Iceland’s Ice Caves Overview
Iceland’s ice caves are a stunning manifestation of the many elements taking their toll on the island: lava flowing deep in the Earth, glacial melting, and massive amounts of ice moving at snail’s pace coming together to create these icy wonders. They’re always moving and changing; from one season to the next, the ice caves can become entirely new scenes.
For this reason, it’s important to tag along with someone with a deep knowledge of the caves and their current temperament (i.e. a tour guide) when you venture inside. Not only are they constantly checking forecasts, but they also know which tunnels are safe to visit and which are not.
Visiting these caves is possible only during winter. When warmer months arrive, the caves become natural paths for the melted ice to drain out of the glacier, making them dangerous to enter.
1. Crystal Cave
Address: Breiðamerkurjökull, 781, Iceland
Also known as Breiðamerkurjökull, the Crystal Cave is one of the most famous ice caves in Iceland and the largest within Vatnajökull National Park. To access it, you’ll need to take a super jeep up onto the glacier. The cave gets its name from the crystal-clear ice it’s made from, though be warned – it may take some time for your eyes to adjust to the low light.
Numerous tour operators offer adventures into the Crystal Cave; Glacier Journey is a well-reputed choice that offers various tours around the area.
2. Eyjabakkajokull Ice Cave
Address: Eyjabakkajökull, 701, Iceland
Located in the east highlands, the Eyjabakkajokull glacier boasts a remote blue ice cave that you can access only during winter. Ensure you visit with a guide equipped with a super jeep, as this vehicle can handle the tough highland road conditions in winter.
3. Northern Lights Ice Cave
The Northern Lights Ice Cave was accessible for only one winter, characterized by wavy patterns of ice and the way light interacted with its surface. Ice caves often have short lifespans, and the Northern Lights Cave was a sought-after tourist attraction during its brief existence.
4. Waterfall Ice Cave
While the Waterfall Ice Cave is not currently accessible, it has the potential to return. Located on Vatnajökull, it was unique as it was formed by a river flowing into the glacier, as opposed to a river flowing out.
5. Katla Ice Cave
Katla is the only cave on this list accessible during the summertime, and it’s much easier to reach from Reykjavik. While you won’t find the blue ice characteristic of many caves, you will encounter black ice, which offers a unique sight.
6. Svín afellsjökull Ice Cave
Located at the edge of Skaftafell National Park, the entrance to the Svín afellsjökull Ice Cave features a 22-foot opening but narrows as you proceed inside. It’s only accessible in winter and tours are offered by Visit Vatnajokull.
7. Kverkfjöll Ice Cave
Address: Kverkfjöll, 701, Iceland
Geothermal activity beneath the Earth’s crust has created this hidden gem of an ice cave, which is incredibly challenging to access. Located in the north, Kverkfjöll has two sections: the upper ice caves and the Jökulsá á Fjöllum spring, where you can see a hot-water river flowing beneath the glacial ice.
8. Álftafjörður Ice Cave
Nestled in the Westfjords, the Álftafjörður Ice Cave opens over stunning mountains and tranquil skylines. The fjord region is also known for whale watching and wildlife observation, making it an ideal spot for hiking once you finish exploring the cave.
9. Langjökull Ice Cave
Langjökull is the second-largest glacier in Iceland, boasting an ice cave featuring spectacular coloring. The natural cave is black and striped with ash, and its ceiling features a bright blue “ice river.” There are manmade tunnels branching off the natural cave, some of which have hosted concerts and even have a chapel carved into the ice.
10. Lofthellir Ice Cave
While technically classified as a lava cave, Lofthellir is a striking site that merges ice with natural lava formations. Located at Lake Myvatn in northeast Iceland, massive ice columns impose an ethereal quality, although be prepared for some tight spots as you explore. A variety of tours start from Akureyri, such as Saga Travel Geoiceland.
