Katla ice cave
Step inside a glacier that never stands still
Blue ice, black volcanic ash and the slow movement of Kötlujökull create a landscape that is constantly changing. Standing inside the cave gives you a close-up look at the forces that have shaped this part of Iceland for centuries, with the Katla volcano hidden beneath the ice.
What makes this ice cave so special?
Kötlujökull is an outlet glacier of Mýrdalsjökull, one of Iceland’s largest glaciers. Beneath the ice lies Katla, one of Iceland’s most active volcanoes. Together, ice and volcanic ash create the dark layers, textures and patterns that make this cave so distinctive.
The cave changes as the glacier moves and melts, which means what you see depends on the conditions and the season. That is part of what makes stepping inside so interesting. You are standing in a landscape that is still being shaped around you.
What should you expect?
- The journey in: You’ll travel by Super Jeep across the rugged landscape towards the base of Kötlujökull.
- Gearing up: Your guide will provide a helmet and crampons before you walk towards the cave.
- Getting inside: The walk is short, although conditions may mean climbing a few ladder steps to reach the entrance.
- Inside the cave: Expect layers of blue and black ice, volcanic ash and formations that reveal how closely Iceland’s glaciers and volcanoes are connected.
- Your guide: Along the way, your guide will explain how the glacier moves, how the cave forms and the role Katla has played in shaping the surrounding landscape.
You do not need to be an experienced hiker or climber to take part. There is a real sense of adventure to reaching the cave, but the experience is designed to be approachable for guests with average fitness.
This meet-on-location tour begins in Vík. Click here for a tour departing from Reykjavík.
This tour is operated by a trusted partner of Midgard:
We have carefully selected very few trusted partners. We have a close relationship with each one of them and years of experience of booking tours with them.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TOUR
| PRICE | Please see booking widget | ||||
| ARRIVAL | Please show up no later than 15 minutes before departure. | ||||
| DURATION | 3 hours | ||||
| MINIMUM AGE | 6 years | ||||
| WEAR | Warm outdoor clothing, some snacks, waterproof jacket and pants, head-wear, gloves, appropriate hiking boots/shoes are required | ||||
| INCLUDED |
|
MORE ON MIDGARD…
MIDGARD ADVENTURE – TOUR OPERATOR & TRAVEL AGENCY
Do you have any questions? Contact us here, send us an email to adventure@midgard.is or call us at +354 578 3370 from 09:00AM – 05:00PM all weekdays.
Did you know that Midgard Adventure is also a travel agency? We will happily arrange your entire holiday for you. Contact us.
Midgard Base Camp – Adventure ready hotel and hostel.
Midgard Restaurant – Find out why we’re rated #1 on Trip Advisor
Midgard Events – We host live concerts monthly.
Departure location – Ice Wear parking lot in Vík
