Caving · Mývatn
The essentials
One tour, one clear choice: Geo Travel's guided ice caving excursion into the Lofthellir lava cave, priced at 359 € for 4.5 hours inside one of Iceland's most remarkable ice formations. Rated "Sporty", this is not a stroll. You'll navigate volcanic tunnels filled with year-round ice sculptures, guided in English or Icelandic. Book directly through Geo Travel and confirm availability in advance, as Lofthellir access is strictly guided-only.
The offer
Guided Ice Caving Excursion in the Lofthellir Ice Cave from Mývatn
Frequently asked questions
How intense is the experience inside Lofthellir?
Lofthellir is rated Sporty, meaning you'll crouch, climb and maneuver through tight lava tube passages. The physical demand is real. The cave's ice formations are permanent, built up over thousands of years, which adds a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere to the effort.
What is the most striking moment of the tour?
Entering the ice chamber deep inside the lava tube. The transition from dark volcanic rock to towering ice stalagmites is abrupt and visually striking. There's no artificial lighting effect here, just headlamps and raw geological formations.
Do I need prior caving experience?
No prior caving experience is required, but the Sporty physical level means you should be comfortable moving on uneven ground, bending low and staying steady on icy surfaces for the duration of the 4.5-hour excursion.
Is Lofthellir accessible year-round?
Access to Lofthellir is strictly guided and requires a 4x4 vehicle to reach the site. Check directly with Geo Travel for seasonal availability, as conditions around Lake Mývatn can affect road access.
Best time to go
| Month | Temperature | Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -4.8°C | 81.1 mm | Possible |
| February | -4°C | 58.7 mm | Possible |
| March | -3.7°C | 75.4 mm | Possible |
| April | -0.5°C | 62.1 mm | Possible |
| May | 3.3°C | 44.8 mm | Possible |
| June | 8.6°C | 74.3 mm | Possible |
| July | 11.9°C | 71.9 mm | Good |
| August | 10°C | 103.3 mm | Possible |
| September | 7.1°C | 106.1 mm | Possible |
| October | 1.2°C | 113.9 mm | Poor |
| November | -3.3°C | 94.3 mm | Possible |
| December | -3.7°C | 66.3 mm | Possible |
Practical info
Equipment
Wear thermal base layers and waterproof outer clothing: the cave maintains sub-zero temperatures regardless of the season outside. Given the Sporty level and 4.5-hour duration, sturdy ankle-support boots with grip are essential on icy, uneven lava surfaces.
Getting there
Meet Geo Travel at the parking lot of the Mývatn Berjaya Iceland Hotels, Reynihlid, 660, Mývatn, accessible by car from Akureyri airport roughly 100 km to the west via Route 1.
See also
Caving elsewhere
Other activities in Mývatn
Updated March 2026