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Iceland’s glaciers: Timeless natural wonders made of ice
Setting foot in Iceland is a place full ofmeans standing among nature’s contrasts—, where everything from fire-breathing volcanoes and to ancient glaciers shapeshapes the landscape of this island in the North Atlantic. Particularly impressive are the many Iceland. Don’t miss out on Iceland’s ice caves that form in glacier tongues during the winter months. They are created by , as meltwater carving pathscarves its path through the ice, forming to create caves with crystal-clear walls that often shimmer in various shades of blue. Among the most popular experiencesIf you’re after a real adventure, take part in Iceland are one of Iceland’s glacier hikes, where travelers equipped. Equipped with crampons and helmets, you get to step onto the eternal ice beneath the northern lights and experience and see the glaciers’ gigantic dimensions up close as the northern Lights twinkle above you.
Whether you choose to hike with an experienced guide or go solo, you won’t forget your first steps out on the ice. A guided tour gives you the equipment and safety of a local guide, plus the chance to learn how the ice masses were formed. For experienced hikers, certain areas also let you hike without a guide, so you can discover the ice at your own pace. Be extremely careful though, as conditions on the glaciers can change suddenly and without warning.
Explore the glaciers in Iceland up close and see the island’s incredible natural beauty for yourself with Discover Airlines.
What to know about Iceland’s glaciers
The glaciers in Iceland are among Europe’s most impressive natural phenomena, and Iceland itself is one of the few countries outside the polar regions with active ice caps. In fact, more than 11% of the country’s surface is covered by ice. You’ve probably heard of some of its most famous glaciers, like Vatnajökull, which is also Europe’s largest, as well as Langjökull and Mýrdalsjökull. These glaciers feed the island’s spectacular ice caves, which re-form every year. Winter is the best time of year to see them, and watching it happen is one of Iceland’s great natural spectacles.
Despite their massive, solid appearance, Iceland’s glaciers are actually continuously moving. As the ice slowly flows down into the valleys, it melts at the edges, creating crevasses, towers and ice bridges, among other unusual formations. In the warmer months, you’ll see how meltwater creates small rivers and lakes on the ice, which also helps form new glacier caves. That constant change, combined with the deep blue light inside the caves, makes them one of the most extraordinary places in the world to visit.
Take the climate into account when planning your visit. Summer is relatively mild and brings good conditions for glacier hikes in Iceland. Winter is a great time to visit the glacier caves as the ice is stable and the caves themselves glow in intense shades of blue. In winter, temperatures often hover around 0 °C (32 °F), cold enough to keep the ice from shifting.
The best time to explore the island really depends on what you plan on doing there. If you’re more drawn to the ice caves, aim to travel between November and March. If a glacier hike, with or without a guide, is more your thing, May to September is a good time. The weather is more reliable then, and you’ll also enjoy good visibility to take in the views of the surrounding countryside.
Which glaciers in Iceland are not to be missed
How to get the most out of your time on Iceland’s glaciers
A little planning goes a long way when exploring Iceland’s ice caves and glaciers. Remember that the weather, even in summer, can be unpredictable, especially at higher elevations around the glaciers. Take weatherproof clothing, several insulating layers and sturdy, water-resistant shoes with you, regardless of whether you explore on your own or with a guide. Even in summer, it can be cool and windy up on the glaciers.
If your aim is to hike Iceland’s glaciers without a guide, planning is even more important. Must-have items include maps, a GPS, crampons and a helmet. It’s also a good idea to have experience hiking on glacier terrain before you go. Be aware that conditions can change suddenly, so also check them before you head out, and if in doubt, go with a guide. Many local providers can supply crampons, helmets and other gear, and pair you with an experienced guide.
Keep in mind that some glaciers in Iceland are not accessible all year round. The famous ice caves beneath Vatnajökull, for example, can only be accessed safely during the winter months. If you travel to Iceland in summer, there’s still plenty of incredible sights to enjoy, especially on one of the island’s glacier hikes. Book your tours well in advance, as popular spots can sell out quickly.
Also allow for plenty of time while you’re there. Distances in Iceland are often greater than you might expect, and the weather can change suddenly. Staying flexible and keeping an eye on conditions will help you make the most of Iceland’s scenery. If you’re into photography, aim to shoot in the morning or evening, when the light brings out the ice’s full range of color.
It’s time for your next adventure out on the ice. Book your flight to Iceland’s glaciers at discover-airlines.com.
January
Avg. Temperature:
-2°C/-2°C
Rainy days per month:
60-120
February
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40-90
March
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November
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December
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80-150