Imagine walking through a landscape straight out of an icy dream—blue, stark, and seemingly alien. We recently had the chance to join a five-hour private tour that takes you into the heart of Iceland’s glacier and ice caves, all while a professional photographer captures your adventure. For $540 per person, this experience offers a blend of rugged outdoor activity and stunning visual keepsakes. Guided by a certified glacier guide and an adventure photographer, this trip is designed for those craving an authentic, hands-on encounter with Iceland’s icy grandeur.
What truly sets this tour apart are two things: the opportunity to explore both lower and upper ice caves, including the famous Sapphire and Bellissimo, and the professional photo package that ensures you leave with beautiful, edited images of your experience. We also appreciate the private group setting, which offers a more personalized, relaxed experience—no crowds, just your group and your guide.
A possible consideration: the hike covers about 10 km, with some moderate inclines, so it’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of mobility and a good sense of adventure. If you’re looking for a luxurious, leisurely activity, this might be too physically demanding, especially considering the cold conditions. But if you’re eager to see Iceland’s wild, icy beauty up close, this tour is an excellent choice.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those eager to actively engage with the landscape and come away with unique photos. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, photography enthusiasts, and curious travelers looking for a meaningful, awe-inspiring day in Iceland.
Key Points
- Private group experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
- Two ice caves explored, including the renowned Sapphire and Bellissimo, offering dramatic visuals.
- Professional photos included, with 15 shots per person, all edited and sent within two weeks.
- Moderate physical activity, about 10 km of hiking, suitable for those with average fitness.
- Weather can be cold and windy on the glacier, so proper clothing is essential.
- Available October to April, aligning with Iceland’s winter and early spring months.
Exploring Iceland’s Glacier and Ice Caves: A Complete Look
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The Itinerary: From Jeep to Ice
Your adventure begins with a drive in a super jeep to a glacier outlet. This vehicle is specially equipped to handle Iceland’s rugged terrain, making the journey both safe and exciting. Once you arrive, your guide—who is certified and knowledgeable—leads you on a hike across an alien-like glacial tundra. The landscape is stunning, with a stark, icy panorama that feels otherworldly.
During the hike, you’ll traverse rocky, flat terrain, and then ascend a gentle incline onto the glacier itself. This first portion is around 5 km—for those with reasonable fitness, it’s an accessible walk, but be prepared for cold, wind, and possibly slippery surfaces, especially if the weather is harsh.
The Ice Caves: Sapphire and Bellissimo
The highlight of the tour is exploring two spectacular ice caves. The first stop is the Sapphire Cave, so named for its stunning, deep blue walls. It’s a natural wonder, with light passing through the ice to create a mesmerizing color palette. Your guide will help you navigate safely into the cave, and your photographer will be capturing your awe inside this natural cathedral of ice.
After a break, you’ll gear up for the second cave, Bellissimo, which features phenomenal blue crevasses. This intimate setting offers an almost surreal experience—standing amidst shimmering, crystal-clear ice, surrounded by the quiet majesty of nature. The photos taken in this environment tend to be breathtaking, with visitors often describing their experience as “unimaginable” and “like stepping into a fantasy.”
The Hiking: From Flat Tundra to Glacial Heights
Once inside the caves, the tour continues with a hike across the glacier. This involves a gradual incline of about 20 minutes, covering roughly 5 km in total. The terrain varies from rocky flatlands to glacial ice, and your guide will assist with crampons, ensuring safe footing. The overall hike is rated as easy, but some areas of moderate effort mean you should be comfortable walking on uneven surfaces for extended periods.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Photography: A Keepsake of an Ice Wonderland
What makes this tour distinctive is the professional photography. Your guide/photographer will take around 15 shots per person, including portraits, group shots, and landscapes. The photos will be edited and delivered within 14 days, giving you a lasting memory of your icy adventure. Several reviews mention how much guests appreciate this feature—”the photos are worth the price alone,” one said, praising how they capture the magic of the ice caves.
Practical Details: What to Expect
- Dress appropriately: layers, windproof jackets, gloves, and hats are essential. The environment is windy and cold, even in spring or fall.
- Hiking boots with good ankle support are recommended, but boots are available upon request if you don’t have your own.
- Safety gear such as helmets, harnesses, crampons, and ice axes are provided.
- About 10 km of walking means that comfortable footwear and moderate fitness will make the experience more enjoyable.
- Meeting point is marked by a silver Nissan Patrol with “Ice Pic Journeys” on the side, parked next to the public bathrooms.
The Booking: Flexibility and Conditions
The tour runs October through April, aligning with Iceland’s colder months when ice caves are most accessible. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking is flexible—reserve now, pay later. The private group setting ensures your experience is tailored and intimate.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This adventure suits those aged 10 and above, with a reasonable level of fitness and a love for outdoor activities. It’s not suitable for individuals with mobility issues or very young children. If you’re someone who appreciates stunning natural sights, enjoys a bit of physical activity, and values professional photos of your trip, this tour fits the bill.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
For $540, you’re paying for a full immersive experience—not just sightseeing but truly engaging with Iceland’s icy wonders. The guided hike and ice cave exploration are both accessible and exhilarating, presented with the safety and expertise of professionals. The photo package is an added bonus, giving you tangible memories of a one-of-a-kind landscape.
If you’re looking for an adventure that combines physical activity, natural beauty, and high-quality photos, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially ideal for travelers eager to capture stunning images and who don’t mind bundling up for a chilly day outside.
For those who want to see the real Icelandic ice and come away with more than just pictures in their minds, this is a trip to consider. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances adventure, beauty, and personal keepsakes—a true highlight for anyone visiting Iceland’s northeastern wilderness.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a certified glacier guide, a professional adventure photographer, all glacier and ice cave equipment (helmet, harness, crampons, ice axe), and a 15-shot edited photo package per person.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 10, but younger children aged 8-9 might be considered if accompanied by an adult and if they’re comfortable with outdoor activity.
What should I wear?
Dress in winter layers, including gloves, hats, windproof jackets, and warm clothes. Proper hiking boots with ankle support are recommended; boots can be provided if needed.
Do I need to be fit?
While the overall hike is rated as easy, you should be comfortable walking around 10 km with some moderate inclines.
What is the terrain like?
It involves walking on rocky, flat terrain and glacial ice with some inclines, using crampons for safety on the glacier.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Where do I meet the guide?
Next to a silver Nissan Patrol marked “Ice Pic Journeys,” parked near public bathrooms.
Is this experience available year-round?
It’s available from October to April, aligning with Iceland’s colder months when ice caves are safest and most impressive.
Will my photos be ready quickly?
Yes, all edited photos will be sent within 14 days after the tour.
This private glacier and ice cave tour in Iceland offers a rare glimpse into the island’s icy heart, blending active adventure with breathtaking scenery and memorable photographs. It’s an opportunity to see, walk, and photograph some of the most spectacular natural ice formations in the world—an experience that will stay with you long after you leave Iceland’s icy wilderness.
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