Situated in the rugged landscapes of South Iceland near Myrdalsjökull and its outlet glacier, Sólheimajökull, the Adventure Ground is a prime destination for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts.
This expansive area, known for its thrilling natural beauty, features a rich tapestry of terrains: Iceland's 4th largest ice cap and its outlet glacier, a shimmering glacial lagoon, vast black sands, and extensive hiking trails.
With two separate base camps approximately 9 km apart, the Adventure Ground offers a variety of adventurous activities on ice, water, sand and trails, making it an ideal spot for those looking to dive into Iceland's raw and untamed beauty.
- Best Time to Visit
- All year round
- Coordinates to Sólheimajökull Base Camp
- N 63.532833; W -19.369675
- Coordinates to Mýrdalsjökull Base Camp
- N 63.494753; W -19.328642
Activities to Enjoy
The Adventure Ground provides a plethora of activities tailored to leverage the unique terrain and offer unforgettable experiences:
- Glacier Walks: Strap on your crampons and explore the icy expanse of Sólheimajökull or Mýrdalsjökull glaciers.
- Ice Climbing: Challenge yourself with the exhilarating sport of ice climbing, suitable for beginners and experienced climbers.
- Snowmobiling: Experience the thrill of speeding across the snowy landscape with stunning views of the coast below.
- Hiking: Trek through hidden trails offering scenic views and a chance to escape the more crowded tourist spots.
- Glacier Lagoon Kayaking: Paddle among icebergs in the serene waters of a glacier lagoon.
- ATV and Buggy Riding: Navigate the black sands of Sólheimasandur, including a visit to the iconic DC-3 plane wreck.
The Highlights of South Iceland's Epic the Adventure Ground
Featuring a stunning white landscape all year round that stretches over 600 square kilometers, Mýrdalsjökull ice cap not only covers the infamous Katla volcano but also serves as a backfrop fot epic ATV and Buggy tours, and the ultimate location for snowmobile and ice cave tours.
Sólheimajökull, an easily accessible outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull, is ideal for glacier walks and ice climbing. As the closest glacier to Reykjavík, it is particularly popular among families. Its lagoon provides a perfect setting for calm-water kayaking, offering epic views of glacial vistas and icebergs. The glacier is visually striking with its layers of blue ice and black volcanic ash.
Sólheimasandur is a breathtaking black sand and gravel plain shaped by glacial floods, offering a stark and beautiful contrast to the lush landscapes around. It's perfect for an adrenaline-pumping ATV or Buggy ride.
The famous plane wreck on Sólheimasandur adds a historical intrigue to the area. The remnants of this U.S. Navy aircraft, which made an emergency landing in 1973, now provide a popular photo opportunity.
The area offers an excellent view of Eyjafjallajökull volcano, which is famous for its 2010 eruption. Today, it offers stunning views and the chance to learn the challenging pronunciation of its name, enhancing your visit with a touch of Icelandic language charm.
How to Get to the Adventure Ground
Reaching the Adventure Ground is straightforward. If driving, head 165 km east of Reykjavík. As a landmark, you'll pass the majestic Skógafoss waterfall just 6 km before reaching the base camps.
Keep an eye out for the large signs along the main road that indicate the turn-offs to the base camps.
- Sólheimajökull Base Camp: Get Directions
- Mýrdalsjökull Base Camp: Get Directions
For those without a vehicle, there's no need to worry. The Adventure Bus runs daily from Reykjavík. These tours combine the convenience of guided sightseeing with the excitement of adventurous activities in the area, offering a comprehensive experience of the natural beauty and thrill of the Adventure Ground.
Tours on the Adventure Ground
ATV Quad Express on Sólheimasandur
Welcome to an extraordinary ATV experience that transcends the ordinary – our Quad Bike Adventure awaits at the Mýrdalsjökull Base!
ATV - Black Beach Safari and the Plane Wreck
Looking for an active tour in south Iceland? Get an adrenaline rush while riding an ATV on vast black sand beaches! This thrilling 2-hour guided tour includes breathtaking views of the surrounding area and a visit to the Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck.
2-Hour Buggy Experience to Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
Experience the thrill of adventure with our Glacier Buggy tour! Navigate Iceland's rugged landscapes, race alongside reflective rivers, and journey to the edge of the stunning Myrdalsjökull glacier. A heart-racing experience you won't forget.
Askur Ice Cave Adventure
Explore the breathtaking natural ice cave nestled within the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Wander through a shimmering ice tunnel, marvel at the intricate ash layers from nearby eruptions, and immerse yourself in the surreal atmosphere. Enjoy a thrilling buggy or snowmobile adventure with fantastic views.
Glacier Panorama Trail
Enjoy a versatile, scenic hike by the volcano Katla that rewards you with a stunning panoramic glacier view of Eyjafjallajökull, Sólheimajökull and other unique landscapes of the scenic south coast. This guided day tour, which is moderately difficult, gives you a glimpse into the world of Iceland’s geological wonders and how glaciers have shaped the land for thousands of years. A specially modified glacier truck transports you approximately 750 metres to start the hike, which will generally continue downhill. Participants should be in good physical shape with some mountain climbing experience.
Kayaking by the Glacier
With its enormous white and blue icebergs breaking off from Sólheimajökull Glacier, join this leisurely kayak tour where you will sail along the Sólheimajökull Glacier Lagoon. This is an experience you absolutely cannot miss out on. Bask in the beautiful nature surrounding you as your expert guide leads you around this gorgeous outlet glacier.
Plane Wreck Shuttle
Hop aboard the Plane Wreck shuttle for the 4 km (2.5 mi) to the DC-3 aeroplane wreckage on the hauntingly beautiful black sand beach of Sólheimasandur. The shuttle is available seven days a week between 10:00 and 17:00 and takes just 10-15 minutes to get to the plane!
Sólheimajökull Glacier Walk and Ice Climbing
Experience an easy glacier walk with an introduction to ice climbing on this small group day tour. You will explore the majestic landscapes of Sólheimajökull glacier, including water cauldrons, ridges, and deep crevasses, followed by a quick search for a suitable spot to rig up our gear for a short, moderately difficult introduction to ice climbing. You can expect about 3 hours on the ice with a professionally trained glacier guide.
Glacier Discovery
Join this easy, short glacier walk and explore the beautiful, icy wonderland of Iceland’s Sólheimajökull Glacier. Enjoy the fresh air, interesting shapes and hues of the ice and marvel at the vast and remote slice of south Iceland. Led by an expert guide, get up close and personal with one of the country's most famous glaciers!
Day Hike over Fimmvörðuháls
Want to experience a slice of the highlands but don’t have the time for a multi-day hike? Book this guided day tour over the spectacular Fimmvörðuháls pass! A professionally trained guide will lead you on this trail, named one of the Best Hikes in the World by National Geographic. Expect a demanding 10-hour hike where you will see fantastic glacier views, volcanic craters, vast canyons and impressive waterfalls. The 22-kilometre hike is available July-August; participants must be at least 12 years old and up for a challenging hike.
Day Tours from Reykjavík
South Coast & Glacier Hiking
Enjoy a guided glacier walk, exploring the beautiful, icy wonderland of Iceland's Sólheimajökull Glacier. Enjoy the fresh air, interesting shapes and hues of the ice and marvel at the vast and remote slice of south Iceland. Get up close and personal with one of the country's most famous glaciers! Expect a 2-hour drive from Reykjavík, a 1.5-hour glacier hike, and some sightseeing along the south coast and back to Reykjavík.
South Coast & Askur Ice Cave Adventure from Reykjavík
Explore Iceland's epic South Coast up close and personal. This tour features a thrilling ride to a newly discovered natural ice cave and Iceland's most iconic waterfalls Seljalands,foss and Skógafoss.
South Coast & Buggy Experience to Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
Experience the thrill of adventure with our Glacier Buggy tour!
South Coast & Glacier Kayaking
Discover the essence of Iceland's natural beauty on this day tour, featuring two of Iceland's most renowned waterfalls and an exhilarating kayaking experience on a glacier lagoon. Journey through landscapes that blend cascading waters with icy wonders, all in a single, unforgettable day.
South Coast & Sólheimasandur DC-3 Plane Wreck Black Beach ATV Adventure
Explore Iceland's legendary South Coast, where the thundering cascades of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss await. Amidst the shadow of the mighty Katla volcano, feel the thrill of an ATV ride across scenic valleys and black sand expanses, leading you to the iconic DC-3 plane wreck on Sólheimasandur beach. A harmonious blend of tranquil vistas and heart-pounding adventure!
South Coast - Glacier Snowmobiling Adventure
Join this thrilling snowmobile experience on the mighty Mýrdalsjökull Glacier! Spend 1-hour riding across the ice field, with breathtaking scenery and an experienced guide. This day tour doesn’t require previous snowmobile riding experience, and anyone over the age of 17 with a valid driver’s licence can operate the snowmobile. But, if there are kids over 8 in the group or non-drivers, they can ride as a passenger. Get ready to glide on a glacier! The tour also includes sightseeing stops at the epic waterfalls Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss!
Questions and Answers about Adventure Tours in Iceland
The Adventure Ground refers to a region in South Iceland known for its natural beauty and adventurous terrain. It includes areas near Myrdalsjökull and its outlet glacier, Sólheimajökull, featuring glaciers, black sands, and glacial lagoons.
The Base Camps of the Adventure Ground are located approximately 165/166 km east of Reykjavík, near the larger glaciers of Myrdalsjökull and Sólheimajökull. They are accessible by car or guided tours from Reykjavík.
You can engage in various activities such as glacier walking, ice climbing, snowmobiling, kayaking in glacier lagoons, and ATV riding on black sand beaches. Hiking trails offer breathtaking views and a chance to explore the rugged landscape.
Yes, Icelandic Mountain Guides offer guided tours that include glacier walks, hiking tours, ice climbing excursions, and more. These tours provide safety equipment and expert guidance through the Adventure Ground's challenging terrains.
It's essential to wear sturdy hiking boots and warm, waterproof clothing and dress in layers. Bring a backpack with water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and sun protection. Don't forget your camera for the stunning views!
Most activities are suitable for families with children over six or eight year old. It's essential to consider the physical demands and safety requirements of specific activities like glacier hiking or ice climbing. Always check the tour description for age restrictions and difficulty levels.
Yes, the Adventure Ground can be visited throughout the year. However, access to certain activities like snowmobiling may depend on the season and weather conditions.
Our guided tours provide necessary specialized equipment like crampons, helmets, and ice axes for glacier activities. For personal gear, it is recommended to have appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear.
Safety is our top priority, and all activities include safety briefings and equipment. It's crucial to follow the guides' instructions and stay within designated areas to ensure a safe experience.
Iceland has grown in popularity as a tourist destination over the past decade. While its exact ranking can vary based on different metrics, it's often recognized for its sustainable tourism practices and is among the top destinations for nature and adventure tourism globally.
Guided tours in Iceland are highly recommended, especially for first-time visitors. Not only do they provide valuable insights into the history, culture, and geology of the region, but they also ensure safe navigation through some of Iceland's challenging terrains. Additionally, local guides often know hidden gems and can enhance the overall experience.
Yes, Iceland is an adventurer's paradise. With its diverse landscapes that include volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, and waterfalls, it offers a plethora of adventure activities. Whether you're into hiking, glacier climbing, snowmobiling, ATV or Buggy driving across wild landscapes, or diving between tectonic plates, Iceland has it all!
Iceland, a land of stark contrasts and otherworldly landscapes, is home to some truly unique activities. Here are some of the most unusual things you can do:
- ATV or Buggy Driving to Sólheimasandur Aeroplane Wreckage: Traverse the black sand beaches to visit the haunting remains of an abandoned airplane.
- Snorkelling Between Tectonic Plates: At Silfra fissure, dive into cold, crystalline waters and float between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. It's not just any snorkelling experience – it's a journey between continents!
- Snowmobiling on a Volcano: Glide across the icy surface of a glacier that sits atop a volcano. As you rev up the snowmobile, you're not just traversing ice; you're riding over volcanic fire waiting beneath.
- Descent into a Glacial Crevasse: Experience the thrill of rappelling down into the depths of a glacial crevasse. This adventure isn't for the faint of heart, but the views within the blue-hued ice caverns are unparalleled.
- Trekking Europe's Largest Wilderness: Venture across the highlands, which are often considered Europe's last true wilderness. This vast, uninhabited expanse offers trekkers a chance to truly disconnect and immerse in raw nature.
- Embarking on a Glacial Expedition: For those seeking an extreme adventure, take on the challenge of a hard-core glacial expedition. Navigate crevasses, camp under the northern lights, and experience the power of nature firsthand.
Each of these activities is more than just an adventure; they are unique experiences that let you connect deeply with Iceland's distinctive landscapes and phenomena.
Indeed, fo, Iceland is a playground for those who thirst for adventurere are some exhilarating adventure tour options:
- Buggy and ATV Tours: Navigate through the rugged terrains and lava fields, feeling the adrenaline rush as you explore off the beaten path.
- Diving and Snorkeling: Experience the Silfra fissure, where you can dive or snorkel between two continental plates in crystal clear glacier water.
- Horseback Riding: Roam the Icelandic landscapes on the back of the unique Icelandic horse, known for its special tölt gait.
- Glacier Hiking: Trek across some of Europe's largest glaciers, like Vatnajökull, and marvel at the captivating blue ice formations.
- Ice Climbing: Ascend frozen waterfalls or glacier fronts with picks and crampons, surrounded by breathtaking icy vistas.
- Ice Caving: Explore stunning blue ice caves that form naturally in glaciers during the winter months.
- Lava Caving: Delve into the underground wonders of Iceland by exploring caves formed by flowing lava.
- Hiking and Multiday Trekking: Traverse through Iceland's diverse landscapes, from the geothermal wonders of Landmannalaugar to the lush valleys of Þórsmörk.
- Glacier and Mountain Expeditions: Embark on multi-day journeys to some of Iceland's most remote glaciers and peaks.
- Ziplining: Experience the thrill of soaring over canyons, rivers, or lava fields on ziplines.
- Paragliding: Glide over the Icelandic landscapes, getting a bird's-eye view of its stunning topography.
- Kayaking: Paddle through serene fjords or around dramatic icebergs in glacial lagoons.
- Sailing: Sail around Iceland's rugged coastlines, spotting seabird colonies and occasionally whales.
- Skiing: Enjoy backcountry skiing in the Westfjords or downhill skiing in areas like Akureyri, reveling in the untouched snowy landscapes.
With such an array of adventure tours, Iceland promises a fun-filled, action-packed experience for every kind of thrill-seeker.
Iceland's geologically young and dynamic terrain makes it ideal for adventure tourism. The country offers a unique blend of fiery volcanic activity and icy glacial expanses. Its remote fjords, vast lava fields, and rugged coastlines provide endless opportunities for exploration and thrill-seeking.
Related Attractions
Related tours
South Coast & Askur Ice Cave Adventure from Reykjavík
Explore Iceland's epic South Coast up close and personal. This tour features a thrilling ride to a newly discovered natural ice cave and Iceland's most iconic waterfalls Seljalands,foss and Skógafoss.
South Coast & Askur Ice Cave in a Mountain Truck
Experience the mesmerizing Askur Ice Cave on the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. This adventure includes a scenic South Coast tour with stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, followed by an exhilarating mountain truck ride to the cave. Perfect for families and adventure seekers alike!
Askur Ice Cave Adventure
Explore the breathtaking natural ice cave nestled within the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. Wander through a shimmering ice tunnel, marvel at the intricate ash layers from nearby eruptions, and immerse yourself in the surreal atmosphere. Enjoy a thrilling buggy or snowmobile adventure with fantastic views.