Is It Safe to Hike a Glacier in Iceland?​

Is It Safe to Hike a Glacier in Iceland? Iceland’s glaciers offer one of the most memorable ways to explore the country’s wild and dramatic landscape. The thought of hiking on ancient ice might feel a little intimidating — and that’s totally understandable. So let’s address a question we hear often: Is it safe to hike a glacier in Iceland? The honest answer? Yes — but only when you’re with a certified guide. Like most outdoor adventures, glacier hiking comes with some risk. But with proper gear, good planning, and the right people leading the way, it’s a safe and exciting experience suitable for most active travelers. Why Glacier Hiking in Iceland Is So Special If you’re planning to hike a glacier in Iceland, this is one of the few places in the world where you can do it safely with a guide and minimal travel time. Iceland is home to some of the largest glaciers in Europe, and walking on one offers a close-up look at landscapes that have taken thousands of years to form. From dramatic ice formations to sweeping mountain views, the scenery is unlike anything else you’ll see while traveling in Iceland. While there are a few places to choose from, Falljökull glacier stands out as one of the most exciting options. It’s part of Vatnajökull National Park — Europe’s largest glacier — and offers different routes that feels adventurous but is still accessible. Unlike the more crowded Sólheimajökull, Falljökull tends to feel more remote and wild, which many hikers appreciate. Is It Safe to Hike a Glacier in Iceland Alone? In short: no — glacier hiking is not something to do without a guide. Glaciers can look calm and quiet from a distance, but they are active landscapes that change every day. Beneath the snow, there are deep cracks known as crevasses. Routes that are safe one week might not be the next. And unlike a forest trail or a marked mountain path, a glacier can feel like a maze — a labyrinth that’s almost impossible to safely navigate without experience. Even experienced hikers should not attempt to hike a glacier in Iceland alone. It’s not just about being able to walk on ice — it’s about knowing where you can’t walk. Certified Guides Make All the Difference Choosing to go with a certified guide is the most important step you can take to ensure a safe glacier hike. Glacier Guides in Iceland are trained in glacier travel, rope systems, first aid, and navigation and so much more. They check conditions daily and know how to adapt the route based on what they see on the ice. Local Guide of Vatnajökull, for example, is based right at the edge of Europe’s biggest glacier. They are out and explore the glacier every day – a dream office for many. But that means the team knows the terrain in real time, not just from a map or past season. Guides are also trained to give safety briefings, help with equipment and ensure you’re comfortable every step of the way. You can get advice in advance to find the best glacier hike for you. Book a guided tour with Local Guide to hike a glacier in Iceland safely and confidently. How We Reduce the Risks of Glacier Hiking Every outdoor activity has some level of risk — and glacier hiking is no different. Weather can change quickly, temperatures drop fast and footing can be tricky. That’s why proper preparation matters. For any trip in Iceland: Always check conditions on Vedur.is for weather and Road.is for updates on travel conditions before heading out on the road. The surface of the glacier is uneven, slippery and sometimes covered in snow that hides the real shape of the ice below. This is where your guide’s knowledge comes in. They choose safe routes, steer clear of difficult areas, and keep the group on paths that match the day’s conditions. Glacier hikes are built around group safety. If anything changes — from the weather to the group’s comfort level — the plan adjusts. That’s what makes hiking a glacier in Iceland safe, flexible and enjoyable. What to Wear and Bring: Glacier Gear Essentials You don’t need to invest in expensive gear to enjoy a glacier hike. Most technical equipment is provided by your tour operator. At Local Guide, we provide all necessary glacier gear like crampons, helmets and harnesses. Based on the kind of tour and conditions of each day, the needed gear changes. Typical gear includes: Microspikes or crampons (for walking on ice) Helmet (with headlight in the dark wintertime) Harness (for certain routes) Ice axe (if needed) What you should bring yourself: Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants Warm base layers (avoid cotton) Over-the-ankle hiking boots (can be rented if needed) Hat, gloves and sunglasses A small backpack with water and snacks for the longer tours Your guide will make sure everything fits properly and go over safety basics before stepping onto the ice. If you would like more advise on how to safely travel in Iceland, head over to safetravel.is. Can Everyone Hike a Glacier in Iceland? While we would love for everyone to be able to experience the glacier in Iceland first hand, there are certain limitations for some. Glacier hiking is considered a moderate activity but it does involve walking on uneven terrain. Most people in good health and with average fitness can join. That said, if you have a recent injury, medical condition or are pregnant, it’s best to talk to your doctor first to make sure you’re fit enough to hike a glacier in Iceland. We also recommend letting your guide know when booking if you have any health concerns. That way we can offer advice or recommend the right tour for your needs. If you’re unsure, reach out and ask — we’re happy to help.  Falljökull: The Best Glacieroutlet in Iceland When you would like to hike a glacier in Iceland, we strongly recommend

Icelands best Hikes near Skaftafell National Park​

Icelands Best Hikes near Skaftafell National Park Many are looking for unforgettable experiences in Iceland but only a few places match the beauty of Skaftafell National Park. Located near Iceland’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, this paradise for nature lovers has hiking trails for everyone. You can find easy walks for families and tough climbs for adventurers on and off the beaten trail. We at Local Guide of Vatnajökull are based in nearby Freysnes, so we spend a lot of time in Skaftafell and know the area inside and out. Here are a few of our team’s favourite hikes, and why this region in South Iceland is ideal for your next glacial adventure. 1. Svartifoss – The Iconic Basalt Falls Distance: about 1.5 km (or 1 mile) each way Difficulty: Easy to moderate Family-friendly: Yes If you’ve seen photos of dramatic basalt columns in Iceland, chances are you’ve seen Svartifoss waterfall. This unique waterfall, framed by towering black lava formations, is one of the most popular hikes in Iceland — and for good reason. The flowing lava formed the symmetric columns during a a volcanic eruption around 300.000 years ago. Today we start the hike to Svartifoss waterfall close to the Skaftafell National Park visitor centre. The trail winds gently uphill through birch woodlands and past smaller waterfalls before revealing the main attraction. A rewarding hike for families, especially with children curious about rocks. 💡Local tip: The main trail leads back and forth to the waterfall but if you have a bit more time, consider hiking a loop around Skaftafell National Park. You cross the bridge at Svartifoss and continue on the other side of the river. The trail leads past grass covered turf houses called Sea and offers beautiful views over black sand flats all the way to the glacier. Depending on the time of year, we often see wildlife like ptarmigans or dip our feet into the water before returning to the campground. This round circuit is around 5.8km (or 3.6 miles) total and you can find the map here. 2. Sjónarnípa Viewpoint – A Photogenic Glacier  Distance: about 7 km (or 4.3 mile) round-trip Difficulty: Moderate Family-friendly: For older kids The trail to Sjónarnípa leads to one of the best panoramic viewpoints over Skaftafellsjökull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull National Park. You will see the slow-moving river of ice flowing into the valley. Surrounded by sharp peaks and often a bright blue sky. Locals joke that the best weather is always in Skaftafell National Park. Nevertheless, you should always prepare for the Icelandic weather to change. This beautiful hike is a favorite stop for those curious about secret places in Iceland, offering an awe-inspiring view of Iceland away from mass tourism. While you can still see the famous Svartifoss Waterfall on the way. Find the detailed map on the website of Vatnajökull National Park. 3. Kristínartindar – For the Experienced Hiker Distance: about 18 km (or 11.2 mile) round-trip Difficulty: Challenging Family-friendly: Not recommended for children For avid hikers, Kristínartindar is one of the most breathtaking peaks in Iceland. The trail passes the stunning glacier viewpoint Sjónarnípa and we recommend to take the short extra loop to see Svartifoss waterfall. And then continues along sharp cliffs, with incredible views of glaciers, mountain ranges, and black sand plains. This might be a long and strenuous day hike, but well worth the effort for those seeking solitude and one of the most unique views of Iceland. You’ll feel truly immersed in the wild landscapes that make Vatnajökull National Park so iconic. Make sure to come prepared for a full day of hiking and save this map beforehand. 💡Local tip: We recommend checking in with the rangers at Skaftafell National Park Visitor Centre before taking off on your hike. They can help you understand the current conditions and have maps to make sure you are staying on the right trail. The trail is often closed in the spring due to thawing. 4. Falljökull – Join a Guided Hike from Freysnes   Hiking in Skaftafell is incredible, but nothing compares to stepping onto the glacier itself. And if you are in the area anyways, we recommend making the most of your ring road trip. From the Local Guide of Vatnajökull base in Freysnes, we offer small-group glacier hikes. Falljökull is the most beautiful outlet glacier in Iceland. Our expert glacier guides share their local knowledge with you. We provide crampons, iceaxe and helmets to keep you safe. They will lead you across blue ice, deep crevasses, and interesting ice formations. Glacier hikes are hands-on and ideal for both adventurous adults and families with curious kids. If you’re looking for the best glacier hike in Iceland, this is it. We tailor each group based on ability and interest, whether you’re a first-time explorer or a seasoned adventurer looking to push a bit further. Hear from other travellers — our glacier guides Iceland reviews consistently mention how our small group sizes, friendly guides, and deep local knowledge make this experience unforgettable. Why Choose Skaftafell? Skaftafell National Park is part of Vatnajökull National Park. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s largest protected areas. Therefore it deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket list. What makes it special is the mix of accessibility and wilderness. You can walk to a waterfall in the morning, hike a glacier in the afternoon, and still make it back to your accommodation in time for dinner or stay right there on the campground inside the National Park. The mountains around the area help block heavy rain and strong winds. This makes it one of the sunniest places in South Iceland. Ideal for outdoor activities year-round! Practical Tips for Hiking in Skaftafell – Start early to enjoy popular trails like Svartifoss before they get busy – Dress in layers — the weather can change quickly in Iceland – Bring snacks and water, especially for longer hikes like Kristínartindar – Check trail conditions at the Visitor Centre before

WHY ICELAND IN APRIL IS A HIDDEN GEM

WHY ICELAND IN APRIL IS A HIDDEN GEM April in Iceland is a quiet kind of magic. It’s a time when winter still lingers in the highlands, but spring is beginning to stretch its legs in the lowlands. In South Iceland, that means long daylight hours, fewer crowds, cheaper travel options, and some of the best opportunities to explore both glaciers and ice caves. If you’re thinking about a Glacier Hike from Freysnes or an Ice Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón, April is the sweet spot to be able to do both. But there are more reasons on why Iceland in April should be at the top of your travel list. Why Visit Iceland in April? Fewer Tourists, More Nature Iceland in April sits just before the start of the country’s high tourist season. That means you get the natural beauty without the big crowds. Glacier lagoons, black sand beaches, and hiking trails feel more peaceful, more personal. Better Prices Since it’s still considered the off-season, you’ll often find better deals on accommodation, car rentals, and flights. Whether you’re road-tripping along the South Coast or staying near Vatnajökull National Park, your krónur will go further. Easier Booking and More Flexibility Popular glacier and ice cave tours still operate in April, but with more availability. You can plan with less stress and sometimes even book spontaneously if the weather looks good. Iceland in April offers just enough flexibility to allow spontaneous travelers to enjoy top activities. A Taste of Spring Many seasonal accommodations, cafes, and museums that close during the deep winter begin reopening in April. It’s a refreshing mix of winter charm and spring opportunity. One of the great joys of visiting Iceland in April is seeing the local scene come back to life after the long, dark winter. Northern Lights? Still Possible! While daylight is increasing, you can still spot the aurora in early April, especially on clear nights. The long evenings allow for a full day of adventure followed by a chance to catch the northern lights dancing over the glacier. If catching the aurora is still on your list, Iceland in April gives you one last window before the midnight sun season begins.   Weather and Daylight in April What to Expect Temperatures in South Iceland in April usually range from 0°C to 7°C (32–45°F). The weather can change quickly, shifting from sun to rain to light snow in a single day. Wind is always a factor. Long Days Are Back By mid-April, the sun rises before 6:30 AM and sets after 8:30 PM. That gives you 14+ hours of daylight to explore the region at a relaxed pace. For photographers or outdoor enthusiasts, Iceland in April delivers more daylight and golden hour moments than earlier winter months. How to Dress Layer up. A thermal base layer, warm mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell are essential. Don’t forget gloves, a hat and good hiking shoes. Tours with Local Guide provide glacier gear like crampons and helmets for you, so you don’t need to worry about packing them. Is It Safe to Drive in South Iceland in April? Yes — with a little awareness. Route 1 (the Ring Road) is typically clear and well-maintained in the South. Still, snow or ice can occasionally appear, especially early in the month or at higher elevations.   Tips for Safe Driving: – Rent a 4×4 vehicle for more flexibility. – Check road.is for road conditions. – Watch the weather via vedur.is . – Use safetravel.is for updates and alerts. Driving in Iceland in April gives you more freedom to explore at your own pace, and with fewer tour buses on the road, stops like waterfalls or viewpoints are calmer and easier to enjoy. Just keep an eye on conditions, and you’ll be treated to some of the best views of the year. 5 Must-Do April Adventures Near Vatnajökull 1. Glacier Hike from Freysnes April is one of the best times for glacier hiking. Conditions are still wintry enough for dramatic blue ice features, but the longer days and (slightly) milder temperatures make the experience more comfortable. Join a guided glacier hike with Local Guide of Vatnajökull to explore the Falljökull glacier outlet. Expect towering icefalls, deep crevasses, and the chance to learn about how climate and geology shape these icy giants. Hikes are suitable for most active adults and families. If you’re looking for something unique to do in Iceland in April, walking on Europe’s largest glacier should be at the top of your list.   2. Ice Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón April is your last chance of the season to visit natural ice caves. As temperatures rise into May, the caves become unstable and eventually close for the summer. Our ice cave tours from Jökulsárlón are led by expert glacier guides who scout and monitor cave conditions daily. Safety comes first, but photography is always a big part of the experience. The contrast of blue ice, volcanic ash layers, and filtered daylight is simply unforgettable. Iceland in April still holds onto its icy magic — and an ice cave tour is the most immersive way to experience it.   3. Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach A trip to South Iceland isn’t complete without seeing the surreal floating icebergs at Jökulsárlón. In April, you can often catch them gliding through the lagoon or washing up on nearby Diamond Beach, where they sparkle against the black sand. With fewer people around, sunrise and sunset visits are especially magical. Keep an eye out for seals lounging on the ice or swimming near the shore. This natural wonder is one more reason why Iceland in April is so rewarding for nature lovers. 4. Explore Skaftafell National Park Part of Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell is home to a variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels. From short walks to Svartifoss waterfall to longer routes with glacier viewpoints, the area is a dream for nature lovers. In April, trails are generally accessible, though some

What to wear on the glacier

How to Dress for Glacier Hikes in Iceland? Iceland glacier walk: how to be prepared? If you’re planning a glacier hiking trip in Iceland, you should have a good idea of what to wear. Although the country can experience mild weather in the summer months, you should always be prepared for the unpredictable Icelandic weather. And it is definitely important to check daily weather conditions as the forecast can change your plans from one day to another. Weather in Iceland can be way different from what you are used to. Having the right clothes and accessories is essential for glacier hikes in Iceland, and can make all the difference between an enjoyable and a miserable experience. In this blog, we will explore the best way to dress and gear up for glacier hikes in Iceland, so you can enjoy your adventure as much as possible. Exploring Iceland’s Glaciers Exploring Iceland’s glaciers is an experience like no other. As Local Guide, we operate in Vatnajökull glacier, home of the most exciting glacier hiking areas in Iceland. From the thundering spectacle of ice calving off the edges to the multi-dimensional contours created by the snow and ice over the centuries, Iceland’s glaciers are truly a sight to behold. A glacier hike is a great way to experience Iceland’s unique landscapes firsthand. But if you’re planning a glacier hike in this rugged Northern country, make sure you know what to wear on the tour. Layering is the key to staying comfortable while glacier hiking in Iceland. Start with a light wicking base layer and continue with warmer layers like fleece and jackets on top to protect you from the elements. Waterproof and windproof outerwear is also a must to keep you dry and protect you from the wind. Comfortable and sturdy shoes like hiking boots are ideal for treading on glaciers, and don’t forget to bring a hat, scarf, and gloves too. With the right layers and sturdy shoes, you’ll be able to explore Iceland’s glaciers in comfort and safety and experience some of the best iceland glacier hikes . What to Wear in the Icelandic Weather When it comes to glacier hiking in Iceland, the weather can be notoriously difficult to predict, so it is important to have the right clothes with you. For Iceland glacier hike a good rule of thumb is to wear multiple thin layers so that you can easily adjust if it gets warmer or cooler. Start with a basic long sleeved top, then add a lightweight jacket or waterproof coat, followed by a scarf or hat. Thermal leggings or trousers are ideal, and don’t forget waterproof boots. To protect yourself from sun and wind, remember to bring a cap, good UV protection sunglasses and sunscreen – even on cloudy days! Finally, a good quality pair of gloves and a comfortable backpack with plenty of water will ensure you are ready to tackle the Icelandic glaciers! Base Layer Clothes For glacier hiking in Iceland base layer clothes are essential for any glacier hiking adventure, as they provide essential protection from the cold, wet weather. Base layer clothes act as a first line of defense and are typically worn under other layers of clothing, such as waterproof outer-wear. They are designed to be lightweight, breathable, and flexible, and often come with moisture-wicking technology, which draws perspiration away from the skin. Base layer clothes are usually made from technical fabrics, such as Merino wool or synthetic materials such as polyester. A base layer can help keep the body warm, dry, and insulated, even in the harshest conditions. Mid Layer Clothes Mid layer clothes are important part of outfitting yourself for glacier hiking, as they provide warmth and protection from the elements. The most important mid layer cloths for glacier hiking are those designed to keep your body warm. This could include a thermal base layer, an insulated jacket, and a waterproof shell. Thermal base layers are made from thermal fabrics which trap and retain body heat and provide a thin layer of insulation, as well as being breathable to allow sweat to move away from your body. Insulated jackets typically contain man-made or natural insulation such as down and provide extra warmth while still allowing your body to breathe. Glacier hikes in Iceland require a waterproof shell should be chosen carefully as it needs to provide protection from the wind and rain and should also be breathable to allow sweat to evaporate once again. Ultimately, the selection of mid layer clothes for a glacier hiking adventure should be based on the weather conditions and your personal preference. Outer Layer Clothes Outer layer clothes are something to keep in mind for anyone planning a glacier adventure. These garments are designed to keep you safe and warm, and include items such as thermal vests, fleeces, insulated jackets, trousers, salopettes, and waterproof boots. Not only do these items help to keep you comfortable and safe from the elements, but they are also important for warding off moisture, wind, and cold. It’s important to invest in high quality materials that are up to the task of glacier hiking. This is especially true of waterproof items, which should be able to withstand a range of conditions. Notes for Footwear Insulation Footwear insulation is an important factor to consider when glacier hiking. Proper insulation can keep your feet warm and dry, even in the most extreme temperatures and conditions. Insulated boots are designed to help keep your feet comfortable and protected from the cold. You should also choose boots with waterproofing technology, as this can help keep your feet dry if you encounter wet conditions. Additionally, choosing boots with reflective fabric can help keep your feet warm, even in colder climates. Finally, be sure to look for boots with good grip and support, as these are important features that will help you maintain a secure footing while walking on a glacier. Traction Traction is imporant in the context of glacier hiking, as the terrain can

Things to do in Iceland in April and May

Things to do in Iceland in April and May Are you traveling to Iceland in April or May and you are now thinking about what to do and where to go? Hopefully this post will be a good guideline for you and your travel buddies who probably expect to experience some outstanding views in not yet so crowded places. Historically, April and May have been the months where we can catch a little bit of a break between the most busy travel months here in Iceland. People love to fly to Iceland during the wintertime when it is possible to spend long evenings haunting Northern Lights and exploring the ice caves during the days where daylight is so limited. On the other hand we have summer, where travelers can enjoy the midnight sun and drive around Iceland without getting much darkness. These two most busy time periods in Icelandic tourism can sometimes lead to an overwhelming crowd in places where we would dream about being all alone…  Sometimes the solution could be to book the flight outside these busy time frames and aim for an early spring to visit Iceland instead. April days are already becoming so much longer which makes driving more enjoyable without a doubt. Still, you will be often lucky enough to get to see the Northern Lights dancing in the sky in the late evenings. On top of that, you will also likely be able to visit an ice cave, as many tour operators are able to extend their winter season by at least 3-4 weeks if weather conditions allow. Thinking of the weather – the temperatures will go up and some days you may already get a few lovely sunny days with a few degrees above 0. If not windy, you may already feel like summer is already here! If you love hiking and you came to Iceland to experience some amazing hikes – you will still be able to do quite a few good ones during April and May, but it is unlikely you will be able to access the most popular areas in the Highlands.  During this time you will have some easy day hikes available already close to Reykjavík as well as in other places in Iceland. Most important is to always follow the weather forecast and road.is during your travels in Iceland as the conditions can change from very good ones to quite harsh relatively quickly. Feel free to explore our guides including day hikes from Reykjavík and the activities to do in southeast Iceland. These should be definitely available to do when you travel to Iceland in the springtime. If you have never before visited a glacier and you are so thrilled on seeing all these mesmerizing shapes and colors of ice – make sure to travel all the way to southeast Iceland to experience some of the best glacier outlets in the area. At this time of a year, it is unlikely to experience big crowds and taking a tour for a glacier hike would probably be one of the highlights of your time in Iceland. As one of the oldest companies in the area, we at Local Guide offer three different types of glacier tours in the Vatnajökull area. For people who may not like to spend much time on the tour or for those who simply want to just to try to step on the glacier for a limited time, our Glacier Encounter may be the best option. It is a 2.5h total duration tour where we spend 1-1,5h hiking on the ice. It is a perfect opportunity also for families with kids to enjoy some quality time in completely different surroundings. It is definitely one of a kind experience to be exploring the glacier in Iceland. 2 other options are a little more adventurous. One will include a longer glacier hike (up to 3h on the ice) and another tour would offer you to try glacier climbing. Our Glacier Discovery tour is a 4 hour long activity and it will allow you to experience one of the most stunning views of Falljökull glacier, while the Glacier Ice Climbing tour will provide you with an experience you will never forget. Not everyday you are having an opportunity to climb ice walls, right? If you are already in the area, make sure to not miss the stop in Glacier Lagoon Jökulsálón with stunning icebergs floating in the glacier lake as well as the Vatnajökull National Park with some amazing hiking trails varying in difficulty. After all these glacier related activities, probably the other must see spots in Iceland would include a few of the iconic waterfalls, cliffs and visits to the National Parks. Make sure you plan your itinerary by stopping by all the famous spots on the South Coast, including the waterfalls Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and black sand beach Reynisfjara in Vík. It’s definitely great to plan also one day exploring the Golden Circle area with a visit to Þingvellir National Park as well as a day trip to Snæfellsness peninsula filled with  stunning views. And after all these adventures, make sure to add to your daily itineraries visits to thermal pools and hot springs areas.There is nothing better than pursuing self care and relaxation after long days on the road! When exploring any area in Iceland make sure to check also if there are any interesting hot springs and thermal pools around you. In recent years, Iceland has launched a few amazing thermal pools around the country with some unique architectural solutions and beautiful designs. Still, if you want to experience a pure nature, you may be lucky to get to soak in some more remote locations with no one around you.  Check out this map to see the hot springs in the entire country. OUR RECENT POSTS

How to ice climb in Iceland

How to ice climb in Iceland Ice Climbing in most of the places around the world is possible only during the winter but Ice Climbing in Iceland is an all year possible adventure! You can try ice climbing in very nice and safe conditions on Icelandic glaciers. Glacier ice is so packed, old and reliable that we can compare it to concrete. Once placed, the tool will stay in it until it melts out (which takes some hours). If it is your first time I highly recommend you to get a professional glacier guide, who will for sure take care of finding the right place and needed equipment (crampons, ice axes, helmets, rope etc.). If you are good at climbing but still you are traveling light – you might enjoy a glacier guide anyways since these are the people who have plenty of crampons etc. On the glacier you are literally surrounded by ice, so we have plenty of possibilities in placing our anchors. Which means you don’t need to climb and place your own safety  at the same time. The guide (or very skilled friend) takes care of your safety completely so you can focus on technique only. Is it anyhow similar to rock climbing? It is kind of. For sure your rock climbing experience will be helpful. Mostly because we use similar muscles so your body will not get surprised:) Otherwise it is slightly different. For example there is no rock and holding to ice with your hand isn’t that helpful. Winter Ice Climbing is different from summer Ice climbing on the glacier. It is about temperatures, so when it is warm, ice starts to rotten and it is holding as well as other times but the climb itself is much easier. Once hummered iceaxe or crampon, stays in place very easy, sometimes is hard to get your tool out. Winter ice is something everyone in Iceland is waiting for! Well anyone interested in climbing. It is blue, cold and very fun but then you need to focus on your technique hard! Unless you have unlimited access to your muscles (that’s a rare thing). During our ice climbing tours we would would be able to experience a few climbes and start off with some easy place where we can try some climbing and if that would go smooth I might choose to change a spot to try something more challenging. At Local Guide we offer ice climbing opportunities all year long as a private adventure. In the summer of 2023 we will be having one public departure scheduled weekly where you can sign up for a glacier ice climbing trip. The ice climbing in general can be as easy or as difficult as we want. If we organise the tour as a private departure we can adjust the difficulty to your needs and experience. If you wanna try but you are afraid then you should throw away your worries and just come and join us during one of the public tours we will have for you in the summer 2023. At the end of a day this activity is one od a kind and not an obvious one to repeat again in the future! Should you prepare for an Ice Climbing trip? Well if you have time before your try – start exercise. And I mean even 5 push ups daily will make a difference. Just do it every day. If you don’t have more than a week, then just come! If you go with a professional guide, he or she will make choices tailored to your possibilities (or they will push a little so you know that actually you are better than you thought:) ). The National Park of Vatnajökull is a perfect place to start an ice climbing adventure. It is highly recommended to stop by the southeast area where we opearate if you are driving this direction anyway. OUR RECENT POSTS

Why is the ice blue? An introduction to glaciers in Iceland

Why is the ice blue? An introduction to glaciers in Iceland What is a glacier?  A glacier is a huge mass of ice and snow that is constantly moving under its own weight. Glaciers are made up of fallen snow that compresses into thick ice masses. Glaciers form when snow remains long enough to transform into ice. Each  winter, more snow is added, and it does not all melt in summer. The weight of the snow creates pressure which transforms the lower parts of the snow into ice. It forms where the accumulation of snow exceeds how fast it melts, over a period of many years, or centuries. Glaciers slowly deform and flow due to stresses induced by their weight which creates crevasses and other features. Glacier mass is affected by long term climate change (precipitation, temperature, cloud cover), which makes glacial changes to be considered amongst the most sensitive indicators of climate change.  Why is the glacier ice blue? After snow falls on a glacier, it ends up getting compressed into ice. As it’s compressed ice, all air bubbles are squeezed out and ice crystals enlarge, which makes the ice appear blue. Water is very good at absorbing light. Blue is the colour of light that has the most energy. Only the strongest light, with the most energy, is able to escape. This causes the blue to be the only colour of light that escapes without being absorbed. The thicker the glacier is, the more blue it appears.  What is a glacier outlet? Outlet glaciers, or glacier tongues, is where we do our glacier trips. They are channels of ice that flow out of ice caps (such as Vatnajökull glacier), which are constrained on the sides with exposed bedrock.  What is an ice cave? A tunnel or a hole in the glacier formed by water flow. As they can be fragile in summer when it’s warm and the glaciers are melting, we can only access them in winter time when it’s cold enough, resulting in most water to freeze up. Ice caves can be full of water or not safe to access in the summer time.  After snow falls on a glacier, it ends up getting compressed into ice. As it’s compressed ice, all air bubbles are squeezed out and ice crystals enlarge, which makes the ice appear blue. We are able to visit the ice caves during the winter time only and this is when we offer our public ice cave tours and the private trips for those who are interested. What is the biggest glacier in Iceland? Vatnajökull, the area where we operate as a company, is the place where you can experience the biggest glacier in Iceland and the second biggest ice cap in Europe. This glacier has around 30 different outlets and we proudly operate on two of them: a beautiful Falljökull in the summer and a Breiðamerkurjökull in the winter time. The first one is easy to reach from Skaftafell National Park and the second one is very close to Glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón. Is it safe to go on the glacier on my own? It is not recommended for travellers visiting Iceland to do a glacier walk on your own. The weather in Iceland is quite unpredictable and it is definitely not safe for a person who doesn’t know the area to be going to any glacier outlet without a guide and any safety equipment. We definitely recommend booking a tour with any of the local companies who offer visits to different parts of Skaftafell and Vatnajökull areas. Some travel agencies also offer glacier hikes in the Sólheimajökull area, which is closer to Reykjavík. Good option if you have limited time in Iceland. OUR RECENT POSTS

Why we love exploring the glacier in the summer 

Why we love exploring the glacier in the summer From April to September we take you on small group glacier hikes to Vatnajökull National Park. Our favorite glacier outlet for an adventurous but family friendly hike is Falljökull.  Pack your outdoor clothes and a light backpack for some layers and sunglasses and head to the southeast of Iceland! All our tours in the summertime start at Freysnes service station. You can leave your car behind and jump into one of our super jeeps. On the short drive you can enjoy a view of Hvannadalshnjúkur, Iceland’s highest peak, rising up at 2,110m tall, right until we dip deeper into the Falljökull valley. We drive as far as we can into the valley along an old sheep track that was put in by the local farmers, before the area was made into a national park. The track is still in use today to round up all the sheep that call the valley home during the summer, during the annual réttir. Our super jeep makes light work of the rough terrain so that we arrive at the edge of the glacier in no time. We care about our environment and therefore offset all our carbon footprints – who knows maybe there will be electric super jeeps soon?! Our guides have all equipment to keep you safe and help you into harness and crampons. With a helmet on your head and an ice ax in your hand we can start our summer glacier adventure. Crossing through the rocks the glacier has left we take the hill to get up onto the ice. You will take your first steps on Vatnajökull ice that is hundreds of years old. It doesn‘t take long to get used to crampons underneath your feet but the sound of crunchy ice never gets old. The Glacier Encounter is a gentle hike on the lower, flatter section with a view of the icefall from below. This hike weaves in and out of the relaxed waves where the crevasses flatten out again and explores lots of interesting features, vertical walls, deep moulins and lots of streams to drink from! You can expect a physically easy, but action-packed hour on the ice itself. The Glacier Encounter is the perfect choice if you are looking for an easy glacier hike in Iceland or a kid friendly glacier hike. You might even get to meet the inhabitants of Falljökull – glacier mice. Some might be relieved to hear they are not real mice but they are for sure special since you can only find them in a few places on earth and Faljökull is one of them! In this lower section of the glacier we also come across something very characteristic of Icelandic glaciers – the volcanic ash. We see it collected in small, volcano-like cones and in great streaks across the surface. Falljökull sits beneath Öræfajökull, the ´wasteland´ volcano that is one of just a few local volcanoes under Vatnajökull and in Iceland. With the ash blowing on Iceland´s high winds, it spreads across the islands and glaciers quite easily. During a glacier walk in Iceland you will truly experience the land of fire and ice. The Glacier Discovery takes you on a longer expedition to make full use of your three hours on the ice, navigating up through the cracks and waves to the base of the icefall. Up here, the ice is moving faster and the ash is dropping into the crevasses and getting washed down the glacier by the streams. We emerge up on a second plateau and choose our path around the edges of crevasses and moulins, where we can look down into the deep blue interior of the ice. Heading up into the seracs gives us an overview all the over the glacier lagoon to the ocean. Even on a rainy day the moody clouds make for the perfect backdrop of the high ice pillars of the ice fall. It’s hard to do the same tour twice up here because there are endless changing features to explore, but that’s the beauty of such a unique experience in nature. Our Glacier Discovery is a small group activity off the beaten path. If you are looking for an even smaller group glacier hike in Iceland we organize private tours. A guide just for your family with smaller children, your group of friends that want to try ice climbing or a proposal on the ice. Let’s find the perfect glacier adventure for you in the southeast of Iceland. OUR RECENT POSTS

Five things you might not expect to find on a glacier

Five things you might not expect to find on a glacier When you plan to visit Iceland’s glaciers, you might have conjured images of large icy waves creeping down the mountains. A myriad of colours including blues, whites and greys and dramatic cracks in the ice. However, there are a few other things you might not expect to find up there that you might be surprised to find. Mice: Okay so not what you or I know as a mouse but a glacier mouse. These are round furry stones that have collected moss as they have travelled along the ice and are home to hundreds of tiny organisms. The internal temperature of this mini ecosystem is warmer than the temperature on the ice and makes the perfect home and breeding ground for all these microscopic bugs. You can find these scattered on the surface of the glacier so keep your eyes peeled. Ravens: Here in Iceland there are a lot of Ravens around. A large group together is called a conspiracy or unkindness and you might become suspicious if you see a lot of them all gathering in one place as this can be considered a bad omen. If you come on a tour with us to Falljökull you will very likely see some ravens who have cheekily identified that tourists often drop the odd crumb or two as they have their lunch. These ravens are curious and very clever, and you’ll probably be able to see them very close up as they browse the menu and decide who´s scraps they want for lunch that day! Volcanic Ash: You might not think that a large icy scape such as a glacier would hold so many secrets within, however beneath the surface of the ice you can find layers of ash from each volcanic eruption in Iceland. After each eruption thick layers of ash would cover the glacier, as more snow falls and compresses on top of the ice then this layer is locked inside. In certain caves and tunnels, you can be lucky enough to witness the layers running horizontally through the wall making stripes in the ice. Running water. Not just a frozen block of ice, on the glaciers you can find fresh running water. Natural melting of the ice surface and snow high up in the mountains makes channels and waterfalls on the glacier. You can often find somewhere to grab a mouthful of icy cold water or ask the guide to show you how to do the drinking challenge using your ice axe and upper body strength for that refreshing gulp. Hollywood actors. So, this one is perhaps a bit far-fetched as it will not be a daily occurrence, however many Hollywood films and series have been filmed on Icelandic glaciers such as Interstellar and Game of Thrones. The glaciers lend themselves to interpretation of large lunar landscapes or a cold icy no-man’s land meaning they are a popular filming location. You never know who you might find up there filming their next blockbuster!   If you would like to experience any of these up on the glacier, why not join one of our hiking tours. Here you can see a list of summer hiking tours. OUR RECENT POSTS

What to do with young kids in and around Skaftafell in the summer

What to do with young kids in and around Skaftafell in the summer  If you are coming to visit our little corner of Iceland in the South East and you are traveling with young kids you might wonder if there will be enough for them to do, and activities you can enjoy as a family but here is a guide to some of the adventures you can take in this area.  A glacier hike at Local Guide We are proud to offer private glacier tours suitable for children as young as 5 years old. Not only do we have a lot of experience as many of our guides have been taking their own children up on the ice, but we also have all of the necessary safety equipment in the smallest of sizes to allow your little ones to experience the glacier. Private tours are bookable on request and we encourage you to get in touch if you would like to have more information about these tours.   Walk in Skaftafell National Park   There are a number of hiking trails in the National Park and some of them are on flatter ground and accessible for all. A visit up to Sél is also very interesting, it is a small uphill hike to get there but rated easy/moderate. Sél was an old working farm, and there is still a traditional turf house in this location that you can visit and see how people lived in the past in these traditional Icelandic houses. If your children don’t fancy a hike, you can also just pack up a picnic or buy an ice cream from the café and explore the grassland around the campsite where you might even find sheep hiding in the bushes and friendly birds hoping you will drop a crumb or two.   The playground in Hof   In Iceland it is possible to use the playgrounds of schools and kindergartens on evenings and weekends. This means that after 4.30 on a weekday and all day during the weekend you are able to enjoy the playground in Hof that has some swings, slides, climbing wall etc as well as some football goals and grass area for running around and burning off some energy.    Puffin tour with From Coast to Mountains   This puffin tour is sure to appeal to all ages, you head out onto the black sands in a tractor and trailer before arriving at the cape where you will explore, learn about the history and geography, encounter birdlife and see puffins too. The minimum age online is 5 years old however it is possible to take younger children if the weather conditions are suited so make sure to get in touch with the office and check the weather forecast before booking a tour with children as it can get blustery down by the sea.   OUR RECENT POSTS