Plan time to explore caves in Iceland and understand how ice, lava, and human history have shaped landscapes beneath the surface. These caves include seasonal ice caves inside glaciers, lava tunnels formed by volcanic activity, and cultural caves connected to settlement, farming, and film locations.
Many locations require guided cave tours in Iceland, particularly natural ice caves and deeper lava caves with unstable terrain. Some cultural caves can be explored independently, depending on access rules and road conditions.
Travel style also plays a role when choosing caves to visit. Winter trips often focus on ice cave tours, while lava caves are commonly visited on volcano tours or combined with nearby geothermal areas. Cultural and filming-location caves tend to fit well into self-drive tours, as they are usually short stops close to main roads.
The list below highlights the must-visit caves in Iceland, covering ice caves, lava caves, and unique cultural sites that stand out for their accessibility, significance, and overall experience.
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Key Takeaways
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Iceland caves include ice caves, lava caves, and unique cultural caves, each offering a different experience.
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Natural blue ice caves are only accessible in winter and always require guided cave tours.
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Katla is the only natural ice cave in Iceland that remains accessible year-round.
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Man-made ice caves, such as Into the Glacier and the Perlan Ice Cave, provide reliable options in all seasons.
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Lava caves in Iceland are generally accessible year-round, with well-known examples such as Raufarholshellir near Reykjavik, Vidgelmir in West Iceland, and Vatnshellir on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
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Cultural and historic caves, such as Yoda Cave, the Caves of Hella, Laugarvatnshellar, and Griotagja, show how caves in Iceland were used beyond geology, from early settlement and daily life to film locations.
Map of the Must-Visit Caves in Iceland
This map highlights the must-visit caves in Iceland, including ice caves, lava caves, and unique cultural caves across the country. It shows where each cave is located in relation to major routes like the Ring Road, the South Coast, the Golden Circle, and West Iceland.
In the sections below, we dive deeper into each cave, covering what makes it unique, how to visit it, and what to expect once you arrive.
Must-Visit Iceland Ice Caves
Ice caves offer a rare chance to explore the inside of some of Iceland’s glaciers, which are shaped by ice and volcanic activity. These ice caves in Iceland vary by season, location, and accessibility, with some open only in winter and others available year-round on guided cave tours.
Below are the most notable Icelandic ice caves to visit, including winter highlights and reliable options near Reykjavik and along the South Coast.
Crystal Ice Cave in Vatnajokull Glacier
The Crystal Ice Cave is a natural glacier ice cave that has appeared year after year in Vatnajokull Glacier since 2011. Located on the western edge of Breidamerkurjokull Glacier Tongue, it is a standout stop on a Vatnajokull ice cave tour. It is usually accessible only during the coldest months, between November and March.
The Crystal Ice Cave is known for its dense, sapphire blue ice, often described as the clearest crystal ice of the season. Several vertical shafts in the ceiling allow natural light to filter inside, illuminating the cave and enhancing its deep blue tones.
This cave can only ever be entered with a guided ice cave tour in Vatnajokull National Park. You'll be provided with crampons, a helmet with a headlight, and possibly even an ice axe before entering the cave. Tours typically depart from the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon area.
Katla Ice Cave in Myrdalsjokull Glacier
If you are visiting outside the winter season, the Katla Ice Cave is the most reliable option for seeing natural ice caves in Iceland. Located within Kotlujokull, an outlet glacier of Myrdalsjokull, it is the only natural ice cave in Iceland that remains accessible year-round.
Unlike most ice caves in Iceland, which collapse during the summer melt, Katla stays frozen thanks to thick layers of volcanic ash that insulate the ice. This makes it the top choice for travelers searching for ice caves in Iceland in summer.
Katla is known for its dramatic black-and-blue ice. Dark volcanic ash from past eruptions of the Katla Volcano runs through the ice, creating a moody, high-contrast look that is very different from the bright blue caves of Vatnajokull.
Visits are only possible with a guided Katla ice cave tour in Iceland, with most tours departing from the village of Vik. Reaching the cave involves a Super Jeep drive across volcanic terrain, and many tours allow children, which makes Katla one of the most accessible ice cave tours in Iceland for families and South Coast travelers.
Into the Glacier Ice Tunnel in Langjokull Glacier
Into the Glacier, the world’s largest man-made ice tunnel, offers a guaranteed, year-round ice cave experience inside Langjokull Glacier. Unlike natural ice caves in Iceland that change or disappear each season, this 1,640-foot (500-meter) man-made tunnel allows visitors to explore the interior of a glacier at any time of year.
The tunnel features smooth walkways, lighting, and wide chambers carved directly into the ice, which makes it the most accessible ice cave tour Iceland has for families. An Into the Glacier tour in Langjokull is typically open to all ages, and the conditions inside are stable compared to natural ice caves.
Located about 2.5 hours from Reykjavik, Into the Glacier is a popular addition to Golden Circle tours. Because it is man-made, it remains open year-round and is one of the few ways to experience Iceland's ice caves during the summer months.
Perlan Ice Cave in Reykjavik
While not a natural formation, the ice cave in Perlan Museum is a practical option for travelers short on time or visiting during poor weather. Located in central Reykjavik, it is the world’s first indoor ice cave, built using more than 350 tons (318 metric tons) of real Icelandic snow and ice.
This is the only way to experience an ice cave near Reykjavik without leaving the city, which makes it ideal for a layover or stopover in Iceland. Admission to Perlan Museum gives you access to the cave, which is part of the Wonders of Iceland exhibition.
Unlike natural Icelandic ice caves that can close due to weather or melt conditions, the Perlan Ice Cave is kept at a constant -10 C (14 F). This makes it the most reliable option for experiencing an ice cave in Iceland year-round, regardless of season or road conditions.
Must-Visit Iceland Lava Caves
Iceland lava caves reveal the volcanic side of the island, taking you inside tunnels carved by molten lava thousands of years ago. These lava caves in Iceland range from compact, colorful tunnels near Reykjavik to vast underground chambers reached on guided lava cave tours.
Below are some of the most impressive lava caves in Iceland, including easily accessible options near Reykjavik and larger lava tubes in West Iceland and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
Raufarholshellir Lava Cave Near Reykjavik
Raufarholshellir is the most impressive lava cave near Reykjavik and one of the best lava caves in Iceland overall. Located about 30 minutes from the capital, this vast lava tunnel formed more than 5,000 years ago during the Leitahraun eruption and reaches up to 98 feet (30 meters) wide and 33 feet (10 meters) high in places.
What makes this lava cave stand out is the color inside. Entry to Raufarholshellir reveals mineral-rich lava walls with deep reds, oranges, yellows, and hints of green, which makes it one of the most visually striking lava caves in Iceland.
Access is via a guided Raufarholshellir lava cave tour in Iceland, with lighting and raised walkways that make it suitable for most visitors. The cave is open year-round, and in winter, ice formations beneath natural skylights create a dramatic fire-and-ice contrast.
Vidgelmir Lava Cave in West Iceland
Vidgelmir is the largest lava cave in Iceland by volume. Located in West Iceland near Husafell, this massive lava tube formed around 930 A.D. and stretches nearly 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) into the lava field, with vast chambers that feel more like underground halls than a typical cave.
The cave features a wooden walkway, handrails, and fixed lighting, allowing comfortable access through its enormous interior. With ceiling heights reaching nearly 52 feet (16 meters), there is no need to crouch as you move through the cave’s wide, cathedral-like spaces.
Inside, Vidgelmir preserves some of the best lava formations in Iceland, including lava stalactites and flow structures that remained untouched for centuries while the cave was sealed by ice. Visits are available on a guided Vidgelmir lava cave tour and can be combined with nearby attractions in a West Iceland day trip from Reykjavik.
Vatnshellir Lava Cave in Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Vatnshellir Cave is one of the most distinctive lava caves in Iceland, located on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula beneath the Snaefellsjokull Volcano. Formed around 8,000 years ago, this lava tube is closely linked to Jules Verne’s “A Journey to the Center of the Earth,” which famously begins at this location.
Unlike most lava caves in Iceland, Vatnshellir is explored vertically. A 115-foot (35-meter) spiral staircase leads down into the cave’s upper and lower chambers, creating a more dramatic descent than standard lava cave tours in Iceland.
Inside, the walls are lined with lava formations, including lava lace and mineral-streaked rock colored by iron and sulfur. At the deepest point, guides switch off all lights, allowing you to experience complete darkness far below the surface.
Visits are only possible on a guided Vatnshellir lava cave tour, with the cave located about 3 hours from Reykjavik within Snaefellsjokull National Park.
Thrihnjukagigur (Inside the Volcano) Lava Cave Near Reykjavik
Thrihnukagigur offers one of the most unusual cave tours in Iceland and a volcanic experience found nowhere else in the world. This is the only place where you can safely descend into an empty magma chamber inside a dormant volcano, rather than walking through lava tunnels or ice caves.
Around 4,500 years ago, the magma beneath Thrihnukagigur drained away, leaving behind an underground chamber large enough to fit the Statue of Liberty. An inside the volcano tour will give you access to an open cable lift that lowers 400 feet (120 meters) down into the volcano, revealing rock walls stained red, yellow, and purple.
The Thrihnukagigur tour operates seasonally from May to October and includes a hike of about 2.1 miles (3.5 kilometers) each way across a lava field. Located roughly 30 minutes from Reykjavik, Thrihnukagigur is considered a true bucket-list experience for travelers interested in Icelandic caves and volcanic geology.
Must-Visit Unique Caves in Iceland
Not all caves in Iceland are shaped only by ice or lava. Some are tied to history, folklore, and pop culture. These unique and man-made caves in Iceland range from famous filming locations to ancient dwellings carved by early settlers, many of which are easy to reach on self-drive trips or short guided day tours.
Below are some of the most distinctive cultural and historical caves in Iceland, combining scenery, storytelling, and accessible locations across the country.
Yoda Cave (Gigjagja) in Iceland’s South Coast
Yoda Cave, officially called Gigjagja, is one of the most recognizable Icelandic caves thanks to its famous silhouette. Located at the base of Hjoleifshofdi Mountain along the South Coast, the cave opening resembles the head of Yoda when viewed from inside, which makes it a popular stop for Star Wars fans.
The surrounding area adds to its appeal. The black sand plains of Myrdalssandur and the cliffs of Hjoleifshofdi were used as filming locations for “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” giving the site a real cinematic connection beyond the visual illusion.
Yoda Cave is easy to reach on a self-drive trip, about 15 minutes east of the town of Vik. A short walk leads from the parking area to the cave entrance, which makes it a quick and rewarding stop for travelers exploring caves in Iceland along the Ring Road.
Loftsalahellir Cave Near Vik
Loftsalahellir is a small but striking cave near Vik that has become popular for its dramatic coastal views and photogenic framing. This tuff-rock cavern is known for its triangular opening that perfectly frames the black sand coastline and the Dyrholaey Sea Arch in the distance.
The cave is best appreciated from the back, where the rock walls create a natural frame for photos, especially at sunset when the light highlights the cliffs and shoreline. Beyond photography, Loftsalahellir also has local historical value, as it was once used as a gathering and shelter point by farmers in the area.
Loftsalahellir is easy to visit on a South Coast trip, located just outside Vik near Road 218. A short but steep walk leads to the cave, which makes it a quick stop for travelers interested in caves in Iceland that combine scenery, history, and easy access.
Caves of Hella in South Iceland
The Caves of Hella are one of the most unusual caves in Iceland and a major archaeological mystery. Located on a historic farm beside the Ytri-Ranga River, the site includes 12 man-made sandstone caves, with several opened to visitors in recent years.
Many historians believe these caves were carved before the Viking settlement of Iceland in 874 A.D., possibly by Irish monks known as the Papar. Inside, you can see carved seating, early Christian crosses, and soot-darkened ceilings.
Access is only possible on a guided Caves of Hella tour led by the family that has owned the land for generations, which makes this one of the most distinctive cave tours in Iceland for history-focused travelers.
Laugarvatnshellir Cave in the Golden Circle
Laugarvatnshellir tells a much more recent and personal story of life inside caves in Iceland. Located along the Golden Circle near Laugarvatn, these two man-made caves were used as full-time homes as recently as the early 20th century.
In 1918, a young couple named Indridi and Gudrun moved into the caves, building wooden fronts and raising their family inside the rock. Today, you can visit the site on a guided tour of the Laugarvatnshellar, which takes you through the living spaces and explains how daily life functioned using simple tools and natural insulation.
Game of Thrones Cave (Griotagja) in North Iceland
Griotagja is one of the most famous lava caves in Iceland, located near Lake Myvatn in North Iceland. This small lava cave became internationally known after appearing as one of the Game of Thrones locations in Season 3 for Jon Snow and Ygritte’s cave scene, turning it into a must-see stop for fans of the series.
Inside the cave, a geothermal hot spring fills a narrow fissure with strikingly clear blue water. The cave itself sits along a visible rift where tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart, which makes it a dramatic example of how Iceland’s lava caves and geothermal activity intersect.
Bathing in Griotagja is not allowed. Volcanic activity in the late 20th century caused dangerous temperature fluctuations, and soaking is now prohibited to protect both visitors and the fragile environment. Travelers interested in geothermal bathing can book admission to the Earth Lagoon Myvatn, located a short drive away.
FAQs About Visiting Caves in Iceland
Below are answers to some of the most common questions travelers have about visiting caves in Iceland. These quick explanations are designed to help you plan your visit and understand what to expect before you go.
Can you see ice caves in Iceland in the summer?
Yes, but options are limited. Natural blue ice caves are only accessible in winter, but the Katla Ice Cave is open year-round due to volcanic insulation. You can also visit man-made ice caves, such as Into the Glacier in Langjokull and the Perlan Ice Cave in Reykjavik, during the summer months.
What is the best time to visit ice caves in Iceland?
The best time to visit natural blue ice caves in Iceland is January and February, when cold temperatures create stable conditions, and the ice shows its deepest blue color. Ice cave season typically runs from November through March, depending on weather and glacier safety.
What should you wear for caving in Iceland?
If you are wondering what to wear for ice caving, layered clothing is essential, along with a waterproof jacket and pants. Hiking boots with a good grip are important for walking on ice or lava rock. Guided cave tours usually provide helmets and crampons, and bringing gloves, a hat, and thermal layers is recommended.
Do you need a guide to visit caves in Iceland?
Yes, for most cases. Natural ice caves and many lava caves can only be visited on guided cave tours in Iceland for safety reasons. Some cultural and filming-location caves, such as Yoda Cave or Loftsalahellir, can be visited independently.
Are caves in Iceland safe to visit?
Caves in Iceland are safe when visited under the right conditions and with proper guidance. Ice caves change constantly and should never be entered without a certified guide. Lava caves and cultural caves are generally more stable, but weather, ice, and uneven terrain can still pose risks.
Are there caves near Reykjavik?
Yes. Several caves are located close to the capital, including Raufarholshellir Lava Cave, Into the Glacier in Langjokull, Thrihnukagigur, and the Perlan Ice Cave in Reykjavik itself. These are popular options for short trips and day tours.
Explore Caves in Iceland
Caves in Iceland offer very different experiences depending on type, location, and season. Ice caves appear inside glaciers during winter, lava caves reveal ancient volcanic activity year-round, and unique cultural caves add history, film locations, and everyday life to the landscape.
Knowing which caves are seasonal, which require guided tours, and which work as simple self-drive stops makes planning easier and avoids unrealistic expectations. With the right timing, exploring caves in Iceland becomes a natural and rewarding part of traveling through the country.
Iceland offers far more than its most familiar sights, often challenging the truth behind common myths about Iceland. Seeing how cave visits fit alongside other experiences helps put them in context with the most unique activities in Iceland.
Have you visited any caves in Iceland, or is there one on this list you would most like to see? Share your experience or questions in the comments and help other travelers plan their trip.
