Iceland Package

Embarking on an adventurous journey through a glacier, our tour began at the Húsafell Hotel's recreation center, where a spacious coach provided by Tratoli transported us to the glacier's basecamp. Upon arrival, we were outfitted with essential gear, including waterproof overshoes and crampons for trekking across the icy expanse. The availability of a sturdy raincoat was a thoughtful addition; indeed, quite necessary for the journey. Next, we climbed aboard one of the massive 8-wheel trucks, towering nearly as high as a man, adept at navigating the challenging snowy and icy terrain of the glacier. Our guide, Eva, shared a fascinating tale about the trucks' transformation from missile launchers to the purpose-built carriers we found ourselves in. Throughout the drive, she regaled us with intriguing facts, as we crossed a fractured field of crevasses before reaching the glacial tunnel entrance perched atop the glacier—a towering 50 meters of ice above us. The tunnels, illuminated and winding in a figure-eight pattern, saw us descend around 10 meters into the glacier's frosty heart. Our small band, limited to groups of eight, clamped on the provided snow chains and proceeded to navigate the icy path—mindful of puddles and water dripping from the overhead ceiling. At one juncture, a wooden bridge guided us safely over a gaping chasm. A highlight was when Sjoerd sang a song, using the tunnels' reverberations to demonstrate the acoustics within the icy caverns. Unlike other 'Inside the Glacier' experiences, like those found in the Alps, this adventure didn't feature sculpted ice creations. The tunnels were purely natural, although we did encounter workers attending to necessary repairs. The return journey was equally thrilling, as the skillful driver guided the large transporter even deeper onto the glacier, performing a spectacular loop maneuver–a treat reserved for particularly sunny days. Stepping outside the transporter, but remaining within the defined safety circle, felt surreal. The expanse of white stretched endlessly to the horizon, reminiscent of the world's edge. The guide shared that on days like these, the truck could traverse an astounding 100 kilometers across the glacier to its southern side. Upon returning to the basecamp, warm hot chocolate awaited, a delightful treat allowing for a moment to bask in the sun on the terrace before the hotel's bus arrived to take us back to the comforts of Húsafell. This unique glacial exploration, expertly provided by Tratoli, was an unforgettable adventure set against the icy canvas of a majestic glacier.

2021-10-02

Our adventure, reserved through Tratoli, started unassumingly—a repetitive gravel road in a bus, which we had traveled just the day before on our way to Husafell. However, as soon as we transitioned to the larger truck bus at the base camp, the promise of an unforgettable experience began to unfold. Gliding atop the glacier was a thrilling mix of awe and a touch of danger, with sheer adrenaline pumping as we navigated the clearly marked routes amidst hidden crevasses. Upon reaching the tunnel entrance, we were enveloped by an overwhelming tranquility as the landscape turned into a stunning expanse of white. The experience inside the tunnel was nothing short of mesmerizing, transporting us to an otherworldly realm deep within the heart of the glacier. Ryan and Nina, our tour guides for the day, contributed immensely to the day's success with their incredible insights and infectious enthusiasm for Icelandic culture. Their passion not only enriched our knowledge but also deeply enhanced our connection to this unique environment. The only drawback to the day, which was beyond the organizers' control, was the demeanor of some fellow travelers. Being a part of a larger group meant sharing the space with various individuals, and unfortunately, not everyone displayed the courtesy deserved by the guides or fellow participants. Still, it's important to remember that while we can't choose our travel companions, we can control our own conduct—treating others with kindness and respect contributes to a positive memory for all involved, despite the delay of over an hour from the planned return time. A helpful hint for future adventurers: facilities are available at both Husafell meeting spot and the base camp. The organizers also thoughtfully provide specialized gear, including boots, warm clothing, and shoe chains—necessary for navigating the icy terrain inside the tunnel. Remember to tread carefully, as it can be quite slippery.

2024-09-02

Title: Unforgettable Glacier Adventure with Expert Guide August Experience an unforgettable journey across the glacier, expertly led by our remarkable guide, August, who ensured we had an amazing time. His unique combination of enthralling stories and insightful knowledge about the glacier greatly enhanced our walking tour. The highlight of our adventure was the stunning ice cave, where we were able to delve deep into its splendor and truly immerse ourselves in its wonders. Without a doubt, this hike is an experience we would eagerly repeat, especially with the guidance of August. This incredible adventure was made possible through Tratoli, and we highly recommend booking with them for an experience of a lifetime.

2023-05-20

My heartfelt appreciation goes to Holt, our incredibly conscientious and kind-hearted guide, for making our ice cave expedition an exceptional experience. His expertise on glaciers and volcanoes enriched our journey, and he went above and beyond to ensure we could savor the pristine beauty of the ice caves in tranquility, thoughtfully arranging for us to avoid the crowds and capture perfect, uninterrupted photos. We were fortunate to be part of a small group, which allowed us to venture into an additional cave—a serendipitous adventure that even Holt, despite his experience, found more awe-inspiring than his previous visits. His commitment to our safety was unwavering, always meticulously checking before we embarked on each new segment of the tour. The tour we embarked upon, curated by Tratoli, stands out as an unparalleled choice for those wishing to thoroughly explore the blue ice caves and glaciers. Contrary to shorter tours that wrap up within an hour, this five to six-hour journey allows for a more leisurely exploration, cleverly planned to sidestep the busiest times. A word to the wise: don proper waterproof footwear and bundle up warmly to ensure your comfort, even if the weather turns inclement. For anyone yearning to witness the ice caves' mesmerizing blue hues in all their glory, I wholeheartedly recommend this uniquely immersive tour offered by Ice Explorer. This natural marvel, with its indescribable hues and formations, promises an unforgettable adventure that will linger in your memory long after you've returned home.

2024-03-21