Vatnajökull · Photo: Niels Baars
Vatnajökull Ice Traverse
Nine days across Iceland’s largest ice cap, hauling sledges and camping five nights on the ice.
- 9 Days, Feb to Apr
- 5 Nights on the ice
- Grade 5 Over 8 h walking
- €4,890 Per person
On the ice
Plan the season
Daylight in Reykjavík, and the months each route runs.
Daylight
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Vatnajökull Ice Traverse
Feb – Apr
-
Glacier School
Mar
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Westfjords Wild Coast
Jun – Jul
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Laugavegur in Summer
Jul
-
Highland Crossing
Jul – Aug
Daylight: US Naval Observatory, Reykjavík, 15th of each month, 2027.
Day by day
Nine days on the ice cap
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Days 1 to 2
Jökulheimar and the ice edge
Super jeep to the hut at the ice edge, then skills on the ice.
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Days 3 to 6
Onto the ice cap
Hauling sledges to Grímsvötn and the caldera rim. One day held for weather.
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Day 7
Across the Öræfi plateau
Highest camp of the trip, beneath Hvannadalshnúkur.
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Days 8 to 9
Down to Skaftafell
Roped descent of the outlet glacier, then the coast road to Reykjavík.
What the price covers
Guides, group kit, glacier gear, all meals and transfers. Flights and insurance are yours.
- Two glacier guides
- Sledges and tents
- Crampons and helmet
- Reykjavík transfers
Dates and prices
Departures in 2027
Prices are per person. A place is held for 48 hours while you talk to a guide.
Ask about the ice traverse
Tell us your winter experience and dates. A guide replies within 48 hours.
How fit do I need to be?
You should be comfortable walking more than eight hours on consecutive days with a pack. Hauling a sledge is steady work rather than steep climbing, and we train you on day two.
What happens if the weather closes in?
We wait. One day is held in reserve, and the guides decide each morning whether to travel.
Can I rent a sleeping bag and boots?
Yes. Expedition sleeping bags and stiff boots can be reserved when you hold a place.
