From Húsafell: Into the Glacier Ice Cave Adventure

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to see something truly unique, the Into the Glacier Ice Cave Tour offers a fascinating glimpse beneath one of the island’s most impressive glaciers. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, countless travelers have raved about its blend of adventure, education, and unbelievable sights. This tour is designed to appeal to those eager for a hands-on experience in Iceland’s icy interior, with special attention to making it accessible and fun for families.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the monster truck ride across Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier, is as much an adventure as the cave itself. And second, the world’s largest ice tunnel inside the glacier is a visual treat—glowing blue, layered with volcanic ash, and full of stories frozen in time. On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour does not include transfer from Reykjavík, so you’ll need to plan accordingly if you’re based in the capital.

This experience suits travelers who love a mix of scenery, learning, and a bit of thrill. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with kids or just want to tick off an extraordinary Icelandic attraction in a safe, guided setting.

Key Points

• Family-friendly adventure with free entry for kids under 12
• Unique transportation via a specially modified 8×8 monster truck
• Historical and geological insights inside the glacier’s tunnels
• Year-round availability makes it flexible for any travel schedule
• Unmatched views from atop Langjökull that you can only access with a guide
• Includes gear and snowsuits to keep you warm and safe on the ice

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect on This Tour

Meet in Húsafell and Ready for Adventure

The journey begins at the Húsafell Activity Centre, a scenic spot about two hours from Reykjavík. Once there, you’ll meet your professional guide—who’s likely to be engaging, knowledgeable, and friendly, as many reviews highlight. The staff will gear you up with snowsuits, waterproof jackets, and boots, ensuring you’re prepared for Iceland’s unpredictable weather and icy terrain.

The Monster Truck Ride: An Icy Safari

Your adventure truly kicks off with a ride in an 8×8 monster truck, specially adapted for glacier driving. This is what many reviewers mention as a highlight. The vehicle is large, sturdy, and fun, giving you a sense of going off the beaten path in Iceland’s rugged landscape. The ride across the glacier provides sweeping views of the surrounding ice fields and volcanic terrain, making it an experience in itself.

Travelers have noted the skill of the driver, especially when navigating snowy, icy conditions. One reviewer described the journey as “a fun adventure,” and many find it both exhilarating and comfortable. The drive takes you to the glacier’s edge, where a mountain bus then transports guests to the actual cave entrance, which is an interesting detail if you’re visiting in summer, as the route may change.

Inside the Glacier: The World’s Largest Ice Tunnel

Once at the entrance, you’ll enter the ice cave, a marvel of natural artistry. The tunnel is illuminated with soft, glowing lights, which highlight the stunning blue hues of the ice. Inside, you can admire layers that have formed over decades—think frozen history trapped in the ice—and volcanic ash that adds a touch of color and tells of Iceland’s fiery past.

Your guide will take you through corridors and chambers, explaining how glaciers form, move, and change over time. Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and their ability to make complex geology accessible and engaging. One guest raved, “Walking inside the glacier is surreal, and the lighting creates a beautiful atmosphere.”

More Great Tours Nearby

The Largest Ice Tunnel in the World

What truly sets this tour apart is the ice tunnel, claimed to be the largest of its kind globally. Its vast size allows for easy walking, and the scale adds to the sense of awe. Many visitors mention how it feels like stepping into another world—an icy cathedral carved by nature over centuries.

Educational and Entertaining

It’s not just about the visuals. Your guide will share stories about Iceland’s glaciers, volcanic history, and climate change impacts, making this an educational experience as well. Several reviews note how the guides are attentive, funny, and eager to answer questions, creating a friendly atmosphere that’s ideal for families and curious travelers alike.

What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour package covers the monster truck ride, ice cave entry, a guided tour, and essential safety gear like crampons and snowsuits. You’ll need to bring your own camera (preferably waterproof), gloves, weather-appropriate clothing, and rain gear, especially in winter.

Notably, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or a small meal. Also, transfer from Reykjavík isn’t included—you’ll need to factor in about two hours of travel each way to reach Húsafell, which is worth considering if you’re looking for a seamless day trip.

The activity lasts around four hours, with the actual cave exploration taking about an hour. The entire experience is tailored to be accessible for children of all ages—kids under 12 get free entry, making it a good choice for families. That said, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments, given the walking on ice and uneven terrain.

The Experience You’ll Love

Many reviews mention the enthusiastic, knowledgeable guides as a standout feature. One traveler admired their ability to keep everyone engaged and entertained, saying, “The guides were great—funny, informative, and very attentive.”

The scenery is another big draw. The landscape of Langjökull, with its vast white expanses and volcanic features, is like stepping onto another planet. The inside of the glacier, with its deep blue tones and layered ice, is breathtaking, making it more than just a sightseeing tour—it’s a memory-maker.

For those worried about the cost, many reviewers find the value to be good, especially given the included gear, expert guides, and the chance to walk inside such a colossal ice formation. One person summed it up as “a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s well worth the price.”

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting that weather conditions can affect the experience. During whiteouts or heavy snowstorms, visibility inside the glacier might be limited, and the truck ride could be less scenic. Also, since the cave is man-made, some visitors might expect a natural ice formation—if that’s what you’re after, this could be a minor disappointment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure appeals to families with children, given the free entry for under 12s and the overall engaging nature of the tour. It’s also great for adventure lovers who want a mix of driving, walking, and learning. Photographers will find plenty of opportunities to capture stunning ice formations, especially with the lighting inside the tunnel.

Travelers interested in geology, climate change, or simply marveling at one of nature’s most impressive creations will find this tour satisfying. It’s a year-round activity, so no matter when you visit, you can experience the magic of the glacier’s interior.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a unique Icelandic experience that combines adventure, education, and scenery, this tour checks all those boxes. The monster truck ride delivers a thrilling start, and walking inside the largest ice tunnel in the world offers something extraordinary that many travelers consider a highlight of their trip.

For families or groups who appreciate guided experiences with knowledgeable staff, the Into the Glacier Ice Cave Tour offers both safety and fun. It’s especially suitable if you’re looking to explore beyond the surface of Iceland’s icy landscape and learn about the natural forces shaping this environment.

However, if you prefer your natural wonders untouched or are looking for a more natural, untouched ice cave experience, keep in mind that this is a man-made ice tunnel—though still an incredible feat of natural preservation. Weather can also influence how much you enjoy the scenery, so be prepared for varying conditions.

In all, it’s a memorable, well-organized adventure that delivers on its promises and leaves many travelers eager to recommend it. Whether you’re a geology buff, a family seeking a safe yet exciting outing, or simply someone eager to see inside a glacier, this trip offers a compelling slice of Iceland’s icy heart.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children of all ages are welcome when accompanied by an adult, with free admission for those under 12. It’s an engaging experience, and many reviews mention how well it suits families.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, the tour includes crampons, snowsuits, jackets, and waterproof boot covers, so you’ll stay warm and dry during the walk inside the glacier.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

How long is the entire tour?
The activity lasts about 4 hours, including the drive, the ice cave walk, and the return.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at the Húsafell Activity Centre, roughly a 2-hour drive from Reykjavík. The trip includes a scenic drive and some basic facilities before departure.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking on ice and uneven terrain inside the glacier.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing, gloves, a waterproof camera, and rain gear are recommended, especially in winter months.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, food and drinks aren’t included, so plan to bring snacks if needed.

What makes this ice cave different from others?
The size of the tunnel and the guided inside experience are highlights, plus the opportunity to ride in a specially modified glacier vehicle.

If an icy adventure beneath a massive glacier sounds like your kind of trip, this tour from Húsafell might just be one of your most memorable Iceland experiences. It combines scenery, education, and a touch of thrill—delivered in a way that’s accessible and fun for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: