Blue ice and volcanic ash
See how ice and ash form layers in the glacier. Each cave has its own shape and colours.
Katla ice cave tour from Vík
Ride from Vík to Kötlujökull in a SuperJeep, then explore a natural ice cave with your guide. Helmet and crampons are included.
Ice colours and cave shapes change through the year.
Photo 1 of 7: A traveller wearing a helmet inside a blue ice tunnel.Tour at a glance
- Duration
- Around 3 hours
- Meet in
- Vík
- Minimum age
- 6 years
- Guide
- English
Description
Ride from Vík to Kötlujökull in a SuperJeep, then explore a natural ice cave with your guide. Helmet and crampons are included.
Read moreRead less about this tour
Travel beyond Vík to the glacier beneath Katla. A SuperJeep takes you towards Kötlujökull, where a short walk leads across ice and ash-streaked ground to the cave. Your guide helps you fit your helmet and crampons before you set out.
Inside, look for layers of blue ice and dark volcanic ash. The cave changes naturally, so the entrance, colours and route may look different from the photographs. Allow around three hours for the outing from Vík.
Ice shaped by a volcano
A guide through the glacier landscape
Travel by SuperJeep, then put on your helmet and crampons for the walk and cave visit.
Included on the glacier
- SuperJeep transport from the meeting point in Vík
- English-speaking guide
- Helmet and crampons
Not included
- Travel to Vík and hotel pickup
- Hiking boots or shoes and waterproof clothing
What to bring
- Warm layers, a hat and gloves
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Sturdy hiking boots or shoes
Your experience
- Part 1
Take the SuperJeep to the glacier
Ride towards Kötlujökull, then get fitted with your helmet and crampons for a short walk to the cave.
Part 2Explore the natural ice cave
Follow your guide into the ice and look closely at the layers of volcanic ash. The entrance and route change with the glacier; short ladders or steps may be used.
Before you meet your guide
Starting time
Choose a date to see departure times.
Starting location
Make your own way to Ocean-side parking outside Ice Cave Bistro, Vík. Follow your confirmation for the arrival instructions. Pickup isn’t offered for this tour option.
Meet your guide in Vík
Meet in the ocean-side bus parking lot behind Icewear Magasin in Vík, outside Ice Cave Bistro. Arrive 15 minutes before your selected departure and look for your guide by the SuperJeep.
Get directionsWho can join
For ages 6 and over. Expect a short walk on uneven ground and ice; ladders or steps may be needed to enter the cave.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Expect uneven ground and ice, with short ladders or steps possible.
Cancellation terms
Cancel at least 48 hours before departure for a full refund. Later cancellations and no-shows are not refunded. Cancellation policy.
A few useful answers
Do I need glacier-walking experience?
No previous experience is needed. You should be comfortable walking on uneven ground and ice. Your guide provides a helmet and crampons; ladders or steps may be needed at the cave entrance.
Can children join?
Children aged six and over can join. Choose Children (6–15) in Travel details for the child price.
Will the cave look like the photographs?
Ice caves change naturally. Colours, formations and access vary, so the cave you visit may look different from the photographs. Your guide chooses the route for the conditions.
Is pickup from Reykjavík included?
No. This tour starts in Vík, and you need to make your own way to the meeting point. Allow enough time for your journey and arrive 15 minutes before departure.
What if I am pregnant or have mobility needs?
The activity is not recommended during pregnancy and is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. Contact us before booking if you need help deciding whether the glacier walk is suitable.