Basic Information
One of the most famous lava caves in Iceland is Víðgelmir. It’s really big and colorful. Inside, there are lots of hidden surprises that you can only understand if you see them in real life. The tunnels in the cave are narrow and tight, and they’ll take you to a world that most people have never seen before.
Discover Víðgelmir Lava Cave
This tour leads you through a natural lava tunnel formed by a volcanic eruption. While the exact size of the cave is still unknown, about 1600 meters of it are accessible for tourists. This makes it one of the world’s longest and largest lava caves. The cave’s environment is unique but also quite challenging. Even in summer, it can get really cold inside due to being underground, so make sure to dress warmly with layers of clothing to stay comfortable. Both experienced and beginner tourists can enjoy this tour. Helmets, headlights, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots are necessary to navigate through the cave safely, as the floor can be slippery from snow.
Guided Tours to Víðgelmir lava cave
The land around Víðgelmir lava cave is owned by a family, offering family-guided tours with knowledgeable guides, as well as tours conducted by travel agencies. The cave’s interior is well-maintained and organized to ensure you can appreciate the incredible natural formations without feeling claustrophobic.
An experienced and trustworthy guide will lead the tour, whether you opt for the family-owned tour or choose from those provided by tour companies. Despite the absence of natural light, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for advanced photography inside. Consider bringing a camera suitable for low-light conditions. The cave is illuminated by installed lights, giving your shots a unique ambiance. Your guides will not only lead you through the cave but also explain how the lava cave was formed.
How to get to Víðgelmir Lava Cave
The cave is located in Borgarfjörður, West Iceland, about a 2-hour drive from Reykjavik. A regular car is sufficient for the journey; you don’t need a special super jeep or 4×4 vehicle. You can either take a self-driving tour to the destination and then join a family-owned cave tour, or book a trip through a tour agency. There are various tour options available. As the cave is underground, finding it on your own might be a bit challenging if you’re driving independently. Borgarnes is the nearest town to the cave, where you can refuel or pick up supplies. It’s an additional 1-hour drive from Borgarnes to reach the cave.
Upon arriving at the cave and meeting your guides, you’ll receive safety instructions and gear, including helmets and headlights. From there, it’s all about enjoying the cave and marveling at the underground wonders around you.
Map of Víðgelmir Lava Cave
Gallery
Interesting locations in the area
Locations
- Surtshellir lava cave
- Húsafell
- Hraunfossar
- Barnafossar
- Deildartunguhver
- Snorralaug
Hotels & Restaurants
- Hotel Húsafell
- Hotel Á
- Fosshotel Reykholt
- Gamli Bær
- Hotel Húsafell
