Evening Glacier Walk at Falljökull — Small-Group Skaftafell Ice Hike
An evening walk onto Falljökull gives you glacier ice, silence, and small-group attention. Certified guides teach crampon and ice-axe skills while late light carves sculpted blue crevasses—perfect for travelers seeking a focused, less-crowded glacier experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures on the ice drop quickly after sunset—wear a warm base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof shell.
Sturdy boots required
Bring ankle-supporting, waterproof hiking boots to fit crampons securely; trainers aren’t recommended.
Listen to your guide
Glacial terrain shifts—follow route guidance and spacing rules around crevasses and seracs for safety.
Bring a small pack
Carry water, snacks, and spare gloves in a daypack; bulky luggage stays at the meeting point.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the short trail to the Skaftafell moraine for a different angle on the glacier tongue
- •Scout the nearby ridge at dusk for a panoramic view of the ice and distant peaks
Wildlife
- •Arctic fox (rare but possible)
- •Seabirds and waders near the coastal lagoons
Conservation Note
Glacial travel stresses fragile ice and nearby tundra—stay on routes set by guides, avoid touching fragile ice formations, and pack out all waste.
Falljökull is an outlet of Vatnajökull and has been mapped for more than a century; its visible retreat over recent decades documents regional climatic shifts.
Photographer's Notes
- • On top of a small ice ridge looking toward the glacier terminus
- • Along the lateral moraine for framed foreground textures
- • Close to a safe crevasse edge (guided) to capture blue ice layers
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Provide support and a secure fit for crampons on icy surfaces.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down)Essential
Keeps you warm during the colder evening temperatures on the glacier.
Waterproof shell jacketEssential
Shields against wind and wet spray from melt channels on the ice.
Warm, dexterous glovesEssential
Allow you to handle crampon straps and the ice axe while protecting your hands from cold.
Common Questions
How long is the glacier walk on the ice?
Expect about 90 minutes walking on the glacier within a three-hour total tour including transfers and gear fitting.
Do I need previous glacier experience?
No—guides teach crampon and ice-axe use on-site, but you should be comfortable on uneven terrain and have basic fitness.
What is the minimum age?
Age requirements vary; the operator will confirm on booking—expect requests for full names and age band information.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours can be cancelled for safety; the operator refunds fully if cancelled at least 24 hours beforehand or for weather-related cancellations.
Where do we meet?
You meet at the Skaftafell start point listed on your booking confirmation—there’s no traveler pickup service for this tour.
Can I bring a camera?
Yes—bring a compact camera or phone; secure it with a wrist strap and keep batteries warm because cold drains power faster.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Suðurland
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in average physical condition who can walk on uneven terrain for 90 minutes; good balance recommended.
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