Snapshot: The mesmerizing Blue Ice Caves in Iceland

Illuminating a deep glistening blue, rippling through a tunnel until it disappears in the far end, the Blue Ice Caves in Skaftafell, Iceland is a stunning sight to behold. What makes this vision more precious is its short lifespan- this icy blue phenomenal scene only appears during winter, when the surface layer of glacier is being washed away after long bouts of rain.

The caves are located on the frozen lagoon of the Svínafellsjökull glacie, taking its form after centuries-old ice that slid down the Öræfajökull slopes morphed into a high-pressurized glacier devoid of bubbles. This explains the flawlessly smooth surface, because the lack of air means it absorbs any visible light. Entering the cave is like stepping into another world.

You don’t need to be an extreme winter sports enthusiast to visit this astounding sight. Tours can be arranged to trek this cave. Accessible via a 22-foot entrance on the shoreline, it is safe for entry only in winter when the freezing temperature hardens the ice. Constant cackling sounds fill the cave from beginning to end, but there isn’t a need to worry. This just means that the cave is moving along with the glacier, and any tiny movement sends magnified waves of sounds through the cave.

A usual tour of the place is limited to small groups, maximum 12 people, and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. You’d need to be at least 13 years old to visit.  There isn’t a need for you to bring any gear though, everything is provided, including crampons, helmet and harness. A tour like this will set you back around 20,000ISK (150USD), but for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it’s worth it. You many have to book way in advance for a trip to the caves based on its limited availability. It’s definitely on my bucket list.

Tours can be booked at Extreme Iceland.

Have you been to this magnificent crystal caves before? What was it like?

Photo Credit: Extreme Iceland & Örvar Atli Þorgeirsson