Blue Ice Labyrinth: Guided Glacier Maze on Fjallsjökull from Skaftafell
Walk into a living maze of blue ice on a guided Fjallsjökull glacier tour from Skaftafell. This accessible, family-friendly glacier hike pairs easy technical instruction with unforgettable ice formations and clear practical guidance.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear ankle-supporting hiking boots
Sturdy hiking boots are mandatory; rentals available for a fee but reserve ahead to ensure proper fit for crampons.
Check crampon size limits
Provided crampons fit EU sizes 35–50—if your shoe size is outside this range, contact the operator before booking.
Dress in layers and bring wind protection
The glacier amplifies wind chill; a waterproof outer shell and warm mid-layer will keep you comfortable during stops and photo breaks.
Keep up with the guide and watch your step
The maze includes narrow passages and uneven ice bridges—follow route instructions closely to avoid weak snow and hidden crevasses.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Svartifoss waterfall in Skaftafell for short hike and basalt columns
- •Fjallsárlón glacial lagoon—quieter than Jökulsárlón and great for close-up ice imagery
Wildlife
- •Arctic fox
- •Migratory sea birds (eiders and terns)
Conservation Note
Vatnajökull National Park charges fees that fund monitoring and trail upkeep; visitors should stay with guides, avoid removing ice or rocks, and pack out all waste.
Vatnajökull’s outlet glaciers like Fjallsjökull have sculpted southeast Iceland’s valleys for millennia; locals used glacial cues for travel and subsistence before modern maps.
Photographer's Notes
- • Inside the ice labyrinth for close-up textures
- • Glacier edge/moraine for context shots
- • A short ridge near the parking area for panorama shots with the glacier tongue
What to Bring
Ankle-supporting hiking bootsEssential
Required for crampon compatibility and ankle support on uneven glacier ice.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down)Essential
Traps body heat during slow sections and while stopped for photos.
Waterproof, windproof shellEssential
Protects against wind and melt spray; keeps layering system functional.
Warm gloves and hatEssential
Fine motor control and warmth are essential when handling crampons and ice tools.
Common Questions
Is this glacier tour suitable for children?
Yes—it's marketed as family-friendly and rated easy, but children should be able to walk ~4 km on uneven terrain and wear properly fitting boots and crampons.
What crampon sizes are available?
The operator supplies glacier crampons that fit EU shoe sizes 35–50; guests outside that range should contact the provider before booking.
Do I need to bring my own safety gear?
No—helmet, harness, crampons and an ice axe are provided, though you must bring suitable footwear; rentals may be available for a fee.
How strict is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; tours may also be canceled by the operator for bad weather.
Where does the tour start and how do I get there?
Meet at the Arctic Adventures Booking Hut in Skaftafell National Park; parking is available at the Skaftafell lot but fees may apply—arrive 10–15 minutes early.
Is the hike accessible for people with mobility limitations?
No—the glacier walk involves uneven icy terrain and crevasses and is not suitable for wheelchairs or people who require steady, flat footing.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–4.5 hours
Location
Skaftafell, Southern Region
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Basic fitness: able to walk ~4 km (2.5 miles) over uneven icy terrain and stand while viewing for long stretches
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