Lofthellir Ice Cave Super Jeep tour

Exploring Iceland’s Hidden Ice Jewel: The Lofthellir Ice Cave Super Jeep Tour

If you’re visiting North Iceland and craving an adventure that combines rugged terrain, untouched natural beauty, and a rare underground world, the Lofthellir Ice Cave Super Jeep tour offers just that. This isn’t your typical sightseeing trip; it’s a journey into one of Iceland’s most intriguing natural phenomena—an ancient lava tube housing a permafrost ice cave. It’s limited to just one group per day, which means you’re almost guaranteed a quiet, intimate experience with plenty of opportunities to marvel at the raw power of nature.

Two things I particularly appreciate about this tour: first, the expert guidance that seems to make the complex geology accessible and fun, and second, the spectacular views during the scenic drive through lava fields, Mt. Hverfjall, and the wilderness near Lake Mývatn. The ride itself feels quite adventurous thanks to the modified Super jeeps that tackle Iceland’s rugged landscape with ease.

One potential drawback is the physical aspect required—there’s some crawling, bending, and sitting on wet ice involved. If mobility is a concern, this tour might not be suitable. Still, for those ready for a bit of a physical adventure, it offers an authentic, hands-on experience you won’t find in many other tours.

Key points / Takeaways

• Limited Access: Only one group per day gets to explore Lofthellir, which helps protect this delicate environment.
• Unique Setting: A rare permafrost ice-cave inside a lava tube, with ice formations up to 500 years old.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides, like the praised “Geo Travel team,” lead the way with safety and education at the forefront.
• Scenic Drive: The journey includes a 45-50 minute Super jeep ride through Búrfellshraun lava fields with stops for photos.
• Preparation Matters: Waterproof pants and suitable outdoor gear are recommended, plus a short crawl through the cave entrance.
• Environmental Responsibility: Part of your ticket goes toward protecting the cave, so your visit helps preserve this rare natural wonder.

An In-Depth Look at the Lofthellir Ice Cave Super Jeep Tour

The Unique Appeal of Lofthellir: Why It Stands Out

Lofthellir isn’t just any ice cave. It’s a permafrost ice cave inside the largest lava tube in North Iceland, which is an extraordinary geological feature. What makes it so special is its delicate climate, maintained by a natural airflow that keeps the ice frozen year-round. Inside, you’re walking on ice that’s been stable for hundreds of years, with formations both large and small—some up to 500 years old, according to what you’ll learn during the tour.

This isn’t accessible to the public at all times; instead, a responsible team manages limited visits daily. This reduces the impact on the fragile environment, ensuring that future generations can enjoy its icy splendor. As one reviewer noted, “The tour starts with a very scenic super jeep drive, passing Mt. Hverfjall and into the lava fields.” This scenic journey sets the perfect tone for the adventure ahead.

The Scenic Drive into the Wilderness

The tour begins in Mývatn at the Berjaya Hotel, where you’ll meet your guide—likely a local with intimate knowledge of the area. From there, a 45-50 minute ride in a modified Super jeep takes you across volcanic landscapes, past Mt. Hverfjall, and into the remote Búrfellshraun lava fields. The drive often includes stops for photos and to admire the stark, rugged scenery, which alone is worth the price for many travelers.

This part of the experience highlights Iceland’s wild side—black lava, expansive skies, and a sense of being far from the crowds. It also underscores the importance of using specialized vehicles; regular cars wouldn’t make it this far into the wilderness. The team’s careful driving and stops create a relaxed, informative atmosphere, perfect for photography or just soaking in the landscape.

The Short Hike and the Cave Entrance

Once the road ends, it’s about an 800-meter walk through volcanic terrain to reach the cave. It’s easy enough for most, but be prepared for some uneven ground. Inside the gear provided—studded rubber boots, helmets, and headlamps—you’ll feel like a true explorer.

The entrance is quite tight—just a short crawl of about a meter to get inside. Those with claustrophobia might find this challenging, but if you’re comfortable in confined spaces, you’ll find the experience rewarding. As one reviewer shared, “Entering the cave involves crawling a short distance, but if you’re not claustrophobic, you’ll be fine.”

Inside Lofthellir: Ice and Darkness

Once inside, the environment is breathtaking. The floor is covered in 2000-3000-year-old ice, with formations big enough to awe even seasoned travelers. The natural light is absent—this is a genuine underground world where your headlamp becomes your only source of illumination. The tour’s goal is for each group to experience exploration firsthand, making each visit unique.

You’ll be walking on wet ice, sitting on cold surfaces, and crawling through narrow passages. This hands-on approach is what makes this tour so memorable. It’s not a “walk and look” experience; it’s about touching the ice, feeling the darkness, and truly connecting with a piece of Earth’s untouched history.

The Environment and Conservation

Protecting this delicate environment isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a core part of the tour. Only one group visits per day, and a portion of your ticket supports ongoing research and preservation efforts. This makes the experience a bit more meaningful: you’re not just a tourist, but a participant in conservation. The guides emphasize this aspect, ensuring visitors understand the importance of respecting the environment.

Duration and Group Size

The entire tour lasts around 4 hours, with about 1 to 1.5 hours inside the cave. This limited inside time helps maintain the cave’s delicate climate, and the small group size—capped at ten participants—ensures everyone gets personal attention. Several reviews praise the guides, with one noting, “Betsy loved the small group and the excellent guidance provided by the team.”

Who Would Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind some physical activity—crawling, bending, and sitting on wet ice are part of the package. It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues, back problems, or claustrophobia. The price is relatively high at $387 per person, but considering the rarity of the experience, the guided nature, and the environmental protection efforts, it offers good value for those seeking a unique Icelandic adventure.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

The Lofthellir Ice Cave Super Jeep tour offers a rare glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic underworld, combining scenic driving, physical exploration, and environmental consciousness. The guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm truly enhance the experience, transforming what could be just a “look at ice” trip into an educational journey.

The overall ambiance—dark, cold, awe-inspiring—makes this a genuinely memorable highlight of any North Iceland itinerary. It’s perfect for explorers who want to see something few others will experience, and who are eager to contribute to the preservation of Iceland’s natural wonders.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for an active, hands-on adventure that takes you off the beaten path, this tour is a perfect fit. It appeals especially to those who enjoy geology, photography, or simply want a rare experience in a pristine environment. The limited group size and expert guidance ensure you’re safe and well-informed throughout.

However, if mobility is limited or you’re uncomfortable with confined spaces or cold, this might not be the best choice. The physical demands and small, sometimes tight spaces mean it’s best suited for reasonably fit, adventurous travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is designed for adults and older teenagers who are comfortable crawling and sitting on ice. It’s not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear? Bring outdoor clothing suitable for cold conditions, and wear waterproof pants since you’ll be walking on wet ice. The tour provides boots, helmets, and headlamps.

How physically demanding is it? Some crawling, bending, and sitting on wet ice are involved. It’s not hard physically, but it does require a degree of comfort with confined spaces and uneven terrain.

Is the tour appropriate for people with claustrophobia? The entrance involves a short crawl of about a meter. If you’re not claustrophobic in elevators, you should be okay. If you are, this might not be the best option.

How long does the entire tour last? About 4 hours, including driving, walking, and inside the cave exploration.

What’s included in the price? Entrance to Lofthellir, equipment like boots, helmets, and headlamps, and the guide’s commentary.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

In Summary

The Lofthellir Ice Cave Super Jeep tour is a rare chance to step into a natural ice sculpture frozen in time within North Iceland’s volcanic landscape. It’s a well-organized, environmentally responsible adventure that offers both scenic beauty and a touch of exploration. It’s best suited for active, curious travelers who want to go beyond the ordinary and experience Iceland’s underground icy secrets. With knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, it promises a memorable chapter in your Iceland journey.

If you’re eager to add a slice of the Arctic’s coolest underground to your trip, this tour is a fantastic choice—just come prepared for some physical activity and a good dose of adventure.