Jokulsarlon, with its floating icebergs and breathtaking glacier scenery, is a must-see for adventurous travelers. While the lagoon itself is stunning, the real highlight is exploring the ice caves hidden inside Vatnajökull. These caves are ever-changing, formed by water melting beneath the glacier in summer and revealing shimmering blue walls. Whether you prefer guided walks, jeep adventures, or professional photography tours, Jokulsarlon offers a range of options to suit different interests and fitness levels. Some tours stand out for their expert guides, like the Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Ice Cave Guided Tour, which has earned glowing reviews for safety and scenery. Others, like the Ice Cave Captured with Professional Photos, combine stunning visuals with personalized photo packages.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top nine tours in Jokulsarlon, comparing what makes each special and helping you choose the best adventure for your trip. From short, safe day trips to longer hikes and private photo sessions, there’s something for every ice enthusiast.
Quick Overview
This list includes a variety of ice cave Tours that differ in scope, style, and price. Some tours focus solely on exploring the blue ice caves inside Vatnajökull, like the From Jokulsarlon: Crystal Ice Cave Vatnajokull Glacier Tour, while others add scenic jeep rides or even photography experiences. There are small-group adventures, private options, and tours that combine glacier hiking with ice cave exploration. Whether you’re after a quick thrill or a comprehensive experience, our top picks below will help you find the right fit.
1. Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Ice Cave Guided Tour
Rated 4.4/5 from nearly 1,872 reviews, this 3-hour guided tour takes you into the dramatic blue depths of Vatnajökull’s ice caves. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a safe, well-organized experience with expert guides. It emphasizes exploring the newest ice caves, which are constantly forming and melting, making each tour unique. The guide will walk you through the formations of Europe’s largest glacier, pointing out the brilliant blue hues and intricate ice structures.
What makes this tour stand out is the balance of adventure and safety — guides like Javier or David ensure you see the most beautiful caves while keeping the group secure. The reviews highlight the “amazing” scenery and the knowledgeable guidance, though some mention the tour felt a bit rushed or crowded. With a price of $164, it offers a solid value considering the expert guidance and access to pristine ice caves. It’s best suited for those comfortable with short hikes and eager to witness the glacier’s magic firsthand.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a straightforward, reliable introduction to Vatnajökull’s ice caves with experienced guides and stunning blue formations. Perfect for first-timers and photo lovers.
2. From Jokulsarlon: Crystal Ice Cave Vatnajokull Glacier Tour
At number 2, the Crystal Ice Cave Vatnajokull Glacier Tour is a favorite for its immersive experience inside one of Europe’s most breathtaking ice caves. Rated 4.4/5 from 1,472 reviews, this 3-hour adventure includes scenic drives in a Super Jeep and visits to Vatnajökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier.
The highlight is stepping into an otherworldly blue world with sculpted ice walls glowing with natural light. The tour’s unique feature is the fully equipped glacier gear, ensuring safety while walking through the icy tunnels. The itinerary involves a scenic drive, photo stops, and guided exploration, making it suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive adventure. Guides like Bernie and Eddie are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Priced at $169, the tour is a bit on the higher end, but the small-group format and excellent scenery justify the cost. It’s best for those who want a mix of scenic driving, glacier hiking, and stunning ice formations.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic tour that combines off-road adventure with breathtaking ice caves, ideal for travelers wanting more than just a walk-in experience.
3. From Jokulsarlon: Vatnajökull Glacier Blue Ice Cave Tour
At number 3, this Vatnajökull Glacier Blue Ice Cave Tour offers a 3-hour journey into the heart of Vatnajökull’s spectacular ice formations. Rated 4.6/5 from 763 reviews, it is praised for the quality of guides and the exclusive experience inside the natural blue ice cave.
What sets this tour apart is the use of a super jeep to access the cave, allowing you to cover more ground and visit a cave inside Europe’s largest glacier. The guide will explain the process of how these caves form and share insights into the glacier’s geology. The emphasis on safety and expert guidance makes this suitable for travelers who want a more intimate, educational experience.
The $170 price includes scenic drives and plenty of time inside the cave to marvel at the ice’s natural beauty. Travelers have noted the stunning formations and the passionate guides, making it a top choice for photography lovers.
Bottom Line: For those who want a safe, informative, and awe-inspiring visit to an ice cave, this tour offers excellent value with a focus on natural beauty and expert guidance.
4. Jökulsára: The Original Ice Cave Tour on Vatnajökull
Rated 4.6/5 from 685 reviews, this Original Ice Cave Tour is operated by Iceland’s glacier-ice cave pioneers. It offers a 3-hour small-group adventure that takes you inside Europe’s biggest ice cave, with the added bonus of expert glacier guides who have four generations of experience.
The tour features a 4×4 modified vehicle to access the cave, making the journey part of the adventure. Guides like Sam and Barbara are renowned for their knowledge and friendly approach, ensuring you get detailed insights into glacier formation and safety tips. The highlight is exploring the blue ice caves, with plenty of time for photos and absorbing the surreal landscape.
At $173, this tour is slightly pricier but is considered worth it for its expertise, safety record, and the chance to see a truly spectacular ice cave that only lasts for one season. It appeals to travelers who want a more personalized, less crowded experience with a focus on quality and safety.
Bottom Line: A top-tier, small-group tour that guarantees a safe and immersive experience inside Vatnajökull’s best ice caves.
5. From Jokulsarlon: Crystal Blue Ice Cave Super Jeep Tour
Number 5 is the Crystal Blue Ice Cave Super Jeep Tour, rated 4.5/5 from 461 reviews. For around 3 hours, you’ll ride in a super jeep through Vatnajökull National Park en route to witness the iconic blue ice cave. This tour features on-foot exploration and is perfect for those who want a combination of scenic drive and hands-on experience inside the glacier.
The itinerary involves a 30-minute drive, a walk into the cave, and scenic stops, making it accessible for most fitness levels. Reviewers mention the “impressive caves” and the professionalism of the guide, with one noting the stunning blue hues as the highlight. The tour’s value lies in its flexibility and focus on personalized experience.
Priced at $166, it provides an exciting, straightforward way to see the ice cave with plenty of photo opportunities. It’s ideal for travelers who want a shorter, action-packed adventure with guaranteed access to a blue ice cave.
Bottom Line: A fun, dynamic tour designed for those who want to combine scenic driving with a close look inside Vatnajökull’s famous blue caves.
6. Iceland: Ice Cave Captured with Professional Photos
Number 6 features a personalized photography experience rated 5/5 from 20 reviews. Led by a professional photographer and glacier guide, this Ice Cave Captured with Professional Photos offers a 3-hour private or small-group outing. It’s perfect for travelers who want beautiful keepsakes of their trip, with the guide capturing high-quality photos throughout.
This tour’s unique selling point is the personalized photo package, making it ideal for those who want professionally taken images along with the ice cave exploration. The guide, Julian, and Indra are praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to capture great shots. The experience includes a Super Jeep ride and plenty of time inside the crystal blue ice cave to take pictures.
At $181 per person, it’s a premium option but offers the benefit of professional photos you’ll cherish forever. Those who value visual memories and want to share high-quality images will find this a worthwhile upgrade.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want to combine ice cave exploration with personalized photo keepsakes in a tailored, private setting.
7. Jökulsárlón: Glacier Hike, Ice Cave, and Photoshoot Package
Number 7 is a more extensive experience rated 5/5 from just 3 reviews, combining a glacier hike, ice cave exploration, and photoshoot. Priced at $436, this 5-hour package is suitable for adventurous travelers eager to combine multiple glacier activities. It involves ice hiking on the glacier, exploring both lower and upper ice caves, and capturing the experience with professional photos.
The tour is ideal for those who want a more immersive experience, including hands-on glacier walking and exploring different cave sections. Guides are highly rated for their expertise and ability to facilitate a safe, enjoyable adventure. The photoshoot ensures you leave with stunning images of your glacier journey.
Because of its length and gear requirements, it’s best suited for travelers with a reasonable fitness level who want a full-day adventure. It’s a high-value experience for those wanting multiple glacier activities in one day.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive glacier adventure for thrill-seekers who want to explore more than just the ice caves.
8. Iceland: Private Ice Cave Captured with Professional Photos
Number 8 is a premium private experience rated 5/5, perfect for couples or small groups. The Private Ice Cave Captured with Professional Photos offers a tailored tour led by a private photographer and glacier guide. The up to 4-person group ensures a personalized, intimate experience, with all the benefits of the professional photo package.
The guided tour includes a scenic Super Jeep Ride, exploring a scenic glacier, and exquisite photo opportunities inside the blue ice cave. The guide’s expertise guarantees a safe, memorable experience, with plenty of time for photos and exploration. This is particularly appealing for those celebrating a special occasion or wanting high-quality images of their trip.
At $1,369 for up to four people, it’s an investment in memories but offers unmatched privacy and customization. Reviewers praise Julian’s guiding and photography skills, making this a top choice for travelers seeking luxury and exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups wanting a private, high-end, photo-focused glacier adventure.
$1,369 per group up to 4
9. Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Glacier Ice Cave Tour by Super Jeep
Finally, the Vatnajökull Glacier Ice Cave Tour by Super Jeep is rated 4.8/5 with a flexible 3-hour duration. It boasts a scenic ride into Vatnajökull National Park, offering the chance to see Eastern or Western Ice Caves depending on conditions.
This tour emphasizes scenic exploration and photo opportunities in a super jeep capable of navigating Iceland’s rugged terrain. The guide’s expertise and the jaw-dropping views make it a solid choice for travelers who want an easy-to-book, flexible adventure that balances scenery with ice cave discovery. The open-ended duration allows for tailored experiences, and the ride itself is a highlight.
Though prices aren’t specified, this tour is known for its well-organized, professional service. It’s excellent for those who value scenic driving and want a flexible, comfortable journey into the glacier’s depths.
Bottom Line: A versatile, scenic tour perfect for travelers who want to combine comfort, flexibility, and glacier exploration in one package.
How to Choose the Best Jokulsarlon Ice Cave Tour
Selecting the right tour depends on your budget, time, fitness level, and interest in photography or glacier hiking. For a reliable, well-organized experience, the Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Ice Cave Guided Tour offers a solid introduction. If you’re eager to capture professional photos and have a private guide, the Ice Cave Captured with Professional Photos is perfect. For a more immersive glacier experience, consider the Glacier Hike, Ice Cave, and Photoshoot Package.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Crystal Ice Cave Vatnajokull Glacier Tour, while those wanting luxury and privacy should look into the private options. Keep in mind that weather conditions can change, so booking early and being flexible with dates helps.
Final Thoughts
Jokulsarlon’s ice caves are among Iceland’s most mesmerizing sights, and there’s a tour suited for nearly every type of traveler. Whether you want a guided walk, a scenic jeep ride, or a professional photography session, the key is choosing an experience that matches your interests and comfort level. A good rule of thumb is to book early — these tours fill quickly, especially in peak winter and summer months. Whatever your choice, prepare to be amazed by the shimmering blue beauty of Vatnajökull’s ice caves.