Sólheimajökull is an outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull and the easiest glacier to reach from Reykjavík. Its ash-streaked tongue ends in a small lagoon just a short walk from the car park.
It is the most popular place in Iceland for a first glacier hike, and the retreating ice shows clearly how fast glaciers are changing.
Getting there
Turn off Route 1 onto road 221 between Skógafoss and Vík. From the car park it is an easy walk of about 15–20 minutes to the glacier front.
When to go
All year. Guided hikes run daily in most weather.
Good to know
- Walk to the viewpoint without a guide, but go onto the ice only with one.
- Combine with Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss on a south coast day.
- Wear sturdy shoes; the path can be muddy or icy.
Read more in the journal
- Iceland's Glaciers: Where to See, Walk and Explore
- Hiking in Iceland: The Best Day Hikes and Treks
- Things to Do in Iceland: 29 Top Sights on One Map
- South Coast Waterfalls in One Day
- Glacier Hiking in Iceland: Which Glacier to Choose
Drive times are approximate and depend on weather and road conditions. Check road.is and vedur.is before you set off.
