Arctic Adventures Partnership: Exclusive Glacier Tours on Sólheimajökull

If you’ve been dreaming about stepping onto an actual glacier in Iceland, I have fantastic news. I’m thrilled to announce that I’m rebooting my partnership with Arctic Adventures for their Glacier Tours on Sólheimajökull. Arctic Adventures is one of Iceland’s most respected tour operators and a true market leader in adventure travel.

Arctic Adventures has been creating unforgettable experiences on Iceland’s glaciers, ice caves, and wild landscapes for over 40 years. They’re not just another tour company – they’re in the top 10% of experiences worldwide according to Tripadvisor, with a 2025 Travelers’ Choice Award to prove it. This is the kind of company you want guiding you when you’re standing on ancient ice.

Here’s What This Means for You

As soon as you sign up for the Stuck in Iceland newsletter, you’ll receive an exclusive discount code for Arctic Adventures tours. This isn’t just for one tour – you’ll get 10% discount on two of Arctic Adventures’ experiences, joining the roughly 50 other Icelandic tourism operators I’ve partnered with to bring you the best deals on tours, accommodations, and activities across Iceland.

Today, I want to spotlight three exceptional glacier experiences on Sólheimajökull, one of Iceland’s most accessible and dramatic glaciers. Whether you’re looking for a gentle introduction to glacier hiking or an adrenaline-pumping ice climbing adventure, there’s something here for every comfort level.

Why Sólheimajökull Glacier Tours?

Before we dive into the tours, let me tell you why Sólheimajökull is special. This glacier is an outlet tongue of Mýrdalsjökull, Iceland’s fourth-largest ice cap, and it’s located on the spectacular South Coast between Skógafoss waterfall and the village of Vík.

What makes Sólheimajökull unique is its dramatic appearance. Volcanic ash from past eruptions (including the famous 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption) streaks across the ice in black-and-white patterns that look almost otherworldly. The glacier is constantly moving and changing, creating deep crevasses, towering ice walls, massive sinkholes called “moulins,” and those mesmerizing blue ice formations that Iceland is famous for.

I won’t sugarcoat it – Sólheimajökull is also one of Iceland’s fastest-shrinking glaciers, retreating at an alarming rate due to climate change. In the last decade alone, it has retreated about a kilometer. This makes visiting it now even more meaningful. You’re witnessing something that future generations might only see in photographs.

The glacier sits just 158 kilometers (98 miles) from Reykjavík – about a two-hour drive along the scenic Ring Road – making it one of the most accessible glacier experiences in the country.

The Two Sólheimajökull Glacier Tours

Glacier Experience – Sólheimajökull Easy Glacier Hike

The Adventure: This is the perfect introduction to glacier hiking – all the wonder of walking on ancient ice without the technical challenge of climbing.

Video: Glacier Hiking on Sólheimajökull

What You’ll Do: After a safety briefing and equipment fitting, you’ll take a short walk across the volcanic black sand to reach the glacier’s edge. Once you’re strapped into your crampons, you’ll spend time exploring Sólheimajökull’s surface with your certified guide. You’ll walk among ice ridges, peer into crevasses, and learn about the glacier’s formation, its relationship with the volcano beneath it, and why it’s changing so rapidly. Your guide will share fascinating geology and history lessons that bring this frozen landscape to life.

Pricing: From $112 USD

Duration: Meet on Location: Approximately 3 hours total
With Reykjavík Pick-up: Approximately 11-12 hours total | Price varies with pick-up option

Difficulty: Easy – Suitable for most people in fair condition. The pace is manageable, and the trails have gradual inclines.
Bonus (Reykjavík Pick-up): Like the Blue Ice tour, you’ll visit Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Seljalandsfoss, and Skógafoss waterfalls.

Minimum Age: Typically 10 years (check when booking)
Shoe Size Requirement: EU 35 or larger

Blue Ice – Ice Climbing Adventure

The Adventure: This is Arctic Adventures’ signature glacier experience, and it’s absolutely thrilling. You’ll spend approximately three hours on the ice, including dedicated time for ice climbing instruction and practice.

Video: Ice Climbing on Sólheimajökull Glacier

What You’ll Do: After getting fitted with all the necessary gear (ice axes, helmets, crampons, harness, and safety lines), your certified glacier guide will lead you on a hike across Sólheimajökull’s stunning surface. You’ll navigate around crevasses, walk across ridges, and marvel at the deep blue ice formations. Then comes the exciting part – actual ice climbing. You’ll scale vertical ice walls or descend into crevasses, learning proper technique while your guide ensures your safety every step of the way.

Duration & Pricing:

Meet on Location (at Sólheimajökull parking lot): Approximately 4.5 hours total, around 3 hours on the ice | From $179 USD
With Reykjavík Pick-up: Approximately 11 hours total | From $179 USD

Difficulty: Moderate – You need to be in good physical condition and comfortable walking for a few hours at a steady pace. The ice climbing itself is suitable for beginners, with your guide providing instruction and support.
Bonus (Reykjavík Pick-up Only): The journey from Reykjavík includes stops at two of Iceland’s most magnificent waterfalls:

Seljalandsfoss – A 65-meter waterfall you can walk behind (in summer)

Skógafoss – A powerful 60-meter cascade that often creates multiple rainbows

Minimum Age: 14 years (must be accompanied by an adult)
Shoe Size Requirement: EU 35 or larger (crampons cannot be safely attached to smaller sizes)

What’s Included in the Sólheimajökull Glacier Tours

Arctic Adventures doesn’t cut corners. Every glacier tour includes:

• Certified Glacier Guide – Expert guides trained in glacier safety and rescue
• All Safety Equipment – Helmets, crampons, ice axes, harnesses (where needed)
• Small Group Sizes – Typically 6-19 people for a more personalized experience
• Safety Briefing – Comprehensive instruction on equipment use and glacier safety

What to Bring to a Sólheimajökull Glacier Tour

Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Here’s what I recommend:

1. Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support (mandatory – rentals available for 1,500 ISK)
2. Waterproof jacket and pants (rentals available if needed)
3. Warm layers – Think wool or synthetic, NOT cotton. Three to four layers on top.
4. Gloves and a warm hat – Even in summer
5. Sunglasses and sunscreen – The glacier reflects UV light intensely
6. Small backpack – For extra layers and snacks
7. Water bottle – You can refill with glacier meltwater (seriously, it’s the freshest water you’ll ever taste)
8. Camera – You’ll want to document this

Important Note: Jeans are a terrible choice for glacier tours. They get wet, heavy, cold, and uncomfortable. Choose lightweight hiking pants or track pants instead.

Why Arctic Adventures?

I don’t partner with companies lightly. Here’s why Arctic Adventures earned my trust:

• Over 40 Years of Experience – Founded in 1983, they’ve been leading adventures in Iceland longer than most tour companies have existed.
• Safety Record – Their guides are certified professionals who train constantly, including weekly rescue drills. Safety is never compromised.
• Sustainability Commitment – They take their environmental responsibility seriously, which matters when operating on these precious, threatened glaciers.
• Award-Winning Service – Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2025, Viator Experience Award 2025, and thousands of five-star reviews.
• Small Group Philosophy – Their tours max out at 19 people, but many glacier tours have even smaller groups (typically 6-8 people), ensuring personalized attention and a better experience.

Practical Considerations for Glacier Tours on Sólheimajökull

• Winter Timing Note: From November 16 to January 31, tours from Reykjavík won’t stop at Skógafoss due to limited daylight, but you’ll see it from the bus.
• Weather Policy: Rain doesn’t stop the tours (this is Iceland, after all). However, if conditions become unsafe, tours will be canceled, and full refunds will be issued.
• Minimum Participants: Tours need a minimum number of participants to run. If your tour is canceled due to low numbers, you’ll be offered alternative dates or a full refund.

Self-Drive Tip: If you’re driving yourself to meet on location, allow extra time. Winter roads can be tricky, and you don’t want to miss this experience because of traffic or weather delays. GPS coordinates for Sólheimajökull parking lot: 63°31’47.4″N 19°22’11.7″W

How to book glacier tours on Sólheimajökull glacier with your discount code

This is the easy part:

1. Sign up for the Stuck in Iceland newsletter (if you haven’t already)
2. Receive your exclusive Arctic Adventures discount code by email
3. Visit the Arctic Adventures website at adventures.is
4. Choose your tour and preferred date
5. Enter your discount code at checkout (Step 2)
6. Book with confidence – Free cancellation available

Remember, you’re not just getting a discount on these three glacier tours. Your newsletter subscription gives you access to exclusive discount codes for approximately 50 Icelandic tourism operators, covering everything from whale watching to hot spring visits to accommodations across the country.

My Personal Take

I’ve had the privilege of exploring many of Iceland’s glaciers, and Sólheimajökull never fails to impress. There’s something deeply moving about standing on ice that fell as snow hundreds or thousands of years ago, knowing that this glacier is actively changing beneath your feet.

The volcanic ash patterns are unlike anything you’ll see on other glaciers – it’s like nature’s abstract art. And when you peer into a deep blue crevasse or touch the impossibly smooth ice walls, you understand why people travel from all over the world for this experience.

If you’re physically able and have even a moderate sense of adventure, I can’t recommend these tours highly enough. Yes, they require effort. Yes, you’ll work up a sweat. But the sense of accomplishment and the memories you’ll create are absolutely worth it.

And honestly? Knowing that Sólheimajökull is retreating so rapidly makes the experience even more precious. This is something you should see while you can.

Final Thoughts

Iceland’s glaciers are among its greatest treasures, and Sólheimajökull offers one of the most accessible ways to experience them safely and responsibly. With Arctic Adventures’ expert guides, top-tier safety equipment, and four decades of experience, you’re in excellent hands.

Whether you choose the easy glacier hike for a gentle introduction, the full ice climbing adventure for maximum thrills, or something in between, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for these ancient frozen rivers and the powerful forces that created them.

Don’t forget to sign up for the Stuck in Iceland newsletter to receive your exclusive discount code. With deals from approximately 50 Icelandic tourism partners waiting for you, it’s the smartest move you can make before planning your Iceland adventure.

See you on the ice!

Jon Heidar
Editor, Stuck in Iceland Travel Magazine

Arctic Adventures offers daily departures year-round. Tours can be booked with pick-up from Reykjavík or meet-on-location at Sólheimajökull. All prices are in USD and subject to change. Minimum age and shoe size restrictions apply for safety reasons. Please remember you are booking the tour with Arctic Adventures; they run the tours, and their terms and conditions apply.