The ice caves, primarily found in Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, and Mýrdalsjökull, are accessible from various points in Iceland. Covering an area of around 8,100 square kilometers (about 3,100 square miles), it represents approximately 8% of the country’s landmass. Each cave I find presents its own unique beauty, shaped by the relentless forces of nature. Always moving and new every time I visit them. Icelandic glaciers are dynamic and fast-changing, primarily due to volcanic activity underneath and the effects of climate change. The ice in some parts of these glaciers can be hundreds, if not thousands, of years old.
Visiting Ice caves are part of my two, three and five day plans but if the cave is available in the Katla ice cave, located beneath Kötlujökull glacier (a part of Mýrdalsjökull glacier), it is possible to do it also in one day. The most popular plan has been three days and ice caves are often part of it. Feel free to check my other blogs about different adventures. Some examples:
The ideal period to explore the ice caves is during the winter months, from November to March. This is when the temperatures are low enough to ensure the stability and safety of the caves. But, I have been there also in the summer time and in the past few years they have been available during the summer.
Accessing these caves often involves a journey through Iceland’s rugged terrain. Depending on the cave, we might need to embark on a glacier hike, a jeep tour, or even a helicopter ride. The journey itself is an integral part of the adventure, offering breathtaking views of Iceland’s landscapes. Really unique opportunity to take some images for a lifetime.
Safety is paramount. It’s essential to have the right gear, including crampons, helmets, and appropriate cold-weather clothing. Most importantly, exploring with a knowledgeable guide is non-negotiable. The caves can be dangerous, and a guide ensures not only your safety but also a richer understanding of the caves’ geological significance.
While I do offer luxurious 4×4 transportation and it is part of your collection, very often we need a separate monster truck to reach the caves.
“He’s nothing short of a creative genius and his pictures speak for themselves.”
Tori & Brian
“It was our first time to this picturesque country and having seen Mait’s previous work, our expectations were high. And boy did he deliver!”
Jackie & Simon
“Mait helped make our experience unforgettable and we have our amazing photos to remind us of this experience forever.”
Ravi & Andrea
“We could see Iceland the way we couldn’t possibly imagine. He really made our day.”
Stephanie & Tin
“Without a doubt, one of the best decisions we made.”
Kelly & Angela
“We would never have gotten half the amazing incredible shots we got without his expertise, knowledge, and eye for great places to shoot.”
Mallory & Scott
“We wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking a photographer who goes beyond expectations to curate a truly magical experience.”
Catherine & Cullen
Going to the ice cave in Iceland presents a blend of romance and adventure, but it’s not without its challenges. The idea of exchanging vows in such a surreal, ethereal environment is undoubtedly captivating, but there are several factors to consider ensuring that your special day is memorable for all the right reasons.
Time inside an ice cave is generally limited due to other tourists visiting the cave and the physical conditions inside the cave, such as cold and humidity. This means your ceremony might need to be shorter and more concise than a traditional wedding. Most of the time we will start our day in the dark to be the first in the cave without anybody else. Some caves that are more remote are without any tourists and we can enjoy the time completely alone.
Due to space and safety constraints, ice caves can only accommodate a small number of people. This might limit the size of your wedding party, making it a very intimate affair.
You’ll want to balance the elegance appropriate for a wedding with the practical need for warmth and mobility. High heels are a NO-GO and hicking boots are a MUST-GO. Everybody must be prepared for cold temperatures, which might mean wearing thermal layers under formal attire.
Given the unpredictability of weather and ice conditions, having a backup plan is essential. This might mean selecting an alternative date or even a different location for your ceremony. It happened few times that we had to change the plan the same morning or even changed the date.
You must be emotionally prepared for the challenges that come with such a unique setting. Especially willing to deal with the cold. I always love to say there’s no bad weather, only the bad clothing. I have been photographing in the most harsh and crazy weather conditions with my clients and we all love it in the end – those images coming out of it will be phenomenal!
The physical demands of reaching and moving within an ice cave should not be underestimated. It will be a challenge! Depending on the specific location, you may be required to hike, climb, or trek across uneven and icy terrain.
An elopement in an ice cave involves some extra costs. The costs include not just the usual photography expenses but also the added costs of specialized guides, equipment rental and transportation in rugged terrain
Ice Caves are part of my adventures in Iceland. Unique, once in a lifetime memories, customized, fully guided and planned.
One, two, three and five days collections are available
No hour restrictions at your day
Private 4×4 transportation (pickup and drop-off)
Drone and northern lights shoots (if possible)
Being your guide planning your day(s)
Finding unique locations to explore
Exploring untouched locations not on the map
High-res digital negatives
Unlimited images and so much more
If we stay overnight, we might see another wonders – the northern lights! Last couple of years has been really active. I will keep an eye on the solar activity and who knows, we might wake up during the night at 3am to catch some. Part of my multi-day collections, I do not have any hour restrictions and I am committed to get the best images out of Iceland for you!
