Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel

Raufarhólshellir

Reykjanes

Raufarhólshellir stretches 1,360 metres under the Reykjanes Peninsula — the fourth-longest lava tube in Iceland — formed around 5,600 years ago when lava from the Leitahraun eruption drained away and left a hollow conduit. Ceilings reach at least ten metres, and the widest sections open to around thirty metres. Mineral striations colour the walls, and several skylights let in daylight; in winter, snow piles up under them and freezes into ice formations near the entrance. Standard tours follow a lit walkway through the main chamber and run about an hour. Adventure tours push into unlit sections and require helmets and headlamps. Both run year-round. Dress warmly: the temperature inside stays close to freezing whatever the season. The cave is roughly thirty minutes from central Reykjavík on Route 39. Tickets cost around 6,990 ISK for adults, tours run throughout the day, and no independent access is permitted.

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