From Reykjavik: Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel by Bus

Exploring the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel: A Practical Review

If you’re looking to see something truly extraordinary during your Iceland trip, a visit to the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel could be just the ticket. This tour takes you into one of the largest lava tubes in Iceland, offering a glimpse into the island’s volcanic activity that shaped much of its landscape. While I haven’t done this tour myself, I’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have, and it sounds like a fascinating mix of natural beauty and geological wonder.

What really stands out about this experience are two things: first, the chance to walk in a real lava tube that’s over 5,200 years old, and second, the way guides make the history and formation of the tunnel so engaging. The vibrant colors splashed across the walls and the eerie silence inside add a surreal touch. However, a key consideration for potential visitors is that the terrain inside can be uneven and slippery, so sturdy footwear and a bit of agility are a must. This tour is especially suited for those interested in geology, adventure, and seeing a truly unique slice of Icelandic nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Accessible adventure: It’s a short, roughly 3-hour trip perfect for fitting into a busy Iceland itinerary.
• Educational and fun guides: Expert guides make the history of the lava tube easy to understand and engaging.
• Beautiful natural sights: The colorful mineral deposits and dramatic formations inside the tunnel are memorable.
• Transport included: The tour offers hassle-free bus transportation from Reykjavik, with WiFi onboard.
• Limited walking in the tunnel: The walk is about 500 meters, with some uneven terrain; good footwear is recommended.
• Family-friendly aspects: Not specifically mentioned, but the terrain suggests some caution for younger children or those with mobility issues.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour strikes a nice balance between education, adventure, and convenience. Starting from the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik, you’ll hop on a climate-controlled bus equipped with free WiFi, making those 30-minute drives more comfortable and connected. The friendly driver will ferry you comfortably to the lava tube, which is located in the southern region of Iceland.

Once you arrive at Raufarhólshellir, the real fun begins. You’ll meet your guide, who will equip you with a high-quality flashlight and a helmet. The walk into the tunnel is about 500 meters, and as you progress, you’ll see the ceiling has caved in near the entrance, creating striking columns of light that dance on the walls. This natural skylight makes the entrance particularly spectacular and provides fantastic photo opportunities.

Inside, the atmosphere shifts to an otherworldly silence, broken only by your footsteps and the occasional sound of your guide explaining how the lava flow from erupting volcanoes shaped this enormous natural formation. The contrasting colors on the walls reveal minerals deposited during the lava’s cooling process, making this not just a geological site but a visual feast. Several reviewers mentioned how the colors appear to shift and glow, adding to the tunnel’s mystical appeal.

The guided tour itself lasts about an hour and covers roughly 500 meters of uneven terrain. While the path is generally manageable, it does include some rocky stretches. As one visitor noted, “terrain was quite uneven, so that’s something to bear in mind if you have limited mobility.” The guide often turns off the flashlight to demonstrate total darkness, which many find to be a highlight—an eerie, humbling reminder of nature’s power.

The Journey There and Back

The round-trip transportation is simple and stress-free. The bus picks you up at the BSI Bus Terminal—be sure to arrive 15 minutes early—and drops you back off at the same spot after the tour. The bus has WiFi, so you can share photos or ask questions during the drive, which is a nice touch.

The journey itself is approximately 30 minutes each way, and travelers have praised the driver for being friendly and knowledgeable. One review mentioned that the early pick-up and drop-off made the experience easy to fit into a day of exploring Reykjavik and the surrounding sights.

Price and Overall Value

At $125 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering what you get: transportation, a guided tour, helmet, flashlight, and a memorable experience inside one of Iceland’s most striking natural formations. Many reviewers commented that it was worth the cost, especially given the stunning visuals and expert guidance.

It’s worth noting that the tour is a short, focused experience—just an hour inside the tunnel—so if you’re after a deep dive into volcanic geology or extensive cave exploration, this might feel a bit limited. However, for most travelers, the balance of ease, education, and visual spectacle makes it a good deal.

More Great Tours Nearby

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and energetic guides, with comments like “brilliant,” “funny,” and “very informative.” Several mentioned how the guide enhanced the experience with humor and a genuine passion for geology, making an already impressive site even more engaging.

Many also highlighted the awe-inspiring visuals, with one saying, “the lava tunnel itself is beautiful and awesome,” and another noting the “fantastic range of colors in the tunnel wall caused by different mineral types.” The opportunity to turn off the flashlight and experience pitch darkness was another favorite, described as “amazing” by multiple visitors.

On the practical side, travelers appreciated the hassle-free transport and the fact that they could drop off at their hotel afterward, which added to the tour’s convenience. Some mentioned uneven terrain, so if you have mobility concerns, it’s worth considering before booking.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for anyone curious about volcanoes and lava formations, as well as those who want a straightforward, guided adventure without extensive hiking or spelunking. It suits families with older children who can handle uneven ground, and adventure seekers eager to stand where lava once flowed. If you’re keen on educational experiences with a bit of thrill, this tour hits the mark.

It’s less suitable if you’re looking for a physically demanding caving expedition or if mobility issues limit your walking ability. Also, keep in mind that the tour is quite short—about an hour inside the tunnel—so if you’re craving a longer exploration, you might want to look at other options.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel tour offers a compelling glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic history. The combination of professional guides, stunning natural formations, and convenient transport makes it a solid choice for travelers wanting to tick off a unique geological wonder from their Iceland itinerary. The vibrant colors and eerie silence inside the tunnel create a memorable setting that many visitors rave about.

While it’s not a lengthy or physically demanding adventure, it delivers plenty of wow factor in a compact package. Whether you’re a geology buff or simply looking for an unusual experience, this tour provides an accessible, educational, and visually stunning activity that adds depth to your understanding of Iceland’s fiery nature.

If you’re okay with a little uneven terrain and want a well-organized trip with expert guidance, you’ll find this a worthwhile addition. It’s particularly perfect for those with limited time but who want a meaningful, off-the-beaten-path experience that’s both fun and educational.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, the terrain inside the tunnel can be uneven and slippery. Children should be able to walk steadily and handle some rocky paths. Always check with the provider if you have very young children or mobility concerns.

How long does the tour last?
The guided tour inside the lava tunnel lasts about one hour. The total activity, including transportation, is approximately 3 hours.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes bus fare from Reykjavik to the lava tunnel and back. The bus is climate-controlled and offers free WiFi.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and wear sturdy footwear suitable for uneven and potentially slippery surfaces inside the tunnel. Layers are a good idea since temperature inside can vary.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it’s free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility makes it easy to plan your trip with confidence.

Is the tour guided in English?
Absolutely, the guide is in English and is known for being knowledgeable, funny, and engaging.

What if I want to extend my visit inside the tunnel?
The standard tour lasts about an hour. If you’re interested in exploring more, you might want to ask about options for longer or full tunnel access, though these are not included in the standard package.

Is this tour suitable if I have limited mobility?
While many find the terrain manageable, some parts are uneven and rocky, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. It’s best to assess your comfort level or consult with the tour provider beforehand.

This guided trip to Raufarhólshellir offers a quick but impactful experience—perfect for travelers wanting to add a touch of Iceland’s volcanic drama to their trip without a heavy time commitment. The scenery, combined with expert storytelling, makes it a memorable highlight for those fascinated by the island’s fiery past.

You can check availability for your dates here: