Best SellerReykjavík1h 30m
Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour
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About this activity
Climb Iceland's storied Eyjafjallajökull volcano (1,666 m) on this full-day glacier hike combining volcanic terrain, ice navigation, and panoramic summit views. This is one of Iceland's most accessible yet dramatic ice caps, famous for its 2010 eruption and stunning caldera views on clear days.
Eyjafjallajökull stretches 1,666meters above sea level and is one of the most beautiful glaciers in Iceland.
This is a great opportunity to explore the high volcano and the beauty of Icelandic nature.
Starting from Seljavallalaug (the old swimming pool) we are going to give you some glacier gear that you need later. The hike starts by going up to the small mountain and follows an old trek, mostly gravel, and moss. The beginning of the hike is steep but after every hill there is a small flat place to rest. The best part about this hike is that you don’t need to bring a lot of water with you due to small water streams on the way. After 2-3hours we are at the base of the glacier, where we can eat some lunch and gear up for the ice. We put on harnesses, crampons and rope up. From there we hiked a good ice slope to the summit.
After this ice slope we get to a flat glacier, on clear days you can see the caldera on the glacier. The true summit is Goðasteinn 1666m that takes us 30minutes to climb/hike. This is a nice place for some photos, and to have some food and water before the hike down. We are going to take the same trek back down to the car.
Eyjafjallajökull (English Island Mountain Glacier, is one of the smaller ice caps of Iceland north of Skógar and west of Mýrdallsjökull The ice cap covers the caldera of a volcano with a summit elevation of 1,666 meters (5,417 ft). The volcano has erupted relatively frequently since the last glacial period most recently in 2010
Highlights
- ✓Summit Goðasteinn at 1,666 m with 360° views of Iceland's interior
- ✓Rope up and use crampons on authentic glacier terrain with professional guides
- ✓Explore moss-covered gravel slopes and volcanic geology en route
- ✓Natural water streams along the trail eliminate the need for heavy water carries
- ✓Visible volcanic caldera on the glacier on clear weather days
- ✓All technical gear (harnesses, crampons, rope) provided by operator
Insider tips
- ★The steep initial ascent is shorter than it looks—pace yourself for the first 30–45 minutes, then the terrain flattens into manageable rhythm
- ★Pack layers and waterproofs even in summer; glacier conditions and mountain weather change rapidly
- ★Start early to maximise summit time and visibility; afternoon clouds often obscure the caldera views
- ★Bring high-calorie snacks beyond the lunch break; the descent is long and energy dips are real
Good to know
- •Full 8.5-hour commitment includes 2–3 hours of ascent, glacier work, and equal descent time
- •Meeting point is Seljavallalaug (old geothermal pool area); drive independently or confirm transport with operator
- •All climbing harnesses, crampons, and safety rope supplied; wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
- •No extreme fitness required, but steady endurance and comfort on slopes are essential
- •Minimum group size and weather cancellation policy not specified—confirm before booking
Who it's for
Intermediate hikers comfortable with exposure and steep terrainGlacier and volcano enthusiasts seeking hands-on ice experiencePhotographers chasing dramatic Icelandic volcanic landscapesAdventure travellers wanting technical skills without mountaineering certification
Best time to visit
Late June to early September offers longest daylight, most stable ice, and clearest summit visibility. Early morning starts (6–7 AM) maximise safe daylight hours and avoid afternoon cloud cover that obscures the caldera.
Frequently asked questions
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