Lofthellir Ice Cave Super Jeep tour

Explore a Rare Permafrost Ice Cave Inside the Largest Lava Tube in North Iceland

The Lofthellir Ice Cave Super Jeep tour offers an extraordinary opportunity to visit one of Iceland’s most unique natural wonders. For $387 per person, this 4-hour adventure takes you deep into the volcanic landscapes near Mývatn, where you’ll explore a permafrost ice cave nestled inside a massive lava tube. With a small group limit of just 10 participants, this tour promises an intimate, educational experience led by knowledgeable guides.

This tour stands out because the Lofthellir cave is closed to the public most of the year to protect its delicate environment. Only one group is allowed inside each day, making your visit a rare and special event. While the journey involves some physical activity and crawling, the views of icy formations and the surrounding volcanic wilderness make it a truly remarkable trip.

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Key Points

• Limited access ensures a private, carefully protected experience inside the Lofthellir Ice Cave.
• Guided by local experts, the tour emphasizes education and preservation of this rare natural phenomenon.
• The scenic super jeep drive takes you through the lava fields toward the cave, with stops for views along the way.
• Participants receive all necessary equipment, including studded boots, helmets, and headlamps.
• The tour lasts about 4 hours, with approximately 1-1.5 hours inside the cave exploring its icy interior.
• Not suitable for those with mobility issues, back problems, or claustrophobia due to the crawling involved.

The Lofthellir Ice Cave: A Window into Iceland’s Volcanic Permafrost

The Lofthellir Ice Cave is unlike any other ice cave in Iceland. It exists inside a lava tube, forming a permafrost environment that remains frozen due to a delicate airflow balance. Inside, visitors encounter ice floors that are between 2,000 and 3,000 years old, with some formations possibly dating back up to 500 years.

Because of its fragile state, the cave is not open to the public without restrictions. The tour’s organizers, Geo Travel, along with landowners, manage access carefully to ensure the cave’s protection for future generations. This responsible approach allows visitors to experience this rare phenomenon while supporting ongoing research and conservation efforts.

Accessing the Lofthellir Ice Cave From Mývatn

Starting from the Berjaya Iceland Hotels in Mývatn, the tour begins with a scenic super jeep drive into the volcanic wilderness. The 45-50 minute ride winds through the lava fields of Búrfellshraun, passing notable landmarks like Mt. Hverfjall. Along the way, short stops allow for photos and to admire the landscape.

Once the vehicle reaches the end of the accessible road, the group embarks on an 800-meter walk across lava terrain to reach the cave entrance. The journey is manageable but involves some walking over uneven ground, and everyone is provided with spiked rubber boots and a helmet with a headlamp for safe exploration.

Inside the Cave: An Underground World of Ice and Darkness

Once inside the Lofthellir cave, the guides lead the group through a guided tour with no preset lighting, allowing each participant to experience the natural darkness and ice formations firsthand. The tour emphasizes exploration and education, with the goal of fostering a deeper understanding of the cave’s ecology and geology.

Exploring the cave involves crawling through a short 1-meter entrance, so flexibility and comfort with confined spaces are necessary. Sitting on wet ice and bending down are part of the experience, so waterproof or resistant clothing is highly recommended. The guides are attentive to safety, and the limited time inside helps preserve the cave’s fragile environment.

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The Scenic Drive and Stops En Route to Lofthellir

The scenic route to Lofthellir features views of Mývatn’s volcanic landscape, with the lava fields of Búrfellshraun providing a striking backdrop. The drive includes stops at Ludentshaedhir, where participants can stretch their legs and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding area.

The total drive time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, with the tour schedule allowing for a total of about 4 hours from start to finish. The combination of wilderness scenery and adventure activity creates a balanced experience for nature lovers and explorers alike.

Equipment, Safety, and Physical Demands

All necessary equipment is included, such as studded boots, helmets, and headlamps. Participants should wear outdoor clothing suitable for Iceland’s variable weather, with waterproof or resistant pants strongly recommended due to the wet ice environment.

The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, back problems, or claustrophobia. The physical activity involves bending, crawling, and sitting on ice, requiring a reasonable level of mobility and comfort with confined spaces.

Responsible Tourism and Preservation Efforts

A key aspect of this tour is its focus on cave conservation. Since the Lofthellir Ice Cave is protected and closed to the public most of the year, access is strictly limited to one group per day. A portion of each ticket goes toward supporting research and preservation initiatives, helping ensure that future generations can also experience this natural wonder.

The Geo Travel team works closely with landowners to maintain the cave’s delicate environment and prevent damage caused by foot traffic. This responsible approach makes the tour appealing to those who want to explore authentic Icelandic geology without compromising its integrity.

Practical Details: Meeting Points, Booking, and Conditions

The meeting point is in front of the Berjaya Iceland Hotels in Mývatn, with parking available. The tour starts with a briefing and is led by a live English-speaking guide. It is recommended to reserve in advance and cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled time.

The tour duration is about 4 hours, with starting times available based on availability. The small group size—limited to 10 participants—ensures personalized attention and a less crowded experience.

Final Thoughts: A Unique, Responsible Cave Adventure

The Lofthellir Ice Cave Super Jeep tour offers a rare chance to explore a permafrost ice cave inside North Iceland’s largest lava tube. With its educational focus, scenic drive, and small-group setting, it appeals to adventure seekers and geology enthusiasts alike.

While the tour involves some physical activity and crawling, the guided exploration and limited access make it an exceptional experience for those interested in Iceland’s volcanic landscapes and natural history. The responsible management ensures that this fragile environment remains protected for future visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Lofthellir Ice Cave accessible for everyone?
No, the cave involves some crawling and bending, so it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, back problems, or claustrophobia.

What equipment do I need to bring?
Participants are provided with boots, helmets, and headlamps. It’s recommended to wear outdoor clothing, including waterproof or resistant pants.

How long is the drive to the cave?
The scenic super jeep drive lasts about 45-50 minutes from Mývatn, passing through the lava fields before an 800-meter walk to the cave entrance.

How much time do I spend inside the cave?
The exploration lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, with limited time to help preserve the cave’s delicate environment.

What makes this tour special?
The limited access and small group size ensure an intimate experience, while the unique environment inside the permafrost lava tube offers a glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic and icy history.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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