Glaciologist warns against summer ice cave tours at Breiðamerkurjökull and Kötlujökull

A glaciologist has drawn alarming parallels between summer ice cave tours and Russian roulette, highlighting the dangers associated with such excursions. This warning is directed not only at Breiðamerkurjökull but also at Kötlujökull, where summer ice cave tours are still being marketed.

Following a tragic accident last week in which an American tourist died and his pregnant fiancée sustained injuries in an ice cave at Breiðamerkurjökull, Vatnajökuls National Park recommended halting organized ice cave tours temporarily. The couple was part of an excursion organized by Ice Pic Journeys; among the 23 participants in the collapse, many had been guided by another company, Arctic Adventures. Additionally, Niflheimar had a group in the cave just prior to the incident.

Professor Helgi Björnsson, an expert in glaciology, expressed his shock that tours were still conducted in summer ice caves, stating this practice has historically been avoided due to safety concerns. He emphasized that it is dangerous to enter any ice caves during this season, not just on Breiðamerkurjökull, and called for stricter regulations regarding access to these sites across the country.

Despite the imminent winter season’s arrival in October, which generally reduces the risk of glacier melting, some companies continue to offer tours at Kötlujökull. Helgi reiterated the substantial risks involved, likening the decision to venture into these caves during summer to a game of Russian roulette, where the timing of a potential disaster is unpredictable.