What to Wear for Ice Caving in Iceland

What to Wear for Ice Caving in Iceland

It's incredibly important to have proper clothing when embarking on glacier hikes or ice-caving tours. The key is to layer your clothing! You don't want to rely on one piece of outerwear to keep you warm, as you won't be able to remove or add clothing as easily when your temperature and comfort level inevitably start fluctuating.

You'll want to start with a soft base layer and insulated trousers, as they will help regulate body heat and keep you warm! Look for items such as a soft merino wool shirt (Básar) and matching pants (Básar pants), as your choice of material can matter greatly. Thick woolen or thermal socks are also a must, as you don't want to let freezing cold toes ruin your experience.

Then you'll want to add mid layers. A quality fleece shirt (Hrannar) or light sweater is perfect for this, and you'll want to add shell pants (Keilir) that are fully wind and waterproof. If you're hiking during the height of winter, you'll also want to add another insulating layer, like a fleece vest (Tindur).

On top, you'll need a good shell layer. This locks in the heat while protecting you from the elements and protects you from water dripping from the ice cave ceiling! It's essential that your jacket of choice is fully wind and waterproof, such as a good down GORE-TEX jacket (Tindur). To complete the outfit, add a warm beanie or hat that covers your ears well and warm, water-resistant gloves (Langjökull).

For your feet, you must have good hiking boots with a sturdy, stiff sole. On top, you'll need to add sturdy crampons or spikes, which the tour operator can sometimes provide! We do recommend investing in some or renting crampons on Iceland's largest travel marketplace, as they'll also be very useful when exploring the rest of Iceland during winter.

• Check out: History of 66°North: Keeping Icelanders Warm for a Century
• See also: Iceland's Weather, Climate, and Temperature Year-Round

Special Equipment for Ice Caving in Iceland

Photo from Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Visiting ice caves in Iceland is an adventure that requires specific equipment beyond clothing to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. You can generally expect that your chosen tour operator will provide most, if not all, of it, but it's good to keep in mind!

Firstly, a sturdy helmet is essential for protection against potential falling ice or low-hanging cave ceilings. It's a basic safety measure that can't be overlooked and is generally provided by your tour operator.

Additionally, carrying a headlamp or a flashlight is crucial as the caves can be dark, and having your own light source will help you see the path ahead and fully appreciate the cave's features. It can also be very helpful when navigating the winter darkness.

Next, unsurprisingly, ice caves are slippery, as they're quite literally just a bunch of ice. This makes crampons or ice cleats a necessity. If you don't want to invest in heavy-duty ones for your trip, make sure that they are provided by your chosen tour. These attachments to your boots will provide the necessary grip, helping you navigate the icy terrain confidently.

Lastly, don't forget a waterproof bag to keep your camera and other personal items dry. You'll likely want to capture the beauty of these ice caves, so protecting your equipment from damp conditions is important!

• Check out: What to Wear in Iceland: The Ultimate Guide to All Seasons

Best Time to Visit Ice Caves in Iceland

Visiting ice caves in Iceland is a unique experience, and timing your visit right is key to making the most of it. The majority of ice caves are only accessible during the winter months, so between November and March. This is because temperatures are consistently low enough to ensure the caves are stable and safe to enter, as the ice is less likely to melt, maintaining the structural integrity of the caves!

This makes winter the best time to visit ice caves in Iceland. During the colder months, the caves are also at their most stunning, with the ice displaying vibrant shades of blue that create incredible patterns. Remember, winter in Iceland also means shorter days, so pay attention to the departure time when choosing your tour to maximize daylight hours and enhance your ice cave adventure.

• Learn all about Iceland's Seasonal Contrasts
• Also, discover Iceland in Winter and the Best Winter Activities in Iceland

Visiting Ice Caves in Summer in Iceland

If you're visiting Iceland in the summertime, you don't have to miss out. There's one natural ice cave that you can visit year-round, and that is Katla ice cave in the Myrdalsjokull glacier along the South Coast. During summer, you'll witness more water runoff and a dynamic change in the cave's interior as the warmer temperatures alter the ice formations. It can be a beautiful and distinct experience compared to winter, especially as you'll have an easier time exploring the rest of Iceland during your summer visit. These tours usually depart from the town of Vik.

Another option is the man-made "Into the Glacier" tunnel tour in the Langjokull glacier. It's located in West Iceland, close to the Husafell farmstead and camping area, and is available between June and October. It's also one of the most family-friendly ice-caving options, as there's no minimum age limit!

Photo from Into the Glacier Ice Tunnel Tour in Langjokull from Base Camp

You'll be able to explore extensive ice tunnels and learn all about glaciers from your knowledgeable guide. The starting point of the tour is also just under a two-hour drive from Reykjavik and easily reached with an affordable rental car, but you can also choose an Into the Glacier tour with pickup from Reykjavik if you don't want to drive!

Of course, if you don't want to fit a visit to a real ice cave into your itinerary in Iceland, you can also visit the Glacier and Ice Cave exhibition of the Perlan museum in Reykjavik. It's one of the best things to do in the city, as you'll learn interesting facts about glaciers in an award-winning interactive exhibition space, which includes a recreation of an ice cave!

Photo from Admission to the Wonders of Iceland Exhibition at Perlan Museum in Reykjavik

Perlan also has many other things to offer, as you can learn about Iceland's volcanic nature and the hidden world of the Icelandic water. There is also the stunning Aurora Northern Lights Show, where you can experience the auroras any time of year, along with an amazing observation deck with the best views of the Capital Region!

• Learn all about visiting Iceland in Summer
• See also: Best Attractions by the Ring Road of Iceland

FAQs about What to Wear for Ice Caving in Iceland

Find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about preparing for ice caving in Iceland!

Is ice-caving equipment provided for tours?

Tour operators typically provide necessary equipment, such as helmets and crampons, which are essential for safety. Make sure to confirm with your tour operator whether you need to bring any items with you.

Can I rent winter gear for ice caving in Iceland?

Yes, you can rent outdoor equipment on Iceland's largest travel marketplace! You'll find items like hiking boots, jackets, pants, and other accessories.

Do I need any special training for ice caving?

Generally speaking, no special training is required for visiting an ice cave in Iceland, but a relatively good fitness level is recommended.

What is the best ice cave in Iceland?

Determining the "best" ice cave in Iceland depends on various factors such as accessibility, time of year, and personal preferences. However, one of the most popular ice caves in Iceland is the "Blue Ice Cave," located in the Vatnajokull glacier. This cave is renowned for its stunning crystal-like formations and vibrant blue colors, creating a surreal and magical atmosphere. You can visit with this highly rated ice caving tour that starts from Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon!

Can I visit an ice cave in Iceland without a guide?

No, never attempt to go ice-caving or glacier hiking alone in Iceland. You must always go with a guide who knows the area well, as ice caves and glaciers are extremely dangerous for those who aren't fully familiar with the ever-changing nature of the ice. Guided tours prioritize your safety so you can be sure of a pleasant visit without risking your life.

When venturing into the ice caves of Iceland, prioritizing your comfort and safety is crucial. It's important to come equipped with the proper gear and to dress in warm, layered clothing for your icy exploration. This preparation not only ensures your comfort and safety but also sets the stage for the adventure of a lifetime!

Which ice cave in Iceland would you like to visit? Are there any other adventures you'd like to experience in Iceland? Have you visited Iceland before? Please share your thoughts and experience in the comments below!