Private Ice Climbing on Sólheimajökull

Our guide was Martin from Germany. We were two young guys with some regular climbing experience. We got the most informative introduction and theory to ice climbing. We were out for the whole day, and got to climb 5 different pitches. It varied from top belay, bottom belay and different techniques to deal with transversing glaciers. Martin was clear in communication, kind, funny, and most importantly showed respect for safety. This tour is a MUST for adventurous people.

We are two relatively experienced mountaineers who have never climbed vertical ice before. We decided to book a private ice climbing tour with South Coast Adventure. We were met at the parking lot by Erik, our cheerful and knowledgeable guide for the day. After a ten minute wander, we were at the snout of the glacier. A nice treat for people more used to 6 hour approaches on foot! Solheimajokull glacier is quite different to the other glaciers in the near area. While smaller, it has beautiful geography and you can see icebergs calving into the lagoon if you are lucky. The whole glacier is rippled with lines of volcanic ash which make for a spectacular sight. As two people with a lot of experience of staying safe on glaciers it was obvious to us that Erik knew what he was doing and after a short wander around to get our bearings we chose the perfect piece of ice to play with. If you are a total beginner we could not recommend him enough...he took the time to ask about our experience levels and chose the perfect ice for us. He was safety conscious at all times and also very knowledgeable about techniques and ways to improve. Always encouraging, never distracted...you could tell that he loves what he does. There's ice on Solheimajokull for nervous beginners to confident ice rookies like ourselves. Even though it was tipping down with rain we loved every moment. If you want to give ice climbing a try without having to share with lots of other people in a group, this is the tour for you.

One of the best experiences of our lives! David was an excellent guide. His knowledge of Iceland, it’s history, and most important his guiding/climbing acumen made for an unforgettable experience. My wife and I are intermediate rock climbers and have met a variety of climbing guides. David was the most professional and experienced climbing guide we’ve ever met. He had us climbing almost instantly with his perfect instructions. My wife and I did not want the day to end, but being Floridian we were chilled to the bone and couldn’t climb anymore. If you go ice climbing I would HIGHLY recommend David. If you plan on going onto the glacier PLEASE hire a guide or go with a guided group. The glacier is a dangerous and intimidating place for the novice. Safety if paramount.

We had a private guided glacier walk for 3 active senior friends with Alberto Marini who is an Italian born mountain/rock climber. Though cautious by nature, I felt completely comfortable with Alberto who apparently trained many of the other guides we encountered. He was knowledgeable about glaciers and the natural history of Iceland-verified by my geologist husband. Definitely worth doing especially if with Alberto.