Katla Ice Cave Tours

Discover the Best of Iceland on your Glacier Expedition

Inside Katla Ice Cave: Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems

Inside Katla Ice Cave: Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems

The interior of Katla Ice Cave unveils a breathtaking world sculpted by nature’s hand!

Inside Katla Ice Cave’s awaits a subterranean sanctuary, inviting visitors to witness the timeless beauty of Iceland’s glacial wonders. Gigantic ice stalactites hang gracefully, creating a mesmerizing display of colors through the enchanting play of natural light.

Join us here as we discover the mind-blowing features of this enchanting cave!

What is inside Katla Ice Cave?

Exploring the inside of Katla Ice Cave is like stepping into a frozen wonderland where the interplay of ice, light, and time has crafted a unique and mesmerizing subterranean landscape. The silence within the cave, occasionally interrupted by the creaking of the ice, adds to the serene and contemplative ambiance of this natural marvel. It’s a place that offers a glimpse into the beauty and complexity of Iceland’s glacial formations.

So, what can you expect?

  • Gigantic ice stalactites hanging gracefully
  • Walls and ceiling adorned with layers of ancient ice
  • Various shades of glacial blue, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle
  • Play of natural light casting beautiful colors on the ice formations
  • Serene atmosphere with occasional sounds of creaking ice
  • Subterranean wonderland showcasing nature’s sculpting over time
  • Overall ambiance, contributing to a unique and captivating experience
Solo female adventure traveler is discovering the ice caves in Iceland at Vatnajokull Glacier near to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Tourism in abandoned Iceland . Outdoor living and exploring
Woman find the way out in ice castle

Discover the Wonders Within: Step inside to witness colossal ice stalactites that hang gracefully from the cave’s ceiling. Marvel at the layers of ancient ice adorning the walls and ceiling, showcasing various shades of glacial blue. The play of natural light creates a mesmerizing display of colors, casting an ethereal glow on the formations.

A Subterranean Spectacle: The serene ambiance, occasionally punctuated by the subtle creaking of the ice, adds to the mystique of this captivating cave.

Glacial Journey - Immerse yourself in the Frozen Beauty of this Unique Capture

Can you go inside Katla Ice Cave on your own?

Exploring Katla Ice Cave on your own is strongly advised against due to extreme dangers, such as slipping, falling into hidden crevasses, or encountering falling ice chunks. To access the cave safely, specific gear like crampons and helmets are necessary, and driving there requires a specialized all-terrain 4×4 vehicle.

For a safe and enriching experience, always opt for a guided tour with knowledgeable and experienced glacier guides.

We have provided an overview of the 3 top-rated Katla Ice Cave tours below, ensuring you find the perfect one for your adventure.

Popular Katla Ice Cave Tours:

Explore below our curated selection of recommended Katla Ice Cave tours:

From Vik or Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave and Super Jeep Tour

4.6/5

1.5K+ Reviews

€176.90

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  • Instant Confirmation
  • 3 Hour Guided Tour
  • Transfers Included
  • Free Cancelation

The ice cave tour was definitely our highlight of the trip, it was so beautiful beyond belief. The actual ice cave that we went into was actually quite small and nothing much to see, but the area outside and surrounding the ice caves are what’s so amazing!

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From Vik: Katla Ice Cave Jeep Tour and Glacier Walk

4.6/5

1.3K+ Reviews

€203

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  • Instant Confirmation
  • 3 Hour Guided Tour
  • Transfers Included
  • Free Cancelation

The tour was very nice. The ride in the jeep to the glacier was great. We then went on foot to the glacier to the ice cave.

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Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Waterfalls Tour

4.7/5

1K+ Reviews

€238

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  • Reserve now & pay later
  • Roundtrip-transport 
  • Offered in: English
  • Duration: 11 hours
  • Free Cancelation

What an incredible day!! Thomas was an excellent driver and guide, sharing his passion for Icelandic history and lore the entire drive.

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From Vik or Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave and Super Jeep Tour

4.6/5 (1.5K+ Reviews)

Arctic Adventures’ Katla Ice Cave Tour includes a guided visit to the Katla Ice Cave in English, along with round-trip transfers in a Super Jeep equipped with WiFi. The tour offers departures from both Vik and Reykjavik. Travelers departing from Vik enjoy a thrilling 3-hour adventure, while tours from Reykjavik last around 11 hours and also visit Skógafoss (only between February 1st and November 15th) and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. Crampons and safety equipment are provided for your glacier hike to reach Kötlujökull Glacier. With a small group of max. 14 participants, you’ll experience a personalized journey. While locations visited may vary by season, this tour always prioritizes the best naturally formed ice cave available, based on safety considerations.

  • Visit to a natural ice cave
  • English-speaking Licensed Adventure Guide
  • Round-trip Transfer to/from Vík or Reykjavik in a Super Jeep
  • Free WiFi on board the Super Jeep
  • Safety Equipments and Crampons for walking on ice
  • Pick-up from Reykjavik (optional)
  • Stop at waterfall/s (only for those departing from Reykjavik)

Departs From: Parking lot by the Ice Cave Bistro, Austurvegur 20, 870 Vík, Iceland
Starting Time: 11:30 AM, 1:45 PM, 3:00 PM
Duration: Approx. 3 hours (departing from Vik)
Participants: Max. 14 travelers

Rik – Netherlands January 22, 2024

De tocht naar de grot toe was al een attractie op zich. Met de super jeep reden we zo de gletsjer op. De weg was hobbelig dus we stuiterden af en toe alle kanten op. Het uitzicht was prachtig. Boven op de gletsjer bezochten we eerst de “nieuwe” ijsgrot en daarna de bekende grote boog (deze zal binnenkort helemaal verdwenen zijn)

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Bery – United States January 21, 2024

The ice cave tour was definitely our highlight of the trip, it was so beautiful beyond belief. The actual ice cave that we went into was actually quite small and nothing much to see, but the area outside and surrounding the ice caves are what’s so amazing! We did the 10am tour in the middle of the winter so we were able to see the sunrise over the glacier which was such an unforgettable experience. It was really cold and windy here in January but the view was worth it.

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Starting at €176.90

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GetYourGuide

  • Instant Confirmation
  • 3 Hour Tour
  • Guided Tour
  • Transfers Included
  • Free Cancellation

From Vik: Katla Ice Cave Jeep Tour and Glacier Walk

4.6/5 (1.3K+ Reviews)

The 3-hour Katla Ice Cave tour operated by Tröll Expeditions includes a jeep round-trip transportation from Vik, a guided visit to Katla Ice Cave in English, as well as admission to the ice cave. Equipped with the provided safety gear, you and your group of max. 13 travelers walk across the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier under Katla volcano. Your professional English-speaking guide explains how glacier caves are formed, as you marvel at the stunning colors inside the famous cave. This tour is not advised for children under 8 and individuals with a fear of darkness or claustrophobia.

  • Entrance fee to Katla Ice Cave
  • Visit to Katla Ice Cave, Hjorleifshofdi & Black Sand Beach
  • English-speaking Guide trained in glacial exploration
  • Transfer to/from Vík in a Super Jeep
  • Free WiFi on board the Super Jeep
  • Safety Equipment for Ice Cave

Departs From: Víkurbraut 5 870, Vík, Iceland
Starting Time: Various options available depending on the season: 7:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM, or 6:00 PM
Duration: Approx. 3 hours
Participants: Max. 13 travelers

Sandra – Germany January 3, 2024

The tour was very nice. The ride in the jeep to the glacier was great. We then went on foot to the glacier to the ice cave. This is totally spectacular and fascinating. Our guide took photos with us and told us a lot. That was our most beautiful tour in Iceland. A must see! Absolute recommendation. Thanks!

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Joan – Netherlands December 27, 2023

Een gave ervaring. Eerst met de jeep naar de gletsjer toe (hobbelige rit), maar dat hoort bij de ervaring. De gids (einar) was duidelijk, met een grapje tussendoor. Iedereen kreeg goed de tijd om foto’s te maken. Met spikes onder je schoenen had je goede grip om de gletsjer te verkennen. Echt de moeite waard!

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Starting at €203

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GetYourGuide

  • Instant Confirmation
  • 3 Hour Tour
  • Guided Tour
  • Transfers Included
  • Free Cancellation

Reykjavik: Katla Ice Cave & South Coast Waterfalls Tour

4.7 / 5 (1K+ Reviews)

Embark on an 11-hour South Coast and Katla Ice Cave Tour from Reykjavik, featuring a thrilling 4×4 jeep ride. Your English-speaking expert guide will lead you to the stunning Katla ice cave, the magical South Shore of Iceland and the magnificent Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. Enjoy the convenience of Reykjavik pick-up and drop-off, and a scenic Super Jeep ride. Book now for an authentic Icelandic experience!

  • Reykjavík Pickup & Dropoff
  • Transportation
  • Visit to Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls
  • Super Jeep ride from Vík
  • Ice cave exploration
  • Scenic views of Mýrdalsjökull

Not included:

  • Food and drinks
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips

Meeting point: Please select your preferred pick-up option.

Starting Time: 9:00 AM

Duration: approx. 11 hours

“What an incredible day!! Thomas was an excellent driver and guide, sharing his passion for Icelandic history and lore the entire drive. Stonethor was our Super Jeep driver and ice cave guide and he was equally as incredible! So very knowledgeable and personable, he made the ice cave exploration even more magnificent. This was an amazing opportunity and well worth the cost!” – Stephanie, April 2025

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Starting at €238

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GetYourGuide

  • Mobile ticket
  • Pickup offered
  • Offered in: English
  • Duration 11 hours
  • Free cancellation

FAQ about Katla Ice Cave, Iceland

Katla Ice Cave is absolutely worth a visit! This captivating natural wonder boasts mesmerizing beauty with blue and black shimmering ice formations, a magical play of light, and unique geological features. It stands as one of Iceland’s most stunning ice caves, and a truly unique must- see destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

While ice caves can be dangerous and unpredictable, with the right precautions and guidance, they can be enjoyed safely. It is crucial to never explore ice caves on your own as conditions can rapidly change, posing serious risks of injury. Opting for a reputable tour with an experienced and licensed guide is essential. They will navigate and assess cave conditions while providing proper safety gear like helmets, crampons, and ropes. Following their instructions and wearing the provided gear will ensure a safer and more enjoyable ice cave adventure.

Katla Ice Cave is located in Iceland, near the southern village of Vík. It’s situated on the Kötlujökull glacier, which is an outlet glacier of the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap

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