Your first glacier walk in Skaftafell

Know which glacier you are visiting

When you search for a glacier walk in Skaftafell, you will meet several place names. They describe different parts of the same wider landscape, so it helps to separate the area you are visiting from the exact glacier and meeting point on your booking.

Skaftafell is the park area and a starting point for exploring the region. Skaftafellsjökull is the glacier you can see from the park’s S1 walking trail. That trail takes you towards a view of the ice. [1]

Falljökull is another nearby glacier used for guided glacier walks. It descends from Öræfajökull, and the national park describes guided trips there with experienced guides and appropriate safety equipment. Check the named glacier on your chosen tour rather than assuming every Skaftafell departure goes to the same place. [2]

Choose the experience that fits you

A good comparison starts with practical details. Decide how much of your day you can give to the activity, what sort of terrain you are comfortable with and whether you want an introduction or a longer outing.

Total duration and time on the ice

Preparation, equipment fitting, transfers and the approach walk may all be part of the advertised duration. Ask how much time is normally spent on the glacier itself. Leave a comfortable margin before your next booking or long drive.

Walking demands and group size

Read the description of the approach, pace and terrain. A short tour is not automatically suitable for everyone. Ask about anything that could affect your participation and check the actual age limits and fitness requirements for the departure you are considering.

Equipment and booking terms

Find out exactly what the operator supplies and what you need to bring. Check whether suitable boots are required or available to rent. Read the cancellation policy and what happens if conditions prevent the planned route.

What the pictures promise

Use photographs to understand the type of landscape, not to expect an identical route or ice formation. Glaciers move, and the guide has to respond to the conditions they find. A particular cave, arch or shade of blue should not be the reason you assume a tour is suitable. [3]

What to bring

Use the operator’s packing list as your final checklist. As a starting point, plan layers you can adjust, an outer layer that protects against rain and wind, gloves, a hat, water and a snack. Bring any personal essentials you will need for the full advertised duration.

• Footwear: confirm the required boot type before departure.
• Clothing: choose comfortable layers for walking and standing outside.
• Day bag: keep your hands free and protect spare clothing from rain.
• Phone or camera: carry it securely and follow the guide’s directions about when to take photographs.

Do not buy specialist glacier equipment just because you have booked a visitor tour. First check what is supplied, fitted and explained by the operator.

Let the guide set the route

Arrive with time to check in, listen to the briefing and have equipment fitted. Tell the guide about anything relevant to your ability to take part before you reach the ice. Once moving, follow their route and instructions rather than wandering away for a photograph.

Safetravel warns that glacier travel requires experience and proper equipment, and recommends a certified guide with knowledge of the area. A map or a track from someone else’s visit does not replace those skills. [3]

Keep an open mind about the day’s route. The best preparation is knowing what your booking includes and being ready to follow the guide’s assessment of the conditions.

Common questions