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Langjökull ('Long Glacier' in Icelandic) is Iceland's second-largest ice cap, covering roughly 950 square kilometres in the West and Central Highlands. It sits at elevations generally between 900 and 1,450 metres above sea level and feeds several rivers and glacial lagoons that flow toward the lowlands of western Iceland.
The glacier is best known internationally for the man-made ice tunnel system marketed under the name 'Into the Glacier,' which allows visitors to walk inside the glacier through a series of excavated tunnels and chambers. It is one of the few places in the world where travelers can enter a living glacier in this way.
Langjökull is also a popular venue for snowmobile tours, super-jeep excursions, and dog sledding in season. Because it is relatively accessible from Reykjavík compared to Iceland's more remote glaciers, it draws a large share of the country's glacier tourism.
Before You Go
Visas
Iceland is a member of the Schengen Area. Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section and consult the official Icelandic Directorate of Immigration website for current rules before booking.
Booking Tours in Advance
Glacier tours — particularly the ice tunnel experience and snowmobile excursions — are popular and sell out well ahead during peak seasons. Book directly through licensed operators or through reputable aggregators as early as possible. Verify current availability and pricing on the operator's official site.
What to Wear
Glacial environments require layering. Thermal base layers, a mid-layer fleece, a waterproof and windproof outer shell, warm gloves, a hat, and sturdy waterproof boots are strongly recommended regardless of season. Many tour operators provide overalls and helmets for the tunnel experience; confirm this with your specific operator.
Health and Fitness
Most glacier tours are designed for average fitness levels, but the high altitude, cold, and uneven icy terrain mean that those with heart conditions, respiratory issues, or limited mobility should consult a doctor and contact tour operators in advance to discuss suitability.
Getting There
Arriving in Iceland
Almost all international visitors arrive via Keflavík International Airport, located roughly 50 kilometres southwest of Reykjavík. From there, Reykjavík is the practical staging point for any Langjökull trip.
From Reykjavík to Langjökull
Langjökull is approximately 130–170 kilometres from Reykjavík depending on the approach route. There is no public transport to the glacier. The main access options are:
- Organised tour: The most practical approach for most visitors. Many Reykjavík-based operators run guided day trips by coach or super-jeep, often combining Langjökull with the Golden Circle route.
- Self-drive with a 4WD vehicle: The highland roads (F-roads) leading to the glacier require a high-clearance 4WD vehicle and are closed to standard cars. F-roads are generally only passable in summer months; verify conditions with the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) before setting out.
- Via Húsafell: The small settlement of Húsafell, roughly 25 kilometres from the glacier's edge, serves as a common base for tours. Some operators depart from here.
Getting Around
Once at the glacier, all movement is guided. Independent travel on the ice surface without a licensed guide is not permitted and is genuinely dangerous due to crevasses, whiteout conditions, and rapidly changing weather.
Within organised tours, transport options on the glacier typically include purpose-built snowcats or modified glacier vehicles that carry visitors to the tunnel entrance or snowmobile staging areas. These are provided as part of the tour.
If you are self-driving to the area, note that parking is available at designated points near the glacier's edge, but the final ascent to tour departure points is typically handled by the operator's vehicles.
Things to See & Do
Ice Tunnel (Into the Glacier)
The man-made tunnel system excavated into Langjökull allows visitors to walk through chambers and corridors cut directly into the ice. Displays inside explain glaciological science, climate history recorded in the ice layers, and the engineering behind the tunnel. This experience is typically available year-round, though hours and access can vary seasonally — verify with the operator before booking.
Snowmobiling
Snowmobile tours on the glacier surface are available during winter and early spring when snow conditions are suitable. These are guided group experiences; no prior snowmobiling experience is generally required, though operators will brief participants on safety.
Super-Jeep and Glacier Tours
Modified 4WD super-jeeps can take small groups across the glacier surface for sightseeing without snowmobiling. These tours often combine the glacier with other West Iceland highlights.
Dog Sledding
Seasonal dog sledding is occasionally offered in the Langjökull area when conditions allow. Availability is limited and highly weather-dependent — verify locally.
Nearby Natural Attractions
- Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls: Located near Húsafell, these distinctive lava field waterfalls are a short detour and well worth a stop.
- Þingvellir National Park and the Golden Circle sights are commonly combined with a Langjökull day trip.
Practical Information
Weather and Conditions
Glacier weather is unpredictable at any time of year. Temperatures on the ice can be significantly colder than at sea level, and wind chill can be severe. Always check the Icelandic Meteorological Office (vedur.is) forecast before departure and be prepared for tours to be modified or cancelled due to conditions.
Emergency Numbers
Iceland's general emergency number is 112. The 112 Iceland app allows users to share their GPS location with emergency services, which is strongly recommended for anyone travelling in the highlands.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage can be limited or absent in the highland interior. Download offline maps and relevant information before leaving settled areas.
Responsible Travel
Langjökull, like all of Iceland's glaciers, is retreating due to climate change. Stay on marked paths and follow guide instructions at all times to minimise environmental impact. Do not remove ice, rocks, or any natural material.
Costs
Admission and tour prices vary by operator and season. Verify current pricing directly with operators, as fees change regularly. Iceland is generally an expensive travel destination; budget accordingly.
Safety
Glaciers are inherently hazardous environments. Hidden crevasses, sudden weather changes, icy surfaces, and altitude-related effects make independent glacier travel extremely risky. Always travel with a licensed, insured guide on the glacier itself.
Before travelling to the highlands, register your itinerary with safetravel.is, the official Icelandic search and rescue information portal. This is a widely recommended practice in Iceland and can significantly aid rescue efforts if something goes wrong.
If self-driving on F-roads, do not cross rivers unless you have a suitable vehicle and are confident in your assessment of depth and flow. River crossings are a significant cause of serious incidents in Iceland's interior. When in doubt, turn back.
