Iceland Travel Guide logo Iceland Travel GuideLOCAL TRAVEL AGENCY IN ICELAND My trip Talk to a local

Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel

Raufarhólshellir is one of the longest lava tunnels in Iceland, formed thousands of years ago and now open for guided walks close to Reykjavík. Tours are run year-round by a local travel agency in Iceland with lit paths and knowledgeable guides.

Booked with a local travel agency in Iceland · Ask a local
5 tours · prices per person
Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel TourDay tourSmall groupSouth CoastRaufarholshellir Lava Tunnel TourMeet on locationAbout 1 hourMeet on locationFrom, per person8,900 ISKSee datesRaufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel TourDay tourSmall groupSouth CoastRaufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel TourFrom ReykjavikAbout 3 hoursPick-up in ReykjavíkFrom, per person14,900 ISKSee datesGolden Circle & Raufarholshellir Lava TunnelDay tourLarge groupSouth Coast · Golden CircleGolden Circle & Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel10 hoursPick-up in ReykjavíkAll yearFrom, per person25,990 ISKSee datesLava Tunnel & Silfra Snorkeling Tour from ReykjavikDay tourSmall groupGolden CircleLava Tunnel & Silfra Snorkeling Tour from ReykjavikAbout 10 hoursPick-up in ReykjavíkFrom, per person34,990 ISKSee datesEvening Lava Tunnel & Northern Lights TourDay tourSmall groupReykjavík · South CoastEvening Lava Tunnel & Northern Lights Tour4 to 5 hoursPick-up in ReykjavíkNorthern Lights season (Sep–Apr)From, per person25,990 ISKSee dates

Related tours

See also:Lava cave toursSnorkeling and diving toursVolcano tours in IcelandSouth Coast toursGolden Circle toursNorthern Lights tours in IcelandAll categories →

About Raufarhólshellir tours

Raufarhólshellir formed when a river of lava cooled on the outside while still flowing beneath, leaving behind a long tunnel once the lava drained away. It is one of the more accessible lava caves in Iceland, with a short drive from Reykjavík.

Basic tours follow a walkway near the entrance, while longer tours go deeper into the tunnel and involve more uneven ground, so it is worth choosing the option that matches your interest and fitness.

Inside, the tunnel shows different lava formations, colours and textures, along with occasional ice formations near the entrance in winter where cold air settles.

It runs year-round and makes a good half-day addition to a Golden Circle or south coast itinerary, since it sits close to the road between Reykjavík and Þingvellir.

Questions people ask

How far is Raufarhólshellir from Reykjavík?

About 30 km, roughly a 30 to 40 minute drive, making it an easy half-day trip.

Is the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel open all year?

Yes, tours run year-round, though conditions and the exact route can vary with the season.

Do I need to be fit to visit Raufarhólshellir?

The basic walkway tour suits most visitors. Longer, deeper tours involve uneven terrain and are better suited to those comfortable with more physical exploring.

What should I wear in the lava tunnel?

Warm layers and sturdy shoes with a good grip, since the ground can be uneven and the tunnel is cold year-round.

Can I combine Raufarhólshellir with the Golden Circle?

Yes, it sits close to the route between Reykjavík and Þingvellir, so it pairs well with a Golden Circle day.