Vik , Iceland

3 Hours Katla Ice Cave Tour/Meet in Vík

Active

(16 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

It’s time to jump in a super jeep, strap on your crampons and step onto the mighty Myrdalsjokull glacier.

Mother Nature has really outdone herself with this one, the movie-like surroundings and glaciers are everywhere you look. Grandiose ice walls tower over you as you walk among them to enter the magical blue and black ice dome of the outlet glacier named after the powerful volcano Katla. Prepare to have your breath taken away!

We will come to a stop near the roots of Kötlujökull glacier and the view that greets us is otherworldly. We will take on our crampons and helmets, and take a short walk to the opening of the ice cave. We might need to climb a few steps on ladders to the entrance of the cave. As the natural ice cave is in constant change, conditions can be different on each tour. The climb is, however, not difficult at all, and anyone in an average physical condition should be able to climb these steps. It might look adventurous but it is not demanding at all!

Available options

3 Hours Katla Ice Cave Tour/Meet in Vík

What's included

Helmets and crampons

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Mýrdalsjökull glacier is one of the best-known in Iceland- from which the alluring Kötlujökull glacier originates. Kötlujökull is named after the robust Icelandic Volcano Katla, which is covered by the glacier. As the enormous mass of ice has been slowly crawling down from the volcano mountain, it creates some of Iceland’s most impressive natural ice caves. On this exhilarating Super Jeep tour, you will get to explore the wonders of this stunning natural phenomenon. You will see why as soon as you step in!

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 3.6

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please wait outside of the Ice Cave Bistro (in Vík), at the left corner of the building, parking lot facing the ocean.

About Vik

Vik is a charming coastal village in South Iceland, known for its stunning black sand beaches, dramatic basalt columns, and picturesque landscapes. It's a gateway to some of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders, including Reynisfjara Beach and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

Top Attractions

Reynisfjara Beach

One of Iceland's most famous black sand beaches, known for its basalt columns, powerful waves, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Reynisfjall Mountain

A striking mountain with dramatic cliffs and views over Reynisfjara Beach and the surrounding area.

Nature 1-3 hours depending on hike length Free

Dyrhólaey Arch

A dramatic rock arch formation with panoramic views of the coast and Reynisfjara Beach.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Vík í Mýrdal Church

A historic wooden church with a rich history and beautiful views over the village and coast.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations appreciated)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lamb Soup

A hearty soup made with Icelandic lamb, root vegetables, and herbs.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, gluten (from bread served with it)

Fish and Chips

Freshly caught fish, typically cod or haddock, battered and fried, served with chips (fries).

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (from batter and chips)

Skyr

A thick, protein-rich Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or fruit.

Breakfast/Snack Dairy product, can be sweetened or plain

Popular Activities

Hiking Ice caving Photography Beach walks Coffee breaks with a view Stargazing Visiting local churches and museums Exploring Icelandic crafts and history

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities, with long daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, it's also the busiest time of year.

8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F) 46°F to 59°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish
English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Icelandic Krona (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (Western European Time)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vik is generally safe, but visitors should be cautious of natural hazards like powerful waves and unpredictable weather.

Important Precautions:

• Stay away from the water's edge at Reynisfjara Beach due to powerful waves
• Be cautious of weather changes and dress appropriately
• Follow safety guidelines for all activities, especially hiking and ice caving

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 130 km (80 miles) northeast of Vik

By bus

Reykjavík Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available but infrequent. Check schedules in advance.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None widely available, call local taxi services

Rentals

Car

Neighborhoods

Vik Village Center

Day trips

Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi Waterfalls

30 km (18 miles) northeast of Vik • Half day

Two stunning waterfalls where you can walk behind the cascading water. Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland's most famous waterfalls, while Gljúfrabúi is a hidden gem tucked into a canyon.

Katla Ice Cave

60 km (37 miles) northeast of Vik • Full day

A breathtaking ice cave formed within the Katla volcano. Guided tours are required to enter the cave.

Thakgil (Þakgil)

40 km (25 miles) northeast of Vik • Half day to full day

A stunning glacial valley with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a popular spot for camping and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Vík í Mýrdal Music Festival • Late June to early July

Pro tips

Visit Reynisfjara Beach at different times of day for varying light and wave conditions
Dress in layers and be prepared for rapid weather changes, especially near the coast
Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
Try local Icelandic cuisine, including lamb soup and fresh seafood
Be cautious of the powerful waves at Reynisfjara Beach and stay away from the water's edge