Iceland not only has the most active volcanoes in all of Europe and countless impressive waterfalls, but also 13 large and several small glaciers that cover a total of about 11 percent of Iceland’s land area.
Vatnajökull is far and away the island’s largest glacier and one of the most impressive on the entire planet. Sprawling across 2,973 square miles, the massive icefield covers about eight percent of Iceland’s land mass and is as much as 3,270 feet thick — that’s more than twice as tgall as the Empire State Building. Located in southeast Iceland, the glacier is so large that many of the 40 or so glacier tongues have their own names.
Located in the highlands around a 90-minute drive from Reykjavik, Langjökull is the closest glacier to Iceland’s capital. Simmering beneath the ice — some of it 1,900 feet thick — lies an extensive volcanic system. The glacier is covered with snow all year round, which makes it the perfect for guided snowmobile trips. In addition, Langjökull is home to the world’s largest man-made ice cave.
Easily accessible from the Ring Road, Myrdalsjökull is the island’s fourth largest. It hides a mighty fiery beast called Katla, probably the most active volcano in the northern hemisphere. Nearby Thorsmörk Valley is one of the best hiking areas in all of Iceland.
You can experience all three of these icy giants and more by booking a bespoke glacier tour with Iceland ProTravel.
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