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Raufarhólshellir is the fourth-largest and the most visually enjoyable lava cave in Iceland. Walking through the 1360 m (4,46 1ft) long lava tunnel is an incredible ethereal experience.
Explore rainbow-colored walls and stunning rock formations as you traverse the twists and turns of the cave. A thrilling adventure below the earth, Raufarhólshellir is just a 30-minute drive from Reykjavík, making it an easy day trip from the capital.
Raufarhólshellir is often described as something from a children’s fairytale. The lava tunnel is just 30 minutes away from Reykjavík in southwest Iceland. Surrounded by moss-covered lava, mountains, and craters, it attracts visitors all year round.
The cave is heavenly in form and color, and walking through it is a truly magical experience.
Raufarhólshellir Cave is the fourth largest lava tube in Iceland, measuring 1,360 m (4,461 ft) in length and 10-30 m (33-98 ft) wide depending on where you are standing.
The ceiling is high (up to 10 m or 33 ft), making the cave one of the best caves to visit if you have ever experienced claustrophobia. The average thickness of the lava ceiling is about 12 m (39 ft).
This geological wonder shouldn’t be visited without a guide or a lava cave expert. Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel Small Group Tour is one of the most budget-friendly experiences you can have in Iceland and our expert guides make sure to keep you safe and informed at all times.
The history of Raufarhólshellir Cave starts with a volcanic eruption in the Bláfjöll Mountain Range about 5,200 years ago. The eruption, which is often referred to as the Leitarhraun eruption, created the scene you see today and with it an 11 km (7 mi) long crater row.
Lava tunnels are natural canals that form when active flowing magma starts to harden creating a thin lava crust on top. This lava crust then thickens as more lava flows and results in the formation of the lava tunnel roof. The hot running lava continues to flow through, but the roof stays solid.
When visiting the cave you'll be following the path of the lava, which flowed through the site a few thousand years ago.
GPS Coordinates: 63.959753° N 21.312831° W
Raufarhólshellir is located right off Route 39 which runs off the Ring Road. It's only about 41 km (25 mi) away from Reykjavík.
There are two ways of going about visiting Raufarhólshellir. You can purchase a pick-up from us when booking an excursion, or you can rent a car and drive there on your own.
The drive from Reykjavík to Raufarhólshellir is easy as the cave is located just 30 minutes away from the capital.
Exit the city through Norðlingaholt via Road 49 and turn right onto Road 1. Continue on this road until you see a sign pointing to Þorlákshöfn, Road 39. This is where you make a turn and drive for about 18 km (11 mi). There is a well-marked sign by the parking lot right off the road.
Looking for the perfect place to rest up near this majestic lava tunnel and see some nearby attractions? Here are some top accommodation options in the area.
Where to eat at Þorlákshöfn and Eyrarbakki:
Where to eat in Hveragerði:
