Gullfoss: Ice Cave and Glacier Tour in Glacier Monster Truck

Imagine cruising across the Icelandic Highlands on a massive, bright red monster truck—the kind that looks like something straight out of a movie—heading towards a glacier with stunning landscapes all around. This 4-hour tour from the iconic Gullfoss waterfall takes you into the heart of Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier, with stops that include a guided ice cave visit, scenic drives, and plenty of photo opportunities. The tour costs around $170 per person and is perfect for those looking for an active, scenic adventure with a touch of thrill.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the unique monster trucks — built for Iceland’s rough terrain — make the ride not only comfortable but also exhilarating, offering panoramic windows that frame every breathtaking vista. Second, the ice cave visit offers a chance to see layers of volcanic ash frozen into blue ice, whispering tales of Iceland’s fiery past. These features combine to create an experience that’s both visually stunning and genuinely authentic.

A key consideration? Weather conditions can affect the ice cave visit, and in some cases, the cave may be closed for safety reasons. While this is a rare occurrence, it’s worth noting that an alternative activity—like sledding, golf, or enjoying hot cocoa—may replace the cave experience if needed. This flexibility ensures the tour can still deliver a memorable day, even if the ice cave isn’t accessible.

This tour is well-suited for adventure lovers, photo enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to see the Icelandic wilderness from a new perspective. Families with children over 4 years old will find it engaging, especially thanks to the smooth ride and spectacular scenery. If you enjoy learning from friendly guides and want a comfortable, scenic journey with an element of excitement, this trip is a fantastic choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Unusual Transport: Riding in a bright red monster truck adds a fun, adventurous touch to the glacier tour.
Authentic Experience: Visiting a natural ice cave, with layers of volcanic ash frozen in the ice, offers a glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic history.
Scenic Drives: The route through the highlands, including Kjölur and Skalpanes, provides sweeping views of Iceland’s rugged landscape.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share stories and facts that bring the landscape and history to life.
Photo Opportunities: From ice formations to glacier vistas, you’ll find plenty of chances to capture memories.
Weather Dependence: Ice cave visits depend on weather conditions, but alternative activities keep the day exciting.

A Thorough Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure kicks off in the upper Gullfoss waterfall parking lot, where the distinctive Sleipnir trucks await. The meeting point is convenient, located opposite Gullfoss Kaffi, and it’s best to arrive around 11:45 AM. From there, a highland bus shuttles you into the Icelandic wilderness, a ride that’s part scenic journey itself.

The bus ride is comfortable and offers a preview of the rugged terrain you’ll explore. It’s also an important part of the experience, as the route crosses highland tracks—potholed, snowy, and wild—that are a thrill in their own right.

The Monster Truck Ride

Once at the base, you’ll board a massive, custom-built monster truck. These trucks, designed for Iceland’s icy, uneven highlands, feature enormous tires and panoramic windows, giving you an unobstructed view of the surreal landscape. The ride itself is smooth, despite the rough terrain, and provides a sense of adventure without sacrificing comfort.

Guides share fascinating facts about glaciers, explaining how they form, move, and influence Iceland’s landscape. As you rumble across snowfields and rocky outcrops, you’ll get a real feel for the raw power of nature.

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Scenic Highland Drive

The drive along Kjölur and Skalpanes routes showcases some of the most stark and stunning scenery in Iceland. Expect wide-open vistas, rugged mountains, and perhaps even glimpses of hidden waterfalls. It’s a reminder of how remote and untouched the Icelandic interior is.

The Ice Cave Experience

The highlight for many is the ice cave, a surreal world of shimmering blue ice layered with black volcanic ash. The guide leads you inside the glacier, where you can walk among these frozen formations and learn about their geological history.

Reviews highlight the spectacle of the ice cave and the knowledgeable guides who bring it to life. One traveler noted, “The guide kept us interested with stories and history,” emphasizing the value of expert commentary. Unfortunately, weather conditions may sometimes prevent access to the cave, but the tour often offers a substitute activity—like sledding or playing golf—ensuring your day remains full of Icelandic fun.

Photo Stops and Free Time

Throughout the tour, you’ll find multiple opportunities to snap pictures—from shimmering ice formations to expansive glacier views. The 15-minute break at Langjökull lets you stretch and take in the landscape, while the 45-minute walk and guided exploration offers a chance to get closer to the ice and terrain.

Final Scenic Drive and Return

The journey back is just as scenic, offering different perspectives on the landscape. The entire round-trip is carefully paced to balance sightseeing, comfort, and adventure, wrapping up back at the original meeting point.

The Value of This Experience

At $170 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. You’re getting transportation in specialized vehicles, a guided glacier and ice cave visit, and the chance to see one of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes. The inclusion of crampons and WiFi adds practical value, making sure you’re prepared and connected during your adventure.

While the ice cave visit can be weather-dependent, reviews suggest that even in less-than-ideal conditions, the tour remains worthwhile. Travelers praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides, acknowledging that the scenic drive and glacier views alone make the trip memorable.

Why It’s Worth Considering

If you’re after a combination of scenic driving, adventure, and educational value, this tour hits all those marks. The monster trucks make the journey fun and comfortable, even for those who might be wary of traditional mountain vehicles. Plus, if you’re a photography enthusiast, the stunning landscapes and icy formations will keep your camera busy.

Who Might Not Love It?

This experience isn’t ideal if you’re seeking a rigorous or physically demanding excursion—the walking is limited, and the focus is on sightseeing. Also, if weather conditions are poor, the ice cave might be closed, which could diminish part of the appeal for some.

Final Thoughts

This Gullfoss Ice Cave and Glacier Tour is a well-rounded, authentic Icelandic adventure. It combines thrilling transportation, breathtaking scenery, and informative guides, making it a great choice for those wanting to see glaciers without a strenuous hike or complicated planning. The comfort of the monster trucks paired with the chance to walk inside a frozen ice world makes this a memorable outing.

While weather can sometimes limit the ice cave experience, the tour’s flexible approach ensures you still enjoy the essence of Iceland’s icy wilderness. If you’re curious about glaciers, love scenic drives, or want a fun, family-friendly adventure, this tour offers excellent value for money and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 4 years old are welcome. The ride is smooth, and the overall experience is engaging for families.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and the ice cave visit.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly in layers, bring sunglasses, a camera, and waterproof shoes—the weather can be cold and wet.

What happens if the ice cave is closed?
Weather conditions sometimes prevent access. In that case, the tour offers an alternative activity like sledding, golf, or enjoying hot cocoa inside.

Is WiFi available during the tour?
Yes, WiFi is provided on board the monster truck, so you can share your photos or stay connected.

Are there any age restrictions?
The minimum age is 4 years old. There are no specific maximum age restrictions, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with a scenic ride.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve ahead, especially during peak times, but you can pay later to keep your plans flexible.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transfer, guided glacier tour, ice cave visit, crampons, restroom access, and WiFi.

How scenic is the drive?
The highland routes are incredibly scenic, with wide-open vistas, rugged terrain, and mountain views—perfect for photography and just soaking in Iceland’s natural beauty.

This tour offers a solid mix of adventure, scenery, and education, making it ideal for those wanting to experience Iceland’s glaciers in a fun, memorable way. Whether you’re there for the stunning landscapes, unique transportation, or learning from expert guides, this trip delivers a well-rounded, quality experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: