Mapping the Mysteries of Sandfellsjökull Glacier
Duration
10 hour(s)
Check availability to see starting times
Languages
English
Live tour guide available in the language you select
Skip the line
Included
Save time and enjoy priority access with skip-the-line entry
Learn hands-on glacier mapping techniques alongside a Katla Geopark expert
Discover geological history and forces shaping the Sandfellsjökull glacier area
Experience receiving a Citizen Scientist certificate and processed research results
Enjoy contributing to meaningful scientific studies with lasting global impact
€ 2594.41
€ 2386.86
Contact us 24x7
Private Vehicle for 1-4 people
Reserve with peace of mind —
Enjoy unlimited changes and full refund options.
Exceptional flexibility
Free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling leads to total flexibility while you plan your travels
24/7/365 Customer support - When you need us we are here
Lowest Price Guarantee — no other provider offers this tour for less
Experience the raw beauty of Iceland on the Sandfellsjökull Glacier Mapping Adventure, a unique journey into one of the country’s most remote and dynamic glacial landscapes. This expedition offers an unmatched combination of hands-on scientific research and breathtaking scenery, allowing you to step into the role of a Citizen Scientist while exploring terrain that has remained largely unmonitored until recently. Trek across rugged highlands, witness the striking features of the glacier, and immerse yourself in an adventure that blends learning, discovery, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Along the way, enjoy the thrill of exploring hidden ice formations, crevasses, and glacier-carved caves while contributing to meaningful environmental studies.
Discover the wonders of Sandfellsjökull Glacier with expert guidance and educational insights, making your adventure both fun and informative. From a scenic 4x4 drive into the highlands to a 1.5-hour hike to the rarely visited glacier outlet, you will gain firsthand knowledge of Iceland’s raw terrain. Participate in real scientific mapping, monitor river water flow, and learn about the powerful geological forces shaping the region. The experience includes a packed lunch amidst breathtaking scenery and a formal Citizen Scientist certificate, along with processed research results shared weeks after your expedition. This is more than an adventure—it’s a chance to make a lasting impact while creating memories in one of Iceland’s most stunning locations.
Guided full-day tour with professional guide
A private experience for up to 4 passengers
Transport to the highland glacier area Sandfellsjokull
Glacier, Safety and Scientific equipment
Certificate of participation as a Citizen Scientist
Research results and updates emailed after tour
Food and Drink
Gratuities
Warm, layered clothing
Waterproof Outerwear
Sturdy Waterproof Hiking Boots
Backpack
Packed Lunch
Snacks & Water Bottle
Group size is limited for personalized guidance and safety
Opportunity to become a Katla Geopark Citizen Scientist
Tour involves active glacier mapping and scientific
Minimum age of participants 10
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Type in your hotel/accommodation to see how far the attraction or departure point is.
Loading pick up points...
Loading pick up points...
Activity Provider: Gravel Travel
Customer Reviews
Lane
Quite an easy walk to view the glacier - you can wander down to it easily enough too. We happened to do an ice cave tour before this, so we weren't blown away by this - but if we hadn't just seen a glacier up close, this is a much accessible way (in terms of money) to do so. Still worth our stop despite having just seen another glacier. Also parts of Interstellar were filmed on parts of this glacier.
Tracey
Utterely breathtaking at sunrise - the Glacier was whispering, creaking cracking noises as the sun rose and the low angled sunlight filtered across the glacial lake in front of the Glacier.... You can hike a short distance write up to the edge of the glacier and skimming stones across the frozen lake yields the most amazing haunting song, similar to whale-song - a really beautiful experience and well worth a visit!
soma
Svinafellsjökull Glacier is a stunning spot and a must-visit for glacier lovers! It’s about a 1.8 km walk from the parking area, mostly on plain terrain, with beautiful glacier views along the way. At the downstream of the glacier, you can see ship-shaped icebergs floating in a pool of water, creating a surreal scene. The landscapes around the glacier are equally amazing, making it a perfect place for photography and peaceful viewing. The dark-colored snow, blended with soil and ice, forms unique natural patterns that look especially striking up close to the visitors. For those wanting a proper snow walk, there’s a 3.5-hour guided trek available, which requires advance booking due to limited slots — so plan your timing accordingly. The regular viewing area is free and easily accessible, offering one of the most scenic glacier experiences in Iceland.
R
Svínafellsjökull is one of Iceland’s most striking outlet glaciers, extending from the massive Vatnajökull ice cap. Known for its dramatic landscape of jagged blue ice, deep crevasses, and surrounding volcanic peaks, it offers one of the most visually stunning glacier views in the country. The scenery feels both alien and majestic, especially when the sunlight hits the ice and brings out layers of turquoise and white. It’s a fantastic stop for photographers and anyone who wants to experience Iceland’s glacial power up close. Access is relatively straightforward, but the gravel road leading to the viewpoint can be rough, with potholes and loose stones, so it’s best to drive slowly and carefully. Once you reach the parking area, there’s a short walk to the glacier’s edge, where you can enjoy panoramic views without needing special gear. It’s important to note that walking on the glacier itself is dangerous without a guide — the ice can be unstable and full of hidden crevasses — so sticking to marked areas is essential. Svínafellsjökull was once a popular site for guided glacier hikes, but activity in the area has been limited in recent years due to safety concerns caused by potential landslides from the surrounding mountains. While that may restrict access to certain parts, it also means fewer crowds, making the experience feel quiet and immersive. There are no facilities at the site, so plan ahead with water, snacks, and bathroom breaks before arriving. The area can be windy and cold, even in summer, so warm, weatherproof layers are recommended. Overall, Svínafellsjökull is a powerful reminder of Iceland’s raw natural beauty — both awe-inspiring and humbling. Though access is more limited now, even viewing it from the safe distance of the ridge offers a deeply memorable glimpse into the ever-changing world of ice and fire that defines Iceland’s landscape.
Kev
Surprisingly easy to access area for breathtaking views of the glacier. It's wild to be able to experience a glacier in such an intimate setting. After arriving, it's a pretty big parking lot but also well subscribed. A moderate amount of other people as you walk up the well-paved path towards the glacier for some stunning views. If adventurous, hike over to the left and continue along the mountainside toward the left side of the glacier for closer views. It gets a bit rocky / steep but was much less crowded and gives you a meditative experience. We then finished a loop around the area before returning to the parking lot.