south-iceland · Iceland
Langjökull Glacier
Langjökull (Long Glacier) is Iceland's second-largest ice cap at 953 square kilometers, located in the western highlands. The glacier feeds several rivers including Iceland's second-longest, Þjórsá. A man-made ice tunnel allows visitors to walk inside the glacier and see ice formations, blue ice chambers, and learn about glaciology.
About Langjökull Glacier
Langjökull (Long Glacier) is Iceland's second-largest ice cap at 953 square kilometers, located in the western highlands. The glacier feeds several rivers including Iceland's second-longest, Þjórsá. A man-made ice tunnel allows visitors to walk inside the glacier and see ice formations, blue ice chambers, and learn about glaciology.
History & Background
Langjökull Glacier in the Highlands is part of Iceland's glacial landscape that has shaped the island for millennia. During the last Ice Age (ending around 10,000 years ago), Iceland was almost entirely covered by glaciers. As the climate warmed, glaciers retreated but never fully disappeared — today they still cover about 11% of Iceland's surface. Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, and other ice caps have profoundly influenced Iceland's geography, carving fjords, valleys, and depositing moraines. Historical records document significant glacial advances during the Little Ice Age (1300-1900), when glaciers destroyed farmland and forced communities to relocate. Climate change has accelerated glacial retreat in recent decades, making these frozen landscapes particularly precious.
Key Facts
- ✔Glaciers cover about 11% of Iceland's total land area
- ✔Vatnajökull is Europe's largest glacier by volume at about 3,100 km²
- ✔Icelandic glaciers have been retreating significantly due to climate change
- ✔Never walk on a glacier without proper equipment and an experienced guide
Tours Near Langjökull Glacier
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
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Why Visit
Stand before the ancient ice of Langjökull Glacier and witness Iceland's frozen landscapes
Hidden Gems Nearby
Glacier Sounds
Stop and listen — glaciers make haunting sounds as ice shifts and meltwater flows beneath the surface.
The creaking, groaning, and rushing sounds remind you that glaciers are living, moving rivers of ice.
Ice Colors
Look carefully at the ice — you'll see shades of white, blue, and even black from volcanic ash layers.
The blue color comes from compressed ice that absorbs red light, and ash layers mark historical eruptions.
Glacier Edge Ecology
The area where the glacier meets rock supports a unique micro-ecosystem of hardy organisms.
Pioneer plants and insects colonizing newly exposed land offer a real-time view of ecological succession.
Practical Information
Best Time
Summer (June-August) for glacier walks; winter for ice caves
Duration
2-5 hours with a guided tour
Access
Guided tours required for glacier hiking. No solo glacier walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk on the glacier by myself?▾
No, you should never walk on a glacier without proper equipment and a certified guide. Glaciers have hidden crevasses that are extremely dangerous.
What should I wear for a glacier hike?▾
Wear warm, layered clothing, waterproof jacket and pants, and sturdy hiking boots. Tour operators provide crampons and ice axes.
Are ice caves available year-round?▾
Natural ice caves are typically only accessible from November to March. Conditions vary each year.