When it comes to Iceland’s extraordinary icy landscapes, few sights rival the allure of Jökulsárlón’s glaciers and ice caves. This comprehensive tour packaged by Ice Pic Journeys offers an immersive day exploring both the lower and upper ice caves, a thrilling glacier hike, and a professional photoshoot—all within about five hours. It’s a chance to really get up close to the stunning blue ice and otherworldly formations that define this part of Iceland.
What I love about this experience is the combination of adventure and photography. First, the super jeep ride to Vatnajokull Glacier is an adrenaline-pumping start that gets you right into the heart of the icy wilderness. Then, exploring both lower and upper ice caves with a certified guide makes the experience more accessible and safe, especially considering how dynamic and ever-changing these caves are. Finally, the professional photographer capturing you amidst breathtaking scenery means you leave with tangible memories—not just hazy snapshots on your phone.
A potential consideration is the level of physical activity involved. If you have mobility issues or are traveling with very young children (this tour is not suitable for those under 10), this might not be the best fit. Also, keep in mind that temperatures on the glacier are colder than you might expect, so packing appropriately is vital. The price at $436 per person is reasonable when you factor in gear, guide expertise, the photos, and the unique experience you’re getting—though it may seem steep at first glance, the value is genuine.
Key points / Takeaways
- All-Inclusive Gear and Assistance: Your guide supplies helmets, crampons, harnesses, and optional hiking boots, making the experience hassle-free.
- Professional Photos Included: You’ll receive a curated set of edited photos—highlighting your moments in the ice caves and on the glacier—within two weeks.
- Dynamic Ice Caves: Each year, new caves form while old ones melt away, ensuring every tour is a unique snapshot of Iceland’s shifting ice landscape.
- Accessible Adventure: The hike covers roughly 10km, with an easy first half and a gentle glacier ascent, making it suitable for most with average fitness.
- Expert Guidance: Guides like the highly praised “Gunnar” (from reviews) take care to ensure safety and memorable photos, adding a personal touch.
- Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and fewer crowds.
Starting the Adventure: From the Road to the Ice
Your journey begins with a drive in a trusty super jeep, specifically a Nissan Patrol painted with “Ice Pic Journeys” on the side. This is not just transportation but a purposeful ride that whisks you into the icy realm. The rugged terrain of Vatnajokull Glacier demands a vehicle capable of handling Iceland’s unpredictable weather and volcanic landscape, and this tour provides just that.
The super jeep ride is one of the tour’s highlights, offering views of Iceland’s stark, pristine wilderness. It’s a quick reminder that this isn’t your typical sightseeing bus—you’re in a small, capable vehicle that can handle the icy roads and rugged terrain. The ride also sets the tone for the day: adventurous, authentic, and truly off the beaten path.
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Approaching the Glacial Frontier: What to Expect Up Close
Once you arrive at the glacier’s edge, your guide—such as the well-reviewed Gunnar—will assist with fitting crampons and explain safety procedures. Expect to gear up in a matter of minutes, ready for a walk that’s about 10km in total. The first part of the hike is flat and rocky, giving you a chance to acclimate to the icy environment. This section is accessible for most people of average fitness, making the experience approachable yet exhilarating.
As you move onto the glacier proper, the terrain gradually inclines for about 20 minutes. Here, you’ll truly appreciate the scale and beauty of Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest ice cap. The visuals are stunning—crystal-clear ice formations, deep blue crevasses, and the ever-changing shapes of the glacier. You’ll love the way your guide navigates the terrain, ensuring safety while pointing out features like famous crystal crevasses, which resemble sculptures frozen in time.
Ice Caves: The Frozen Cathedrals
The highlight for many is exploring the lower (Sapphire Ice Cave) and upper ice caves. These caves are natural wonders, sculpted by centuries of melting and re-freezing, revealing glowing blue ice and surreal formations.
The lower cave is usually the first stop and is often called the Sapphire Ice Cave for its vibrant blue hues. Entering this cavern feels like stepping into a cathedral carved from ice—smooth, shimmering walls that reflect light in eerie, beautiful ways. Your professional photographer will capture images of you inside these chambers, which you’ll treasure long after the tour ends.
Afterward, you’ll gear up again and hike deeper into the glacier to reach the upper ice cave. Each cave is a one-of-a-kind experience because ice caves are constantly changing and do not look the same year after year. The photos you see online may differ from what you encounter, but that’s part of the charm—each trip is a fresh, unrepeatable snapshot of nature’s artistry.
The Photogenic Side of the Glacier
The photography package is a unique feature of this tour. The guide-provided photographer will capture a variety of shots—action shots of you walking across the ice, portraits against the icy backdrop, group shots, and stunning landscape images. You’ll receive around 10 edited photos per adult, with a smaller package for children, all sent to you within about two weeks.
From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Gunnar go above and beyond, ensuring everyone looks good and feels safe. As one traveller noted, “He took great care to take beautiful photos for us,” which makes this tour not just a sightseeing trip but a personalized photo safari.
The Glacier Hike and Its Surprising Accessibility
One of the most impressive aspects of this experience is how approachable it is. The hike involves roughly 10km overall, with most of it on flat, rocky terrain. The second half involves a gentle incline on the glacier, which most people of average fitness will find manageable.
The terrain offers an ever-changing landscape—crystalline ice formations, deep crevasses, and rugged textures. It’s a breathtaking walk through an alien world, and the sense of scale and serenity is remarkable. Expect to spend time marveling at the crystal crevasses, which are often the focal point of photographs and awe.
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Practicalities: What You Need to Know
Dress appropriately—layers, warm gloves, hat, windproof and rainproof jacket are essential because temperatures on the glacier are colder than you’d think and the wind can be fierce. Remember, ice caves are dynamic and can change or even be inaccessible if conditions aren’t right, so flexibility on dates can be helpful.
The tour includes all necessary gear—helmet, harness, crampons, ice axe if needed, and hiking boots (upon request). You’ll also benefit from a small group size, limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal experience and better photos.
Price-wise, at $436 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the gear, guide expertise, transportation, and professional photos. Compared to the cost of independent travel or renting gear, it packages everything into a well-organized adventure.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience will suit adventure lovers who want a safe, guided introduction to Iceland’s glaciers and ice caves, without requiring advanced climbing skills. It’s perfect for those who want the authentic feel of walking on ice and capturing stunning photos. Families with older children (over 10), fitness-minded travelers, and photography enthusiasts will find this tour especially rewarding.
However, it’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments or those under 10 years old. Also, if you’re not comfortable with cold weather or are seeking a more leisurely sightseeing experience, this might be too active.
For anyone eager to see Iceland’s ice landscapes up close, this tour offers a fine balance of adventure, comfort, and photography. The expert guides take care to make the experience both safe and memorable, and the photos ensure you’ll have lasting memories of your icy escapade. Given the dynamic nature of ice caves, each trip is unique, making it a special, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
If you’re comfortable with a moderate hike in cold conditions and want to combine breathtaking scenery with professional photography, this is a fantastic way to explore Iceland’s glacial beauty. It’s a hands-on adventure that turns you into a part of the landscape and leaves you with stunning images to cherish.
What is included in the tour?
Your guide provides all necessary gear—helmet, harness, crampons, and hiking boots upon request—and a professional photographer captures your experience. You’ll also receive a set of edited photos within 14 days.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about five hours, including transportation, gear-up time, exploration, and photography.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 10, and all participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The terrain and cold conditions make it unsuitable for very young or mobility-impaired travelers.
What is the difficulty level?
The hike involves roughly 10 km, with the first half being flat and rocky, and the second on a gradual incline on the glacier. It’s rated as easy with some moderate effort, suitable for most people of average fitness.
What should I wear?
Dress in warm, layered clothing, including gloves and a hat. Windproof and rainproof jackets are highly recommended due to the exposed, windy environment on the glacier.
Is the ice cave visit guaranteed?
Ice caves are natural and dynamic, so their appearance varies year by year. Each tour is unique, and caves may change or be inaccessible depending on weather conditions.
How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 10 participants, allowing for personalized attention and better photo opportunities.
What is the price, and is it worth it?
At $436 per person, the price reflects the included gear, guide expertise, transportation in a super jeep, and professional photos. Many find it a worthwhile investment for a truly memorable Icelandic adventure.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.
Can I book and pay later?
Yes. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, making travel planning more flexible.
In the end, this Jökulsárlón Glacier Hike and Ice Cave tour offers a well-rounded, memorable adventure into Iceland’s icy heart, perfect for those craving authentic glacier experiences paired with great photography.