Table of Contents
- 1The Wonders of the Askur Ice Cave
- 2The Dynamic Colours of the Ice Cave? Why it's not Always Blue
- 3 The Formation of Askur Ice Cave
- 4How to Explore the Ice Cave Safely
- 5Safety and Preparation
- 6The Journey into the Cave
- 7Embracing the Authenticity of the Experience
- 8Questions and Answers about Askur Ice Cave
Imagine stepping into a world where time seems to stand still, a place where nature's artistry is etched in ice and volcanic ash. The Askur Ice Cave, nestled at the foot of the mighty Mýrdalsjökull glacier, is just such a place. From the moment you enter, the blend of deep blue ice and dark volcanic ash layers, the intricate natural patterns, and the soothing sound of trickling meltwater create an otherworldly experience.
![Close-up of the icy blue layers and crevices of Mýrdalsjökull glacier, showcasing its textured surface.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/9a6bdccbbb68c99acf242e1c3f63f028306538f2-400x600.png?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
The blue and black layers and crevices of Mýrdalsjökull glacier showcase its textured surface.
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The Wonders of the Askur Ice Cave
The Askur Ice Cave is unlike any other. Its unique features tell a story of geological and climatic history that is both fascinating and visually stunning. One of the most remarkable aspects of the cave is the layers of volcanic ash embedded within the ice.
These layers are remnants of historic eruptions from the nearby Katla volcano, creating striking black streaks that contrast beautifully with the blue and white ice. Each ash layer is like a page in a book, offering a glimpse into the past eruptions that have shaped this landscape over centuries.
As you venture deeper into the cave, the intricate ice patterns become more apparent. The ice is sculpted by natural processes, resulting in mesmerizing formations that look like works of art. These patterns are created by the flow of meltwater, the freeze-thaw cycles, and the pressure exerted by the glacier.
Some parts of the ice are incredibly clear, allowing you to see bubbles that have been trapped for thousands of years. These bubbles, perfectly preserved, provide a window into the ancient atmosphere and are a reminder of the glacier’s long and storied history.
Katla Volcano, beneath the Mýrdalsjökull glacier, is one of Iceland's most active volcanoes, erupting approximately every 50 years. Its last significant eruption in 1918 extended Iceland's southern coast by about 5 kilometres.
The sensory experience of the Askur Ice Cave extends beyond the visual. The meditative sound of meltwater streams dominates the cave's soundscape.
As the ice slowly melts, streams form and flow along the cave’s floor, creating a soothing soundtrack that enhances the sense of tranquillity and wonder. This constant, quiet drip of water is a reminder of the cave’s dynamic nature, always changing and evolving with the seasons.
Walking through the Askur Ice Cave, you can't help but feel a deep sense of connection to the natural world. The cave's beauty is raw and unfiltered, showcasing the power and artistry of nature.
Every visit to the cave is a unique experience, as the light, ice formations, and even the sounds can vary with the changing conditions.
It's a place that invites you to pause, reflect, and appreciate the incredible forces that have shaped our planet.
The Dynamic Colours of the Ice Cave? Why it's not Always Blue
One of the most captivating aspects of the Askur Ice Cave is its ever-changing colour palette. The ice here can range from vibrant blue to shades of white, grey, and black, influenced by lighting conditions, seasonal changes, and the unique presence of volcanic ash.
The blue hue, which often captivates visitors, is a result of the dense glacial ice absorbing all colours of the light spectrum except blue. However, this blue is not always as vivid as one might expect.
The layers of volcanic ash from Katla’s historic eruptions play a significant role in this. These ash layers, embedded within the ice, create dark streaks and bands that often dominate the visual landscape, giving the ice a more varied appearance with significant patches of black and grey.
Seasonal changes also have a profound impact on the cave’s appearance. During the summer months, as the cave melts, the ash becomes more prominent, and the blue hues can be overshadowed by the darker ash layers.
Winter brings a different spectacle. When the moulin is open and more natural light flows through the cave, it can enhance the blue tones. In the deeper, central parts of the tunnel, where it is naturally dark, we use artificial lights to highlight the cave’s features in these areas.
The entrance area, where natural light penetrates, often showcases the blue ice at its best. As you move deeper into the cave, the lack of natural light means the colours can naturally appear more muted.
Ice caves are living, breathing formations that reflect the dynamic nature of their environment. While phone cameras might not capture its full beauty, the cave’s true allure lies in its natural, pure state—unpredictable and ever-evolving, just like nature itself.
It's important for visitors to have reasonable expectations and appreciate the cave’s natural, ever-changing palette.
The Formation of Askur Ice Cave
The Askur Ice Cave is a testament to the incredible forces of nature that have shaped it over millennia. The cave’s formation is primarily driven by the flow of meltwater, a process that begins during the warmer months when surface ice and snow melt. This meltwater flows through cracks and crevices in the glacier, gradually eroding the ice and carving out pathways that evolve into larger tunnels and chambers.
As the meltwater travels through the glacier, it follows the path of least resistance, which often leads to the formation of winding passages and intricate ice formations. The continuous flow of water not only smooths the walls and ceilings of the cave but also contributes to the creation of stunning natural sculptures within the ice. Over time, the relentless action of the meltwater enlarges these pathways, eventually giving rise to expansive tunnels like those found in the Askur Ice Cave.
The freeze-thaw cycles play a crucial role in shaping the cave's interior. As temperatures fluctuate, the water inside the cave freezes and thaws repeatedly. These cycles cause the ice to expand and contract, leading to the formation of cracks and fissures. The freeze-thaw process also contributes to the creation of unique ice formations and patterns, adding to the cave's visual appeal.
Volcanic activity from the nearby Katla volcano has also left its mark on the Askur Ice Cave. Historic eruptions have deposited layers of volcanic ash across the glacier. Over time, as new ice forms, these ash deposits become encapsulated within the glacier, creating distinct stratifications that are visible within the ice cave. These ash layers not only tell the story of Katla's past eruptions but also enhance the cave’s aesthetic by adding contrasting dark streaks against the blue and white ice.
The combination of meltwater erosion, freeze-thaw cycles, and volcanic activity has created a dynamic and ever-changing environment within the Askur Ice Cave. Each visit to the cave can reveal new features and formations, shaped by the ongoing natural processes.
![Aerial view of Mýrdalsjökull glacier with ice formations, surrounded by a vast landscape and a lake, under a sunset sky.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/c2ab1db72a582758987e9314239c2c4c9d7097d9-480x600.png?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
Meltwater flows through the glacier, and as the glacier retreats due to climate warming, it forms a lagoon that grows year by year.
How to Explore the Ice Cave Safely
Located on private land, the cave is exclusively accessible to visitors through the Icelandia family, ensuring a serene experience without the crowds that multiple tour companies might bring. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path gem. To ensure safety and preserve the cave’s pristine condition, visits are only possible through guided tours.
The Askur Ice Cave Adventure tour offers several exciting versions, each tailored to the season. In summer and autumn, you can embark on a buggy ride directly to the cave. There’s nothing like driving through the rugged Icelandic landscape in an off-road vehicle—no experience needed, just a valid driving license.
Two customers typically share a vehicle, but there are also 4-seater buggies available, and single rides can be arranged for an additional fee. Sometimes, a short hike is necessary if road conditions prevent the buggies from parking close to the cave, adding a bit more adventure to the journey.
When winter arrives, and snow conditions are ideal, we switch to snowmobiles for the final leg of the journey. The snowmobile tour starts with a glacier truck shuttle to the snowmobile base camp before transitioning to snowmobiles. The thrill of riding a snowmobile across the glacier is an experience in itself, culminating in the awe-inspiring exploration of the ice cave.
For a more family-friendly option, consider the lite version of the tour, Askur Ice Cave in a Mountain Truck, which features a ride in a large glacier truck or a Super Jeep, depending on the group size. This tour is suitable for children as young as four and includes a short, manageable hike. Proper hiking boots are essential for this tour to ensure safety and comfort.
For those starting their adventure in Reykjavík, we offer the Adventure Bus tours. These tours provide a carbon-neutral transfer to the base camp, with stops at two of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. This makes for a full day of exploring Iceland’s natural wonders, combining the majesty of the ice cave with the beauty of the country’s iconic waterfalls.
![Two buggies parked in front of the ice cave](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/ceb83c63068ba72cb4eeacf4a0f2d250ce672053-2500x1820.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
Tours to Askur Ice Cave
![An explorer in safety gear examining the ice ceiling of Askur ice cave, surrounded by snow and ice.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/f99cff5476f3eda258505b0e144d12d471c22ae8-2500x1667.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
Askur Ice Cave Adventure
Explore the breathtaking natural ice cave nestled within the Myrdalsjökull glacier. Wander through a shimmering ice tunnel, marvel at the intricate ash layers from nearby eruptions, and immerse yourself in the surreal atmosphere. Enjoy a thrilling buggy or snowmobile adventure with fantastic views.
![View from inside a blue ice cave, showing a vehicle parked in the snowy landscape outside.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/6296fcdbc679e6d8c878087a12db0a4a2c4be5df-2500x1667.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
Askur Ice Cave in a Mountain Truck
Explore the mesmerizing world beneath the icy surface on our Mýrdalsjökull Ice Cave Tour
![Group of tourists in orange jackets exploring a stunning blue ice cave with intricate ceiling patterns.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/be36c8f3550173e4c8d13886f031c199321f503a-2500x1550.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
South Coast & Askur Ice Cave in a Mountain Truck
Experience the mesmerizing Askur Ice Cave on the Myrdalsjökull glacier. This adventure includes a scenic South Coast tour with stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, followed by an exhilarating mountain truck ride to the cave. Perfect for families and adventure seekers alike!
![Two buggies are parked on a snowy terrain with mountains in the background, illuminated by the setting sun.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/ceb83c63068ba72cb4eeacf4a0f2d250ce672053-2500x1820.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
South Coast & Askur Ice Cave Adventure from Reykjavík
Explore Iceland's epic South Coast up close and personal. This tour features a thrilling ride to a newly discovered natural ice cave and Iceland's most iconic waterfalls Seljalands,foss and Skógafoss.
Safety and Preparation
Safety is our top priority, and to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, all visitors are equipped with crampons and helmets. Crampons provide necessary traction on the icy surfaces, while helmets protect against any potential falling ice or bumps within the cave.
Our experienced guides give instructions on how to use the equipment properly and emphasize the importance of following these guidelines closely.
Waterproof boots are a must, as the cave’s floor can be wet and slippery due to the trickling meltwater streams. If you don’t have your own, don’t worry—waterproof boots can be rented at the base camp. Proper footwear not only keeps your feet dry but also offers better stability as you traverse the icy terrain.
Our guides inspect the Askur Ice Cave daily to ensure it remains safe for visitors. They monitor the cave's ever-changing conditions and the rugged road leading there. Regular vehicles cannot access the site, which is why we use specialized transport for our tours.
The Journey into the Cave
Walking through the Askur Ice Cave is awe-inspiring. The entrance area often glows with natural light, revealing the striking blue hues of the ice. As you venture deeper, the natural light fades, and the cave transitions into a shadowy realm.
Here, artificial lights strategically placed by our guides highlight the intricate ice patterns, volcanic ash layers, and bubbles trapped within the ice, creating a magical atmosphere. While these lights do not enhance the blue tones as effectively as natural sunlight, they provide a unique and fascinating perspective on the cave’s features.
Walking through the long tunnel, you’ll notice the colours shifting from vibrant blues near the entrance to a more subdued palette of whites, greys, and blacks deeper inside. The crunch of ice beneath your crampons, the cool air against your face, and the ever-changing visual tapestry of the cave combine to create an unforgettable experience.
It’s a reminder of the cave’s natural, unpredictable beauty and the importance of respecting and preserving such pristine environments for future generations to enjoy.
![Empty pathway inside Askur ice cave, with textured ice ceiling and snow-covered ground.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/b912f48e99baff807747a53d6f35c6f754970922-2500x1667.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
Embracing the Authenticity of the Experience
When visiting the Askur Ice Cave, it's important to embrace nature’s unpredictability. Natural sites like this are influenced by weather, seasonal changes, and environmental conditions.
Have realistic expectations, as each visit is unique. The true beauty of the Askur Ice Cave lies in its natural, pure state—unpredictable and ever-evolving. Let your journey into Iceland’s wild beauty remind you of nature's incredible power and splendor, and the importance of preserving these pristine environments for future generations.
Embrace the authenticity of the experience, appreciate the raw and unedited beauty, and allow yourself to be fully present in these moments.
Questions and Answers about Askur Ice Cave
The Askur Ice Cave is renowned for its unique features, including layers of volcanic ash from historic eruptions of the nearby Katla volcano. These ash layers, combined with intricate natural ice patterns and bubbles trapped in ancient ice, create a mesmerizing visual spectacle. The serene sound of trickling meltwater streams adds to the otherworldly experience, making it a truly unique destination.
The Askur Ice Cave was formed through the action of meltwater during warmer months. Surface ice and snow melt, and the resulting water flows through cracks and crevices in the glacier. Over time, this meltwater erodes the ice, expanding pathways into larger tunnels and chambers. The freeze-thaw cycles and the presence of ash layers from Katla's eruptions further enhance the cave's stunning internal landscape.
The Askur Ice Cave is situated on private land, and access is controlled by the tour providers within our Icelandia family. Tours are organised by the Icelandic Mountain Guides and depart from a base camp near the glacier. Depending on the season, visitors can reach the cave by buggy, mountain truck, or snowmobile. Scheduled tours ensure safety and provide an enriching experience while maintaining the cave’s pristine condition.
Tours to the Askur Ice Cave offer an adventurous and immersive experience. Inside the cave, guides carve out a central path, ensuring visitors can explore safely. The cave features a main entrance and a moulin (a vertical shaft) that allows natural light to illuminate the ice tunnel. Depending on conditions, visitors can walk up to 100 meters into the cave, marveling at its intricate ice patterns and volcanic ash layers.
The tour is much more than just an ice cave visit—it's a compact wilderness and adventure experience. Tour options vary by season, including thrilling buggy rides in summer and autumn, and exhilarating snowmobile rides in winter. For a more family-friendly option, mountain truck tours provide a comfortable yet adventurous way to reach the cave.
Tours from Reykjavík include stops at iconic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, making it a full day of exploring Iceland’s natural wonders. Expect breathtaking landscapes, thrilling adventures, and a deep connection with Iceland's raw beauty.
In Norse mythology, Ask (or Askur) and Embla were the first two humans created by the gods. According to the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda, three gods, including Odin, found Ask and Embla and bestowed upon them various gifts. The name "Askur" is deeply rooted in this mythological heritage, adding a layer of cultural significance to the cave's natural wonders.
As ice caves are a natural phenomenon, they’re very dependent on weather conditions. In the summer, when higher temperatures mean that glaciers retreat, ice caves aren’t always safe to enter. That’s why most ice caves are only available to visit during the winter, typically between mid-November and March.
That said, the man-made ice cave in Langjökull is open to visitors all year round.
Every ice cave has its particular character, quality, and magic. Perhaps the most impressive ice caves are those you’ll find in Vatnajökull, one of Europe’s largest glaciers. Thanks to their breathtaking forms and ever-changing shape, they promise an unforgettable experience.
That said, the man-made ice cave beneath the Langjökull glacier is an astonishing piece of engineering—and it’s open all year round.
There are many ice caves that you can visit in Iceland. But it’s always best to do it with a guide. As ice caves and glaciers more generally are always changing, you can only be sure that you’ll be safe if you’re led by a local expert.
The glaciers of Langjökull and Vatnajökull are where you’ll find most of Iceland’s best ice caves to visit.
Venturing into Iceland's ice caves without an expert guide is strongly discouraged. These awe-inspiring formations, nestled within the dynamic landscapes of glaciers, are not only hard to locate amidst the vast open ice and rugged terrain but are also subject to changing conditions that only local experts can accurately assess. It's crucial to understand that glaciers, in their majestic beauty, pose significant risks to those unfamiliar with their intricacies. With a knowledgeable guide, you can safely experience the mesmerising beauty of ice caves while ensuring your safety amid the glacier's ever-shifting environment.
Ice cave tours range in length, from quick visits to longer full-day experiences. The shortest tours last for an action-packed three hours including transport time, in which you can glimpse these icy caverns.
On a longer tour you can combine your ice cave visit with other experiences, such as a glacier walk, waterfalls, or a ride aboard state-of-the-art modified vehicles.
There’s a wide range of ice cave tours available in Iceland, each offering a different kind of experience.
One of the most popular options is to visit the Langjökull Ice Cave, beneath one of the deepest glaciers in Iceland. This is one of the world’s largest man-made ice caves, in an incredible remote location.
Alternatively, you can visit one of the natural ice caves formed when glaciers melt, twist, or change shape. Some of the most spectacular can be found in the Vatnajökull National Park.
As you might expect, Iceland’s ice caves are incredibly cold. They are formed of glacial ice after all!
That means that dressing warmly will be your top priority when taking an ice cave tour. Lots of layers, a warm jacket, and waterproofs are all highly recommended.
The other thing you shouldn’t forget are sturdy shoes. You’ll be walking on rugged, rocky terrain.
Ice caves are blue due to the way that light passes through the compressed ice of the walls. As the ice is very tightly packed, only blue light passes through it.
There are many ice caves in Iceland that claim to be the bluest ice cave in the country. However, you’ll see the blue effect no matter which ice cave you visit!
An ice cave tour in Iceland is truly a unique experience. How often do you walk beneath ice sheets or get up close to the mesmerising blue patterns in a wall of ice? On a visit to Iceland, a visit to an ice cave is definitely worth your time and money.
Why not combine your ice cave experience with a complete glacier tour? These landforms are one of Iceland’s most spectacular features.
Tours to the ice caves run throughout the day, and no matter what time of day you visit, they are always a beautiful experience. Choose a time that best suits your schedule.
Many of Iceland’s ice caves can be visited easily.
For example, you can visit the Langjökull Ice Cave onboard a specialised glacier vehicle that takes you right up to the entrance to the tunnel. Similarly, transport is available to take you to the Secret ice cave and the Aurora ice cave too.
If you’re up for more of a challenge, combine a visit to an ice cave with a glacier walk. This way, you’ll get the full experience of Iceland’s icy landscapes.
The closest natural ice cave to Reykjavík is the Askur ice cave at Myrdalsjökull, about two hours' drive from the city. Langjökull glacier, roughly two hours away, also has an ice cave, but it's man-made.
Recommended tours
![View from inside a blue ice cave, showing a vehicle parked in the snowy landscape outside.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/6296fcdbc679e6d8c878087a12db0a4a2c4be5df-2500x1667.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
Askur Ice Cave in a Mountain Truck
Explore the mesmerizing world beneath the icy surface on our Mýrdalsjökull Ice Cave Tour
![An explorer in safety gear examining the ice ceiling of Askur ice cave, surrounded by snow and ice.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/f99cff5476f3eda258505b0e144d12d471c22ae8-2500x1667.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
Askur Ice Cave Adventure
Explore the breathtaking natural ice cave nestled within the Myrdalsjökull glacier. Wander through a shimmering ice tunnel, marvel at the intricate ash layers from nearby eruptions, and immerse yourself in the surreal atmosphere. Enjoy a thrilling buggy or snowmobile adventure with fantastic views.
![Group of tourists in orange jackets exploring a stunning blue ice cave with intricate ceiling patterns.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/be36c8f3550173e4c8d13886f031c199321f503a-2500x1550.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
South Coast & Askur Ice Cave in a Mountain Truck
Experience the mesmerizing Askur Ice Cave on the Myrdalsjökull glacier. This adventure includes a scenic South Coast tour with stops at Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, followed by an exhilarating mountain truck ride to the cave. Perfect for families and adventure seekers alike!
![Two buggies are parked on a snowy terrain with mountains in the background, illuminated by the setting sun.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/ceb83c63068ba72cb4eeacf4a0f2d250ce672053-2500x1820.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
South Coast & Askur Ice Cave Adventure from Reykjavík
Explore Iceland's epic South Coast up close and personal. This tour features a thrilling ride to a newly discovered natural ice cave and Iceland's most iconic waterfalls Seljalands,foss and Skógafoss.
![Explorer inside an ice cave in Iceland.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/1a5b690ff5b5aaf44aaea55b487e234548d945c5-2500x1667.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
Ice Cave and Glacier Walk
Embark on an epic journey to discover the wonders of Iceland's natural scenery. Explore iconic waterfalls, stroll along stunning black sand beaches, and experience the majestic Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Iceland's crowning natural attraction. This adventure includes an exhilarating boat tour, navigating through towering icebergs, offering a unique and unforgettable perspective of Iceland's frozen beauty.
![A guide inside an ice cave in Skaftafell, Iceland.](https://cdn.sanity.io/images/lf2d8f6r/production/31e0370a83a8441d98941dbea163caeab0a16845-2500x1667.jpg?w=3840&q=75&fit=clip&auto=format)
Ice Cave - Only the Brave
Looking for a challenge with a fantastic reward? On this active day tour, you will experience a natural ice cave, one of the most iconic and picturesque features of the glacial landscape. As is often the case, the most beautiful places can be difficult to access, but it is absolutely worth it if you are physically up for it. Expect a challenging tour with about 4.5 hours spent on the ice.