Icelandic Folklore   

New Year Greetings from Sleipnir Glacier Tours We at Sleipnir Glacier Tours would like to send our warmest New Year greetings to you all. Thank you for being part of our journey over the past year. Whether you joined us on the glacier, followed our adventures from afar, or supported us behind the scenes. 2025 was a year filled with unforgettable moments on Langjökull: roaring engines across endless snowfields, glowing skies above the ice, and shared moments of awe in one of Iceland’s most powerful landscapes. None of this would be possible without our incredible guests, partners, and team. Thank you for making this year truly special. Looking Ahead to 2026: New Adventures Await As we step into the new year, we’re already looking ahead to an exciting 2026 filled with epic glacier experiences. Our legendary monster truck tours on Langjökull will continue to offer access to remote and breathtaking areas of the ice cap, where vast white horizons stretch as far as the eye can see. In 2026, guests can look forward to: SPECIAL EVENT - Summer Solstice Tour to Langjökull Glacier from Gullfoss Ice Cave and Glacier Tour in Glacier Monster Truck from Gullfoss Red Glacier Monster Truck Tour - Unique Langjökull Glacier Tour from Gullfoss Golden Circle + Monster Truck Glacier Adventure from Reykjavik Golden Circle & Ice Cave Tour in Monster Truck from Reykjavik We remain committed to delivering world-class experiences while respecting the fragile environment we operate in. Ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the magic of Iceland’s glaciers.

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Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is more than just sweeping lava fields, glacial rivers, and volcanic peaks. The landscapes are alive with stories and for centuries, Icelanders have explained unusual rock formations, remote valleys, and geothermal springs through folklore. When you travel through the highlands with Sleipnir, you won't only see nature, you will pass through areas where the trolls, elves, and the hidden people (Huldufólk) reside. Trolls in the stones An old folklore tells tales of the trolls, creatures of immense size and strength who roam the mountains after dark. The myth says that the trolls cannot survive in sunlight and if they are caught in it by dawn, they turn to stone. Many of the odd-shaped cliffs and boulders you see scattered across the highlands are said to be unlucky trolls frozen in time. The Hidden People The hidden people, called Huldufólk in Icelandic, are a huge part of Icelandic folklore. They are very mysterious, elf-like beings who live inside the lava rocks and rolling hills. They guard their homes fiercely and therefore the locals sometimes hesitate before moving boulders or disturbing certain landscapes, fearing the displeasure of their unseen neighbors. Travelers often hear stories of farmers who have had a series of misfortunes after ignoring these warnings. So when you are up in the highlands, where moss-covered stones stretch to the horizon, you can try and imagine where the Huldufólk could possibly be hiding out. Read also: Fun facts about Iceland! Hot springs & talking cows Many geothermal springs and curious rock formations in the Highlands are wrapped in folklore about elves and spirits. Locals say some hot springs are blessed with supernatural power, if you bathe with respect you may gain good health and fortune. But mistreat the waters, and you risk a curse that could follow you for life. The elves and Huldufólk carry great respect for the hot springs, as should you. One of the most enchanting traditions tells of Midsummer’s Eve, the summer solstice. On this night, the veil between worlds is said to grow thin. Elves step out from their rocky homes to dance by rivers and across open fields, cows are said to speak with human voices, and anyone bold enough to roll in the morning dew might gain luck that lasts forever. Wekk worth a try, isn't it? The myths of the mountains What makes Icelandic folklore so captivating is the way it ties the stories to the land itself. A mountain isn’t just a mountain if it’s said to hide a frozen troll, and a lava field isn’t just hardened rock with moss if it might be the home to the hidden people. As Sleipnir’s glacier trucks roll through the highlands of Iceland, every part of the drive can reveal landscapes steeped in local myth and folklore. Hearing these tales along the journey adds an extra layer of wonder as well, turning raw nature into living stories where imagination and reality meet. Read also: What does Sleipnir mean? Next time you journey into the Highlands, keep an eye on the stones and shadows around you, you never know who is lurking around…

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Top 5 Activities to Do in and Around Reykjavík Reykjavík is the northernmost capital in the world. It has the perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you're visiting for a short trip or an extended stay, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences to enjoy. Here are our top five activities to add to your itinerary in and around Reykjavík! Don't miss out on the Bonus activity at the end of the post! 1. Visit Harpa Concert Hall  Harpa Concert Hall is an architectural masterpiece and a must-visit landmark in Reykjavík. The stunning glass structure, inspired by Iceland’s basalt landscape, stands proudly by the waterfront. Inside, Harpa hosts a variety of concerts, performances, and events, ranging from classical music and opera to modern Icelandic bands. Even if you don’t attend a show, simply walking around and admiring the building's unique design—especially as it reflects the changing light—is worth the visit. You can find a list of concerts and shows at their official website here. 2. Hike Helgafell For those seeking an outdoor adventure, a hike up Helgafell is the perfect way to experience Iceland’s breathtaking nature. Located about 30 minutes from Reykjavík, Helgafell is a relatively easy hike that rewards you with panoramic views of lava fields, mountains, and the distant ocean. The trail is well-marked and suitable for all fitness levels, making it an ideal excursion for families and casual hikers alike.

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