Ice Cave and Glacier Tour in Glacier Monster Truck from Gullfoss

If you’re eyeing that adventurous side of Iceland, chances are you’ve come across the Ice Cave and Glacier Tour from Gullfoss, offered by Sleipnir Tours. This experience promises a fascinating journey into an actual ice cave on Langjökull glacier, all while riding in what’s claimed to be the world’s largest glacier truck—the Sleipnir Monster Truck. It’s a trip that appeals equally to those craving outdoor adventure, photography buffs eager for jaw-dropping scenery, and anyone interested in Iceland’s icy heart.

What we particularly like about this tour? First, the expert guides who make the journey both educational and engaging, sharing stories about glaciers and local tales. Second, the comfort and safety of traveling in the specially designed monster truck, which offers panoramic views of Iceland’s rugged highlands. But, a word of caution: the tour is heavily dependent on weather conditions. Since the ice cave visit can be canceled for safety reasons, it’s important to keep an open mind and consider that this adventure isn’t guaranteed every day.

This tour works best for adventure-seekers, photography lovers, and curious travelers who don’t mind spending several hours on the road and are prepared for variable weather. It’s also a solid choice for those who want a mix of scenic driving, glacier exploration, and a unique behind-the-scenes look at Iceland’s icy landscapes.

Key Points

• A unique glacier adventure in a specially built monster truck with panoramic views.
• Guided experiences ensure safety and provide interesting local stories.
• Ice cave exploration offers a rare glimpse into natural blue and ash-lined glaciers.
• Comfortable transportation minimizes the bumpy ride typical of highland travels.
• Weather-dependent activity, with possible cancellations for safety.
• Ideal for adventure enthusiasts and photographers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime shot.

The Journey Begins at Gullfoss Waterfall

Starting your day at Gullfoss Waterfall sets a truly iconic tone. Located on Road 35, the upper parking area is where you’ll gather, right near the Gullfoss Panorama Restaurant and Shop. We love how easy it is to find your meeting point, especially if you’re already exploring the area. The tour departs around noon, so arriving a little early—say by 11:45 AM—ensures you’re settled and ready to go.

From the moment you hop onto the big red Monster Glacier Truck, it’s clear that this isn’t your average bus ride. The Sleipnir Monster Truck is a sight in itself—massive, with panoramic windows that frame every turn, promising breathtaking views of Iceland’s wild landscape. During winter, spotting this beast parked at Gullfoss is a highlight.

The Monster Truck Ride to Langjökull Glacier

Once aboard, your guide will start sharing stories about glaciers, Icelandic Highlands, and the geology behind these icy giants. We appreciated the knowledgeable commentary—these guides aren’t just drivers but storytellers who make the landscape come alive. The drive itself is quite scenic, with each turn revealing a fresh view of the rugged terrain.

The highland road to Langjökull is an adventure on its own. The truck’s size and design allow you to get close to the glacier, unlike typical smaller vehicles. You’ll feel the thrill of traversing highland tracks that once were difficult to access, now made safer by this specialized vehicle.

The Ice Cave Experience

Reaching the glacier, you’ll step out into the cold, but the real highlight is entering the ice cave. Inside, the ice appears in spectacular shades of blue and black ash, a reminder of Iceland’s volcanic activity mixed with centuries of ice buildup. The caves are only accessible in certain weather conditions, so the guide will assess the safety first. This aspect is worth noting, as reviews mention that weather can sometimes prevent access or shorten the visit.

Once inside, you’ll understand why this is such a special sight. The clear, blue ice—sometimes lined with volcanic ash—creates a surreal atmosphere. Though the ice cave visit can be brief, it’s a memorable glimpse into natural Icelandic artistry, something that’s hard to find elsewhere.

The Return to Gullfoss

After exploring the glacier and ice cave, your journey concludes back at Gullfoss, giving you time to reflect, share photos, or simply take in the waterfall’s raw power one more time. The entire expedition lasts roughly four hours, with about 3 hours dedicated to glacier time, making it a well-paced experience.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What Not

The tour price of $198 per person is quite reasonable considering the unique nature of this adventure. It covers the transfer in the Highland bus, the guided glacier tour, ice cave visit (weather permitting), WiFi, restroom access onboard, and crampons to help with glacier footing. The inclusion of crampons is reassuring—they’re vital for safety when walking on ice.

However, travelers should note that they need to bring their own warm winter clothing, waterproof shoes, and windproof jackets. The glacier’s reflective snow and ice can cause sun glare, so sunglasses are recommended, especially if you’re sensitive to bright surfaces. This is a typical consideration for glacier adventures but worth mentioning.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating is a stellar 5.0 out of 5 from 39 reviews, with 98% recommending the tour. People praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One reviewer, Brian, shared that their trip was cut short by weather, but emphasized that the guides tried their best to make the experience worthwhile. This honesty reminds us that Iceland’s weather is unpredictable, and safety is always the priority.

Another reviewer, Katy, mentioned that the views were breathtaking, although she noted that the large bus and long drive meant a lot of time in transit, which might not suit everyone. Still, she expressed satisfaction with the overall experience and appreciated the opportunity to see such unique landscapes, even if her ice cave visit was cut short.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is especially suited for adventure lovers and those interested in photography. The large panoramic windows and stunning scenery make it a photographer’s dream. It’s also ideal for curious travelers who want an immersive experience with knowledgeable guides. As with any outdoor activity in Iceland, flexibility and patience are key, given the weather’s influence on accessibility.

It’s not the best fit if you’re adverse to long hours in a vehicle or if your group includes very young children (minimum age is 6 years). But if you’re a family of older kids or teens who love nature and adventure, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those craving a close-up look at Iceland’s glaciers combined with adventure, this tour offers a memorable experience. The monster truck ride makes the journey fun and comfortable, especially for those wary of rough terrain. The ice cave visit, although weather-dependent, delivers a rare opportunity to see the unique blue ice and volcanic ash formations.

The value for money is solid, considering the access to a glacier and the opportunity to explore a natural ice cave—things most travelers can’t see on their own without significant planning and risk.

However, keep in mind that the experience’s success hinges on weather conditions. If the ice cave isn’t accessible, the guides will do their best to make the trip informative and interesting, but some parts may be skipped.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates guided excursions, loves scenic drives, and is okay with some unpredictability due to weather, this tour is a great pick. It’s especially good for travelers who want to tick off a signature Iceland experience with the convenience of a well-organized, safety-conscious operation.

For those who prioritize comfort and hassle-free logistics, the inclusion of WiFi and restroom facilities makes it a bit more relaxed than typical highland adventures. It’s a worthwhile experience that offers a glimpse into Iceland’s icy depths in a safe, engaging way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 6 years, making it accessible for families with older children or teens interested in adventure.

What should I bring with me?
Make sure to pack warm winter clothes, waterproof shoes, and wind/waterproof jackets. Sunglasses are also recommended due to glacier reflection.

Can the ice cave visit be canceled?
Yes, the visit depends on weather conditions for safety reasons. If canceled, the guide will inform you, and the rest of the tour may proceed as planned.

How long is the whole tour?
It lasts about 4 hours, with roughly 3 hours spent on glacier and ice cave exploration, plus transportation time.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price includes transportation, guided glacier and ice cave visit, WiFi, restroom access, and crampons. Personal gear is not included.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the Sleipnir Monster Truck is designed for comfort and safety, with panoramic windows for excellent views. The ride can be bumpy but is manageable thanks to the truck’s design.

Embarking on this glacier and ice cave tour in Iceland offers a potent mix of adventure, natural beauty, and unique experiences. Whether the weather cooperates or not, it’s a journey that leaves most travelers with stories to tell—and images to cherish.