2026 Ice Cave Conditions in Iceland

Iceland ice cave – conditions and updates of Crystal Blue Ice Caves near Jökulsárlón – January 2026   If you’ve landed on this blog, you’re probably asking the same question many winter travellers are asking right now: What are the crystal blue ice cave conditions in Iceland at the start of 2026? Ice caves in Iceland change every single year — and often multiple times within the same season. Winter 2025–2026 is no exception. Some information online is already outdated, so this is an honest, up-to-date January 2026 overview of current ice cave conditions near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Why You Can Trust This Ice Cave Update We are local glacier guides on Vatnajökull and the first company to offer regular ice cave tours in Iceland. Today, around 30 companies hold permits to operate ice cave tours, and from the outside many of them look very similar. What sets us apart is simple: We adapt daily to glacier conditions to access the best crystal blue ice available We keep our website and Instagram updated with recent photos Safety always comes first On Vatnajökull, flexibility is everything — which is why we always operate with Plan A, Plan B, and Plan C. Ice Cave Conditions in Iceland – January 2026 Are There Big Cathedral-Style Blue Ice Caves Right Now? At the moment, there are no safely accessible large cathedral-style blue ice caves near Jökulsárlón. However — and this is important — this is not a downside. Current Ice Cave Tour Plans on Vatnajökull   Plan A: Smaller Ice Cave and Crystal Blue Glacier Features Instead of one large cave, we are currently visiting: One smaller but stunning ice cave One to two crystal blue glacier features higher up on the glacier To reach them, we include a glacier hike, making this experience more adventurous than a typical winter ice cave tour. Why This Is Actually Better More intense crystal blue ice Brighter and cleaner ice than many deep caves Lower guide-to-client ratio Requires experienced glacier guides Far less foot traffic than standard ice cave routes Many other companies cannot access these locations, resulting in a quieter and more exclusive experience.   Plan B: Edge-of-Glacier Ice Cave (Storm Backup) Winter weather on Vatnajökull can be unpredictable. When storms move in, we may switch to a smaller ice cave located at the edge of the glacier. This area is used by most tour operators, so it is busier, but it still delivers: A genuine ice cave experience A very short walk on the glacier That classic “Iceland ice cave” bucket-list moment Plan C: Glacier Adventure on Falljökull So far this winter, we haven’t needed Plan C. If ice cave access becomes impossible due to conditions, we may offer a glacier experience on Falljökull, closer to Skaftafell National Park. This area often experiences a different weather system and can sometimes allow safe glacier activities when conditions near Jökulsárlón are unsafe. Why Winter 2025–2026 Is Still an Excellent Ice Cave Season Even without massive caves, the quality of crystal blue ice this season has been exceptional. On our full-day Ice Cave Discovery tours in previous years, we often combined ice caves with glacier features — and many guests preferred the features. Why Guests Love Crystal Blue Glacier Features Brighter blue tones More natural light Fewer people A more raw and authentic glacier experience Ice caves can sometimes be dark. Crystal blue glacier features are where Vatnajökull truly shines. Ice Cave History in Iceland: Winter 2025–2026 So Far While our focus has been on crystal blue features, here is a short overview of ice cave developments this season on shorter tours. October 2025 Some larger companies briefly visited a black ice cave. It melted quickly and was only accessible for a short time. October–November 2025 The Atlantis Ice Cave was discovered. At around 70 metres long, it was visually impressive but quite dark in colour, which is why we continued focusing on crystal blue glacier features.The Baby Blue Ice Cave was also discovered — smaller in size, but with good crystal blue ice. December 2025 Heavy rain filled the Atlantis Ice Cave with glacier debris, leading most operators to switch to the Baby Blue Ice Cave. Is an Ice Cave Tour in Iceland Still Worth It in 2026? Absolutely — if you choose the right operator. Local Guide is definitely the most experienced ice cave tour operator in the area for this type of experience. This ice cave season rewards: Flexibility Local glacier knowledge A focus on ice quality rather than cave size If you want to experience the best crystal blue ice Vatnajökull has to offer right now, we’d love to show you what makes this winter special. Check out our Ice Cave Tour and the availability for the upcoming weeks. The timings tends to sell out and may not be available last minute, secure your spot now. OUR RECENT POSTS

Ice Cave Safety: How to See the Best Blue Ice Caves

Ice Cave Safety: How to See the Best Blue Ice Caves Stepping into a shimmering blue ice cave beneath Vatnajökull, Iceland’s biggest glacier, is nothing short of magical. The frozen waves of ice and layers of ash from volcanic eruptions hundreds of years ago make it feel like another world. But as breathtaking as these natural wonders are, natural ice caves are always changing. That’s why Ice Cave Safety in Iceland is more than just a precaution. It is the foundation of every tour we lead at Local Guide of Vatnajökull. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a family with curious kids or a traveler dreaming of finding the best ice cave in Iceland, this guide will show you how we make ice cave safety our highest priority and why choosing the right guides matters. Why Ice Cave Safety Comes First Unlike permanent stone caves, ice caves shift constantly. Melting, collapsing, or cracking can happen because of weather, seasonal temperatures, or glacier movements. Without expert guidance, entering an ice cave in Iceland can be risky. At Local Guide of Vatnajökull, we’ve been guiding visitors into the heart of glaciers since 1991. Over more than 30 years, we’ve learned one simple truth: you can’t enjoy the beauty of an ice cave if you don’t feel safe inside it. That’s why our ice cave safety standards go far beyond the basics. Expert Guides with Professional Training AIMG-Certified Glacier Guides All our guides are highly trained professionals and certified by the Association of Icelandic Mountain Guides (AIMG). This internationally recognised qualification ensures that our guides have completed extensive training courses and tests. They have the technical skills, glacier knowledge and rescue training necessary to lead safe ice cave and glacier tours. We at Local Guide, are meeting with the entire team for training days each season. We expect that our guides are eager to extend their knowledge throughout their careers. This makes our team a powerful combination of different backgrounds, passions and cultures. Our team thrives having different strenghts and working together to be as safe as possible every day of the year. Local Knowledge and Team Decisions Being based in south-east Iceland, we know Vatnajökull and its outlet glaciers inside and out. Our guides don’t have to make all decisions on their own; instead, conditions are evaluated within our team, using the latest information available. If you are planning your road trip in Iceland, save vedur.is, the official website and most reliable weather forecast. At the same time our guides have the responsibility and power to make decisions at any point of your ice cave tour. We avoid any pressure that would compromise safety.  As the weather in Iceland and the conditions on the glacier are always changing – this system ensures the safety for visitors and guides alike.  The Process of Finding the Best Ice Caves Scouting and Evaluating Each autumn, before the ice cave season begins, our team sets out to scout new caves. Because glaciers are always changing, ice caves form and disappear every year.  You have probably heard of some of the famous ice caves and would love to visit them, They are named for example Sapphire Ice Cave, Blue Diamond, Crystal Ice Cave or Sparkle Ice Cave. The ever changing glacier world means that some caves only exist for a few weeks, while others form again and again over multiple years.  Our guides evaluate potential caves they find for safety and accessibility. And if you find a new ice cave, you have the honour to name it. Each cave undergoes strict safety checks by both us at Local Guide and Vatnajökull National Park. Only after passing these comprehensive evaluations for ice cave safety, we consider it for our tours. This careful approach guarantees that when you join an ice cave tour with us, you will experience a cave that is both spectacular and secure. Working Together with Vatnajökull National Park We operate in close cooperation with Vatnajökull National Park, sharing information about daily conditions and always securing the necessary permits before tours. Ice cave safety is getting more attention every year, which we fully support. Also off-road driving is illegal in Iceland, so our 4×4 vehicles follow established tracks in line with park regulations. This protects the fragile nature around the glacier and ensures sustainable access. Ice Cave Equipment: What Keeps You Safe When you join one of our tours, you’ll be equipped with high-quality gear designed to keep you safe on the glacier and inside the ice caves: Helmet (mandatory on all tours, both in caves and on the glacier) Crampons or microspikes, depending on surface conditions Headlamps needed in the winter time Harnesses on selected tours we recommend hiking boots over the ankle (rental available) Our guides regularly check all equipment and help you with the fitting. So you are ready to explore an Ice Cave in Iceland! Inside the Ice Cave: What to Expect Our most popular Ice Cave Tour lasts around 3–4 hours and includes a short hike to the main ice cave of the season. This tour is ideal for someone looking for an easy experience and introduction to the glacier world. If no suitable Ice Cave is available, we pride ourselves on honest communication with our guests and let you know the alternatives like beautiful blue surface features on the glacier. These canyon like blue glacier walls are often underrated and end up being the highlight of many Iceland trips. As a family orientated company we happily welcome children on our tours. Depending on the conditions we offer this as a private tour to ensure the safety of our smallest explorers. Therefore all children need to be old enough to hike themselves and follow the ice cave safety regulations. Our guides often share fascinating insights into the formation of glaciers and the unique geology of Vatnajökull. Our tours offer more than just a chance to see the ice cave; they provide a deeper understanding and appreciation for these natural wonders. For

Blue Ice Iceland: Honest Guide to the Best Tour

See Blue Ice Iceland without a cave: honest current ice cave conditions, safe guided hike on Vatnajökull & how to book your Blue Ice Glacier Tour.

Blue Ice Glacier Tour – Safe & Unique Winter Adventure

blue ice glacier tour Safe & Unique Winter Adventure​! A half day glacier hike that allows you to experience the stunning blue ice on Vatnajökull with our small group tour! January & February Ice Cave Update Glaciers are alive — always moving, shifting, and reshaping themselves with the seasons. After an unusually warm summer followed by heavy rainfall at the end of September, Vatnajökull has changed significantly. Followed by warm winter, it has not been possible to safely access big ice caves we were used to from the past seasons. For this reason, we are currently offering the Blue Ice Glacier Tour as the best and safest way to experience natural blue ice on a half-day adventure. But the magic of the blue ice hasn’t gone anywhere. On this tour, you’ll step directly onto the glacier with our experienced local guides to discover vivid blue ice formation as well as breathtaking views of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon from a side few visitors ever get to see. Because the glacier and its conditions change daily, we work closely with the National Park to ensure that every tour explores the most beautiful and safe areas available at the time. This means the experience can look very different just a few days from now. All the photos you see on this page are recent and taken by our team, so you know exactly what to expect. Please note: in our booking system, the name “Ice Cave Tour” is still displayed. At this time, this refers to the ~4h Blue Ice Glacier Tour. What if conditions change or the weather is not optimal? As the most experienced travel operator in the area we have always few alternatives listed and we make sure to choose the best and the safest experience for our clients. You can read examples of current possibilities in our recent blog. We always want to be as transparent with our clients as possible, making sure that we share the recent updates from the glacier in full honesty. Why Blue Ice Instead of an Ice Cave? Most natural ice caves in Iceland form during autumn, when glacial rivers carve tunnels and caverns under the ice. These caves are wonders of nature, but they are also temporary and fragile. Flooding, rainfall, snowfall, or even rockfall can make them unsafe or inaccessible overnight. At the moment, no main blue ice cave for a half day Ice Cave Tour is safely accessible. While some caves do exist deeper in the glacier, they require a demanding full-day hike and cannot be part of the standard Ice Cave Tour. That’s why we are offering the Blue Ice Glacier Tour: a proper 4km winter glacier hike where you are guaranteed to see blue ice features. The formations we visit are seasonal and striking, glowing with incredibly blue ice. Each day, our guides adapt to the conditions to find the best and safest areas to explore. What You Can Expect on the Blue Ice Glacier Tour Your adventure begins with a 30-minute ride in our modified 4×4 vehicles. Our 4×4 adventure is followed by a 1 km approach hike on gravel to the glacier’s edge. From there, you’ll step onto the ice and start your glacier hike. The total hike is about 4.2 km round trip. On this tour, you’ll: See vivid blue ice formation Enjoy views of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon from a rarely visited side Spend more time on the ice than in previous seasons, learning glacier walking skills along the way Gain around 60–70 m in elevation as you hike up the glacier to about 260 m above sea level, making this a moderate hike Most of the tour duration goes into getting to the glacier, learning how to use the glacier gear and putting it up and hiking on the glacier to the crystal blue feature, due to the smaller sizes we spend only a short part of the tour surrounding by the blues.  Because the features we explore are located further up the outlet glacier, you’ll be fully equipped with helmet, crampons, and harness. Your guide will show you how to put on your crampons, explain glacier walking techniques, and introduce safety basics for being on ice. Every tour is different: the glacier is alive and constantly changing, so the experience is always unique. You will have plenty of opportunities to take beautiful photos and videos. Tour Details SEASON: WINTER DURATION: 3.5-4.5H BLUE GLACIER FEATURE MEETING POINT: JÖKULSÁRLÓN EASY/MODERATE 4×4 MODIFIED CARS CARBON NEUTRAL MIN. AGE: 10 YEARS OLD SEASON: WINTER DURATION: 3.5-4.5H BLUE GLACIER FEATURE MEETING POINT: JÖKULSÁRLÓN EASY/MODERATE 4×4 MODIFIED CARS CARBON NEUTRAL MIN. AGE: 10 YEARS OLD book now Please note: in our booking system, the name “Ice Cave Tour” is still displayed. At this time, this refers to the ~4h Blue Ice Glacier Tour. Please enable javascript in your browser to book Duration: around 4 hours Distance: approx. 4.2 km (2.6miles) hike. Activity level: moderate – suitable for anyone with fitness for a regular hike. Elevation gain: 60–70 m up to ~260 m above sea level. Experience required: none – no prior glacier experience is needed. Included: all necessary glacier gear (helmet, crampons, headlight, harness, as needed). What to bring: very warm layers, waterproof and windproof outer shell, hat, gloves, and sturdy over-the-ankle hiking boots. Safety First – Always At Local Guide of Vatnajökull, safety is our number one priority. Our glacier guides are highly trained professionals who monitor conditions daily, work closely with Vatnajökull National Park, and adapt routes to ensure every tour is both secure and enjoyable. This tour is a unique opportunity  in the area at this time of year. As it includes a longer glacier hike and reaches blue ice features higher up the outlet, we use a full set of glacier safety equipment. This means you can expect a duration of around 4 hours these days instead of the originally anticipated 2.5–3 hours. While the famous main ice caves like Sparkle Ice Cave, Sapphire Ice Cave, Crystal

Ice Cave in April 2025

Ice Cave in April 2025 – what to expect If you’ve ever searched for winter activities in Iceland, chances are you’ve seen stunning photos of blue ice caves—incredible natural ice formations that look almost unreal.. Over the past few years, ice cave photography has exploded in popularity, but with so many jaw-dropping images online, it can be tricky to know what to expect, especially when visiting later in the season. Let’s break it down. Most ice caves in Iceland form naturally during winter when glacial rivers carve tunnels, caverns, and crevices beneath the ice. No two caves are alike. They constantly change with the weather, and you might find anything from crystal-clear blue walls to streaks of volcanic ash or trapped air bubbles frozen in time. These caves are wonders of nature—but they’re also living, shifting structures. In this post, we’re offering a closer look at what it’s like to visit an ice cave in April. Conditions can be quite different from mid-winter, so we’re sharing up-to-date insights into the cave we’re currently guiding our guests to—what it looks like, how it’s changing, and what you can realistically expect during this time of year. So, what about visiting an ice cave in April? While most natural ice caves are typically open from October through March, early April often still offers access to some beautiful formations—if conditions allow. At this time of year, the glacier is transitioning into spring, and that means daily changes. Warmer temperatures can affect the size and stability of the caves, which is why our team monitors them every single day. The cave we usually explore in April ranges between 30 and 100 meters in size, consistent with most caves found in this region. It’s still a magical experience—just with a little more variation from day to day. Safety is our top priority. We never compromise when it comes to your well-being. All tours are guided by experienced glacier professionals who constantly evaluate the caves and conditions to ensure that you get the best—and safest—experience possible. If you’re planning to visit around Easter in 2025, be aware that this is a popular time for travelers. Increased traffic in the area means accommodations and tour slots fill up faster than usual, and roads and parking lots can get busier too. It’s also important to know that our meeting point at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon—one of the most iconic and visited locations in Iceland—can become especially crowded during the Easter holidays. Be sure to allow extra travel time and arrive early, especially if you’re planning a morning tour. Whether you’re captivated by deep blue ice or fascinated by the raw power of Iceland’s glaciers, visiting an ice cave in April is still a breathtaking adventure. Just remember: nature doesn’t follow a script—but with the right guides, you’ll get to see the very best of what it has to offer. As you may know, ice caves form in a constantly changing glacial environment, shaped by the movement of ice and shifts in temperature throughout the season. With the recent arrival of warmer weather—something that naturally happens later in winter—the structure of the cave has changed. This is a normal part of how glaciers behave. For safety reasons, a section of the cave is now temporarily closed off, and we are currently guiding visitors through a stable section that reflects the typical size range for caves in this area. Ice caves here generally vary between 30 to 100 meters in length, and the one we’re exploring right now fits well within that range. We want to be fully transparent while also assuring you that the section of the cave currently open to us remains impressive. The deep blue tones, the layered textures, and the natural patterns in the ice continue to draw interest and appreciation from both guests and guides. It’s a remarkable opportunity to experience how active and alive a glacier really is—even in early spring. You’ve probably come across names like the Crystal Ice Cave, Treasure Island Ice Cave, or more recently, the Sapphire Ice Cave while researching tours in this part of Iceland. These caves have become quite well-known thanks to stunning photos shared online—and yes, they really are beautiful! However, it’s important to keep in mind that glaciers are constantly changing, and so are the caves that form within them. The cave you see in a photo from last year might not exist in the same way this season, or at all. That’s the nature of ice caves—they’re temporary, and no two are ever exactly alike. Before the season kicks off in October, we make sure our guests experience the most spectacular ice cave available at the time of their visit. Our local guides begin scouting in early autumn. They explore vast areas of the glacier, climbing down into openings and inspecting every promising spot. Thanks to their hard work and experience, we’re able to offer some of the best ice cave tours on the southern side of Vatnajökull Glacier, tailored to the actual conditions each season. While we can’t guarantee that the pictures you’ve seen will be an exact match, we can promise a breathtaking and safe adventure into the ever-changing world of glacial ice.  Throughout the season, the appearance of the cave changes, and by the end of the season, we often see very different shapes and colors. In many cases, parts of the cave may change completely—or even become inaccessible, as is the case right now OUR RECENT POSTS

WHY ICELAND IN APRIL IS A HIDDEN GEM

WHY ICELAND IN APRIL IS A HIDDEN GEM April in Iceland is a quiet kind of magic. It’s a time when winter still lingers in the highlands, but spring is beginning to stretch its legs in the lowlands. In South Iceland, that means long daylight hours, fewer crowds, cheaper travel options, and some of the best opportunities to explore both glaciers and ice caves. If you’re thinking about a Glacier Hike from Freysnes or an Ice Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón, April is the sweet spot to be able to do both. But there are more reasons on why Iceland in April should be at the top of your travel list. Why Visit Iceland in April? Fewer Tourists, More Nature Iceland in April sits just before the start of the country’s high tourist season. That means you get the natural beauty without the big crowds. Glacier lagoons, black sand beaches, and hiking trails feel more peaceful, more personal. Better Prices Since it’s still considered the off-season, you’ll often find better deals on accommodation, car rentals, and flights. Whether you’re road-tripping along the South Coast or staying near Vatnajökull National Park, your krónur will go further. Easier Booking and More Flexibility Popular glacier and ice cave tours still operate in April, but with more availability. You can plan with less stress and sometimes even book spontaneously if the weather looks good. Iceland in April offers just enough flexibility to allow spontaneous travelers to enjoy top activities. A Taste of Spring Many seasonal accommodations, cafes, and museums that close during the deep winter begin reopening in April. It’s a refreshing mix of winter charm and spring opportunity. One of the great joys of visiting Iceland in April is seeing the local scene come back to life after the long, dark winter. Northern Lights? Still Possible! While daylight is increasing, you can still spot the aurora in early April, especially on clear nights. The long evenings allow for a full day of adventure followed by a chance to catch the northern lights dancing over the glacier. If catching the aurora is still on your list, Iceland in April gives you one last window before the midnight sun season begins.   Weather and Daylight in April What to Expect Temperatures in South Iceland in April usually range from 0°C to 7°C (32–45°F). The weather can change quickly, shifting from sun to rain to light snow in a single day. Wind is always a factor. Long Days Are Back By mid-April, the sun rises before 6:30 AM and sets after 8:30 PM. That gives you 14+ hours of daylight to explore the region at a relaxed pace. For photographers or outdoor enthusiasts, Iceland in April delivers more daylight and golden hour moments than earlier winter months. How to Dress Layer up. A thermal base layer, warm mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell are essential. Don’t forget gloves, a hat and good hiking shoes. Tours with Local Guide provide glacier gear like crampons and helmets for you, so you don’t need to worry about packing them. Is It Safe to Drive in South Iceland in April? Yes — with a little awareness. Route 1 (the Ring Road) is typically clear and well-maintained in the South. Still, snow or ice can occasionally appear, especially early in the month or at higher elevations.   Tips for Safe Driving: – Rent a 4×4 vehicle for more flexibility. – Check road.is for road conditions. – Watch the weather via vedur.is . – Use safetravel.is for updates and alerts. Driving in Iceland in April gives you more freedom to explore at your own pace, and with fewer tour buses on the road, stops like waterfalls or viewpoints are calmer and easier to enjoy. Just keep an eye on conditions, and you’ll be treated to some of the best views of the year. 5 Must-Do April Adventures Near Vatnajökull 1. Glacier Hike from Freysnes April is one of the best times for glacier hiking. Conditions are still wintry enough for dramatic blue ice features, but the longer days and (slightly) milder temperatures make the experience more comfortable. Join a guided glacier hike with Local Guide of Vatnajökull to explore the Falljökull glacier outlet. Expect towering icefalls, deep crevasses, and the chance to learn about how climate and geology shape these icy giants. Hikes are suitable for most active adults and families. If you’re looking for something unique to do in Iceland in April, walking on Europe’s largest glacier should be at the top of your list.   2. Ice Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón April is your last chance of the season to visit natural ice caves. As temperatures rise into May, the caves become unstable and eventually close for the summer. Our ice cave tours from Jökulsárlón are led by expert glacier guides who scout and monitor cave conditions daily. Safety comes first, but photography is always a big part of the experience. The contrast of blue ice, volcanic ash layers, and filtered daylight is simply unforgettable. Iceland in April still holds onto its icy magic — and an ice cave tour is the most immersive way to experience it.   3. Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach A trip to South Iceland isn’t complete without seeing the surreal floating icebergs at Jökulsárlón. In April, you can often catch them gliding through the lagoon or washing up on nearby Diamond Beach, where they sparkle against the black sand. With fewer people around, sunrise and sunset visits are especially magical. Keep an eye out for seals lounging on the ice or swimming near the shore. This natural wonder is one more reason why Iceland in April is so rewarding for nature lovers. 4. Explore Skaftafell National Park Part of Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell is home to a variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels. From short walks to Svartifoss waterfall to longer routes with glacier viewpoints, the area is a dream for nature lovers. In April, trails are generally accessible, though some

Things to do in Iceland in April and May

Things to do in Iceland in April and May Are you traveling to Iceland in April or May and you are now thinking about what to do and where to go? Hopefully this post will be a good guideline for you and your travel buddies who probably expect to experience some outstanding views in not yet so crowded places. Historically, April and May have been the months where we can catch a little bit of a break between the most busy travel months here in Iceland. People love to fly to Iceland during the wintertime when it is possible to spend long evenings haunting Northern Lights and exploring the ice caves during the days where daylight is so limited. On the other hand we have summer, where travelers can enjoy the midnight sun and drive around Iceland without getting much darkness. These two most busy time periods in Icelandic tourism can sometimes lead to an overwhelming crowd in places where we would dream about being all alone…  Sometimes the solution could be to book the flight outside these busy time frames and aim for an early spring to visit Iceland instead. April days are already becoming so much longer which makes driving more enjoyable without a doubt. Still, you will be often lucky enough to get to see the Northern Lights dancing in the sky in the late evenings. On top of that, you will also likely be able to visit an ice cave, as many tour operators are able to extend their winter season by at least 3-4 weeks if weather conditions allow. Thinking of the weather – the temperatures will go up and some days you may already get a few lovely sunny days with a few degrees above 0. If not windy, you may already feel like summer is already here! If you love hiking and you came to Iceland to experience some amazing hikes – you will still be able to do quite a few good ones during April and May, but it is unlikely you will be able to access the most popular areas in the Highlands.  During this time you will have some easy day hikes available already close to Reykjavík as well as in other places in Iceland. Most important is to always follow the weather forecast and road.is during your travels in Iceland as the conditions can change from very good ones to quite harsh relatively quickly. Feel free to explore our guides including day hikes from Reykjavík and the activities to do in southeast Iceland. These should be definitely available to do when you travel to Iceland in the springtime. If you have never before visited a glacier and you are so thrilled on seeing all these mesmerizing shapes and colors of ice – make sure to travel all the way to southeast Iceland to experience some of the best glacier outlets in the area. At this time of a year, it is unlikely to experience big crowds and taking a tour for a glacier hike would probably be one of the highlights of your time in Iceland. As one of the oldest companies in the area, we at Local Guide offer three different types of glacier tours in the Vatnajökull area. For people who may not like to spend much time on the tour or for those who simply want to just to try to step on the glacier for a limited time, our Glacier Encounter may be the best option. It is a 2.5h total duration tour where we spend 1-1,5h hiking on the ice. It is a perfect opportunity also for families with kids to enjoy some quality time in completely different surroundings. It is definitely one of a kind experience to be exploring the glacier in Iceland. 2 other options are a little more adventurous. One will include a longer glacier hike (up to 3h on the ice) and another tour would offer you to try glacier climbing. Our Glacier Discovery tour is a 4 hour long activity and it will allow you to experience one of the most stunning views of Falljökull glacier, while the Glacier Ice Climbing tour will provide you with an experience you will never forget. Not everyday you are having an opportunity to climb ice walls, right? If you are already in the area, make sure to not miss the stop in Glacier Lagoon Jökulsálón with stunning icebergs floating in the glacier lake as well as the Vatnajökull National Park with some amazing hiking trails varying in difficulty. After all these glacier related activities, probably the other must see spots in Iceland would include a few of the iconic waterfalls, cliffs and visits to the National Parks. Make sure you plan your itinerary by stopping by all the famous spots on the South Coast, including the waterfalls Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss and black sand beach Reynisfjara in Vík. It’s definitely great to plan also one day exploring the Golden Circle area with a visit to Þingvellir National Park as well as a day trip to Snæfellsness peninsula filled with  stunning views. And after all these adventures, make sure to add to your daily itineraries visits to thermal pools and hot springs areas.There is nothing better than pursuing self care and relaxation after long days on the road! When exploring any area in Iceland make sure to check also if there are any interesting hot springs and thermal pools around you. In recent years, Iceland has launched a few amazing thermal pools around the country with some unique architectural solutions and beautiful designs. Still, if you want to experience a pure nature, you may be lucky to get to soak in some more remote locations with no one around you.  Check out this map to see the hot springs in the entire country. OUR RECENT POSTS

How to avoid crowds when visiting the Ice Caves

How to avoid crowds when visiting the Ice Caves Everybody loves the photos of blue ice caves. And in most of these photos you will not see any crowds in the caves. Truth is there are times in the winter where many people will visit the ice caves at the same time, making it trickier to get that perfect shot and the experience you were looking for. We have a few tips for you on how to avoid crowds and make your Ice Cave Tour even more memorable. Travel in the low season. November and the beginning of December are a great time to beat the crowds not only in the ice caves but also in Iceland in general. You will find fewer people everywhere because there are more sights that can get very busy. It is easier to find accommodation and consider traveling not just the famous routes but see if there are more remote areas you can reach during your holiday in Iceland.  Choose a local company to take you to the ice caves. They will have the most experience where and when to take you for the best ice cave tour. Smaller group sizes are a great way to have less people around you. Timing matters so ice cave tour operators like Local Guide of Vatnajökull schedule their departure times around other companies. Going early or late not only gives you more time in the rest of the day to explore, but it also means you are not there at the same time as others. Stay in the area a bit longer and consider a full day tour. When you are up for a bit more hiking, a longer tour can take you to more remote ice caves. Many travelers are rushed and want to just check a visit to the ice cave off their bucket list. Look through your options and find a tour like the Ice Cave Discovery that goes the extra mile. Ask how the bookings are, on the day you want to travel, and see if there is a time that we can recommend to you. Read through some of the recent reviews on popular sides like Google and TripAdvisor. You will get a great overview on how people are feeling about the tour you want to book. Also check out the social media channels of a company and see if they either have some posts and stories of the ice cave or if they can send you some, so you can understand better what the ice cave and the conditions are like. Take a private tour. Even on private tours nobody can promise you to have the ice cave to yourself. But there are different options to avoid crowds on a private tour. Reach out to see what tour would suit you and your wishes best. Private tours can be scheduled even earlier or later in the day. Working with the limited daylight in the wintertime, you might want to start your tour at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in the darkness, so you will be at the ice cave when others are just getting out of bed or in the afternoon working around the magical blue hour. If you choose a private tour, another great perk is, to have the guide just for you so no other people in your group want to keep going while you are still getting your perfect shot. On a private tour it sometimes is possible to spend more time in the ice cave. While public groups are coming and going you can wait for the sweet moment in between when you have the cave almost to yourself. Ice caves are a unique experience. They are different every winter and every week. Instead of getting annoyed at the other people in the ice cave – consider they are travelers, just like you, being able to have this once in a lifetime experience exploring a natural ice cave. OUR RECENT POSTS

Can I visit the ice cave on my own

Can I visit the ice cave on my own This time we decided to invite one of our guide to give us her own perspective on the whole ice cave hunting idea when in Iceland. Happy reading! Can I visit the ice cave on my own? I know how it feels when your inner Indiana Jones wants to go to the deepest parts of Iceland with NO OTHER people. I understand but let me tell you how it really is with all ice caves. Long time ago, someone saw how blue and magnetic glaciers are and since the first post on Instagram, we are dealing with a syndrome called: “NeedToGoOnTheGlacierItIsSoBeautiful”. Wanting to share the beauty of Icelandic nature and trying to have less rescue missions, we started tours to dangerous but beautiful places, making them look so easy. But they aren’t. Why would you like to go on your own? I guess it is because you want to see how far you can get on a rental car, avoid big groups in the cave and maybe save a bit of money (hey if there is any other reason, let me know, that could be a great talk)? Let’s start with a car. Getting to any ice cave is a challenge. We are going to the most beautiful and probably easiest to reach and still we are using super jeeps. Which are fun and necessary – unless you can drive very precisely, however that won’t help if there is snow and ice on the road…. Money? If ANYTHING happens to your rental car on a road like that, your trip becomes MUCH more expensive than a tour. You also have a teeny-tiny chance that any super jeep will help since there are some insurance issues. You would be on your own (as you wanted). Avoiding big groups. Honestly, the cave is popular, this is why you are reading this article, and I’m not surprised! It is amazing!  Are there any less popular but awesome caves? Yes, there are but first of all we don’t know about them or it takes forever to get near them (for some you need a helicopter ride). But if you book a tour with a small operator like us, I can guarantee you, we will do everything to give you some alone time in the cave. I’m a guide, trust me I also don’t like crowds. “Hey! I have seen this huge cave, I could see it from the road! Let’s go!” Well if there is no one going, there is a reason for it. It is not easy to find a good cave – a lot of them are not blue (plenty are just black because of how much ash and rocks we can have on the glaciers). So if you think you found a holy grail of ice caves just for yourself – don’t go (especially if you have never done things like that before). You also need plenty of equipment too.. Many of them are not safe. The structure of the ice is different depending on: movement of glacier, level of water inside, where the cave is situated. Approaching the cave might be a problem, in general approaching glaciers you need to be aware of rock falls, ice falls, sinkholes, quicksands – no, I’m not joking. Some of the caves are not safe due to volcanic activities in the area like possible earthquakes (just now one of the ice caves got closed for that reason!).  Basically getting on the glacier or into the glacier needs preparation and I mean more than watching a series of youtube videos. I could go on and on about glaciers and how much respect they need from us. But instead let’s talk about solutions. If you want to see a cool ice cave just book a tour. Guides know the area, we know how to get there and when it is not safe to go. The Ice Cave you will see is safe because we take care of it, we know it well and we see the changes. Don’t be silly, take a guide! The Icelandic Civil Protection is strongly advising to not visit glaciers on your own. To be aware. We believe in Iceland that people have equal rights to nature (unless it is private land, then no). Rather relying on stiff rules we believe in natural selection. While driving around Iceland, you will meet some other people. That makes everyone feel like you are gonna be ok even if something will happen. There are all topless vikings waiting to come to you on jet boats or other helicopters. You are right BUT you need to let them know – many places and especially glaciers, don’t have reception. Even if they know where you are it will take hours and I mean HOURS. We are doing our best but Iceland is the place with more sheep than people – resources are limited. Weather wise? Don’t do silly things. ALWAYS check road.is and vedur.is to make sure it is safe to drive. OUR RECENT POSTS

Camping in Iceland

Camping in Iceland No matter if you are travelling on a budget in Iceland or if you want to experience the social media hype of Vanlife – camping in Iceland is very popular. Tourists and Icelanders alike love camping, especially during the summer months. Carrying your home for the night with you gives you so much more flexibility than pre booked hotels and being spontaneous is what Iceland is all about. To make the best of your camping  in Iceland we have some easy-to-follow tips for you. First question is usually is a camper or a tent better in Iceland. While that completely depends on where you are going you should consider a few factors: If you are planning on multi day hikes your best choice will be a lightweight tent. However, with the strong wind gusts even in the summertime you want a high-quality tent and a good sleeping bag. It can get very cold at night all year around and there is nothing worse than not being able to sleep. Sleeping in a tent in the winter is rather uncomfortable and not recommended. Many campers come with an inbuilt heater and kitchen unit. While you don‘t have to worry about your camper ripping apart in the wind, it might not always be safe to drive a bulky car during a storm. And those flying rocks can take your windows out or you off the road. Always check road.is and safetravel.is and you won‘t miss any weather warnings and follow the advice of authorities and locals and don‘t drive on closed roads. Once you park your camper for the night, park with the nose into the wind so you don‘t get motion sick by the shaking of the car if the wind picks up in the night. Is wild camping allowed in Iceland? The easy answer is no. Never in a camper and only in very rare circumstances if you are hiking with a tent in some rural areas of Iceland. The rules about that are so complicated it‘s best to never risk it. Campsites are all over the country and have usually very good facilities and nice spots to park a camper or tent. Campsites are way cheaper than any hotel or any fee for wild camping. You can find many campsites on https://tjalda.is . Usually there is no need to reserve a campsite in advance but during the summertime or on the long holiday weekends of the summer you might want to call ahead to see if they have a spot for you. Most towns have a campsite, but it is worth also checking a little bit off the ring road for a quieter spot. On the other hand, busy campsites give you a new chance every day to meet fellow travelers and Icelanders alike and spend a nice evening together at a bonfire (if allowed). There is no question about following the rules of the campsite, respecting nature, and paying for the fee if requested even at an unmanned campsite. Not all campsites are open all year around. In the wintertime it can get trickier to find a place for the night with open facilities. However, if the campsite is open but the facilities closed, it often is cheaper than during the summer months. Offroad driving is strictly prohibited in Iceland even in uninhabited parts of the country. This is to protect the very fragile environment that you might not even notice but off-roading is heavily fined and despised. You are in Iceland already and you are missing some equipment for your camping adventure? Check out places that rent out camping equipment or check some second hand stores. You can get gas for a cooker at most gas stations or support some of the local restaurants if you are not feeling like cooking every night. If you keep these points in mind for your camping trip in Iceland, we are sure you will be a happy camper and remember even though your time in Iceland is limited on a holiday – the places you have not been to yet are just another reason to visit Iceland again! OUR RECENT POSTS