Raufarhólshellir Lava Cave

Basic Information

Fourth Largest lava tube in Iceland.
The height of the cave is between 10-30 meters. Does not require crawling or clambering.
Located 30 minutes from Reykjavik.
The tunnel is decorated with award-winning lighting that is capture worthy.

Surrounded by the green lands and beautiful sceneries, Iceland is a perfect destination for a retreat. About every five kilometers there is some hidden canyon or a waterfall that would take your breath away with its stunning aura. Raufarhólshellir is another beautiful feather in Iceland’s hat which would amaze you. The fourth-longest lava tube in Iceland, Raufarhólshellir is known for its vibrancy among the locals and tourists that come to visit it.

Explore Raufarhólshellir Lava Cave

Raufarhólshellir is at a height of 1,360 meters. The best part about this lava tube is that one does not feel suffocated passing through it. Between 10 and even 30 meters at some points, Raufarhólshellir does not require crawling or clambering to get through it. Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel is a magnificent opportunity to experience the untainted thrill. Located at a distance of 30 minutes from Reykjavík, Raufarhólshellir is conveniently accessible for most people. The tunnel is decorated with award-winning lighting that is capture worthy, so make sure you have your camera handy. If you have a knack for adventure then you should make a stop at this tube and take the four-hour excursion that explores almost all the corners of the tube. Explorers from around the world admire this lava tunnel for the thrill that it offers. Hiring a professional tour guide is recommended as there are tiny spots midway that can be caught along the tour to Raufarhólshellir cave.

When to Visit Raufarhólshellir Cave

You can plan a tour to Raufarhólshellir throughout the year as sanctioned tours can take place anytime. Though summers are considered ideal to visit Raufarhólshellir. The days are long and chilly, so you can go for stretched walks and hikes around the area. If you want to see snowfall, then winters are good for you since almost all the cliffs and mountain ranges around the area get covered with snow during winters. Packing a sturdy jacket and boots with an excellent grip is mandatory in any season. Even summers can get quite chilly in Iceland. They would keep you warm and help in conquering long trails on uneven grounds.

What to Explore in the Area

The lava fields around the cave is beautiful and usually called Lambafellshraun lava fields. If you are looking for some other activities around the cave, you can visit the town of Hveragerði for some good restaurants and cafés. Hveragerði is the hot spring capital of Iceland with geothermal fields and hot springs everywhere you look. The hike up to Reykjadalur valley starts from Hveragerði and is a must for every hiker that likes to relax in a hot spring after a great hike. Hikers and trekkers can have a day full of adrenaline rush as the trail is not only filled with fun but challenging too. The river Varmá is also around the vicinity with a waterfall called Reykjafoss. Reykjafoss is fairly warm because of the geothermal activity in the area. On good summer days, locals like to jump into the warm waterfall for a bathe.

Places to Stay near Raufarhólshellir Cave

There are various places to check-in near Raufarhólshellir Cave. You have options from hotels to guest houses to camping grounds that you can pick from around the area. Frost and Fire Boutique Hotel is a great option that is situated amidst a peaceful environment in Hveragerði. Additional perks include a hot spring steam room and a pool where you can sit and relax. Free parking and Wifi are also there. If you are low on budget, Hotel Hlid with rooms on a shared basis and dormitories is a good option to stay with your friends.