Exploring the Skaftafell: Ice Maze & Glacier Crevasse Tour
If you’ve ever dreamed of walking through an icy labyrinth or standing atop one of Iceland’s most iconic glaciers, the Skaftafell: Ice Maze & Glacier Crevasse Tour offers a wonderfully accessible way to do so. While we haven’t personally strapped on crampons for this specific trip, the reviews and details paint a picture of a remarkably engaging, family-friendly adventure that combines natural beauty with expert guidance.
What immediately catches our eye about this tour is the chance to explore the natural ice maze of Fallsjokull—a unique maze of towering blue ice walls that feels like stepping into a frozen fantasy. Plus, the tour’s easy, accessible nature makes it appealing to beginners, families, and photography buffs looking to capture Iceland’s glacial wonders without technical experience. On the flip side, some travelers suggest group sizes could be a bit smaller for more flexibility, especially during photo stops.
This is a tour best suited for curious travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, stunning visuals, and educational commentary—plus a dash of fun, with no prior glacier experience needed.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Accessible glacier experience perfect for families and beginners
- Highlights the incredible blue ice maze of Fallsjokull glacier
- Guided by knowledgeable experts who share insights about glaciers and landscapes
- Includes all necessary safety gear like crampons and helmets
- Offers fantastic photo opportunities at every turn
- Tour duration of around 4 hours with comfortable transport
- Not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility issues
Looking for more options in Eastern Region Iceland? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The Skaftafell Ice Maze & Glacier Crevasse Tour offers a rare opportunity to walk through a natural maze of ice walls, sculpted over time by the glacier’s slow but relentless movement. According to reviews, the experience of passing through these towering blue ice passages is genuinely memorable. One traveler described it as “an amazing experience to be able to walk on a glacier, especially passing through a maze of ice walls,” which perfectly captures the sense of wonder this tour provides.
The expert guides play a big role in elevating the experience. They don’t just lead you through the ice—they share insights about the glacier’s formation, its surroundings, and safety tips. Reviewers praise guides like Lars and Siggi (names often mentioned in feedback) for their knowledgeable, friendly approach and ability to make everyone feel comfortable, regardless of experience level.
While the tour’s main highlight is the ice maze, you’ll also enjoy exploring the Fallsjokull glacier field, an outlet of the larger Vatnajokull glacier. The views are spectacular, especially for those who love photography, with every turn revealing a stunning icy landscape.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Starting at Arctic Adventures Skaftafell Base Camp
Your adventure begins here, where you’ll meet your guide, gear up, and hop onto a comfortable bus. The drive to Fallsjokull takes about 25 minutes, giving travelers a chance to get excited while taking in the scenic surroundings of Vatnajokull National Park.
More Great Tours NearbyGlacier Hike to the Ice Maze
Once at the glacier tongue, your guide equips you with crampons, a helmet, and safety harnesses. The approximately 4-kilometer hike through the glacier involves walking across crevassed terrain, but no technical glacier skills are required. This part of the tour lasts about three hours and is designed to be family-friendly and accessible, with plenty of stops for photos and explanations.
Walking through the Crevasse Track
The highlight is the Crevasse Track, a natural maze of towering ice walls. Traversing this maze feels like stepping into a frozen cathedral, with breathtaking shades of blue and intricate ice formations. Reviewers frequently mention how much they loved the visual appeal, with one describing it as simply “a world of wonder.”
Return Journey
After exploring the maze, you’ll head back to Skaftafell by bus, completing the roughly 4-hour tour. The drive back offers scenic views, making it a relaxing end to your glacier adventure.
What’s Included & What’s Not?
You’ll be provided with all safety equipment—crampons, helmets, axes, and harnesses—and a certified glacier guide will lead your group. The Vatnajokull National Park fee is included, ensuring your visit has minimal additional costs.
However, travelers should note that warm outdoor clothing, gloves, hats, and sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are not included but recommended. Waterproof jackets, pants, and boots are available for rent at 1500 ISK each, which can be a good option if you’re not packing the right gear.
Food and drinks are also not included, so bringing snacks and water is a smart move—especially since the tour lasts around four hours. Parking fees are the traveller’s responsibility, and arriving early is advised to avoid rushing.
Practical Insights from Reviewers
One reviewer emphasized the importance of waterproofs, water, snacks, and long socks to tuck in crampons, adding “The tour guide was really good, informative, and knowledgeable.” They noted that smaller groups could improve the experience, as waiting for less confident participants sometimes slowed progress.
Another visitor called it “an amazing experience to walk on a glacier,” highlighting the visual impact of passing through a maze of ice walls. The guides’ friendly and engaging manner helped make the experience enjoyable even for those new to glacier hikes.
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
This tour is ideal for families with children over 8, looking for a safe, accessible introduction to glaciers. It’s also a fantastic choice for photography enthusiasts eager to capture Iceland’s icy beauty. Beginners and less mobile travelers will appreciate the straightforward nature of the hike, but those with mobility issues should note the uneven terrain and need for appropriate footgear.
It’s also suitable for travelers who want a fuller understanding of glacial landscapes without the technical challenges of ice climbing or spelunking. The roughly 4-hour format strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort, and the inclusion of expert guides ensures you gain valuable insights.
Final Thoughts
The Skaftafell: Ice Maze & Glacier Crevasse Tour offers a unique peek into Iceland’s icy heart—a natural maze of stunning blue ice walls, accessible for those with little to no prior experience. The guides’ knowledge and friendliness shine through, making it a safe and enjoyable journey into one of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes.
The value lies in the combination of breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and safety gear, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting a memorable glacier adventure without complicated technicalities. The tour’s emphasis on family-friendliness and accessibility ensures it appeals to a wide range of travelers seeking a genuine, hands-on experience of Iceland’s glacial marvels.
For travelers with a sense of adventure, a love for photography, or a wish to get close to ice formations in a safe environment, this trip hits the mark. Just gear up properly, listen to your guides, and prepare for a day of icy wonder.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly, but children need to be at least 8 years old and capable of walking on uneven terrain with appropriate gear.
Do I need technical glacier experience?
No. The tour is accessible and doesn’t require prior glacier hiking skills, making it perfect for beginners.
What should I bring?
Warm, waterproof clothing, gloves, hats, sturdy hiking boots, water, and snacks. Waterproof gear can be rented if needed.
How long is the tour?
Approximately 4 hours, including transport, hiking, and exploration time.
Are waterproof jackets and boots included?
No, but waterproof gear is available to rent for 1500 ISK each.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What happens if weather conditions are poor?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled for safety reasons. Always check with your guide on the day of your trip.
In total, the Skaftafell Ice Maze & Glacier Crevasse Tour provides a memorable, safe, and visually stunning experience that’s perfect for those who want a taste of Iceland’s icy landscape without the complications of advanced mountaineering or technical skills. Whether you’re snapping photos, seeking family fun, or simply craving a unique adventure, this tour offers a balanced dose of awe and accessibility.
You can check availability for your dates here: