Mýrdalsjökull Glacier is one of the most impressive natural attractions in South Iceland, combining powerful volcanic activity with vast ice landscape.
If you’re planning a self-drive trip, this guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, including how to get there by car, the best time to visit, glacier tours, and practical travel tips.
Mýrdalsjökull Glacier is one of the best glaciers in Iceland for glacier tours, ice cave experiences, and self-drive trips along the South Coast.
About Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
Mýrdalsjökull Glacier is the fourth-largest glacier in Iceland, covering around 520 km². What makes it unique is that it sits directly on top of the powerful Katla volcano, one of Iceland’s most active volcanic systems.
This combination of fire and ice creates some of the dramatic landscapes, including:
- Thick ice caps with volcanic ash layers
- Deep crevasses and glacier formations
- Expanding glacier tongues like Sólheimajökull and Kötlujökull
These glacier tongues are some of the most accessible glaciers in Iceland, making the area ideal for glacier hiking and ice cave tours.
Where is Mýrdalsjökull Glacier?
Mýrdalsjökull Glacier is located in South Iceland along the Ring Road.
- Distance from Reykjavík: about 160 km
- Driving time: 2 to 2.5 hours
- Closest town: Vík í Mýrdal
The glacier is part of Katla Geopark, known for its mix of volcanoes, glaciers, and black sand plains.
The most popular access point is Sólheimajökull, where many guided glacier tours start.
Why Visit Mýrdalsjökull Glacier?
Mýrdalsjökull Glacier is one of the best glaciers in Iceland for visitors who want easy access and real glacier experiences.
What makes it special:
- Built on top of an active volcano
- Strong contrast between black volcanic ash and white ice
- Wide range of tours available year-round
- Close to major South Coast attractions
Nearby highlights include:
- Seljalandsfoss
- Skógafoss
- Reynisfjara
This makes it an easy addition to any South Coast road trip itinerary in Iceland.
Best Time to Visit Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
Your experience depends on the season:
Summer (May to September)
- Best for glacier hiking
- Easier driving conditions
- Long daylight hours (up to 20+ hours)
Winter (October to April)
- Best for Katla ice cave tours
- Snow and ice create dramatic scenery
- More challenging driving conditions
If you’re visiting in winter, always check weather and road conditions before driving.
How to Get to Mýrdalsjökull Glacier by Car
Driving is the best way to reach Mýrdalsjökull Glacier.
From Reykjavík:
- Take the Ring Road heading south
- Drive past Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
- Turn towards Sólheimajökull or continue toward Vík for Katla tours
Drive time: about 2-3 hours
There are parking areas near:
- Sólheimajökull glacier
- Katla ice cave tour meeting points
Driving from Reykjavík to Katla Geopark route
Recommended Rental Cars for Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
Choosing the right car depends on the season:
Summer:
- 2WD cars are suitable for the Ring Road
- Ideal for budget travelers
Winter:
- 4×4 rental recommended for safety
- Better control on snow and ice
For a cheap car rental in Iceland, Firefly Iceland offers:
- Budget-friendly 2WD options
- Affordable 4×4 rental cars
- Convenient pickup near Keflavík Airport
Best Activities at Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
There are plenty of guided tours available:
Glacier Hiking: Walk on ancient ice with a guide and explore crevasses and formations.
Katla Ice Cave Tour: One of the few natural ice caves open all year. Best time is winter.
Snowmobiling: Ride across the glacier with panoramic views. Best time is winter.
Super Jeep Tours: Access remote areas around Katla volcano. Best time is year-round.
Ice Climbing: For experienced and adventurous travelers.
Driving Tips for Visiting Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
- Always check weather and road conditions before driving
- Avoid driving in the dark during winter when possible
- Stick to marked roads (off-road driving is illegal)
- Allow extra time for stops along the South Coast
Plan Your Trip with Firefly Iceland
Exploring Mýrdalsjökull Glacier by car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and discover Iceland’s South Coast properly.
With Firefly Iceland, you can:
- Rent a cheap car in Iceland
- Choose from 2WD or affordable 4×4 vehicles
- Pick up your car near Keflavík Airport
- Travel freely across Iceland’s top attractions
Book early to lock in the best rates, especially for summer and winter peak seasons.
FAQ: Mýrdalsjökull Glacier Iceland
- Is Mýrdalsjökull Glacier worth visiting?
Yes, it’s one of the best glaciers in Iceland due to its accessibility, tours, and unique location above Katla volcano.
- Can you visit Mýrdalsjökull Glacier without a tour?
You can visit viewpoints and glacier edges, but walking on the glacier requires a guided tour for safety.
- How far is Mýrdalsjökull Glacier from Reykjavík?
Around 160 km, with a driving time of about 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Do you need a 4×4 to visit Mýrdalsjökull Glacier?
Not in summer, but a 4×4 is recommended in winter due to icy road conditions.
- What are the best tours in Mýrdalsjökull Glacier?
Sólheimajökull glacier hikes and Katla ice cave are the most popular options.
- Can you see Katla volcano?
Katla is hidden beneath the glacier, but its effects are visible through ash layers in the ice.
Conclusion
Mýrdalsjökull Glacier is one of the most unique places to visit in Iceland, where powerful volcanic forces meet vast ice landscapes. From glacier hiking on Sólheimajökull to exploring the famous Katla ice cave, it offers some of the most memorable experiences on the South Coast.
Its easy access from Reykjavík and location along the Ring Road make it a perfect stop on any Iceland road trip. With nearby highlights like Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara, you can turn your visit into a full day of exploring.
The best way to experience Mýrdalsjökull Glacier is with the freedom of a self-drive trip. Renting a cheap car in Iceland allows you to travel at your own pace, stop whenever you want, and make the most of everything the South Coast has to offer.
