Raufarholshellir
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The Lava Tunnel

(3)
Reykjavík, Iceland
Caving
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About this activity

Explore Raufarhólshellir, one of Iceland's largest lava tunnels, just 30 minutes from Reykjavík. Walk through passages carved by lava flows thousands of years ago, marveling at towering mineral-streaked walls and dramatic light shafts created by a collapsed ceiling section.

Icelandic Lava Cave Tour

On this adventure, we visit the lava tunnel Raufarhólshellir located only 30 minutes from Reykjavík. We will witness the inner workings of a volcanic eruption while we walk in the path of a lava that flowed thousands of years ago. The lava tunnel is one of the biggest in Iceland and gets up to 30 metres wide and 10 metres high. The lava tube ceiling has caved in near the entrance, which creates beautiful columns of light. The fantastic range of colours of the tunnel wall is caused by the different mineral types of the rock. 

This is a tour for the senses. Experience a new world, hear the talk of the cave and sense the forces of nature like you have never done before. Learn new things and step out of your comfort zone. Scenes from the Hollywood movie Noah, with Anthony Hopkins, were shot in this lava cave.  

You walk around 350 metres into the lava tunnel and the temperature in the cave is around 4 degrees although it can be warmer outside and usually water leaks from the ceiling when it rains and snows so we recommend raincoats.  

Challenge your senses!

Highlights

  • ✓Walk 350 metres into a lava tunnel reaching up to 30 metres wide and 10 metres high
  • ✓Witness vivid mineral colours and geological formations shaped by ancient volcanic activity
  • ✓Experience natural light columns filtering through the collapsed cave entrance
  • ✓Feel the raw power of Iceland's volcanic landscape up close
  • ✓Visit the filming location of Hollywood's 'Noah' starring Anthony Hopkins

Insider tips

  • ★Bring a waterproof jacket even on clear days—ceiling seepage is common, especially after rain or snow
  • ★Wear sturdy, slip-resistant footwear; cave floors can be uneven and damp
  • ★The cave maintains around 4°C year-round; layer up even if it's warm outside

Good to know

  • •Duration: 3 hours total (includes travel from Reykjavík)
  • •Temperature inside cave: approximately 4°C
  • •Walking distance: 350 metres into the tunnel on uneven ground
  • •Water dripping from ceiling is normal; waterproof clothing essential
  • •Location: 30 minutes from central Reykjavík

Who it's for

Adventure seekers and geology enthusiastsFilm location tourists (Noah movie fans)Families with older children comfortable with cave explorationPhotographers seeking dramatic Icelandic landscapes

Best time to visit

Visit September through May when water seepage and dramatic light effects are most pronounced. Summer months are drier but less atmospheric. Morning visits offer clearer natural lighting through the ceiling openings.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€113
per person