18/03/2025
Not long ago, Iceland’s glaciers were seen as treacherous, untamed wilderness—far from the adventure playgrounds they are today. But in the early '90s, a bold group of mountaineers had a radical idea: what if people could safely walk on the ice instead of fearing it?
Enter "Blue Ice", Iceland’s first-ever guided glacier hike brought to life by a small group of mountain guides and outdoor enthusiasts who later founded . Armed with crampons, ice axes, and a deep respect for the ice, these pioneers introduced travellers to the breathtaking beauty of Sólheimajökull’s crevasses and frozen formations.
At first, people were sceptical—who would want to hike a glacier? But as soon as the first adventurers set foot on the ice, the demand skyrocketed. The fearful perception began to change when Icelandic Mountain Guides, a company founded by experienced climbers and adventurers, introduced the concept of commercial glacier hiking. The success of "Blue Ice" didn’t just prove glacier hiking was possible—it ignited a movement.
What started as a single guided hike on Sólheimajökull has grown into a diverse selection of glacier experiences across Iceland. With modern equipment, expertly trained guides, and improved safety standards, glacier tours today are more accessible and safer than ever before. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced adventurer, there’s a tour designed to match your skill level and sense of adventure.
The spirit of "Blue Ice" lives on, inspiring new generations to explore these incredible landscapes while learning about their history, geology, and the impact of climate change. We still operate the “Blue Ice Experience” at Skaftafell.
Now, visitors every year get to experience this epic, otherworldly terrain—thanks to a few daring explorers who saw the ice not as an obstacle but as an opportunity.
Would YOU hike a glacier? Discover the unmissable glacier tours in Iceland in our latest guide: https://www.icelandia.com/inspiration/glacier-tours-in-iceland
Discover the best glacier tours in Iceland for 2025! Explore breathtaking ice caves, hike stunning glaciers, and experience adventure with expert guides. Read Now.