The Lava Tunnel with transfer from Reykjavik

Description

Journey with us into the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel, a truly unique experience and a great opportunity to witness the inner workings of a volcanic eruption. You will walk through the path of lava that flowed during the Leitahraun eruption, which occurred east of the Bláfjöll mountains about 5200 years ago. Every winter spectacular ice sculptures are formed inside the entrance of the cave making the experience of visiting the lava tunnel even more breathtaking.

Highlights

• The Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel

Raufarhólshellir

Raufarhólshellir is a lava tube formed during the Leitahraun eruption and is one of the longest caves of its type in Iceland. Lava tubes are a natural conduit formed when an active low-viscosity lava flow develops a continuous and hard crust, which thickens and forms a roof above the still-flowing lava stream. Under ground in Iceland there are miles of these tubes and tunnels many of which are yet to be fully explored.

Itinerary

Your adventure into the underground tunnels of Iceland will begin with our fast and efficient pick up service. The bus will take you straight to the lava tunnel so you can begin your tour right away.

The total length of the tunnel is an impressive 1360 m (4500 ft), the main tunnel being 900 m (3000 ft) long. The tunnel is up to 30 m wide with headroom up to 10 m high, making it one of the most spacious lava tunnels in Iceland. Near the entrance of the tunnel the ceiling has caved in creating three beautiful columns of light inside the tunnel. At the end of Raufarhólshellir the tunnel branches into three smaller tunnels where magnificent lava falls and formations are clearly visible.

You will be guided through the tunnels by one of our knowledgeable guides who can answer your questions.

After the tour you will be brought back to the city.

Important information

You will have about 55 minutes of time inside of the lava tunnel, we provide all necessary equipment such as helmets and lights. However, we recommend that you wear good hiking shoes. Take note that the temperature inside the cave is around 0 – 4 degrees celcius (32 – 38 Fahrenheit). Water sometimes drips from the ceiling of the cave so wearing a waterproof jacket helps.