Langjökull, Ice cap in Southern Region, Iceland
Langjökull is the second-largest ice cap in Iceland and spreads across the southern and western regions with a length of about 50 kilometers and a width of 20 kilometers. The surface shows a rolling profile with crevasses and ice fields, while underneath lie two volcanic systems and ancient lava fields.
The lava field Kjalhraun beneath the ice cap formed about 7800 years ago through volcanic activity. The ice cap began forming over it in later centuries and remains today above two active volcanic systems.
The name means Long Ice in Icelandic and describes its shape stretching through the western highlands. Visitors today see a white expanse spreading between volcanic peaks and crossed by crevasses.
Guided tours depart from Húsafell Center or Klaki and offer activities such as snowmobile rides and ice cave visits. The highland area requires proper winter gear and is best visited with an experienced local guide.
An engineered ice tunnel was carved into the cap and is the largest of its kind worldwide. Visitors can walk inside and observe the layered ice sheets that formed over centuries.
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