Reykjavik: Lava Tunnel Tour & Raufarhólshellir Transfer

Summary

Half-day from Reykjavik exploring Iceland’s wild lava tunnel with transfers

You’ll travel from Reykjavik to Raufarhólshellir’s lava tunnel with an expert local guide, helmet and headlamp ready for adventure. Walk through ancient volcanic passages on safe paths, listen to stories in total darkness, and return with a new sense of quiet wonder buzzing under your skin.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d ever stand under rock that once flowed like water. But there we were, helmets on (mine a bit crooked), just outside Reykjavik, about to walk into Raufarhólshellir’s lava tunnel. Our guide, Sigrún, handed out headlamps and joked about elves living in the shadows—she had that dry Icelandic humor that sneaks up on you. The bus ride from the city was quick, maybe 30 minutes? I barely noticed because everyone was swapping stories about weird weather or what they’d seen in town.

The first step inside hit me with this earthy cold—like someone opened a freezer full of old stones. The air smelled faintly metallic, and my boots crunched over rough black rock. Sigrún pointed out odd shapes in the ceiling where lava once dripped and cooled; she said some people see dragons or faces in them. I tried but mostly saw blobs—maybe my imagination needs work. At one point she turned off all the lights for a minute so we could feel the darkness. I thought I’d be fine but wow, it’s thick, almost heavy somehow.

There are platforms and paths set up so you don’t have to scramble (though I still stubbed my toe). The lighting is subtle but makes the colors pop—rusty reds and deep purples streaked along the walls. Someone asked if it was always this quiet in here and Sigrún just nodded, letting the silence hang for a bit. On the way back up into daylight, I remember blinking hard at how bright everything looked again—Reykjavik felt close but also far away after being underground like that. Honestly, I still think about that cold hush sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lava tunnel exploration near Reykjavik

• Transfer from Reykjavik to lava tunnel
• Receive helmet and headlamp
• Guided tour inside Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel
• Learn about geological features
• Walk on paths and platforms
• Return transfer to Reykjavik

Top questions

How long does the Lava Tunnel tour from Reykjavik take?

The tour is a half-day activity including transfer time between Reykjavik and Raufarhólshellir.

Is hotel pickup included for this lava tunnel tour?

The tour includes transfer from Reykjavik but does not specify hotel pickup; check booking details.

Are helmets and headlamps provided for the lava tube walk?

Yes, helmets and headlamps are included for all participants.

How far is Raufarhólshellir from Reykjavik?

The lava tunnel is located just outside Reykjavik; transfer takes around 30 minutes each way.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

The paths and platforms make it accessible for most people but not recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Are crampons needed for this tour?

Crampons are provided during winter months if needed.

How many times per day does this tour run?

Tours with transfer from Reykjavik are available 2-3 times daily.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transfer from Reykjavik to Raufarhólshellir, a guided walk through the lava tunnel with an expert local guide, plus helmet and headlamp provided for safety. Walking sticks are available if you want them, and crampons are offered during winter months to keep things steady underfoot.