A Day in the Life of a Glacier Guide on Langjökull
5 Mistakes first-time travellers make in Iceland & how to avoid them!
Planning your trip to Iceland can feel equally exciting and overwhelming, as you never really know what you are preparing for. It can be easy to make a few common mistakes that can make your journey less smooth. Here are some tips on how to avoid these 5 common mistakes, for a stress-free adventure!
Overpacking
or underpacking layers
Iceland’s weather changes every minute, you never really know what will happen. Many travelers either bring too much bulky clothing that doesn't work or forget to bring enough warm layers. The key to staying warm is a correct layering system, starting with the base (like wool), then the middle layer before ending with a waterproof outer layer that you can add on or remove depending on the weather.
Not booking activities in advance
There is an abundance of activities to choose from in Iceland, from glacier hikes to highland tours to ice caving. It's good to remember that the most popular experiences book out fast and waiting until you arrive often means you'll be missing out. Plan your trip well and reserve your activities in advance, especially during summer or the northern lights season. We highly recommend our
Glacier Tours, of course ;)
Skipping the highlands
The highlands can be intimidating, you have to prepare well for it and do your research before going. A lot of visitors tend to stick only to the ring road and the southern parts of Iceland, therefore missing out on Iceland’s incredible yet untamed highlands. But with Sleipnir’s glacier trucks, you can safely access these remote landscapes and experience Iceland off the beaten path. It is a great way to incorporate these mystical mountains with a team of experts who know the area well, because the last thing you want is to get lost or lose your way.
Read also: Icelandic Highlands for beginners
Not bringing proper footwear
No matter the activity, if you are going outside of the city, regular sneakers won’t cut it. The terrain and landscape in Iceland can be rough, wet and dangerous so invest in proper waterproof hiking boots. They are essential, and can save you from a twisted ankle, when you are exploring around the waterfalls, lava fields and glaciers. But don't forget to bring sneakers or some sandals for comfort at the end of the day.
Underestimating the power of nature
Iceland is unpredictable, from powerful waves, gusts of wind to the ever changing glaciers, Iceland’s landscapes always demand respect. Many underestimate how much power there is in icelands waterfalls, oceans, and weather, so a good rule of thumb is to prepare for everything and anything, stay on marked paths and listen to the locals and the guides. This will keep you safe and protected from the environment, therefore making your stay in Iceland that much more magical.
A Day in the Life of a Glacier Guide on Langjökull
The Best Office in Iceland
After nine years of guiding, life on Langjökull still hasn’t become routine—and that’s exactly the point. At Sleipnir Tours, that feeling is part of the experience. Meet Karen, calm, a little nerdy, and a bit goofy—someone who grew up watching her father work as a fishing guide and quickly knew she’d follow a similar path. Today, that path leads her on top of one of Iceland’s largest glaciers, where every day looks and feels different depending on the weather, the light and the people stepping on board the Sleipnir truck. But before anything begins, there’s one simple rule: Coffee first. Always. Because up here, preparation and safety go hand in hand—and making sure every guest feels secure is just as important as the views.
Closer Than You Think
One of the most rewarding parts of guiding with Sleipnir Tours is breaking down the idea that glaciers are out of reach. Many guests arrive expecting to admire Langjökull from afar, but instead find themselves riding comfortably across the ice in one of Sleipnir’s custom-built monster trucks—getting closer than they ever imagined. In that moment, when it really sinks in, it is an experience that never gets old. For many, it’s a bucket list experience brought to life. Spending so much time on the glacier has also changed Karen’s perspective. She’s more aware of her influence and more conscious of the environment around her. “Even the small things matter. It’s better to do something than nothing,” she says. Over time, Langjökull has started to feel like a personality of its own. Steady and reliable, but sometimes a little unpredictable, like someone you respect and don’t take lightly.
The Moments That Make It Worth It
Even after nearly a decade, the “wow” moments are still there in a variety of forms. Karen still remembers her first shift with Sleipnir Tours, realizing how lucky she was to call this her job. Now, it’s often the guests who make the day unforgettable, their reactions, laughter and last but not least the quiet moments taking it all in. Some moments stand out more than others, like helping a guest propose on the glacier, turning an already surreal setting into something deeply personal and unforgettable. Winter remains her favorite season, when ice caves open and the glacier feels even more alive. With Sleipnir’s access and comfort, guests can experience it all without needing technical skills. All they need to bring is their curiosity and sense of adventure.
Fallegur dagur
At the end of every tour, there’s a moment Karen looks forward to the most: Watching guests step off the Sleipnir truck smiling, often a little quieter than before, taking in what they’ve just experienced. That’s when she knows the experience landed. Off the glacier, life slows down—she enjoys road trips, reading, cooking, and even the occasional board game—but those moments up on the glacier stay with her.
There’s a phrase she often comes back to—Fallegur dagur, from a song by Bubbi Morthens. It means “a beautiful day.”, And with Sleipnir Tours on Langjökull, that is a phrase that doesn't depend on sunshine or perfect weather. Because when you’re out there, experiencing everything the glacier has to offer, it becomes just that: A beautiful day.
Share This Blog Post
