Highlights of the tour
Experience your first ice climb on the ancient blue ice of Falljökull Glacier
Learn glacier walking and ice climbing techniques from expert guides
Small group experience tailored to all skill levels – no experience needed
Capture your adventure with a 5-photo professional photography package included
Scenic 4×4 ride and glacier hike in Vatnajökull National Park
Explore moulins, crevasses, and ice formations in Iceland’s spectacular glacial landscapes
About Tour
Looking for an unforgettable introduction to ice climbing in Iceland? This small-group photo tour is designed to make ice climbing accessible to everyone—no matter your experience level. Join certified glacier guides and a professional photo guide on an epic day exploring the stunning blue ice of Falljökull Glacier, part of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap.
You’ll start with an easy hike through a glacier valley before reaching the ice. After a safety briefing and climbing tutorial, you’ll tackle your first ice wall using beginner-friendly techniques. Your guide will adjust the experience based on your comfort and ability, progressing to more exciting climbs as your confidence grows.
Best of all, a professional glacier photographer will capture your adventure—so you leave with not only the thrill of ice climbing, but also 5 beautifully edited photos as proof of your achievement.
Included
Guided Ice Climbing Tour (approx. 4.5–5 hours)
Professional Glacier Guide + Photo Guide
5 Edited Photos per Person
Ice Climbing Equipment:
Crampons
Ice Axe
Harness
Helmet
4×4 Transfer to Falljökull Glacier
Safety Briefing and Climbing Instruction
Glacier Hike
Small Group Size for Personalized Experience
What to bring
Waterproof hiking boots (crampon-compatible) – available for rent
Warm base layers
Insulated jacket and waterproof outerwear (jacket and pants)
Gloves, hat, and sunglasses
Reusable water bottle and snacks
Camera or phone (optional – you’ll get professional photos too!)
Activities
Attractions
Good to know
No prior climbing experience is needed – perfect for first-timers
Minimum age: 8 years
Meet 15 minutes early at Skaftafell Parking Lot
The tour operates in most weather conditions – dress accordingly
Photo delivery via Google Drive within ~14 days
Total duration: 4 hours
Driving time from Reykjavík is 4.5 hours – overnight stay nearby is recommended
Itinerary
Meet Your Guide in Skaftafell
Your ice climbing adventure begins in the heart of Vatnajökull National Park, at the Skaftafell Visitor Center parking lot. Look for our friendly, professional guide standing near a clearly marked 4×4 vehicle bearing the Ice Pic Journeys logo. This central meeting point is easy to find by searching Ice Pic Journeys on Google Maps. We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early, as we’ll be heading directly to the glacier and there are no restroom facilities along the way. Your guide will greet the group, ensure everyone is dressed appropriately, and begin the day with an overview of what’s to come. Excitement builds as you prepare to explore the icy heart of Iceland in a way most travelers never do.
4x4 Transfer to Falljökull Glacier
Once introductions are complete and everyone is ready, you’ll board our rugged 4×4 vehicle for a scenic and bumpy ride toward Falljökull Glacier—one of the most visually stunning outlet glaciers of the massive Vatnajökull ice cap. This glacier is known as the “Falling Glacier” for the dramatic icefall that tumbles down the mountainside like a frozen waterfall. The drive begins on paved roads but quickly transitions to Iceland’s highland F-Roads, crossing ancient glacier plains carved by millennia of ice and meltwater. The 20–30 minute journey is an adventure in itself, offering incredible views of volcanic landscapes, glacier tongues, and wild terrain you’d never reach in a standard car. Your guide will share fascinating insights about the geology and natural history of this unique region along the way.
Hike to the Edge of the Glacier
Arriving at the glacier parking area, your guide will distribute all necessary glacier gear including crampons, ice axes, helmets, and harnesses. If you’ve rented hiking boots, they’ll be fitted here too. Once geared up, you’ll begin a moderate 30-minute hike through Iceland’s raw, untamed nature. The path is relatively flat but rocky in parts, winding through moraines and glacial debris left behind by receding ice. The hike is paced to suit the group’s ability and includes several photo stops to admire panoramic views of the glacier, surrounding mountains, and volcanic desert. As you approach the glacier’s edge, the air turns cooler, and the ice comes into full view—an awe-inspiring sight that marks the start of your ice climbing experience.
Gearing Up & Safety Briefing
At the foot of the glacier, your guide will assist everyone in putting on their crampons and demonstrate proper techniques for walking on ice. You’ll be introduced to “front pointing”, a simple but effective method for ascending ice walls safely and with control. Your guide will also cover essential safety practices, including how to use your ice axe, how to stay balanced on uneven surfaces, and how to communicate during a climb. This is a perfect time to ask questions—whether you’re a complete beginner or a little nervous. Our guides are not only experienced but also incredibly supportive and patient. They’ll make sure you feel secure and confident before setting foot on the glacier.
Glacier Hike to the Climbing Area
With crampons firmly secured, you’ll step onto the Falljökull Glacier and begin an unforgettable hike across the ever-shifting surface of the ice. The glacier landscape is constantly changing, offering breathtaking views of moulins (circular water holes), deep crevasses, and unique ice formations that look like frozen sculptures. The hike to the climbing site takes around 20–30 minutes and gives you time to get used to walking on ice, practice your technique, and admire the surreal beauty surrounding you. The glacier’s brilliant blue tones and dramatic textures make it feel like another planet—and it’s the perfect setting for the photos your guide will be capturing along the way.
Introduction to Ice Climbing
Once you reach the climbing site, your guide will set up the ropes and explain how to safely ascend and descend vertical ice walls. You’ll start small—on a beginner-friendly climbing wall designed to help you get comfortable with the movements and the gear. Using your ice axe and crampons, you’ll learn how to grip the ice and use your body’s momentum to climb efficiently and safely. The focus is on building your confidence and having fun. Most first-time climbers are surprised at how quickly they learn the basics! And don’t worry—your guide is always right there, belaying you and offering encouragement every step of the way.
Progress to More Challenging Climbs
Once you’ve mastered the basics and feel ready, your guide will introduce you to more exciting and varied climbing challenges. Depending on your ability and interest, this might include steeper vertical ice faces, deep glacial cracks, or even overhanging ice arches. These formations provide dramatic photo opportunities and a real sense of accomplishment. You’ll be safely harnessed at all times, and if you get tired or feel stuck, your guide can gently lower you down or assist you from above. The experience is flexible and tailored to your comfort level, making it ideal for adventurous beginners and aspiring ice climbers alike.
Professional Photography Throughout the Tour
Throughout the adventure, your professional glacier photo guide will capture stunning images of you hiking and climbing on the ice. Whether you’re reaching the top of your first ice wall or smiling in front of a glittering crevasse, you’ll walk away with five professionally edited images that perfectly capture the magic of your glacier adventure. These photos are included in your tour and delivered digitally about two weeks after your climb. No need to worry about snapping selfies—your guide’s got it covered!
Return to Skaftafell Parking Lot
As the day winds down, you’ll retrace your steps across the glacier, hike back to the vehicle, and enjoy a well-earned rest on the scenic ride back to Skaftafell. Take in the last views of the highlands, glacier plains, and volcanic peaks, and reflect on the incredible experience you’ve just had. Whether it was your first climb or a bucket list experience, ice climbing in Iceland will leave you feeling inspired, exhilarated, and deeply connected to this otherworldly landscape.
