Exploring caves made entirely of ice is something that few get to experience. Iceland is one of the only countries in the world where there are accessible ice caves that can be toured by visitors. If you’re taking a trip to Iceland, the Katla Ice Cave is one that you definitely shouldn’t miss. This frozen location underneath the Katla volcano is worth a slight detour from the typical tourist tracks.
This article is a self-drive guide for all travelers looking for one-of-a-kind places and unique experiences in Iceland ice caves. We look at the best times to visit the Katla Ice Cave, all the reasons it’s a must-see and tips on car rentals, which is the best way to reach this Iceland attraction.
Katla Ice Cave: What’s special about it?
Katla Ice Cave is a natural ice cave formed by volcanic activity under the Kötlujökull glacier in Iceland. The active Katla volcano under the ice melts parts of the glacier, developing and shaping the cave through heat and glacial floods. Volcanic eruptions and geothermal activity form new chambers and alter the shape of the ice, making the cave dynamic and ever-changing.
Unlike most other ice caves, which you can reach only in winter months, Katla Cave is accessible year-round. It’s formed from both volcanic ash and ice, creating a striking black-and-white contrast inside the cave. This is also the cause of its distinguishing features, most of which result from the different textures of the two.
Where is Katla Ice Cave?
The cave is located on the south coast of Iceland, within the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier area. It is situated just next to famous landmarks like the small coastal village of Vik Iceland, Skógafoss Iceland waterfall, and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls.
Only a 2.5-hour drive from Reykjavik, it’s easily accessible by car, so the cave is a popular destination for those on a self-drive trip in Iceland. Its location and proximity to other natural attractions make it an ideal stop for travelers exploring Iceland’s Ring Road.
How to get to Katla Ice Cave?
The best means of transportation to visit Katla Ice Cave would be via rental car, as this gives you the flexibility to explore nearby attractions and is a good option for those who want a self-drive experience. This is how you can get to Katla Ice Cave:
- From Reykjavik, take Route 1 (Ring Road) and go southeast for around 180 kilometers (approximately 112 miles).
- Then, turn onto Road 221, leading towards Vik.
- Finally, connect with the guided tour meeting points in Vik that will lead you to the cave itself. Look for designated pick-up locations or tour operator offices.
Most rental cars will be able to take you to the majority of areas along the south coast, and they are a great way to see Iceland’s stunning scenery in your own time and at your own speed.
You will want to rent a 4X4 vehicle during winter months though, regardless of your itinerary in order to safely navigate the unpredictable weather conditions and icy roads. That said, only specific 4×4 Jeeps can handle some of the rougher terrain near the cave, making a guided tour essential for the final leg of the journey.
Can you go to Katla Ice Cave on your own?
While driving your rental car offers flexibility, joining a guided Katla ice cave tour is essential due to safety risks. Without experienced glacier guides, travelers could easily get lost or face dangerous weather conditions, like snowstorms or strong winds.
Additionally, the cave lies beneath an active volcano, and although Katla hasn’t erupted since 1918, the possibility of sudden geothermal activity or jökulhlaups (glacial floods) is always present.
The ice formations inside the cave are unpredictable, with the potential for sudden shifts or collapses, so hiking boots or hiking shoes alone won’t cut it. Any journey to the Katla Ice Cave requires a super jeep ride, as regular vehicles can’t handle the rugged terrain.
Professional guides are not only equipped with helmets, headlamps, and crampons, but they also have the expertise to safely navigate the unpredictable glacier conditions. With green mountains surrounding you and the adventure off the beaten path, the tour promises an unforgettable experience. For added safety and comfort, make sure you pack warm clothing to fully enjoy this incredible glacier hiking adventure.
Is Katla Ice Cave worth it?
Visiting Katla Ice Cave is one of the best things to do in Iceland. It is one of the only few natural glacier ice caves that is present year-round. No matter when you arrive in Iceland, you should devote some time to exploring it. Katla Cave is an opportunity few get to experience.
It is one of the wonders Iceland has in store for those traveling across its landscapes. It provides a surreal, out-of-this-world atmosphere inside the cave. It also enables exploration of fascinating geological features, including ancient layers of ice and deposits of volcanic ash.
Adding to that, the cave’s location underneath the active Katla volcano is another aspect of its mystery, showing the interplay between fire and ice. Guided tours will give you valuable information regarding the glacier’s ecology and the surrounding landscape.
No matter if you’re looking to explore its beauties or are a geology enthusiast, you’ll definitely enjoy it. The visit to Katla commonly joins other attractions in the region, making it a great stop for travelers across Iceland’s beautiful south coast.
Is Katla Ice Cave worth it in summer?
Katla is one of the very few ice caves in Iceland you can access all year long and still enjoy its unique features. Many other ice caves close in summer as the glacier melts. Katla remains accessible, making it an attractive destination for those visiting Iceland outside of the winter months.
Some differences compared to the ice caves accessible during winter months still exist. While you may not get the vivid blue ice seen in pictures taken in winter months, Katla offers striking layers of black volcanic ash, creating a one-of-a-kind visual experience. This makes it perfect for visitors who want to experience Iceland’s glacier caves but don’t want to wait for winter.
Iceland car rental tips
For those looking to visit the Katla Ice Cave and other notable Iceland locations, renting a car is a smart choice. Here are some Iceland car rental tips to keep in mind:
- It is a good idea to rent a 4×4 for navigating Iceland’s rougher terrain, especially if planning to visit more remote areas like ice caves and glaciers.
- Consider adding gravel protection or sand-and-ash coverage due to Iceland’s unpredictable conditions.
- Always rent from reputable companies such as Hertz Iceland to ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.
- Book your rental in advance during peak travel seasons.
- Check Iceland fuel stations along your route, as some areas may have limited fuel options.
Explore Katla Ice Cave
Katla Ice Cave might not be a household name like some other Icelandic locations, but it is still worth seeing. It is a unique combination of fire and ice, available year-round. Not only that, but it is easily accessible via Route 1, making it easy to get to and close to various other sightseeing locations.
The easiest way to visit Katla is by car, and with Hertz Iceland, you can pick a proper vehicle that is suitable for rough Icelandic terrains. It’s recommended you rent a 4WD that will provide you with a comfortable ride, but there are variety of rental car options available to suit every budget. Book your car today and experience the wonder of the Katla Ice Cave.
