Why do Ice Caves Form?
Why do Ice Caves Form?
Natural ice caves are among
the top tourist attractions in Iceland. It's not just a faceless statistic; most of the tourists touring on a glacier with our Sleipnir
glacier monster trucks
confirm how much they want to explore natural ice caves themselves. Who wouldn't fall in love with
the mesmerizing blue-hued walls
and all their irregular, amazing shapes? But have you ever wondered how ice caves form on glaciers?
The Process of Forming an Ice Cave
In short, the recipe for a glacial cave is the summer sun, which heats the air, water, and ice, and gravity. When meltwater flows through crevasses or other openings in the ice, it creates tunnels and chambers within the glacier. As the meltwater continues to flow through these channels, it erodes and melts the ice around it, slowly carving out larger and larger spaces. Over time, these channels and chambers can become quite extensive, forming intricate networks of passages and rooms within the glacier. The walls and ceilings of these spaces are often smooth and polished, giving them a beautiful and otherworldly appearance.
Natural Ice Caves do not Have a Twin
This process makes every natural ice cave in Iceland unique, and we have hundreds of photos to prove it. Yes,
not all of them have the ocean blue color you see on Instagram. For instance, our recently discovered ice cave, shown in the photo on the right, is much darker. Its color comes from volcanic ashes trapped in ice for around 500 years. There are also many rough textures inside and other
interesting ice formations. For example, on one of our latest glacier ice cave tours, we found a peculiar shape that you can see in the photo below.
Behind the Scenes
Only 24 hours earlier, the entrance to the ice cave that you see in the photo above was tall and wide enough for an adult person to comfortably walk through. With the increase in temperature, it took considerable
effort to enlarge the hole to its previous size. This is probably the most overlooked part of the ice cave experience in Iceland. During the ice cave season, our Sleipnir tour crew must constantly work on ice cave maintenance, curving steps in snow, widening the entrance, or providing light inside. Just to let you know, we’re not complaining. Seeing the wide-open eyes in amazement of tourists who go with us on tours is
a
very satisfying and rewarding feeling.
Winter Wonderland
We wish the ice cave season in Iceland would last the whole year. However, the Icelandic wilderness is quite different from an amusement park. The weather plays a huge factor in the experience. Ice caves don't like rain and high temperatures. With constant rain, ice caves can be flooded with an amount of water that exceeds technical abilities to be drawn away. Therefore, the best time to enjoy ice cave glacier tours is during the coldest winter months, between October and January. That said, no winter is the same in Iceland. Sometimes the season can go way further - like this year - when our ice cave was open until the end of March.
Thank you for reading to the end. We would love to share more glacier facts and stories with you in person during one of our unforgettable glacier tours. We hope to see you on board soon!
P.S. For our readers we prepared Special Code -15% for all Glacier Tours from Gullfoss. Use the code 👉SLEIPNIRBLOG during booking.
Read more blogs about Iceland
There’s a quiet art to packing for a day in the Icelandic Highlands. Most locals don’t overthink it—we’ve just learned the hard way. We’ve been caught in sideways rain in July, sunburned in September, and snowed on in August. So if you’re planning to hop in a monster truck and head toward Langjökull or the wild interior, here’s a peek into what Icelanders actually bring along—and what tourists usually wish they had. Layers. Always layers. Forget about dressing for a season. In the Highlands, you dress for every season. Most of us throw on a decent base layer (no cotton), a fleece or wool mid-layer, and a waterproof shell. We’re not trying to look cute—we’re trying not to freeze while looking at a glacier and sweat while walking 100 meters uphill. Bonus points for having a puffy jacket in your bag. Windproof gear? Essential. Most tourists nail the outer layers… but forget the basics. Bring extra socks. You’ll thank us later. A hat, gloves, and a buff — even in summer There’s something about Highland wind that goes straight to your bones. Doesn’t matter if it’s 14°C in Reykjavík. Up here, the wind doesn’t care. A lightweight hat and gloves take up almost no space, and a buff or neck gaiter is great for blocking cold air—or covering your face during a wind gust that brings a mouthful of sand with it. And yeah, we wear them year-round. That’s just how it is. Read also: W hat to wear in Iceland? Food that doesn’t need cutlery This might be the most Icelandic advice of all: pack a sandwich, an energy bar, and some chocolate. Maybe a dried fish snack if you’re feeling bold. We’ve seen tourists bring pasta salad in Tupperware and try to eat it with a fork while standing in a snowdrift. Don’t be that person. You’ll want food that’s easy to eat, doesn’t freeze instantly, and ideally doesn’t require a table. Oh, and always bring more snacks than you think you’ll need. The Highlands have a way of extending your day without warning. A full water bottle (or thermos with coffee) You won’t find convenience stores or vending machines out there. Icelanders almost always bring a refillable water bottle or, better yet, a thermos full of coffee. A warm drink hits different when you’re halfway through a glacier tour and the wind’s picking up. Want to go full local? Add a bit of hot cocoa powder into your coffee. We call it kaffisúkkulaði and it tastes like heaven in a cup!
Off the Beaten Track: What Makes Iceland’s Highlands So Special? There’s a reason people call the Highlands the heart of Iceland. It’s not just because of the location, although it does sit squarely in the middle of the country. It’s because when you’re out there—no towns, no lights, no phone signal—you feel the pulse of something bigger. Most visitors stick to the ring road, and fair enough. It’s beautiful. But ask any Icelander where they go when they need to breathe, and it’s probably not the south coast waterfalls or the Blue Lagoon. It’s the Highlands. The silence It’s not quiet like a library or a park in winter. It’s a deeper kind of silence—one that fills your head. The kind where your boots crunching in the snow is the only sound for miles. The Highlands don’t ask for attention. They just exist. And if you slow down enough, you notice everything. The strange beauty This isn’t postcard-pretty. The landscape out here is raw. You’ll drive through black sand deserts, then suddenly find yourself beside a green moss-covered mountain. Then lava. Then snow. It doesn’t make sense, and that’s what makes it brilliant. Langjökull glacier rises like a frozen giant in the middle of it all. And even after years of driving on it, it still throws us surprises—fresh cracks, new shades of blue, a sunset that paints the ice orange for five minutes before disappearing again.
Why a Sleipnir Glacier Tour Is a great choice for families travelling to Iceland! If you’re planning a family trip to Iceland and want to create a memory your kids will still be talking about years from now, a tour with Sleipnir on Langjökull Glacier should be high on your list. This isn’t your average sightseeing excursion. It’s an adventure that’s thrilling, family-friendly, and surprisingly easy to join — no climbing ropes or hiking boots required- even though we always reccommend good waterproof shoes. Just step aboard the world’s largest glacier truck and let Sleipnir take care of the rest! Here’s why families keep rating this experience as one of the highlights of their Icelandic journey. Big Trucks, Big Smiles For children (and let’s face it — most adults too), the excitement begins the moment they spot the Sleipnir glacier truck. These custom-built vehicles look like something out of a sci-fi movie — enormous, all-terrain monsters on giant wheels designed to handle the icy surface of Langjökull. Just climbing aboard is part of the adventure. Kids love the sheer scale of the vehicle, the view from the high seats, and the thrill of rolling over a glacier in something that feels like a moon rover. This ride alone is often the highlight for young travelers. It’s not every day you can say you crossed a glacier in a 15-ton beast with tires taller than your dad. Ages 4 years and up Welcome One of the best things about a Sleipnir tour is that it’s accessible to just about everyone. Whether you're traveling with a toddler, a teenager, or bringing along grandparents, there’s no strenuous hiking involved. The tour is designed so guests can step directly onto the glacier from the truck with minimal effort. It’s a rare way to explore Iceland’s highlands without needing special gear or training — just warm clothes and a sense of curiosity. Unfortunately, our trucks are not wheelchair accessible. Safety Without Sacrificing Adventure Glaciers can be intimidating. They’re massive, constantly shifting , and — without the right equipment or guides — potentially dangerous. That’s why Sleipnir puts safety at the center of every tour. The crew is trained in highland navigation and glacier safety, and the trucks are equipped with radios and GPS. Parents can feel confident knowing the tour is run by professionals who know the glacier inside and out. There are no narrow ridgelines or icy cliff walks. Just a smooth, well-managed route across the snow-covered landscape. Plenty to Keep Young Minds Engaged Once out on the ice, the guides don’t just drive around in silence. They’re experts at sharing stories, fun facts, and history about Langjökull and Iceland’s glaciers in a way that both kids and adults can enjoy. From Viking myths to the science of how glaciers form, the journey becomes a moving classroom with the most unforgettable views. Snowball fights? Totally allowed. Running around on the ice and marveling at how far you can see in every direction? Encouraged. It’s a safe space for kids to burn off some energy while adults enjoy the peace and scale of the glacier around them.
Sustainable Travel in Iceland: How Sleipnir Glacier Tours Is Doing It Right!
Fun Facts About Summer in Iceland – Midnight Sun, Sheep Traffic & Secret Pools
Into the Wild Heart of Iceland: A Journey Through the Highlands
Foods to Try in Iceland That Locals Actually Eat!
10 Reasons Why Iceland Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
Top 5 Activities to Do in and Around Reykjavík Reykjavík is the northernmost capital in the world. It has the perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you're visiting for a short trip or an extended stay, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences to enjoy. Here are our top five activities to add to your itinerary in and around Reykjavík! Bonus activity in the end of the post! 1. Visit Harpa Concert Hall Harpa Concert Hall is an architectural masterpiece and a must-visit landmark in Reykjavík. The stunning glass structure, inspired by Iceland’s basalt landscape, stands proudly by the waterfront. Inside, Harpa hosts a variety of concerts, performances, and events, ranging from classical music and opera to modern Icelandic bands. Even if you don’t attend a show, simply walking around and admiring the building's unique design—especially as it reflects the changing light—is worth the visit. You can find a list of concerts and shows at their official website here. 2. Hike Helgafell For those seeking an outdoor adventure, a hike up Helgafell is the perfect way to experience Iceland’s breathtaking nature. Located about 30 minutes from Reykjavík, Helgafell is a relatively easy hike that rewards you with panoramic views of lava fields, mountains, and the distant ocean. The trail is well-marked and suitable for all fitness levels, making it an ideal excursion for families and casual hikers alike.
coming to Iceland during the summer? Dont' miss out on epic things to do during the summer solstice!
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There’s a quiet art to packing for a day in the Icelandic Highlands. Most locals don’t overthink it—we’ve just learned the hard way. We’ve been caught in sideways rain in July, sunburned in September, and snowed on in August. So if you’re planning to hop in a monster truck and head toward Langjökull or the wild interior, here’s a peek into what Icelanders actually bring along—and what tourists usually wish they had. Layers. Always layers. Forget about dressing for a season. In the Highlands, you dress for every season. Most of us throw on a decent base layer (no cotton), a fleece or wool mid-layer, and a waterproof shell. We’re not trying to look cute—we’re trying not to freeze while looking at a glacier and sweat while walking 100 meters uphill. Bonus points for having a puffy jacket in your bag. Windproof gear? Essential. Most tourists nail the outer layers… but forget the basics. Bring extra socks. You’ll thank us later. A hat, gloves, and a buff — even in summer There’s something about Highland wind that goes straight to your bones. Doesn’t matter if it’s 14°C in Reykjavík. Up here, the wind doesn’t care. A lightweight hat and gloves take up almost no space, and a buff or neck gaiter is great for blocking cold air—or covering your face during a wind gust that brings a mouthful of sand with it. And yeah, we wear them year-round. That’s just how it is. Read also: W hat to wear in Iceland? Food that doesn’t need cutlery This might be the most Icelandic advice of all: pack a sandwich, an energy bar, and some chocolate. Maybe a dried fish snack if you’re feeling bold. We’ve seen tourists bring pasta salad in Tupperware and try to eat it with a fork while standing in a snowdrift. Don’t be that person. You’ll want food that’s easy to eat, doesn’t freeze instantly, and ideally doesn’t require a table. Oh, and always bring more snacks than you think you’ll need. The Highlands have a way of extending your day without warning. A full water bottle (or thermos with coffee) You won’t find convenience stores or vending machines out there. Icelanders almost always bring a refillable water bottle or, better yet, a thermos full of coffee. A warm drink hits different when you’re halfway through a glacier tour and the wind’s picking up. Want to go full local? Add a bit of hot cocoa powder into your coffee. We call it kaffisúkkulaði and it tastes like heaven in a cup!
Off the Beaten Track: What Makes Iceland’s Highlands So Special? There’s a reason people call the Highlands the heart of Iceland. It’s not just because of the location, although it does sit squarely in the middle of the country. It’s because when you’re out there—no towns, no lights, no phone signal—you feel the pulse of something bigger. Most visitors stick to the ring road, and fair enough. It’s beautiful. But ask any Icelander where they go when they need to breathe, and it’s probably not the south coast waterfalls or the Blue Lagoon. It’s the Highlands. The silence It’s not quiet like a library or a park in winter. It’s a deeper kind of silence—one that fills your head. The kind where your boots crunching in the snow is the only sound for miles. The Highlands don’t ask for attention. They just exist. And if you slow down enough, you notice everything. The strange beauty This isn’t postcard-pretty. The landscape out here is raw. You’ll drive through black sand deserts, then suddenly find yourself beside a green moss-covered mountain. Then lava. Then snow. It doesn’t make sense, and that’s what makes it brilliant. Langjökull glacier rises like a frozen giant in the middle of it all. And even after years of driving on it, it still throws us surprises—fresh cracks, new shades of blue, a sunset that paints the ice orange for five minutes before disappearing again.
Why a Sleipnir Glacier Tour Is a great choice for families travelling to Iceland! If you’re planning a family trip to Iceland and want to create a memory your kids will still be talking about years from now, a tour with Sleipnir on Langjökull Glacier should be high on your list. This isn’t your average sightseeing excursion. It’s an adventure that’s thrilling, family-friendly, and surprisingly easy to join — no climbing ropes or hiking boots required- even though we always reccommend good waterproof shoes. Just step aboard the world’s largest glacier truck and let Sleipnir take care of the rest! Here’s why families keep rating this experience as one of the highlights of their Icelandic journey. Big Trucks, Big Smiles For children (and let’s face it — most adults too), the excitement begins the moment they spot the Sleipnir glacier truck. These custom-built vehicles look like something out of a sci-fi movie — enormous, all-terrain monsters on giant wheels designed to handle the icy surface of Langjökull. Just climbing aboard is part of the adventure. Kids love the sheer scale of the vehicle, the view from the high seats, and the thrill of rolling over a glacier in something that feels like a moon rover. This ride alone is often the highlight for young travelers. It’s not every day you can say you crossed a glacier in a 15-ton beast with tires taller than your dad. Ages 4 years and up Welcome One of the best things about a Sleipnir tour is that it’s accessible to just about everyone. Whether you're traveling with a toddler, a teenager, or bringing along grandparents, there’s no strenuous hiking involved. The tour is designed so guests can step directly onto the glacier from the truck with minimal effort. It’s a rare way to explore Iceland’s highlands without needing special gear or training — just warm clothes and a sense of curiosity. Unfortunately, our trucks are not wheelchair accessible. Safety Without Sacrificing Adventure Glaciers can be intimidating. They’re massive, constantly shifting , and — without the right equipment or guides — potentially dangerous. That’s why Sleipnir puts safety at the center of every tour. The crew is trained in highland navigation and glacier safety, and the trucks are equipped with radios and GPS. Parents can feel confident knowing the tour is run by professionals who know the glacier inside and out. There are no narrow ridgelines or icy cliff walks. Just a smooth, well-managed route across the snow-covered landscape. Plenty to Keep Young Minds Engaged Once out on the ice, the guides don’t just drive around in silence. They’re experts at sharing stories, fun facts, and history about Langjökull and Iceland’s glaciers in a way that both kids and adults can enjoy. From Viking myths to the science of how glaciers form, the journey becomes a moving classroom with the most unforgettable views. Snowball fights? Totally allowed. Running around on the ice and marveling at how far you can see in every direction? Encouraged. It’s a safe space for kids to burn off some energy while adults enjoy the peace and scale of the glacier around them.
Sustainable Travel in Iceland: How Sleipnir Glacier Tours Is Doing It Right!
Fun Facts About Summer in Iceland – Midnight Sun, Sheep Traffic & Secret Pools
Into the Wild Heart of Iceland: A Journey Through the Highlands
Foods to Try in Iceland That Locals Actually Eat!
10 Reasons Why Iceland Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
Top 5 Activities to Do in and Around Reykjavík Reykjavík is the northernmost capital in the world. It has the perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you're visiting for a short trip or an extended stay, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences to enjoy. Here are our top five activities to add to your itinerary in and around Reykjavík! Bonus activity in the end of the post! 1. Visit Harpa Concert Hall Harpa Concert Hall is an architectural masterpiece and a must-visit landmark in Reykjavík. The stunning glass structure, inspired by Iceland’s basalt landscape, stands proudly by the waterfront. Inside, Harpa hosts a variety of concerts, performances, and events, ranging from classical music and opera to modern Icelandic bands. Even if you don’t attend a show, simply walking around and admiring the building's unique design—especially as it reflects the changing light—is worth the visit. You can find a list of concerts and shows at their official website here. 2. Hike Helgafell For those seeking an outdoor adventure, a hike up Helgafell is the perfect way to experience Iceland’s breathtaking nature. Located about 30 minutes from Reykjavík, Helgafell is a relatively easy hike that rewards you with panoramic views of lava fields, mountains, and the distant ocean. The trail is well-marked and suitable for all fitness levels, making it an ideal excursion for families and casual hikers alike.
coming to Iceland during the summer? Dont' miss out on epic things to do during the summer solstice!
