• The Glacier Beyond tour is the first scheduled day excursion from Skaftafell to link both the Falljökull and Virkisjökull outlet glaciers.
• Much of the hiking occurs on Virkisjökull, a secluded glacier tongue that currently lacks other guided tour traffic.
• The route features unique geological sights, including icefalls from the Öræfajökull volcano and rare basalt columns along the ice.
• The moderately challenging 5.5-hour excursion is capped at 12 guests per guide and requires a minimum age of 14.

Arctic Adventures has introduced a new guided excursion named Glacier Beyond, which allows travelers to experience a more remote and secluded glacier route within Vatnajökull National Park in South Iceland. Starting June 15, 2026, this 5.5-hour tour is the first in the operator’s Skaftafell portfolio to combine two distinct outlet glaciers into a single day hike. Participants begin their journey by crossing the heavily frequented Falljökull glacier, known as the falling glacier, before advancing onto the quieter and less traveled Virkisjökull glacier tongue, known as the fortress glacier.

The excursion departs from the Arctic Adventures hut in Skaftafell and includes a 4×4 bus transfer to the edge of the ice. Guests spend between 3.5 and 4 hours hiking across the glacial terrain, passing beneath the icefalls of the Öræfajökull volcano, which features the highest peak in Iceland. The route also offers rare views of basalt columns located alongside the glacier. Because standard guided traffic is currently absent on Virkisjökull, the tour is designed to provide a more tranquil experience of the changing landscape and an understanding of how outlet glaciers move.

To maintain safety and an intimate atmosphere, group sizes are limited to 12 participants per certified glacier guide. The tour is rated as moderately challenging, making it suitable for individuals with a good general level of fitness. No prior glacier hiking experience is necessary, though there is a minimum age requirement of 14 years. The tour will operate year-round, weather permitting, with pricing starting at 188 euros per adult.