Iceland's Major Glaciers

The Big 6 at a Glance

Each glacier has distinct character, accessibility, and tour options. Accessibility ratings consider road access, weather conditions, and required equipment.

• Vatnajökull — 7,900 km², Southeast Iceland, 2,110m peak. Best for: Jökulsárlón, ice caves, national park. Moderate access.
• Langjökull — 835 km², Western Iceland, 1,450m peak. Best for: ice tunnels, day tours from Reykjavík. Easy access.
• Hofsjökull — 810 km², Central Highlands, 1,765m peak. Best for: highland adventures, wilderness. Difficult access.
• Mýrdalsjökull — 590 km², South Iceland, 1,493m peak. Best for: black ice caves, Katla volcano. Moderate access.
• Drangajökull — 142 km², Westfjords, 925m peak. Best for: untouched wilderness, hiking. Difficult access.
• Eyjafjallajökull — 78 km², South Iceland, 1,666m peak. Best for: volcano history, photography. Moderate access.

Vatnajökull — Europe's Largest

Covering 8% of Iceland, this massive ice cap hides active volcanoes and feeds 30+ outlet glaciers including the famous Jökulsárlón lagoon.

• Area: 7,900 km²
• Max ice thickness: 950m
• Home to Grímsvötn, Bárðarbunga, and Öræfajökull volcanoes beneath the ice
• Crystal ice caves accessible November–March

Langjökull — Most Accessible

Home to man-made ice tunnels and closest to Reykjavík. Perfect for first-time glacier experiences.

• Area: 835 km²
• Into the Glacier: world's largest man-made ice tunnel (550m, open year-round)
• Snowmobiling and super jeep tours available
• 2 hours from Reykjavík via Golden Circle

Mýrdalsjökull — Volcanic Giant

Covers the dangerous Katla volcano. Famous for black ice caves unique to this glacier and the accessible Sólheimajökull outlet glacier.

Drangajökull — The Survivor

Only glacier not retreating significantly. Located in the remote Westfjords, its stable size makes it unique among Iceland's glaciers — high latitude and maritime climate preserve the ice even as others shrink.

Eyjafjallajökull — World Famous

The 2010 eruption that stopped global air traffic. Its sister volcano Katla often erupts in tandem with Eyjafjallajökull historically. The nearby Fimmvörðuháls trail crosses fresh 2010 lava fields.