Best Time for a Katla Ice Cave Tour
Best Time for Katla Ice Cave Tours
Nestled near the Katla Volcano in Iceland, Katla Ice Cave is a mesmerizing spectacle of nature’s frozen artistry. On this page, read about the best time for visiting Katla Ice Cave, the duration of a typical visit, and what to wear. We also have listed the most recommended tours for you to choose.
When is the Best Time to Visit Katla Ice Cave?
The best time to visit Katla Ice Cave is typically during the winter months, specifically from November to March. During this period, the colder temperatures facilitate the formation and stability of ice caves, providing a captivating and safe experience for visitors.
Here are Some Considerations for Your Visit:
Winter Months (November to March)
Colder temperatures ensure that the ice cave structure is stable. The ice formations are at their most impressive during the winter.
Guided tours to ice caves are more widely available during this period.
Daylight Hours
Days are shorter in Iceland during the winter, so it’s essential to plan visits during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
Tour Availability
Tour operators typically offer guided tours to ice caves during the winter season. It’s advisable to book a tour in advance to secure your spot. >> Buy the most popular guided tour here!
Weather Conditions
Keep in mind that weather conditions can be challenging in Iceland during the winter, so be prepared for cold temperatures and variable weather
Check the weather in Iceland on the official website of the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO).
Can I Visit Katla Ice Cave in the Summer?
Unlike most ice caves in Iceland that are off-limits during the summer, Katla Ice Cave is a unique exception, welcoming visitors year-round. This makes it an excellent choice for those exploring Iceland in the warmer months.
Also, read more here about all experiences in Iceland!
What should I wear on my Katla Ice Cave Tour?
You will need hiking shoes or boots for your Katla ice Cave expedition. Also make sure to dress warm in layers, bring head-wear and gloves. A waterproof jacket, as well as waterproof trousers, are recommended.
How Much Time Should I Plan for My Katla Ice Cave Tour?
Short answer: Plan to allocate at least a half-day for your visit, considering travel time, guided exploration, and potential additional activities.
Guided Tours: Most visitors opt for guided tours to Katla Ice Cave, which typically range from 1 to 3 hours.
Guided tours may include transportation to and from the cave, a guided exploration inside the cave, and some additional time for preparation and safety instructions. >> Check the most recommended guided tours below.
Transportation: If you’re driving independently, consider the travel time to reach the cave from your starting point.
Keep in mind that road conditions and weather can affect travel time, especially in winter.
Exploration Time: The time spent inside the cave itself can vary. Some tours may offer a brief exploration, while others provide a more in-depth experience. Factor in time to admire the ice formations, take photographs, and absorb the unique atmosphere.
Bestselling Katla Ice Cave Tours
Explore below the bestselling Katla Ice Cave tours and pick from the finest selection:
Most Popular Katla Ice Cave Tours
From Vik: Katla Ice Cave and Super Jeep Tour
2K+ Reviews
€164
GetYourGuide
“This activity was awesome. Great guide with tons of knowledge about iceland and its volcanoes. The jeep was fun as well! Hiking in a glacier is a rare opportunity I would suggest to everyone” Julian, UK, Dec 2025 [Source: GetYourGuide]
Vik: Katla Ice Cave Small Group Guided Tour
100+ Reviews
€204.48
Headout
“Went on this tour yesterday 30th December and it was amazing. From meeting our tour guide at 9am we got given lots of information from the tour guide as we were driving to the ice cave about the history of Iceland . Was very informative and interesting.me and my husband had the best experience ever would 1000% recommend booking this tour with this company totally amazing and inspiring thank you !!!!” Andre, Nov. 2025 [Source: Headout]
Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Waterfalls Tour
1.1K+ Reviews
€237
GetYourGuide
“We had the most amazing day! 100% worth it. The guide was amazing and made the trip a 10/10” Samantha, Jan. 2026, UK [Source: GetYourGuide]
From Vik: Katla Ice Cave & Super Jeep Tour
1.4K+ Reviews
€168
GetYourGuide
“Jan was engaging and funny. Spoke knowledgeably about the geology and history of volcanoes. We really enjoyed the experience. Highlight of our trip so far!” Kelly, Oct. 2025, USA [Source: GetYourGuide]
From Vik: Myrdalsjokull glacier and Katla Ice Cave Tour
200+ Reviews
€215
GetYourGuide
“Amazing! Stephan was a wonderful guide and the experience of being in a glacier was awe inspiring!” Lisa, Oct. 30, USA [Source: GetYourGuide]
Products related to Katla Ice Cave Tours
Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater
23K+ Reviews
€70
GetYourGuide
“great tour it was amazing. our guide Jessica was amazing and gave us alot of insight on life in iceland. I highly recommend the sites are beautiful definitely worth the money.” Sinead, Jan. 2026, Ireland [Source: GetYourGuide]
Blue Lagoon Admission Tickets
2.3K+ Reviews
€123.03
Headout
“This was the highlight of our trip! Hearing the history of The Blue Lagoon was great along with stories of the 13 trolls. Temperature of the lagoon was perfect, complimentary drink at swim-up-bar was enjoyable. Exploring the laggon was fun! Facial Mask left my skin feeling fantastic!” Deborah, Dec. 2025 [Source: Headout]
Most Popular Katla Ice Cave Tours
From Vik: Katla Ice Cave and Super Jeep Tour
From Vik: Katla Ice Cave and Super Jeep Tour is a 3-hour small-group experience with a guided Katla ice cave visit, Super Jeep transfers, and safety gear included on Kötlujökull Glacier.
“This activity was awesome. Great guide with tons of knowledge about iceland and its volcanoes. The jeep was fun as well! Hiking in a glacier is a rare opportunity I would suggest to everyone” Julian, UK, Dec 2025 [Source: GetYourGuide]
Vik: Katla Ice Cave Small Group Guided Tour
Explore the otherworldly Katla Ice Cave on a small-group Super Jeep tour from Vik, featuring a guided glacier hike with all ice cave gear included and expert insights into Iceland’s volcanic and glacial landscapes.
“Went on this tour yesterday 30th December and it was amazing. From meeting our tour guide at 9am we got given lots of information from the tour guide as we were driving to the ice cave about the history of Iceland . Was very informative and interesting.me and my husband had the best experience ever would 1000% recommend booking this tour with this company totally amazing and inspiring thank you !!!!” Andre, Nov. 2025 [Source: Headout]
Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Waterfalls Tour
Journey along Iceland’s dramatic south coast on a full-day guided tour from Reykjavik, exploring a stunning ice cave and hidden trails with convenient round-trip transportation included.
“We had the most amazing day! 100% worth it. The guide was amazing and made the trip a 10/10” Samantha, Jan. 2026, UK [Source: GetYourGuide]
From Vik: Katla Ice Cave & Super Jeep Tour
Explore a unique ice cave within Mýrdalsjökull Glacier on a guided Super Jeep tour through Katla Volcano Geopark, then unwind with complimentary coffee and biscuits afterward.
“Jan was engaging and funny. Spoke knowledgeably about the geology and history of volcanoes. We really enjoyed the experience. Highlight of our trip so far!” Kelly, Oct. 2025, USA [Source: GetYourGuide]
From Vik: Myrdalsjokull glacier and Katla Ice Cave Tour
Leave the crowds behind as you ride in a Super Jeep, put on your crampons, and step onto the vast Mýrdalsjökull Glacier to explore the remarkable Katla Ice Cave alongside an expert guide.
“Amazing! Stephan was a wonderful guide and the experience of being in a glacier was awe inspiring!” Lisa, Oct. 30, USA [Source: GetYourGuide]
Products related to Katla Ice Cave Tours
Reykjavik: Golden Circle Full-Day Tour with Kerid Crater
Join a full-day tour of Iceland’s famous Golden Circle and discover dramatic landscapes, including the Geysir geothermal area, the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, and Þingvellir National Park.
“great tour it was amazing. our guide Jessica was amazing and gave us alot of insight on life in iceland. I highly recommend the sites are beautiful definitely worth the money.” Sinead, Jan. 2026, Ireland [Source: GetYourGuide]
Blue Lagoon Admission Tickets
Relax in the Blue Lagoon’s warm geothermal waters and enjoy mineral masks, saunas, scenic terraces, and refreshing drinks in one unforgettable setting.
“This was the highlight of our trip! Hearing the history of The Blue Lagoon was great along with stories of the 13 trolls. Temperature of the lagoon was perfect, complimentary drink at swim-up-bar was enjoyable. Exploring the laggon was fun! Facial Mask left my skin feeling fantastic!” Deborah, Dec. 2025 [Source: Headout]
From Reykjavik: Northern Lights Bus Tour with Hot Cocoa
Experience one of the world’s most spectacular natural phenomena on a 4-hour evening tour from Reykjavik, leaving the city lights behind to hunt for the Northern Lights.
“Amazing! So insightful and even though we didn’t see the lights, our host was so lovely and gave us so much insight into how it all works.” Grace, Jan. 2026, UK [Source: GetYourGuide]
Laugarvatn Fontana: Geothermal Bread-Baking Experience
Discover the tradition of Icelandic lava bread at Laugarvatn Fontana, exploring the geothermal bakery and tasting freshly baked bread made on site.
“It was amazing! Really nice experience and the bread tasted great!” Britta, Dec. 2025, Netherlands [Source: GetYourGuide]
>> Compare all options with our comparison table and pick the best ticket.
>> Dive into the fascinating history of Katla Ice Cave here.
>> Find out how to get to the Katla Ice Cave and useful traveler tips on our dedicated page.
