Arctic Adventures has launched a new glacier hiking experience in Vatnajokull National Park, offering travellers access to a more remote route across two outlet glaciers in the Skaftafell region.
Named Glacier Beyond, the new guided tour connects the popular Falljokull glacier with the neighbouring Virkisjokull glacier tongue in a single day experience. According to the company, it is the first scheduled guided glacier hike from Skaftafell to combine both glacier routes.
Located within Vatnajokull National Park in South Iceland, Skaftafell is one of the country’s most visited glacier hiking gateways, known for its outlet glaciers, mountain landscapes and access to the Vatnajokull ice cap. Existing glacier tours in the region typically operate on Falljokull, also known as the “Falling Glacier” due to its prominent icefall formations.
The new Glacier Beyond route extends beyond Falljokull and crosses onto Virkisjokull, a quieter neighbouring glacier tongue that has not previously been included in scheduled guided day tours from Skaftafell.
The experience begins at the Arctic Adventures base in Skaftafell, followed by a 25-minute 4×4 transfer to the glacier edge. The full tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, including between 3.5 and 4 hours on the ice. The route passes beneath the icefalls of oræfajokull, home to Iceland’s highest peak, and includes views of volcanic basalt formations rarely encountered during standard glacier hikes.
Group sizes are limited to 12 guests per certified glacier guide, with the route categorised as moderately challenging. The company said no previous glacier hiking experience is required, although participants should have good general fitness. The minimum participation age is 14 years.
“Most travelers who come to Skaftafell only set foot on Falljokull. Stepping across to Virkisjokull changes the day completely. The standard tour traffic drops away, the views open up, and you get a real sense of how an outlet glacier moves,” said Francesco Li Vigni.
The company said the experience is designed around small-group access to less crowded glacier terrain, responding to growing traveller interest in nature-based and immersive outdoor tourism experiences in Iceland.
Glacier Beyond departures will begin on 15 June 2026 and operate year-round, subject to weather conditions. Prices start from EUR 188 per adult, with launch discounts available for bookings made before 15 July 2026.
