A Thrilling Lofthellir Ice Cave Day Tour in North Iceland

If you're making your way up north, there's a natural wonder that you shouldn't miss during your road trip around Iceland. When staying in the Mývatn area, the Lofthellir Ice Cave is a must on your Iceland itinerary. You'll find the Lofthellir cave close to Mt. Hverfjall in the Búrfell lava field. 

The cave is a hidden gem that you simply cannot miss. This extraordinary natural phenomenon is a perfect combination of fire and ice, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an adventure. In this article, we'll delve deeper into what makes the Lofthellir Ice Cave so unique and why it should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Iceland.

The Unique Allure of the Mývatn Area

Before diving into the specifics of Lofthellir, let's take a moment to appreciate the Mývatn area itself. Lake Mývatn, which translates to 'Midge Lake,' is famous for its rich birdlife, unique volcanic features, and geothermal activity. The region is a paradise for nature lovers, offering everything from soothing hot springs to striking volcanic craters.

Inside the Lofthellir Lava Cave

People often refer to this astonishing natural wonder as both the Lofthellir lava cave and an ice cave, which may seem contradictory at first. Allow me to clarify: technically, it is a lava cave formed by volcanic activity and cooling lava after an eruption. However, it holds a remarkable surprise within, awaiting its visitors.

The Geology of Lofthellir 

Lofthellir Ice Cave is a geological marvel formed over 3,500 years ago by a unique interplay of volcanic and glacial processes. A volcanic eruption created a lava tube as the molten rock flowed and cooled. Over millennia, groundwater seeped into the cave, freezing to form the stunning ice sculptures that adorn the walls and ceiling we see today.

One of the coolest things about this cave is that even though it's a lava cave, it has a large collection of incredible ice sculptures inside. These semi-opaque, icy pillars rising from the floor of the cave can be taller than the people on the tour!

The constant near-freezing temperatures inside the lava tube, combined with the play of light on the ice, create a surreal and otherworldly environment. The temperature inside the cave is around 0 ºC (32 ºF). Brrrr!

Marveling at Its Underground World of Ice Wonders

The ice sculptures are constantly changing due to the cave's microclimate. Some of the most impressive formations include ice stalagmites and stalactites, which are illuminated by the guide's headlamp, creating a magical atmosphere. Each visit to the cave can reveal new and evolving formations.

How to Get to Lofthellir Ice Cave

Most tour operators give the option of departing from either Akureyri or Mývatn, as both are convenient for reaching the cave. Akureyri, known as the Capital of North Iceland, is a charming town that offers a range of activities and amenities.

Mývatn, on the other hand, provides a more serene, nature-centric experience. If you're driving from Akureyri, the journey to Mývatn takes about an hour. The route is scenic, offering breathtaking views of Iceland's rugged landscapes.

Ensure your vehicle is well-equipped for Icelandic roads, which can be challenging, especially in winter. Renting a 4x4 campervan is advisable for added safety and convenience. Not to mention, it adds an adventurous element to your trip!

The Journey Across the Lava Field

After parking your campervan rental, you'll need to walk across a lava field for about 20-30 minutes to get to the entrance of the cave. The walk itself is an adventure, with the stark beauty of the lava field stretching out before you. In addition to extinct volcanoes, you can see the craggy lava flows that have cooled and hardened on the ground's surface.

What to Expect on the Hike

The hike is relatively easy but can be challenging for those not used to uneven terrain. Good hiking boots are essential to navigate the rocky ground. The surreal landscape, with its twisted lava formations and patches of hardy vegetation, makes for excellent photo opportunities.

Entering the Cave: An Exciting Descent

Once you arrive, it's less of an entrance and more of an opening. Basically, it's just a gigantic hole in the ground. There's a ladder that you have to climb down to get into the cave. Before heading into the ominous cavern, you'll receive a helmet with a headlamp, as it is quite dark there. Exploring this particular cave can be quite slippery due to the icy floor, so you will also receive studded boots or spiked wellies.

Safety Briefing and Preparation

Your guide will provide a safety briefing before the descent. It's important to pay attention and follow all instructions carefully. The cave can be slippery, and the temperature drops significantly once inside. Wearing layers and having waterproof gear is crucial.

A Guided Lofthellir Ice Cave Tour

A guided tour is the way to go for this particular expedition. Exploring Lofthellir Ice Cave on your own isn't really an option. Not only is it dangerous, but there are many interesting points of information that you'll miss if you don't take a tour with a certified guide.

Expertise and Insights

Guides are knowledgeable about the cave's history, geology, and the best spots to see the ice sculptures. They also ensure safety by guiding you through the more treacherous parts of the cave and providing the necessary equipment.

Why You Need a Guide

They know these caves inside and out and are here to show you the best of what Iceland has to offer. You'll explore the 370-meter (1,214-foot) long cave while engulfed in moisture, darkness, and glacial temperatures.

Learning from the Experts

The guides often share fascinating stories and facts about the cave, such as how the ice formations change with the seasons and the unique flora and fauna that can survive in such harsh conditions. This educational aspect adds depth to the adventure.

Lofthellir Ice Cave Tour

Crawling Through the Cave: An Adventurous Exploration

As you make your way deeper into the Lofthellir Ice Cave, be prepared for some sections that require you to crawl through narrow passages. This is not just a walk through a spacious cavern; parts of the tour involve squeezing through tight spaces and crawling on all fours over icy and rocky surfaces. This aspect of the tour adds an extra layer of adventure and excitement.

What to Expect When Crawling

The narrow passages can be quite challenging, but they are also thrilling. The cave's low ceilings and tight spaces mean you'll be up close and personal with the incredible ice formations and lava structures. It's essential to follow the guide's instructions and take your time to navigate these areas safely.

What to Wear for Your Lofthellir Ice Cave Tour

Additionally, there is a lot of ice and water, so you'll not only need to dress for warmth but also for moisture. Be sure to have the right waterproof clothing (both pants and shirts) as well as appropriate footwear. Having your toes freeze because they're cold and wet is a really terrible feeling, and I'm sure you want no part of it.

Essential Gear Checklist

• Waterproof jacket and pants: To keep dry in the wet cave environment.

• Insulating layers: These include thermal shirts and fleece jackets to stay warm.

• Sturdy hiking boots: Preferably waterproof and with good grip.

• Gloves and a hat: To protect extremities from the cold.

• Headlamp: Provided by the tour, but you might want to bring your own for extra light.

Is a Lofthellir Ice Cave Tour Suitable for Young Children?

If you look at a tour description from one of the many tour companies running cave tours, you'll see that it's unsuitable for young children. If you're thinking of making this a family excursion, just keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for children under 8 years of age. The outing lasts around four to five hours, and young children might not have the stamina to make it the whole way without getting tired or cranky.

Family-Friendly Alternatives

For families with younger children, there are other nearby attractions to enjoy. Here are some family-friendly options:

• Goðafoss Waterfall: A stunning waterfall that is easily accessible and great for families to visit and explore.

• Hverir Geothermal Area: An otherworldly landscape of bubbling mud pools and steam vents that families can safely enjoy.

• Lake Myvatn Panoramic Point: Offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape, perfect for taking in the natural beauty.

• Mývatn Nature Baths: A family-friendly alternative to the Blue Lagoon, these geothermal pools offer a relaxing and scenic experience.

• Dimmuborgir Lava Fields: Known as the 'dark castles,' this area offers hiking trails and scenic views.

Considerations for Physical Condition

Definitely bring a power snack like apples, bananas, nuts, or trail mix to keep everyone powered up. In fact, there are some other factors, like physical condition, that you should take into account when deciding whether or not to do the Lofthellir ice cave tour.

Young children, people with claustrophobia, or people who cannot handle strenuous activity are advised to refrain from this particular type of excursion. You'll exert yourself physically, and it might be hard to keep up.

It's classified as a medium-difficulty activity, so keep that in mind when planning. Looking at a Lofthellir ice cave map, you'll see that the cave is long and narrow. This is why they advise people not to go if they might start to panic in a small space.

When to Visit Lofthellir Ice Cave

Due to weather conditions and accessibility, Lofthellir ice cave tours usually run from May to October. This is the best time to visit, as the conditions inside the cave are stable, and the paths leading to the cave are clear of snow and ice. However, even during these months, it's important to check the weather forecast and be prepared for the unpredictable Icelandic weather.

Seasonal Variations

The cave's appearance can change with the seasons. In the spring, melting snow can create new ice formations, while autumn might reveal more of the lava structures. Each season offers a unique perspective on the cave's beauty.

Personal Experience: A Day in Lofthellir

As someone who had the opportunity to explore the Lofthellir Ice Cave, I can tell you it's an experience unlike any other. The combination of lava formations and natural ice sculptures creates an otherworldly atmosphere that feels like stepping into a scene from a fantasy novel. The guide's stories about the cave's formation and its unique features added depth to the adventure, making it not just a visual treat but also an educational journey.

Memorable Moments

One of the most memorable moments was seeing the light from our headlamps refract through the ice, casting ethereal glows and shadows on the cave walls. It's moments like these that make the effort and preparation worthwhile.

Tips for a Successful Lofthellir Ice Cave Tour

Now that you're convinced to add the Lofthellir Ice Cave to your Iceland bucket list, here are some tips for a successful tour:

Plan Ahead

• Book Early: Tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.

• Check Weather: Icelandic weather is unpredictable; dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes.

• Physical Preparation: Ensure you're in reasonable physical condition for the hike and cave exploration.

Packing Essentials

• Snacks and Water: Keep your energy levels up during the tour.

• Camera: Capture the stunning ice formations.

• Extra Clothes: In case you get wet or need additional layers.

A Thrilling Lofthellir Ice Cave Day Tour in North Iceland

The Lofthellir Ice Cave in Iceland is a must-see destination that deserves a top spot on your road trip bucket list. Imagine exploring a lava cave adorned with mesmerizing ice stalagmites—it's a truly rare and captivating experience that you won't find anywhere else in the world.

This extraordinary natural wonder combines the raw power of volcanic activity with the delicate beauty of ice sculptures, creating a surreal, otherworldly environment. Don't miss the chance to witness this unique marvel. Book your 4x4 campervan rental for a day tour, and prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure that blends the thrill of exploration with the awe of nature's artistry!