Iceland is home to some of the most breathtaking glaciers in the world, and visiting them is a must for anyone exploring this stunning country. These massive ice formations are not just scenic wonders; they offer a range of unique experiences like glacier walks, ice caving, and snowmobiling that are sure to add an adventurous twist to your Iceland trip.
The best part? With a rental car from Hertz Iceland, these glaciers are within easy reach, allowing you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re navigating the South Coast or heading into the Vatnajökull National Park for your booked glacier tour, having your own set of wheels makes accessing these icy giants a breeze. Let’s dive into which glaciers you should visit and how you can get the most out of your glacier adventure in Iceland.
An Overview of Iceland’s Glaciers
Iceland is blessed with an array of glaciers, each offering its own unique landscapes and experiences. There are around 269 named glaciers in Iceland, covering about 11% of the country’s land area. These glaciers not only shape the country’s rugged scenery but also play a significant role in the island’s ecosystem and climate.
Among these, Vatnajökull, Langjökull, and Mýrdalsjökull are some of the most popular ones, attracting thousands of visitors every year. These massive ice caps dominate the Icelandic landscape, making them a prominent feature of the island’s geography and a key attraction for tourists.
From glacier hikes to exploring intricate glacier ice caves, these glaciers provide an array of activities that cater to all levels of adventure seekers. So, if you’re planning a trip to Iceland, exploring its glaciers should definitely be on your bucket list.
The Top 2 Glaciers to Visit in Iceland
1. Vatnajokull Glacier and Its Accessible Tongues
Vatnajökull is not only the largest glacier in Iceland but also one of the largest in Europe. It spans over 7,900 square kilometers and is part of the stunning Vatnajökull National Park. The glacier is known for its incredible ice caves, vast ice caps, and its proximity to the iconic Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. The area offers some of the most accessible glacier tongues, perfect for visitors wanting to experience the glacier up close.
Skaftafell Glacier Tongue
One of the most accessible parts of Vatnajökull is the Skaftafell Glacier Tongue, located within the national park in Southeast Iceland. It’s a fantastic spot for glacier hikes, offering stunning views of the icy landscapes against the backdrop of black sands.
To get there, you simply drive along the Ring Road (Route 1) from Reykjavik, heading southeast for about 4-5 hours. There’s a visitor center at Skaftafell that provides parking and detailed tour information.
Skaftafell is open year-round, but if you’re looking for easier hiking conditions, summer (June to August) is ideal. For a magical winter experience, visit between November and March when the ice caves are accessible.
Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier Tongue
Another notable glacier tongue of Vatnajökull is Breiðamerkurjökull, located near the famous Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon along the southeast coast of Iceland.
This glacier tongue is a popular spot for those wanting to explore natural ice caves, especially during the winter months from November to March. In the summer, it’s a great location for viewing the majestic glacier and its lagoon.
To reach Breiðamerkurjökull, continue along the Ring Road from Reykjavik towards the southeast, passing Skaftafell, which takes about 4.5-5 hours.
2. Langjökull Glacier
Langjökull (litertally refers to ‘long glacier’ when translate into English) is the second-largest glacier in Iceland and is well-known for its snowmobiling and manmade ice cave tours.
Located in West Iceland, about 150 kilometers northeast of Reykjavik, Langjökull is a great choice if you’re looking for glacier activities that offer a mix of thrill and breathtaking scenery.
You can get there by driving from Reykjavik via Route 1, then taking Route 50 and Route 551 towards the glacier, which takes roughly 2-2.5 hours.
Tours are available throughout the year, but if you’re into snowmobiling, the mild weather in summer (June to August) is perfect. For those interested in exploring man-made ice caves, winter (November to March) is the best time.
Additional Glaciers to Consider
Sólheimajökull
Sólheimajökull, a glacier tongue off the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, is another great option for a glacier walk adventure. It’s conveniently located off the South Coast, making it an easy stop along your drive. You can reach Sólheimajökull in about 2 hours from Reykjavik by driving along the Ring Road and turning onto Route 221. The glacier is accessible year-round, and guided glacier walks are popular in both summer and winter.
Snæfellsjökull
For a glacier with a literary twist, Snæfellsjökull is known for its connection to the novel “Journey to the Centre of the Earth.” This glacier is located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in West Iceland and is about a 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavik via Route 1 and Route 54. Summer (June to August) is the best time for hiking here, while winter offers a mystical view of the glacier and surrounding landscapes.
The Best Two Glaciers with the Easiest Access for Hiking and Ice Caving
Skaftafell (Vatnajökull) Glacier Tongue
Skaftafell offers some of the best glacier hiking experiences with relatively easy access. From Reykjavik, you’ll drive along the Ring Road, making it a straightforward route for those renting a car from Hertz Iceland. Once at Skaftafell, you’ll find numerous guided tours that take you through stunning ice formations and volcanic landscapes. Plus, the nearby Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon adds an extra attraction to your visit.
Langjökull Glacier
Langjökull is another top choice for easily accessible glacier adventures. The drive from Reykjavik is scenic and straightforward, and once you arrive, you’ll have options for popular snowmobiling tours and exploring man-made ice caves. It’s a fantastic glacier for those wanting a mix of activities without too much hassle in terms of driving.
Tips for Visiting Iceland’s Glaciers
Best Time to Visit
While Iceland’s glaciers can be visited year-round, each season offers different experiences. Summer (June to August) provides milder weather and more accessible glacier hiking conditions, while winter (November to March) is perfect for exploring the stunning ice caves.
Essential Gear and Safety Tips
When visiting glaciers, it’s crucial to be prepared. Dress warmly in layers, bring waterproof clothing, and ensure you have sturdy hiking boots. Always join a guided tour for safety, as navigating the glaciers on your own can be dangerous.
Booking Tours
Glacier tours are extremely popular, especially during peak seasons. It’s best to book your tours in advance to secure your spot and avoid any last-minute disappointments.
Driving in Iceland: Tips for Glacier Adventures
Renting a Car
To fully enjoy the flexibility of visiting these glaciers, renting a car from Hertz Iceland is your best bet. Having your own vehicle allows you to explore at your own pace and make stops along the way to take in Iceland’s incredible scenery. Read further about tips for renting a car in Iceland to know more.
Road Conditions
Driving to Iceland’s glaciers’ viewing spots or to the tour starting locations, especially in winter, can present challenges like icy roads and limited visibility. It’s important to check the weather and road conditions before setting out, and always drive cautiously.
Read more about: road conditions in Iceland for different seasons
Safety Tips
When driving to popular glaciers like Vatnajökull or Langjökull, be mindful of road conditions and follow safety guidelines. Keep an eye on the weather, take breaks as needed, and ensure your rental car is equipped for the journey.
Conclusion
Exploring Iceland’s glaciers is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed. Skaftafell (Vatnajökull) and Langjökull stand out as the best options for their accessibility and range of activities, making them ideal for first-time visitors or those looking for a hassle-free adventure.
Renting a car from Hertz Iceland will make your journey not just about the destination but also about the freedom to explore at your own pace. So, ready to hit the road and see these magnificent glaciers up close? Book your rental car with Hertz Iceland today, and start planning your unforgettable glacier adventure!
