Blue Glacier Canyon Ice Cave & Glacier Walk from Jökulsárlón
Step beyond the lagoon’s floating ice to a luminous blue canyon carved beneath Vatnajökull. This guided glacier walk and ice cave tour from Jökulsárlón combines intimate access to blue ice with practical safety and interpretation.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for changing conditions
Temperatures near the glacier can swing quickly; a thin base layer, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof shell keep you comfortable from shore to cave.
Sturdy waterproof boots
Bring ankle-supporting boots with a firm sole — crampons fit over hiking boots best, and wet, icy terrain punishes thin footwear.
Charge your camera and phone
Cold drains batteries fast; keep spares warm inside your jacket and bring a small dry bag for electronics on the ice.
Listen to the guide
Guides know where crevasses hide and when the cave mouth is unstable — follow instructions immediately to keep the group safe.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Fjallsárlón glacial lagoon — quieter vantage for iceberg photography
- •Skaftafell’s short trails to glacier viewpoints (less crowded than the lagoon shore)
Wildlife
- •Harbor seals (often at the lagoon mouth)
- •Arctic terns and other seabirds around the icebergs
Conservation Note
Vatnajökull National Park limits access to sensitive ice features; stick to guide-led routes, carry out all waste, and avoid altering the ice to preserve fragile formations.
This coastline has been reshaped repeatedly by Vatnajökull’s advances and sudden jökulhlaups; the present lagoons formed in the 20th century as the glacier retreated.
Photographer's Notes
- • Entrance rim above the canyon for context shots
- • Inside the blue canyon for textures and layered light
- • Jökulsárlón shore with floating ice for wide compositions
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Provide ankle support and a secure platform for crampons on icy terrain.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down)Essential
Keeps core warm when wind and damp make the air feel much colder.
Windproof/waterproof shellEssential
Protects against spray, wind, and sudden showers common near the lagoon.
Spare camera batteries & dry bag
Cold and moisture sap batteries; keep electronics insulated and dry for shooting inside the cave.
Common Questions
How physically demanding is the tour?
Expect 2–4 km of walking across uneven ice with minimal elevation gain; a moderate fitness level and comfortable balance on crampons are required.
Are crampons and helmets provided?
Yes — guides supply crampons, helmets, and basic safety gear as part of the tour inclusions.
Can children join the tour?
Children may join if they are physically capable and supervised; policies vary by operator, so check age limits at booking.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are subject to weather and ice conditions; if canceled you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Is it safe to enter the ice cave?
Guides assess stability continuously and only enter caves deemed safe; always follow their instructions and keep distance from unstable ice features.
Where do we meet?
Meet at the Jökulsárlón main parking lot by the Super Jepp and outside WC — the operator confirms the exact meeting point in pre-trip communications.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Höfn, Southeast Iceland
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; comfortable walking on uneven, icy terrain and short climbs for several hours.
Ready to Explore Höfn?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now