Langjökull

The Long Glacier - Most Accessible from Reykjavík

835 km² Total Area
2 hours from Reykjavík
580m Max Thickness

About Langjökull

Iceland's second-largest glacier and the most accessible for adventures. Home to the world's largest man-made ice tunnel and feeding two of Iceland's most powerful waterfalls - Gullfoss and Hraunfossar.

📏 Size & Location

  • Area: 835 km² (rapidly shrinking)
  • Length: 50 km long, 15-20 km wide
  • Elevation: 1,200-1,450 meters
  • Ice thickness: Up to 580 meters

💧 Water Source

  • Feeds Hvítá river (creates Gullfoss)
  • Source of Hraunfossar waterfalls
  • Fills lake Hvítárvatn
  • Critical freshwater reserve

🚨 Climate Impact

  • Losing volume rapidly
  • May disappear by 2150
  • 85% volume loss projected by 2100
  • Retreat visible year-to-year

🚀 Historical Note

NASA used Langjökull as a training ground for Apollo astronauts in the 1960s. The glacier's terrain was considered similar to the lunar surface.

Into the Glacier - Ice Tunnel Experience

The world's largest man-made ice tunnel stretches 550 meters into the heart of Langjökull, offering a unique journey into the glacier's interior.

🧊 Tunnel Facts

  • Length: 550 meters
  • Depth: 30 meters below surface
  • Temperature: 0°C year-round
  • Features: Ice chapel, exhibition halls
  • Capacity: Small group tours

🚌 Tour Details

  • Duration: 3-4 hours total
  • Transport: Modified glacier vehicles
  • Season: Open year-round
  • Departure: Húsafell or Klaki base camp
  • Age limit: Suitable for all ages

Glacier Activities

🏍️ Snowmobiling

Race across the glacier's vast white expanse.

  • 1-2 hour tours available
  • No experience necessary
  • Combine with Golden Circle
  • Incredible views on clear days

🚙 Super Jeep Tours

4x4 expeditions onto the glacier.

  • Access remote areas
  • Professional drivers
  • Small group experience
  • Photography opportunities

🎿 Dog Sledding

Traditional transport meets glacier adventure.

  • Summer season available
  • Meet Greenland huskies
  • Family-friendly activity
  • Unique glacier experience

Planning Your Visit

📍 Getting There

  • From Reykjavík: 2 hours drive
  • Base camps: Húsafell or Gullfoss
  • Tours include: Transport from base
  • Self-drive: 4x4 required for glacier road

👕 What to Wear

  • Warm waterproof jacket
  • Insulated pants
  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Gloves and warm hat
  • Sunglasses essential

💰 Costs

  • Ice tunnel: 19,500-29,500 ISK
  • Snowmobile: 22,000-35,000 ISK
  • Super jeep: 15,000-25,000 ISK
  • Combined tours: Better value

Location