Is the lava tunnel difficult to walk through?

No. The roughest sections have reinforced footbridges and clear paths. The tunnel is 1,360 metres long but takes only 55–60 minutes to explore with a guide at a leisurely pace. A basic fitness level is sufficient.

What whales and marine animals might we see?

The tour targets minke whales, humpback whales, harbour porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins in Faxaflói Bay. Sightings are seasonal; summer months (June–August) offer the highest probability. No sighting is guaranteed.

Is hotel pickup really included?

Yes. Complimentary pickup and drop-off from central Reykjavík hotels are included. Confirm your accommodation address when booking; pickups typically occur in the morning, with return by mid-to-late afternoon.

What should I wear inside the lava tunnel?

Wear warm, waterproof overalls and sturdy hiking boots with ankle support. The tunnel temperature is around 4°C (39°F) year-round. Helmets and headlamps are provided; dressing in layers is advisable.

When do the ice sculptures form in the cave?

Ice formations appear naturally during winter (November–February) at the cave entrance, creating a dramatic additional visual. Summer visits offer a different experience; both seasons are worthwhile but distinct.

How much of the 7 hours is actual caving vs. whale watching?

The lava tunnel visit is approximately 55–60 minutes of guided exploration. The whale-watching tour duration varies but typically takes 2–3 hours on the water. The remainder is travel time between Reykjavík, the tunnel, and Old Harbour.

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Top Deal

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The Lava Tunnel and Whale Watching

(5)

Reykjavík, Iceland

CavingWhale WatchingDay Trips & ExcursionsAdventure ToursCity Tours

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About this activity

Combine two of Iceland's most iconic natural experiences in one day: explore the otherworldly Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel—a 1,360-metre passage carved 5,200 years ago—then spot minke whales, humpbacks, and dolphins in Faxaflói Bay from Reykjavík's Old Harbour. This 7-hour adventure blends geological wonder with marine wildlife in comfort.

Experience the natural phenomenon of Raufarhólshellir lava tunnels as you explore it in an easy and enjoyable manner. The 1360 metre (4500 ft) tunnel was formed during the Leitahraun eruption, which occurred about 5200 years ago and is a unique Icelandic natural attraction. A guide will lead you through Raufarhólshellir’s colourful landscape where the formation of the tunnel is highlighted with beautiful lighting. Every winter, spectacular ice sculptures form inside the entrance of the cave, making the experience even more breathtaking. The roughest part of the lava is easily accessible with footbridges and paths so you can explore the cave in a comfortable way. Equipment such as helmets and lights is provided at the location but it is highly recommended that guests wear warm overalls and shoes with ankle support once inside. Complimentary hotel pick-up in Reykjavík is included as you will be transferred from the city to the lava tunnel. (The lava tunnel tour is approx. 55-60 minutes).

The adventure continues as we head to the Old Harbour in downtown Reykjavík for a Whale Watching tour with Special Tours Wildlife Adventures. Experience the wild behaviour of the whales in Faxaflói bay while looking for these phenomenal species, including minke whales, harbour porpoises, humpback whales and white-beaked dolphins. The tour includes a guide that will lead you through the experience with some interesting and useful information regarding the whales. Sit back, grab a hot chocolate or a coffee while enjoying these phenomenal creatures in warm overalls provided on board. (whale watching tour takes approx. 3-3.5 hours).

Your tour ends in the Old Harbour, a short walk from a variety of shops and restaurants in the city centre. A transfer back to your hotel can be purchased for an additional cost.

Lunch can be bought between tours down at the Reykjavík Harbour with multiple selection of restaurants. Please note that you may be short on time between the tours so keep in mind that sandwiches and snacks can also be bought on board the whale watching ship.

All clients on this tour get a 15% discount at Reykjavík Röst Bistro, coffee house and bar located on the Harbour.

Challenge your senses!

Highlights

✓Walk through a massive 5,200-year-old lava tunnel lit to showcase its coloured mineral formations
✓Winter ice sculptures at the cave entrance (seasonal highlight)
✓Whale watching in Faxaflói Bay for minke whales, humpbacks, harbour porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins
✓Included hotel pickup and drop-off from Reykjavík city centre
✓Professional guide commentary on both geology and marine wildlife
✓Heated cabin with hot chocolate on the whale-watching boat

Insider tips

★Book this tour between June and August for the best whale-watching odds; winter (November–February) offers ice formations in the lava tunnel but rougher sea conditions
★Wear thermal layers and waterproof jackets—even in summer, sea breezes can be cold, and lava tube temperatures hover around 4°C (39°F)
★Arrive at hotel pickup 10–15 minutes early; the combined itinerary involves two separate locations and timing is tight
★The lava tunnel walk is only 55–60 minutes of cave exploration; the rest is travel and whale watching, so pace expectations accordingly

Good to know

•Helmets and headlamps provided at the lava tunnel; sturdy, ankle-supporting hiking boots and warm waterproof overalls are essential and highly recommended
•Hotel pickup included from central Reykjavík; confirm your accommodation address 24 hours ahead
•Whale-watching portion operates year-round but sea conditions vary; motion sickness medication recommended for sensitive travellers
•No special fitness level required; lava tunnel paths are reinforced with footbridges, though footing can be uneven
•Tour duration is 7 hours total including travel; last departure from Old Harbour typically mid-afternoon

Who it's for

Adventure seekers wanting geology, caving, and wildlife in one dayFirst-time visitors to Iceland prioritising iconic natural sightsFamilies with older children or fit teenagers (cave is accessible but requires mobility)Photographers capturing lava formations and marine wildlife

Best time to visit

June–August offers optimal whale sightings and milder weather; winter (November–February) showcases stunning ice formations in the tunnel entrance but brings rougher seas and shorter daylight. Early morning departures maximise both cave lighting and whale-spotting visibility.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

James J.

Apr 2026

our guide Omar couldnt do enough for us and the bit at the end nobody expects was the highlight, and went last tuesday.

Mike L.

Feb 2026

our guide Marco sorted everything for us and a stop the guide added on the fly was the highlight. Went last tuesday so it wasnt too busy. On a rainy sunday, and handy if youre short on time, and 6 stops in about 3 hours. Would book again no question, loved it

Sofia C.

Feb 2026

our guide Sven was nice enough, but a stop the guide added on the fly felt a bit rushed honestly, and not as good as the one we did in Dubrovnik tbh.

Ben W.

Dec 2025

our guide Mateo really knew their stuff and a stop the guide added on the fly was the highlight, and handy if youre short on time, and came away with 200+ photos, loved it

Pete V.

Jul 2025

our guide Hana was brilliant and the bit at the end nobody expects was the highlight, and honestly better than the tour we did in Marrakech last year, no joke

from€188.63€188.55/ person

4.8 · 66 reviews on Trustpilot

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