From Reykjavik
Getting to Solheimajokull Glacier from Reykjavik
As one of Iceland’s most accessible glaciers, Solheimajokull is convenient to visit from Reykjavik.
There are two main ways visitors to Iceland arrive at Solheimajokull Glacier: driving, or as a part of a guided tour.
Planning a trip to see the glacier? Visit the Solheimajokull Glacier website for the complete rundown on every single detail!
Driving to Solheimajokull Glacier from Reykjavik
Rent a car in Reykjavik and drive southeast along the southern coast of Iceland to Solheimajokull Glacier.
You’ll be driving for most of the route along Iceland’s Ring Road, Route 1, followed by a brief stint on the side road that leads to the Solheimajokull parking lot at the edge of the glacier. You will see the turnoff on the left, about 10 minutes past the town of Skogar.
There is a fee to park at Solheimajokull Glacier.
The driving distance from Reykjavik to Solheimajokull Glacier is 174 kilometers (about 108 miles) and, in normal traffic and road conditions, it should take you about 2 hours and 40 minutes to make the journey one way without stops (see map).
Driving yourself offers maximum flexibility in terms of when you leave and return, and where and how long you stop en route.
But driving on Iceland roads is not for everyone, particularly in inclement weather. In the winter, roads on the south coast of Iceland are typically prone to ice and snow, and wind can cause issues as well.
And if you want to hike on Solheimajokull Glacier, you should join a guided tour led by a guide. For most visitors, hiking independently on the glacier is not advised.
This highly-rated tour takes you on a guided hike of Solheimajokull Glacier, for an immersive experience of the landscape. You will marvel at ice formations, crevasses, water cauldrons, and more.
Crampons are provided and the hike starts at the parking lot for the glacier. It is offered several times daily, so it’s easy to fit into your schedule.
>>> Check pricing and availability for this Solheimajokull Glacier guided hike now!
Where to Stop on the Drive from Reykjavik to Solheimajokull Glacier
The south coast of Iceland is known for its many spectacular waterfalls, and you’ll encounter some of them on your drive from Reykjavik to Solheimajokull Glacier.
We suggest getting an early start so you can stop at as many of these stunning waterfalls as you can!
Gluggafoss
Gluggafoss involves a bit of a detour from the Ring Road, but travelers that make the effort are rewarded with a beautiful water surrounded by mossy green rock walls.
Seljalandsfoss
Next up is Seljalandsfoss, one of the most-visited waterfalls in Iceland. You can actually walk behind these majestic falls for some wonderful photo ops!
Walk the paved path to get to another beautiful waterfall: Gljufrabuifoss. You will likely find it less crowded than Seljalandsfoss. You can also access Gljufrabuifoss from the Ring Road if you do not want to walk.
Skogafoss
One of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, Skogafoss is a must-stop en route to Solheimajokull Glacier!
Admire the massive wall of water, and, if you have the time and you are up for the challenge, climb the steps along the side for a different perspective.
Pro Tip: Bring a waterproof jacket and wear shoes with good grip if you want to get close to the waterfalls!
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Taking a Guided Tour from Reykjavik to Solheimajokull Glacier
Taking a guided tour from Reykjavik is a hassle-free way to visit the Solheimajokull Glacier. Just sit back and enjoy the beautiful views en route!
There are two types of tours to Solheimajokull Glacier you can take: either a holistic tour of the southern coast with the glacier as a stop, or a tour of the south coast that includes a longer hiking break at Solheimajokull Glacier.
Note that tours that include the hike at the glacier may have fewer stops than a scenic tour.
This very popular day tour of Iceland’s south coast includes stops at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss before you arrive at Solheimajokull Glacier. You’ll then proceed to Reynisfjara, the famous black sand beach, and the photogenic village of Vik before heading back.
You will travel in comfort in an air-conditioned Mercedes minibus with complimentary wifi. Pick up and drop off from select Reykjavik hotels is included.
On this tour, you will have 45 minutes at Solheimajokull Glacier, plenty of time to admire the views and snap photos.
>>> Check price and availability for this Iceland south coast tour now!
This highly-rated tour of the south coast of Iceland includes a hiking stop at Solheimajokull Glacier, with all equipment included.
You will also have stops at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, as well as Reynisfjara Beach before your glacier walk.
Travel by minibus in a small group. Pick up from select hotels in Reykjavik and drop off are included.
>>> Check price and availability for this Iceland south coast tour with glacier hike now!
Iceland is magical in the winter! If you plan to visit Iceland in the winter and don’t want to risk driving, join this 8-day tour of Iceland from Reykjavik that includes all the major stops along the south coast, including Solheimajokull Glacier. A hike on the glacier is included!
Tours are offered from September through May.
>>> Check price and availability on this 8-day minibus tour of Iceland now!
Top-Rated South Coast Tours