Volcanic Caves and Craters: Reykjanes & Lava Tunnel Tour

Your day begins with a pick-up in Reykjavík and a short drive to Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel, one of Iceland’s longest lava tubes. The cave measures about 1,360 m (0.84 mi) in length and features wide passages that are easy to walk through. 

Inside, the cave walls show shades of red, violet, and turquoise caused by mineral deposits left behind by flowing lava. As you explore, your guide explains how the tunnel formed and points out notable features along the route. After about one hour inside the cave, you return to Reykjavík before being picked up again for the second part of the tour. 

The second part of the tour begins with a drive to Kleifarvatn, the largest lake on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Located about 30 minutes from Reykjavík, it is also one of Iceland’s deepest lakes, reaching 97 m (318 ft). 

Kleifarvatn is fed by groundwater that moves through the surrounding porous lava rock. Local folklore talks about a large, serpent-like creature said to live in the lake’s depths. If legends aren’t your focus, the colorful hills and volcanic landscape around the lake are just as striking. 

Next, the tour stops at the Seltún hot springs in the Krýsuvík geothermal area, known for their active geothermal features. Steam rises from the ground, and the surrounding hills show shades of red, yellow, and gray created by mineral-rich soil.  

As you walk along the wooden pathways, you can smell sulfur in the air, a clear sign of geothermal activity beneath the surface. Along the route, you’ll see bubbling mud pools, fumaroles, and steaming vents. 

After a short drive, the tour continues to Grænavatn crater lake, known for its striking green color. The lake sits inside a volcanic crater, and its color comes from minerals in the water, often linked to sulfur from the surrounding geothermal area. This stop is popular for photos, with clear views across the lake and the surrounding volcanic landscape. 

Next, the tour heads to Nátthagi valley, near Fagradalsfjall volcano, one of the eruption sites from 2021. After about 6,000 years without volcanic activity, this area became active again, with an eruption that lasted for several months. 

The valley is now shaped by fresh lava fields, where hardened black rock marks the furthest points reached by flowing lava. A short hike leads to a higher viewpoint, providing a clear look across the dark lava flows set against the surrounding green hills. 

Please note: Travelers will be hiking on uneven paths and rugged terrain for about 20 minutes. 

We’ll see the more destructive side of eruptions in Grindavík, a coastal town affected by the Reykjanes Peninsula eruptions of late 2023. During the eruptions, roads were closed and residents were temporarily evacuated, leaving the town largely empty.  

After the volcanic activity subsided, the area was declared safe, and residents started to return. Some homes were rebuilt, while a few structures still show visible signs of damage, demonstrating the eruption’s impact on the community. 

Please note: The tour group will stop at a local restaurant for 15 to 20 minutes to grab snacks and refreshments. 

For the finale, the tour drives through the Sundhnúkagígar lava fields near Grindavík. These fresh lava flows have reshaped the landscape, creating new volcanic terrain. Steam still rises from the ground in several areas, a visible sign that lava is still cooling beneath the surface. 

After exploring the lava fields, the journey continues through the Icelandic countryside back to Reykjavík. The tour concludes in the early evening, giving you time to explore the city at your own pace. 

Your day begins with an 8:00 AM pick-up in Reykjavík for the Lava Tunnel tour. After exploring Raufarhólshellir, you’ll be returned to your original transfer location in Reykjavík. You’ll then have some free time to grab lunch or relax before the afternoon portion of the tour begins. 

The second part of the combo tour, the Grindavík & Reykjanes lava fields tour, begins with a pick-up at 12:00 PM. Please be ready at your designated location at this time. 

Collecting everyone up for both trips may take up to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and your selected location. 

• This experience combines two separate tours. If one part is canceled, you can still join the other portion of the trip. 

• Walking on this tour is easy overall, with some sections fitted with footbridges and marked paths, while others remain in their natural state. The lava tunnel tour is suitable for most ages and fitness levels. However, participants must be comfortable walking on uneven surfaces to take part. 

• As the landscape in this region is constantly changing, the itinerary may be adjusted due to road closures or site accessibility. Our guides will always make every effort to visit all planned stops whenever conditions allow.