that Skaftafell is approximately a 4.5-hour drive from Reykjavik, so we recommend staying overnight at a nearby accommodation to ensure you arrive on time.

Drive in 4×4 to Falljökull Glacier
Once everyone has arrived, you’ll board our specially equipped 4×4 vehicle and begin your journey toward Falljökull Glacier. About 10 minutes into the drive, we’ll turn onto an F-Road for a rugged, scenic ride across ancient glacier plains. This leg of the journey takes approximately 20–30 minutes. During the drive, your guide will share fascinating stories about the region’s history and geological features, setting the stage for the adventure ahead.

Hike to the Glacier Edge
After reaching the glacier parking area, your guide will provide all necessary gear for the tour. This includes crampons, ice axes, harnesses, helmets, and hiking boots (if rented). Once everyone is geared up, we’ll embark on a 30-minute hike across relatively flat, yet slightly rocky terrain leading to the edge of the glacier. The pace is always set according to the group’s comfort, allowing you to fully appreciate the surrounding beauty as you approach the ice.

Gearing Up & Safety Briefing
Upon arrival at the glacier’s edge, your guide will assist you in putting on your crampons. After demonstrating how to use them, your guide will provide a thorough safety briefing, including tips for safely navigating the ice. Feel free to ask questions to ensure you feel confident and prepared before stepping onto the glacier.

Glacier Hike to Ice Climbing Area
With crampons securely fastened, you’ll step onto Falljökull Glacier’s icy surface. The sensation of walking on ice is unique and exhilarating, and by the end of the tour, you might not want to take your crampons off! As you make your way up the glacier toward the climbing walls, your guide will point out fascinating features such as moulins, crevasses, and ice formations shaped by natural forces over centuries. The surreal landscape will leave you feeling as if you’ve stepped onto another planet.

Introduction to Ice Climbing
For those new to ice climbing, your guide will start with a brief tutorial covering the basics—how to climb with proper form and how to use your equipment effectively. We’ll begin with easier, shorter walls to help you gain confidence and master the techniques. When you’re ready, it’s time to tackle your first climb! Your guide will set up the line and assist you throughout the process, ensuring both safety and fun.

Tackling More Challenging Climbs
As your skills and confidence build, your guide will introduce you to more challenging ice walls. These might include towering vertical faces, deep glacial holes, or even impressive overhanging arches, depending on your ability and comfort level. Your guide will tailor the experience to your skills, providing you with opportunities to push your limits and capture incredible photos in action. Should you feel unable to complete a climb, your guide can safely lower you down or raise you out of any tricky spots. The focus is on enjoying the adventure and creating amazing memories.

Return to Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon Parking Lot
After an exciting day of ice climbing and exploration, you’ll hike back to the glacier parking area and enjoy a scenic 30-minute drive back to the Skaftafell Airport Terminal parking lot. As you bid farewell to your guide, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and the thrill of having conquered the icy landscape of Falljökull Glacier.

Don’t forget! Ice Pic Journeys offers a unique photo package. We are the only tour company in Iceland providing professionally edited photographs of your adventure. You will receive 5 stunning images delivered via Drive approximately 14 days after your tour.

Book your tour now and take on the challenge of Iceland’s breathtaking glaciers!