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Katla Dead Ice Mapping Expedition with Katla Geopark
  • Day Trips & Excursions
  • Nature

Katla Dead Ice Mapping Expedition with Katla Geopark

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Monitor Climate Changes by Measuring Glacier Dead Ice at Katla Glacier

Tour type
Day Tour / Activity
Duration
8 hours
Difficulty
Easy
Pickup service
No
Booking in advance
2 days
Availability
October, November
Minimum age
10 years
Guide
Live guide

The experience

About this tour

Embark on the Katla Glacier Dead Ice Mapping Expedition and become a Civilian Scientist for a day in Iceland's breathtaking Katla Geopark.  But what is dead ice?  Dead ice is glacier ice that is no longer pushing forward or part of the main body of the glacier.  How quick does it melt? Does sand insolate it or expediate it?  Get this questions answered!

This unique 1-day tour offers adventurous individuals the opportunity to contribute to vital glaciology research while exploring the dynamic landscapes of the Katla Glacier.

Katla Geopark Dead Ice Mapping Expedition Highlights:

  • Engage in Real Scientific Research: Participate in meaningful data collection by measuring and documenting the evolving ice features and dead ice zones of the Katla Glacier. Your contributions will aid ongoing studies of glacial dynamics and climate impact.
  • Explore Natural Ice Features: Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, journey to the heart of the Katla Glacier outlet to discover and measure natural ice formations. Learn about their creation and what they reveal about the glacier's movement and health.
  • Receive Hands-On Training: No prior experience is necessary. Our team will provide training on using specialized equipment, including GPS, drone, and ground camera, to measure and document ice feature dimensions and map dead ice areas.
  • Participate in Dead Ice Mapping: Analyze areas where the glacier is retreating, leaving behind isolated blocks of ice. 
  • Enjoy Scenic Glacier Views: Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Katla Glacier and the surrounding Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, with panoramic views of Iceland's rugged highland landscape.
  • Contribute to Climate Research: Your participation supports critical scientific research aimed at understanding and mitigating the effects of climate change on Iceland's glaciers. Notably, this glacier has historically been rarely tracked until Katla Geopark created these missions.
  • Citizen Scientist Certificate & Follow Up: You will receive a 'Citizen Scientist" Certificate from Katla Geopark.
    Your processed results emailed to you weeks after the tour.  Also, your name will be published in a Katla Geopark Report in which you will also receive ongoing data updates via email.
  • Eco Friendly
  • Private Activity

What the price covers

Included
What's Included:Up To An 8-hour Expedition From Vík
A Private Experience For Up To 4 PassengersLocal Professional Licensed Driver-guide
Educational Background Briefing4x4 Transportation To The Glacier Outlet
All Necessary Scientific And Glacier Safety EquipmentCitizen Scientist Certificate From Katla Geopark
Processed Results Emailed To YouName Published In A Geopark Report
Ongoing Data Updates Via Email
Not included
Food And Drink
Ticket types
  • Private Vehicle For 1-4 People

Where it starts

  • Katla Geopark Visitors Centre

    Vík, 781 Vik, Sveitarfélagið Hornafjörður, IS

    Open in Google Maps
Meeting
Meet on location
Pickup
No
Location code
Vik (Vik, IS)

Good to know

  • Additional Expedition Details:
  • Difficulty Level: Easy To Moderate (suitable For Physically Fit Participants With A Sense Of Adventure
  • Due To The Scientific Nature Of This Tour, Group Sizes Are Limited To Ensure Personalized Guidance And Training. Katla Geopark / Gravel Travel Reserve The Right To Make Changes To The Plan Based On Weather And Safety Dynamics (e.g., Switching Days, Locations, Or Activities).
  • Join Us For This Rare Opportunity To Become A Katla Geopark Civilian Scientist, Mapping The Katla Glacier And Contributing To Vital Climate Research. This Is More Than Just An Adventure—it's A Chance To Make A Meaningful Impact While Experiencing One Of Iceland's Most Stunning And Dynamic Natural Wonders.
Type
Day Tour / Activity
Season
October, November
Requests confirmed within
2 days
Live guide
English
Details updated
13 Jul 2026