Most tourism operators and public authorities have agreed that access to Sólheimajökull should remain open despite changing glacier conditions, instead prioritising clearer safety information and stronger public warnings for visitors. The conclusion emerged from a follow-up safety meeting on 21 July, organised by the Icelandic Tourist Board under the Chatham House Rule after some glacier tour companies temporarily suspended guided tours following professional safety assessments. Original source: Icelandic Tourist Board Authorities and tourism operators agreed not to close Sólheimajökull for now.
Companies say suspended glacier walks are based on daily professional risk assessments. The priority is now stronger warnings discouraging unguided access. Glacier guide, Gylfi Thorisson, with a tour group.
Focus on visitor safety At the meeting, participants noted that when guided glacier walks are suspended, some visitors may choose to enter the area without professional guides, potentially increasing safety risks. Guides were described as an important part of the glacier’s safety network, not only leading organised groups but also monitoring conditions and assisting other visitors if needed. Tour operators said decisions to pause tours are based on daily risk assessments and changing glacier conditions.
Participants expressed confidence in the professional judgement exercised by guides and tourism companies when determining whether tours can operate safely. While temporary trail or area closures were discussed, attendees agreed they were not warranted at this stage. Instead, they favoured improving visitor awareness through clearer warning signs, multilingual information, enhanced communication on social media and other platforms, and stronger messaging that glacier travel should only be undertaken with certified guides.
Longer-term proposals included improving walking routes and trail infrastructure, exploring engineering solutions where appropriate, streamlining permits for any necessary works, and considering additional rescue equipment near the glacier lagoon. Participants also agreed to continue close cooperation, with SafeTravel coordinating work on future signage, warnings and other measures to improve visitor safety. Sólheimajökull have forced some tour operators to cancel glacier hikes, with authorities warning that unstable ice, newly formed glacier lagoons and an increased risk of rockfall have made access to one of Iceland’s most visited glaciers increasingly hazardous.
The Icelandic Meteorological Office says conditions at the outlet glacier have changed dramatically in recent weeks, prompting operators to suspend tours while they assess alternative access routes. Original source: Iceland Monitor Tour operators have cancelled Sólheimajökull excursions as a precaution. A newly formed lagoon and unstable ice have made access to the glacier unsafe.
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