Private Lofthellir Ice Cave Tour
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Overview
There is something so cool about the idea of the exploration of an ice cave, and it isn't the ice. It is the idea, the fantasy of going into this, in this case, a 3,500-year-old lava cave, into a world of ice and darkness, that makes it all so mysterious. Kudos to you for considering this adventure, not that it is dangerous. It is fascinating and it seems like one reason to visit Iceland, especially in the winter.
On this excursion to the Lofthellir ice cave, you will be able to feel the isolation of the area. You will be traveling from Akureyri to the middle of Lake Mývatn Outback. This whole private experience is unusual as it will allow you complete access, with your private guide, for at least one hour in the cave without the interference of others. It is not only that this exploration is special, but to be able to feel the quiet of the cave is indescribable.
On your way to the cave, you will make a stop at the Goðafoss Waterfall. It is worth the stop as it is a nearly 40-foot drop along a curved lip, almost 100 feet long, which creates what might well be the most spectacular waterfall in the whole world. This is Godafoss, the Waterfall of the Gods, and it's the high point of many Icelandic vacations, even for the locals.
Ready to move forward, you will head for Lake Mývatn, the beautiful lake in North Iceland. Formed by a large basaltic lava fissure eruption 2,300 years ago, the volcanic landscape of this region is dominated by pseudocraters. It is a must-see natural wonder for adventurers in the North of Iceland. You will quickly learn that many of the attractions in Iceland are underground and even here, the geothermal force and the land show a clear sign of all the volcanic activity that has taken place there in the last centuries. Blue lakes and hot pools, sandy mountains, volcanic craters, and colorful mud pools make up the most incredible setting. You might feel as if you are on the moon.
As you move along on a rugged track in your heavy-duty 4x4 truck, you will soon arrive at the unique volcano Hverfell. This is a bumpy road so be prepared. You have traveled through 'crater row' including Lúdentarborgir to the roots of Mt. Hvannfell. Properly equipped (snowshoes in the winter) and ready to exit the truck, enjoy an incredible 20-minute walk across a lava field full of endless ropey lava. Your guide will be an invaluable part of your journey and will be able to answer your questions, as well as help, move you along to and through the cave.
Finally, you reach the Lofthellir Lava Cave. The lava cave is filled with ice, stalagmites, and ice sculptures, which are called lava caves. The opening to the cave can be thought of as a door opening to an extraordinary world of underground ice sculptures. There are stairs down to the first portion of entry and you may be doing a little bit of sliding to finally see the reason this adventure is so popular.
The magic land down under is amazing. Your guide will help you appreciate the fact that your other senses are heightened and when quiet, you will hear the water dripping from the ceiling onto the ice floor in the cave. When you are ready you will begin to retrace your path and make your way to the surface where you will be astounded at the last few hours you experienced.
What's Included
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Private 4x4 rugged truck for transportation
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A trained Icelandic expert guide
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A fully guided private tour
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Cave exploration equipment including helmet, light
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Snowshoes if needed in the winter
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Refreshments
Special Instructions
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Local currency is Icelandic Krona (ISK).
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It is highly recommended that you wear waterproof clothing including your gloves.
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Good walking shoes are a necessity.
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Bring a water bottle.
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To reach the cave is a 30-minute hike across a relatively smooth lava field.
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This private tour is delivered in a 4x4 truck with a guide and up to 5 passengers.
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This tour is not suitable for young children, people with claustrophobia or people that are not in reasonable physical condition.
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The short entry, about 5 feet, into the cave is narrow and guests need to crawl on all fours to enter.
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There is ice and water on the floor of the cave and the temperature inside the cave is around 0 degrees Celsius.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup and Dropoff at the Cruise Port Included.