Skaftafell: Hvannadalshnúkur Hike to Iceland's Highest Summit

The peak is located in the north-western rim of the Öræfajökull volcano and promises an unforgettable hike with breathtaking panoramic views stretching over the rugged outlet glaciers of Vatnajökull glacier or over the vast sandy plains of the glaciated rivers that drain off that great glacier.

No special technical skills are required, however, the hike is both physically and mentally challenging: Please note our low client-per-guide ratio (Usually 6 pers. per guide).

It is important to be well equipped for this tour so please follow our equipment list when preparing for the hike.

Please note that a minimum of two participants and a guide meets our standard of ascending and descending the summit in the safest way possible. We recommend that our customers leave a few days free before and after the scheduled departure date in case we need to cancel or make changes to a departure due to lack of participation or weather conditions.

Overview:

Meeting Point: Skaftafell Base Camp  (Icelandic Mountain Guides sales cabin), next to the National Park Visitor Center. 

Distance: 22 km (14 miles)

Elevation: >2000 meters (6500 feet)

Estimated time: 12-15 hours

For your own well being and safety, we strongly suggest following the advice of our equipment list, this includes having good quality rain-gear, tops and bottoms!

Also, respect that cotton clothing is not appropriate for any strenuous outdoor activity – this includes jeans and t-shirts. Modern outdoor clothing is by far more comfortable and will greatly improve your experience.

Equipment list: 

Boots and Clothing

Hiking Boots – Waterproof with good ankle support.

Gaiters.

Long sleeve shirt (thermal underwear) – Wool or synthetic.

Long Johns (early season – April / beginning of May).

Light sweater, wool or fleece (2nd layer).

Warm Jacket – Wool or fleece (3rd layer).

Pants – light and fast drying – e.g. soft-shell.

Jacket with a good hood – Waterproof and breathable.

Rain pants – Waterproof and breathable material.

Gloves – 2 pairs - different thickness.

Mittens – insulated (early season climbs / April beginning of May).

Socks – Wool or synthetic.

Warm hat– Wool or synthetic.

Puffy jacket – down or fibre.

Other Gear

Backpack – 30-40 litres.

Sunglasses – rated for glacier travel.

Sun protection / face and lips. High SPF 30 or more.

Camera.

Headlamp (at times of year when it gets dark).

Optional Gear

 Walking Pole(s)

Sun/rain Hat or a Baseball cap for sun protection.

Ski-goggles for ascents to the end of April.

Food and Drinks

 Lunch – Sandwiches, biscuits, power-bars etc.

Water – 3 Litres of water and/or sport drink.

Warm drink – Tea, Hot-Chocolate or alternative. (Volume can be subtracted from total water!)

Pack food for a long day. A mixture of sweets and chocolate and a few (3 – 5) sandwiches is ideal. Water should be carried so that it is always accessible. Camelback type hydration system is ideal or water-bottles that can be hung from the back pack or climbing harness. Water should ideally be mixed with a thin mix of a rehydrating energy drink.

More Info

 Our trips to Hvannadalshnúkur the highest summit of Iceland and Hrútsfjallstindar normally takes from 10 to 15 hours. The weather can vary from being –5°C on the summit to being over 20°C on the lower slopes. The best way to prepare for this is to wear layers that can be adjusted per conditions. It is very important to wear materials closest to your skin that remove moisture, e.g. wool and synthetics. Cotton T-shirts and sweaters are not acceptable!

Please Note:
A safety and preparation briefing with your guide will be at Skaftafell Base Camp (Icelandic Mountain Guides sales cabin) at 16:00 the night prior to departure. Accommodation is not included.

Departure time in the early morning can vary, depending on conditions. A confirmed time of departure will be announced at the safety briefing the night before departure.