Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel
The Lava Tunnel, known as Raufarhólshellir, is one of Iceland’s most impressive and easily accessible lava caves, located just 30 minutes from Reykjavik. Formed when a volcano erupted around 5,200 years ago, this massive tunnel stretches for about 1,360 metres (4,460 feet), making it one of the longest lava tubes in Iceland. Visitors to Raufarhólshellir can explore the stunning underground world created by flowing lava, which left behind intricate rock formations, vibrant mineral deposits, and fascinating patterns on the cave walls.
Guided tours of The Lava Tunnel provide an unforgettable experience, leading visitors through sections of the cave where the ceiling has collapsed, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior. In winter, the tunnel is often adorned with spectacular ice formations, adding to the surreal beauty of the cave. The tour is suitable for all levels of adventurers, with options ranging from easy walks along well-lit paths to more challenging explorations of deeper sections of the cave.
Raufarhólshellir offers a unique glimpse into the powerful geological forces that have shaped Iceland’s landscape, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the island’s volcanic history and natural wonders.
Raufarhólshellir Facts
- Location: 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Reykjavik
- Size: The tunnel is 10 meters (33 feet) wide and up to 10 meters (33 feet) tall
- Length: Approximately 1,360 meters (4,462 feet)
- Lava Formation: Formed during a volcanic eruption from the Leitahraun lava field about 5,200 years ago
- Temperature inside: Generally 0–4°C (32–39°F), colder in winter
- No echo: The uneven surface of the lava rock absorbs sound waves, preventing echoes
Visitors typically spend around 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the lava tunnel on guided tours, where they can witness stunning geological formations, including lava stalactites, rock formations, and multi-colored mineral deposits left behind by the cooling lava.
History of the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel
Raufarhólshellir has long been a point of fascination due to its size and accessibility. Locals have known about the tunnel since centuries ago, but it wasn't until recent decades that it became an official tourist destination. It was created in an ancient eruption from Leitahraun lava field, roughly 5,200 years ago. As the lava was extruded out of the volcano, the surface started to cool down and solidify, while the rivers of lava kept flowing underneath, creating a hollow tunnel. When the eruption stopped and the lava had flown out, what was left behind was the Raufarhólshellir cave system: enormous underground passage and a display of power and beauty of the volcanic forces of Iceland.
Travelers exploring the cave and documenting their visits eventually, through word of mouth and social media made the cave into a must-visit attraction. Adding to the allure that it was a lesser known place and free to enter. After a few years, and many visitors, landowners closed down access to the cave in 2016 due to accumulated garbage and damages made within the lava tunnel.
The cave eventually reopened in 2017, now only open to visitors on a guided tour. Walkways and light have been installed to enable visitors to explore its depths safely without damaging the fragile formations inside. Nowadays, it is one of the best-preserved lava tubes in Iceland and an easy way for people to visit the magical world beneath the surface of our Earth.
Formation and Geology of Raufarhólshellir
Raufarhólshellir lava tube was created when the lava cooled during a volcanic eruption and started to solidify. As it was flowing from the point of an eruption, the surface of the molten rock promptly cooled and hardened, inside, the lava was still hot and fluent, it continued to flow. When the eruption finally began to weaken, the remaining lava pulled out, leaving a hollow tube behind. It's taken thousands of years for that tunnel to form into what it is today with its interior having amazing geological formations.
Inside the lava tunnel, visitors can observe a number of formations from lava stalactites hanging down from the roof to the ridges forming along its walls. Colored from deep red to orange and yellow by the oxidation of iron and other minerals, the layers of rock in this cave expose quite an interesting geological history. This special place will also be host to the most beautiful ice formations during winter, further beautifying an already remarkable cave system.
Why is there no echo in a lava tunnel?
One of the most intriguing aspects of Raufarhólshellir is the absence of echoes inside the tunnel. This phenomenon occurs because of the rough, uneven surfaces of the lava rock, which absorb sound waves rather than reflecting them. The porous nature of the rock means that sound is dispersed, making the cave remarkably quiet despite its size.
Where is Raufarhólshellir Lava Tube?
The Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel is located about 30 kilometers (19 miles) southeast of Reykjavik, making it an easy and convenient day trip from the capital.
- Raufarhólshellir Coordinates: 63°56'28.5"N 21°23'42.3"W
How to Get to Raufarhólshellir Cave?
From Reykjavik:
To reach Raufarhólshellir from Reykjavik, take Route 1 (the Ring Road) heading southeast out of the city. After approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles), turn onto Route 39 toward Þorlákshöfn. Follow this road for about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) until you see signs for the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel. The journey takes around 30 minutes by car.
For those who prefer not to drive, there are numerous guided tours available from Reykjavik that include transportation to and from the tunnel, offering a convenient and informative experience.
Tips for Visiting Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel
Visiting Raufarhólshellir is an unforgettable experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you make the most of your trip:
- Can you enter Raufarhólshellir without a guide? No, entry to Raufarhólshellir is only allowed with a guided tour. This ensures the safety of visitors and helps protect the delicate geological formations inside the cave. Guided tours offer expert insights into the tunnel's history and geology, enhancing your visit.
- What to see inside the lava tunnel: The guided tours take you deep into the tunnel, where you’ll see stunning rock formations, colorful mineral deposits, and in winter, beautiful ice sculptures. The natural light pouring in through the skylights (collapsed sections of the tunnel ceiling) adds an ethereal quality to the cave.
- How to dress and what to bring: The temperature inside the tunnel is cold, typically between 0–4°C (32–39°F), so it’s essential to dress warmly. Wear sturdy hiking boots that hug your ankles, as the ground inside the tunnel can be uneven and slippery. Gloves and a hat are also recommended in winter. Helmets and headlights are provided as part of the tour, ensuring your safety inside the cave.
- Age restrictions: While there are no strict age restrictions, the tour is recommended for children over 3 years old, as the terrain can be challenging for very young children. Always check with the tour operator for specific guidelines.
- Photography: The dramatic lighting inside the cave offers incredible photo opportunities. Visitors are encouraged to bring cameras, but be sure to follow the guide’s instructions to avoid damaging any formations.
- Time inside the tunnel: Standard tours typically last around 1 hour,whereas the Adventure experience takes you further into the cave and lasts around 3-4 hours allowing plenty of time to explore the different sections of the tunnel and take in its incredible geological features.
Raufarhólshellir in Winter
Visiting Raufarhólshellir on a winter day gives this place even more magic. During the coldest periods, ice sculptures form inside the tunnel, while the contrast of the ice with the volcanic rock is nothing but a visual miracle. The large natural skylights let the beams of sunlight-sometimes moonlight if you get really lucky-flow in, creating special light conditions inside the cave that give great possibilities for photography. Remember to put on your warmest clothes, as the temperature in this cave can easily go below freezing.