Lofthellir Ice Cave Tour From Lake Myvatn in North Iceland

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Marvel at the ancient ice formations within the cave, a frozen world preserved for over 3000 years, revealing a lost world of ice and magic.
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Likely to sell out soon
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Travel details

Dates
Time
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Travelers
1
From: Gamli Bærinn, Reykjahlíð, Iceland

Description

Summary

Tour starts
Mývatn
Duration
4.5 hours
Difficulty
Moderate
Languages
English
Available
May - Mar.
Minimum age
8 years old
3,123 reviews

Description

Embark on an extraordinary four to five-hour adventure exploring the mysteries of the Lofthellir ice cave, a permafrost cave inside a lava tunnel in North Iceland. Adventurous travelers seeking a unique journey through a frozen underworld should book this mesmerizing ice cave tour now.

Your tour begins in the car park of Berjaya Hotel Myvatn, where you'll greet your expert guide.

You'll depart the Lake Myvatn area, traversing the rugged tracks of North Iceland and passing incredible geological features. The drive to the cave offers glimpses of iconic landmarks like the Mount Hverfjall volcano and the enchanting Ludentarborgir crater row. Enjoy the unfolding natural beauty of your surroundings, setting the stage for an exceptional experience.

Upon reaching the roots of Mount Hvannfell, a 30-minute guided hike across relatively smooth lava fields leads you to the entrance of Lofthellir cave. Equipped with a helmet, headlamp, and studded boots for secure footing, you'll step into this frozen realm.

Guided in a single line by a cave expert, you'll cautiously navigate the cave's narrow entrance, requiring you to crawl on all fours. Prepare for a unique experience navigating through a small entry and encountering ice and water on the cave floor.

You'll only need to crawl about 3.9 feet (1.2 meters) and take a short slide halfway into the cave. Travelers with claustrophobia might not enjoy the experience, but you should be fine if you're okay traveling in an elevator.

The cave's interior maintains a temperature of around 28.4-32 F (-2 to 0 C), emphasizing the necessity of suitable gloves and waterproof pants.

As you enter the cave, your surroundings expand, revealing a lost world of ice and magic frozen in time. Marvel at the unique and intricate ice formations adorning the cave's interior. These include stunning ice columns of varying heights and delicate ice crystals that glisten in the cave's dim light.

The cave walls are often covered in a tapestry of ice, creating patterns and textures. Depending on the ice's light and density, the ice can vary in color from crystal clear to shades of blue. The cave's floor is usually uneven and covered in a mixture of ice and volcanic rock, a sign of the cave's volcanic origin.

The cave's atmosphere is serene yet awe-inspiring, with the silence only broken by the occasional drip of melting ice. The combination of darkness and the occasional light filtering through openings creates a surreal and almost otherworldly experience for those who venture inside.

The cave, a delicate ecosystem, is a protected site that benefits from a conservation program. This initiative ensures sustainable cave tours with limited daily visits operated by specially certified cave guides.

The fee for the protection program, included in every ticket, contributes to preserving this natural wonder for future generations. Furthermore, a portion of each ticket directly supports local landowners.

Beyond its captivating beauty, Lofthellir ice cave holds significance for ongoing research, for example, in understanding cave exploration on Mars. 

Once your adventure is complete, you'll return to your meeting point.

Don't miss the opportunity to unravel the secrets of Lofthellir ice cave on this four to five-hour small-group tour from Lake Myvatn area. Check availability by choosing a date.

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Included

Fully guided tour
Transportation from Myvatn
Cave exploration equipment - helmet, headlight and studded boots 

Activities

Caving
Hiking
Super Jeep
Sightseeing
Ice Caving

Map

Attractions

Mývatn
Lúdentarborgir
Lofthellir

How it works

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Secure your spot
Secure your spot instantly on Iceland’s most trusted travel marketplace. As soon as you reserve, we lock in your place to help you make the most of your trip. You’ll get the best price and a secure payment system that protects your information.
Receive instant confirmation
You’ll get your e-ticket and a detailed summary immediately after booking, including meeting points and schedules. Enjoy peace of mind and get exactly what you booked, or a money-back guarantee. No surprises, no hidden fees.
Get access to the VIP Club
Booking with us gives you access to the Guide to Iceland VIP Club, where you’ll enjoy priority service, special perks, and exclusive discounts for amazing savings on your trip at Iceland’s top restaurants, shops, and local favorites.
Explore with confidence
From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, we’re here to take care of you. Whatever you need, whenever you need it, we’re just seconds away, 24/7, ready to help you make the most of your time in Iceland.
Secure your spot
Secure your spot instantly on Iceland’s most trusted travel marketplace. As soon as you reserve, we lock in your place to help you make the most of your trip. You’ll get the best price and a secure payment system that protects your information.
Receive instant confirmation
You’ll get your e-ticket and a detailed summary immediately after booking, including meeting points and schedules. Enjoy peace of mind and get exactly what you booked, or a money-back guarantee. No surprises, no hidden fees.
Get access to the VIP Club
Booking with us gives you access to the Guide to Iceland VIP Club, where you’ll enjoy priority service, special perks, and exclusive discounts for amazing savings on your trip at Iceland’s top restaurants, shops, and local favorites.
Explore with confidence
From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, we’re here to take care of you. Whatever you need, whenever you need it, we’re just seconds away, 24/7, ready to help you make the most of your time in Iceland.

What to bring

Warm and waterproof clothes
Gloves
Good walking shoes
Water bottle 

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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