Katla Ice Cave Tours

Discover the Best of Iceland on your Glacier Expedition

Katla Ice Cave Location, Directions & Tips

Katla Ice Cave Location, Directions & Tips

Explore Katla Ice Cave with our guide on location, directions, and traveler tips. Learn seamless ways to reach this mystical site by guided tour or on your own, gain valuable insights on what to wear, and check out the bestselling Katla Ice Cave tours.

Katla Ice Cave: Location & Map

Katla Ice Cave is located on the south coast of Iceland, approx. 187 kilometers (116 miles) from Reykjavík, and close to the town of Vík. The cave’s entrance is located within the Kötlujökull glacier, which is a part of the expansive Mýrdalsjökull glacier.

  • Address: 871, Iceland
  • Find the Location on Google Maps: Katla Ice Cave

Directions: How to Get to Katla Ice Cave in Iceland

Find the various transport options listed below:

Guided Tours:

Recommended Option: Joining a guided tour from major cities like Reykjavik or Vik is a popular and convenient choice to get to Katla Ice Cave. This is the safest and most hassle-free way to experience the famous ice cave.  Find the top-rated Katla Ice Cave tours in our overview below.

On Your Own:

If you prefer more flexibility, you can rent a car and drive to Katla Ice Cave on your own. However, this option is not recommended, as the rugged road conditions can be challenging, especially during winter, and a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended. If you decide to reach the site on your own, you will need to drive east from Vík on Road 1, and follow any provided directions or GPS coordinates. Be sure to hire an experienced glacier guide to tour the cave to avoid dangers like into hidden crevasses, or falling ice chunks. Remember that you need proper gear, like crampons and helmets, for safety while touring the cave.

Public Transportation:

Public transportation options to Katla Ice Cave may be limited. Iceland’s public transportation network is not extensive, especially for reaching remote locations. Consequently, the ice cave is not accessible by public transport. To visit, you will need to join a guided tour or rent a vehicle suitable for driving in challenging conditions.

7 Essential Tips for Visiting Katla Ice Cave

Katla, Ice, Cave, Tours
  • Embrace the Magic of Ice Caves: Ice caves, shaped by nature’s artistry, undergo continuous changes just like the seasons. While the tour pictures give you a glimpse, expect the cave and formations to present their own enchanting surprises during your visit. Embrace the beauty of their constant transformation, making each exploration an exclusive and extraordinary encounter.
  • Dress Appropriately: The glacier environment can be unforgiving, even during the summer. Dress in layers and opt for waterproof pants to shield against the chilly Icelandic elements. Avoid wearing jeans, as they tend to take a long time to dry if they get wet. Don’t forget to wear comfortable and sturdy waterproof boots to navigate the icy terrain. Don a hat, gloves, and a warm waterproof jacket to stay cozy throughout the journey.
  • Bring Extra Clothing: It’s wise to bring along some extra clothing to stay prepared for when you get wet. Packing an additional layer, such as a sweater or jacket, ensures you remain comfortable and cozy throughout your journey.
  • >> Check the weather in Iceland on the official website of the Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO).
Beautiful glacier ice caves in Iceland
  • Carry a Small Lunch: To keep yourself energized and nourished during the tour, consider packing a small lunch and a bottle of water.  Having a quick and convenient meal on hand ensures you make the most of your exploration without worrying about hunger pangs.
  • Make Early Reservations: Given that Katla Ice Cave is one of the few accessible ice caves during the summer months, it is highly advisable to make your reservations early. The popularity of this enchanting destination can lead to limited availability for tours, so booking in advance secures your spot.
  • Consider Your Fitness Level: While the tour is generally suitable for most people, it is recommended that participants have a good level of physical fitness. Individuals afraid of the dark or suffering from claustrophobia, as well as those with significant medical conditions, back problems, or heart issues are advised not to participate. Additionally, children under the age of six/eight should are not allowed to participate (depending on the tour operator).
  • Embrace Flexibility: Keep in mind that the schedule and activities may change due to safety considerations. In the event of an ice cave trip postponement, a refund will be provided. Stay open to adjustments for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
  • >> Compare all options with our comparison table and pick the best ticket.

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

4.6

2054 Reviews

€196.89

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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

1208 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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From Reykjavík: Katla Ice Cave and South Coast Tour

4.6

83 Reviews

€236

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  • Reserve now & pay later
  • Guided Tour
  • Duration 11 hours
  • Pickup included
  • Free Cancelation

The whole day was outstanding, from the 0800 pick up to the 1830 drop off. Our minibus driver, Gudrun, was great.

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

2054 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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From   €196.89

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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

1208 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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From  €203.00

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GetYourGuide

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

From Reykjavík: Katla Ice Cave and South Coast Tour

83 Reviews

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

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (depending on option selected)
  • Guide
  • Bus transportation
  • Katla Ice Cave and super-jeep experience
  • Safety gear for the ice cave tour
  • Free Wi-Fi

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

Starting Time: 8:00 AM

Duration: approx. 11 hours

5* Anthony – United Kingdom; February 9, 2024 – Verified booking on GetYourGuide

The whole day was outstanding, from the 0800 pick up to the 1830 drop off. Our minibus driver, Gudrun, was great. She was informative, chatty, and drove like a complete professional. The ride across the glacier in an adapted ice bus was an experience in itself (although a little cramped). The Ice Cave at Katla is breathtaking, and thanks to our guide, “Alex the Viking”, the walk was safe, fun and informative. The ice structures and their surroundings are a must see if in Iceland. The cost is relatively high, but definitely worth every penny.

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From €236

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GetYourGuide

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

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