Plan Your Visit

Choose your starting point

Choose dates and an overnight base

Start with the season guide, then check your chosen tour’s operating dates. For an early local departure, consider staying closer to the lagoon the previous night. Leave room for road delays and your onward journey.

Compare overnight bases · Plan the road journey

Before you book

1. Match the departure. A local tour does not include transport from Reykjavík.
2. Check who can join. Read the exact minimum age, walking requirements and suitability information.
3. Compare the inclusions. Separate supplied glacier equipment from clothing, footwear, meals and accommodation.
4. Read the terms. Check cancellation deadlines and what happens if the operator changes the route or cancels.

Compare all tours · Planning with children · Read the safety guide

Pack for the whole excursion

Bring warm layers, waterproof outerwear, gloves and suitable hiking boots. Allow for standing outside as well as walking. Confirm boot rental and equipment requirements before departure.

Use the clothing checklist · Prepare your camera

The day before and on the morning

• Read the latest message from your operator.
• Check road conditions for the whole journey, weather warnings and travel alerts.
• Save the exact check-in position and arrival time from your voucher.
• Work backwards from check-in, adding travel time, stops and a buffer.
• Keep the return journey and next hotel check-in in your plan.

Check weather and access · Find parking and your operator

Know what you are booking

The advertised duration covers the whole excursion, including transfer, equipment and walking. It is not all time inside the cave. Natural formations and the approach change; photographs show a particular visit rather than a guaranteed chamber.

Understand the glacier · Compare Crystal and Katla