Blue Ice Cave Tour from Reykjavík | Iceland 2025 Travel Guide
It is entering a natural blue ice cave.
And in fact you can begin your trip in Reykjavik and come right back the same day which also takes out of the equation the stress of winter road travel in Iceland by yourself.
This is for you first time travelers, curious explorers, or any person that has wondered what it is like to step into a glacier. What to expect, how to prepare, and why 2025 is the perfect year to go, here’s what you need to know about going on a Blue Ice Cave Tour from Reykjavik.
What Makes Iceland’s Ice Caves Special?
Unlike most other countries Iceland is home to ice caves which are natural and not permanent. Each winter as glacial meltwater carves out tunnels into the base of glaciers these formations then refreeze and create walls of very old ice in beautiful shades of blue.
No two caves are unique, and they fade away in the spring.
Each visit feels out of the ordinary, brief, and powerful.
Some people report that the caves are like light cathedrals, with blue colors very hard to believe.
What to Know About Visiting Ice Caves
Season: Late October to March
December to February → best color display
November & March → smaller crowds and flexibility
If in 2025 you are going to Iceland for your trip, you are at the ideal time for what is a once in a lifetime experience.
Where Are the Ice Caves? (Access from Reykjavik)
Most blue ice caves are found near:
Vatnajökull Glacier
Kötlujökull (part of Mýrdalsjökull Glacier)
Distance: 3–5 hours from Reykjavík depending on location.
Tour Operators Provide:
Super Jeep transport to the glacier
Certified glacier guides
Safety equipment (helmets, crampons)
Glacier navigation expertise
For travelers who prefer not to drive and don’t want to plan every detail, this is the way to see Iceland’s winter wilderness at its purest.
What is a Typical Day Like on an Ice Cave Tour?
The Journey
From your accommodation or a central point, pick-up in Reykjavik. Drive along the South Coast, passing volcanoes, waterfalls, lava fields, and coastal cliffs.
The Glacier
Depending on the cave: a short hike across the glacier or a 4x4/Super Jeep ride. Gear up and listen to a safety briefing.
Inside the Cave
Immediate drop in temperature. Tranquil amazement.
Some caves small and narrow
Others huge blue chambers
Plenty of time for pictures and still moments
Is It Safe?
No two caves are unique, and they fade away in the spring.
Each visit feels out of the ordinary, brief, and powerful.
Some people report that the caves are like light cathedrals, with blue colors very hard to believe.
Season: Late October to March
December to February → best color display
November & March → smaller crowds and flexibility
Vatnajökull Glacier
Kötlujökull (part of Mýrdalsjökull Glacier)
Super Jeep transport to the glacier
Certified glacier guides
Safety equipment (helmets, crampons)
Glacier navigation expertise
The Journey
From your accommodation or a central point, pick-up in Reykjavik. Drive along the South Coast, passing volcanoes, waterfalls, lava fields, and coastal cliffs.
The Glacier
Depending on the cave: a short hike across the glacier or a 4x4/Super Jeep ride. Gear up and listen to a safety briefing.
Inside the Cave
Immediate drop in temperature. Tranquil amazement.
Some caves small and narrow
Others huge blue chambers
Plenty of time for pictures and still moments
Yes — when with a certified guide. Glaciers are in motion and unsafe to explore alone.
Licensed Operators’ Safety Measures:
Daily inspections of cave stability
Helmets and crampons provided
Experienced guides trained in glacier safety
Tours rerouted or cancelled if unsafe (refund/reschedule provided)
What Should You Wear?
Winter in Iceland can be cold (at times below freezing).
Recommended Clothing:
Warm base layers (avoid cotton)
Waterproof pants and jacket
Insulated gloves and hat
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
Thick wool socks
Compact backpack for snacks, water, and layers
Tour operators usually provide crampons and helmets (check inclusions)
Group Tours
More affordable ($150–$200 USD)
Meet fellow travelers
Fixed itinerary and timing
Great for solo travelers and couples on a budget
Private Tours
Custom pacing and route
Ideal for families, photographers, or couples
Higher price, but more flexibility
Better photo opportunities (less waiting)
Who Is This Experience For?
A Blue Ice Cave experience is right for you if:
You dream of a classic Icelandic winter scene
You’re fine with early mornings and long days
You like adventure but in a safe, structured way
You can tread easily on rough ice
It is easy-going, but not very easy. Most fit travelers may join.
Final Thoughts
On your trip to Iceland there is a story which you will tell time and again — the day you went into a glacier.
Photos fail to convey it. Words don’t do it justice. But the experience? Being in a place shaped over centuries, glowing from within, frozen yet alive?
That’s the sort of memory Iceland is known to make — and a Blue Ice Cave Tour out of Reykjavik is one of the few ways to live it.