In short
- Wear closed-toe hiking boots with a strong grip.
- Bring warm gloves and a thin beanie for your helmet.
- Dress in warm, insulated layers and waterproof pants.
In this article
Packing the right clothes makes your 45-minute cave tour comfortable. The underground environment is dark and filled with sharp, uneven rocks. Being prepared ensures you stay warm.
What is the temperature inside the cave?
The cave temperature hovers near freezing year-round.
The deep lava tube stays cold even in the summer. You need an insulated jacket or a thick fleece to stay warm. Wear warm mid-layers to trap heat during the 45-minute tour.
What kind of shoes do I need?
You must wear closed-toe shoes with good grip, preferably hiking boots.
The floor of the lava tube is very rocky and uneven. You will walk on raw volcanic ground and climb tall spiral staircases. Strong ankle support and thick soles protect your feet from sharp edges.
Should I bring gloves?
Yes, warm gloves are highly recommended.
Gloves keep your hands warm in the freezing air. They also protect your skin from sharp lava rock walls. You will want them when gripping the cold metal railings on the staircases.
Do I need to bring a helmet or flashlight?
No, guides provide helmets and flashlights at the entrance.
This safety gear is required and included with your ticket. Bring a thin beanie or hat. It needs to fit easily underneath the provided safety helmet.
What pants are best for the tour?
Waterproof or water-resistant outer pants work best.
Caves can be damp, and water sometimes drips from the ceiling. Pair your outer pants with thick woolen socks to keep your lower body completely warm.
Can I bring a backpack?
Bring only a small, hands-free daypack or leave your bags in the car.
The cave passages and spiral staircases can be narrow. Bulky backpacks make it harder to navigate these tight underground spaces.
Questions travellers ask
Can I wear sneakers in Vatnshellir Cave?
Closed-toe shoes are strictly required. Hiking boots are strongly preferred over flat sneakers because the lava rock floor is highly uneven.
Is it colder inside the cave than outside?
Yes, especially during the summer months. The temperature inside the lava tube remains near freezing regardless of the weather above ground.
Do I need a special camera?
Bring a camera or smartphone with good low-light or night mode capabilities. The cave is dark, and regular photos often look washed out.
