Into the Glacier

One of the newest adventure offerings in Iceland involves descending into the world’s largest ice tunnel to walk 25 meters below Europe’s second largest glacier. The activity launched in the summer of 2015, and was originally going to operate only during the summer months but has proven so popular that it is now offered year-round. For those staying in Reykjavik, it is a full-day outing; the base is nearly a two-hour drive from the city and involves a drive onto the glacier in a converted German missile launcher, which can take anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours depending on the snow conditions on the glacier (drives tend to be longer in the winter months).

The trucks hold thirty-five people who are split into two groups for the guided visit, which includes time for photos on top of the glacier followed by an hour-long walk through the various ice caves within the tunnel, where you see crevasses, icicle formations and other frozen spectacles. Along the 500-meter walk, you will enter various chambers, including a small chapel. LED lights behind the ice walls light up the tunnel and rooms, and guides discuss glacier formation, safety and global warming. Crampons are provided, but it is advisable to dress for very cold temperatures; at the base, warm-weather suits are offered to those who are underdressed.

Who it’s right for: Thrill seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Who it’s wrong for: Impatient sightseers (of any age), as the excursion takes a full day (unless you hire a helicopter to land on the glacier, which can cut the timing down significantly).

Indagare members can contact our Bookings Team for help with arrangements.