Welcome to Raufarhólshellir Cave, one of the longest lava tube caves in Iceland! This is not just one of our most impressive caves but also one of the most conveniently located here on the island.
So, if you’re going to be in the vicinity of Reykjavik in the foreseeable future and would like to explore one of the most incredible geological wonders in Iceland, then read on. We’ll tell you all you need to know about Raufarhólshellir Cave and what to expect from a visit.
Where is Raufarhólshellir Cave located?
The Raufarhólshellir Cave can be found in the southwestern part of Iceland, a mere 30-minute drive from the capital city of Reykjavik. Getting there is easy if you take the famous Ring Road route.
What is Raufarhólshellir?
As we already mentioned, Raufarhólshellir is a lava cave in Iceland. But it would actually be more appropriate to call it a lava tunnel in Iceland or even Iceland’s lava tube. That’s because of how it’s formed (but more on that later). Raufarhólshellir is roughly 1360 meters long and 30 meters wide, with the roof of the cavern reaching up to 10 meters high.
It is estimated that the cave was formed about 5000 years ago, and this magical place has only gotten better over time. 2016 Marked a big revamp at the cave in terms of making accessibility easier and providing more facilities for visitors (don’t worry, none of the natural elements were disturbed during this revamp).
How was the Raufarhólshellir Lava Cave formed?
The Raufarhólshellir Lava Tube was formed during a massive volcanic eruption in the Blafjöll Mountain Range. Lava caves are created when a huge lava river flows from the eruption site and starts to cool down from the outside in. This means that the outer layer cools down to form a hardened crust while the rest of the lava continues to flow through it.
Once the rest of the lava has dispersed, you’re left with only the hardened shell, which is referred to as a lava tube or tunnel. As is the case with many lava tubes here in Iceland, Raufarhólshellir’s cave entrance is also due to a part of the tube’s roof that has collapsed, giving us entry into this underground cavern.
When is the Best Time to Visit Raufarhólshellir?
You can visit the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel all throughout the year, although you will find more daily guided tours during our busy summer months here on the island. Till a couple of years ago, you could still explore Raufarholshellir by yourself, but due to safety concerns, it’s now only accessible via a guided tour.
Your tour operator will provide you with all the necessary gear and equipment, such as a helmet and a flashlight. But you need to remember to dress warmly since the cave can be quite cold.
A Few Things You’ll Get to See Inside the Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel
There are plenty of interesting things to see inside a geological wonder like this. You will find all sorts of fascinating lava and rock formations, icy stalagmites reaching up from the ground as if to greet their counterparts, the stalactites, coming down from the roof of the cave.
Because of the fact that the cavern walls are essentially made up of material that came from the deepest depths of the earth, the walls are also filled with all sorts of minerals that display in various colors. Raufarholshellir is truly other-worldly.
How Much is a Visit to Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel in Iceland?
That will all depend on which tour company you use and which tour experience you choose. But in general, you’re looking at the following prices for a standard Raufarhólshellir Cave tour:
- Adults = 8,400 ISK ($62)
- Teens = 4,200 ISK ($30.85)
- Children (between the ages of 3 and 11) = Free
*Children under the age of 3 are not allowed due to safety concerns
Raufarhólshellir: A Must When in Reykjavik
With Raufarhólshellir just a short drive from the city, there’s no excuse to miss out on this geological wonder with its volcanic history. And if you’re thinking of road-tripping the Ring Road route, Raufarhólshellir makes the perfect stop along the way. So, plan your trip, book that flight, rent a motorhome in Iceland, and book your spot on a Raufarhólshellir Cave tour – you’re in for an unforgettable journey!
