Eyjafjallajökull Glacier Hike to the Summit
Ascend the iconic volcano that shook the world and walk on one of Iceland's most storied glaciers.
The Eyjafjallajökull hike takes you from a historic outdoor swimming pool all the way to the 1,666-meter summit of one of Iceland's most recognizable volcanoes, crossing gravel ridges, mossy terrain, and a genuine ice slope along the way. This moderate full-day route offers an unfiltered look at Iceland's raw volcanic landscape without requiring prior mountaineering experience. Guides provide all glacier equipment and instruction on-site before the ice section begins.
The approach from Seljavallalaug follows an old mountain track that gains elevation steadily through gravel and moss-covered slopes. The trail is steep in sections, but natural rest points appear at regular intervals, and small freshwater streams along the route mean you carry less weight than on a typical alpine day hike. After two to three hours of walking, the group reaches the glacier base, where a proper lunch break coincides with gearing up for the ice.
Once crampons, harnesses, and ropes are fitted and demonstrated by the guide, the ascent continues up a solid ice slope onto a flat glacier plateau. On days with good visibility, the caldera of the volcano becomes visible from this elevated snowfield. The true summit, Goðasteinn at 1,666 meters, requires an additional 30-minute push and rewards the effort with panoramic views across the south coast of Iceland.
The descent retraces the full route back to the trailhead at Seljavallalaug, where the historic geothermal pool offers a natural end to the day. The entire experience covers the volcanic, glacial, and coastal dimensions of Iceland's southern landscape within a single outing accessible from Reykjavík as a day trip.
Tour Highlights
Reach the 1,666-meter summit of Goðasteinn on Eyjafjallajökull, the volcano famous for its 2010 eruption that disrupted European air travel.
Hike a varied trail through gravel slopes and moss-covered ridges before transitioning onto actual glacier ice for the upper ascent.
Receive a full glacier equipment fitting and hands-on instruction in crampon and harness use from certified guides at the glacier base.
Drink directly from natural freshwater streams along the trail, reducing the need to carry heavy water supplies on the ascent.
View the volcanic caldera from the flat glacier plateau on clear weather days, a rare vantage point few visitors ever reach.
Begin and end the hike at Seljavallalaug, one of Iceland's oldest outdoor geothermal pools, set in a dramatic mountain valley.
Complete the full round trip as a day excursion from Reykjavík, making this one of the most rewarding summit hikes on the south coast.
Itinerary
Travel approximately 1 hour 30 minutes east along Route 1, then turn onto Road 242 toward Seljavallalaug. Alternatively, meet the guide at the N1 gas station in Hvolsvöllur and follow the convoy to the trailhead.
Collect glacier equipment at the starting point, then set off up the initial steep section of the trail. The path follows gravel and moss terrain with natural flat resting areas between each rise.
After two to three hours of hiking, the group arrives at the edge of the glacier for a lunch break. Guides demonstrate how to fit harnesses and crampons and explain roping procedures before continuing.
The roped group climbs a substantial ice slope onto the flat upper glacier. On clear days the volcanic caldera is visible from this section of the route.
A final 30-minute climb reaches the true summit of Eyjafjallajökull, offering panoramic views across the south coast. Time is taken here for photographs and a rest before the descent.
The group retraces the full route back to the trailhead. Upon arrival, the historic geothermal pool at Seljavallalaug is available for a post-hike soak.
What Is Included
Included
- Professional certified glacier guide throughout the hike
- Glacier equipment: harness, crampons, and rope
- Safety briefing and on-site instruction for glacier travel
- Small freshwater stream access along the trail (no water purchase needed)
Not Included
- Transport from Reykjavík to the trailhead
- Personal food and packed lunch
- Personal hiking boots and weather-appropriate clothing
- Travel insurance
Important Information
Ready to Stand on Top of Iceland's Most Famous Volcano?
Secure your place on the Eyjafjallajökull glacier hike and experience the summit that sits above one of Iceland's most active volcanic landscapes.
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