Grimsvötn snow kite expedition 2012
19/09/2011 - 15:46
Our new expedition is certain,..Fire&Ice, the definition of Iceland. Where else in the world do these natural elements unite?
Together with Wim we cross the 3rd largest glacier in the world, the Vatnajoküll glacier in Iceland (area of about 8100 km²), from East to West with the aim of snowkiting towards Grimsvötn volcano. We leave from the east side of the island and overland to reach the glacier cap This volcano is hidden under the ice cap. Just above the volcano are some subglacial lakes. These lakes are created because there is a magma chamber under the ice sheet that melts the ice above. The Grímsvötn is Iceland's most active volcano and, like all others, it is closely watched. On May 21, 2011, Grímsvötn erupted again, preceded and accompanied by several smaller earthquakes. An ash cloud was flung more than 20 kilometers into the air. At the moment this volcano is calmer again. The average temperatures fluctuate between -15 to 0°C, but the final perceived temperature depends on the wind. All weather conditions are possible on the same day, from the softest rays of the sun to the infamous Arctic storms, blizzards or whiteouts. To increase the chances of success, the proposed route was mapped out together with Willy, the Belgian Iceland specialist. Of course I with snowboard and Wim with skis and kite while we pull a sled/pulka. We fly with ``the coolest airline`` Icelandair, logistics on site takes care of Iceland trips and we get all the technical material available from Slow-Motion, who also makes cameras available to film this adventure. During 10 days we will cover a distance of 250km. Or maybe more with favorable winds date 8-23/3/2012 go to Iceland yourself check; www.icelandair.be www.ijslandreizen.be rental technical equipment (pulkas, expedition skis,..) www.slow-motion.be
We will be followed through this blog!