Hella Iceland is a surprisingly rich spot for unique tours that reveal the island’s past and culture in a way few other places can match. Unlike busy tourist hubs, Hella offers immersive experiences like exploring Iceland’s oldest man-made caves or stepping back into centuries-old turf farms. These tours stand out for their authenticity and the chance to see parts of Iceland rarely open to visitors. We especially love the Guided Tour of Ancient Man-Made Caves because it combines fascinating history with engaging storytelling, especially from guides passionate about sharing their knowledge. Similarly, the visit to Keldur’s turf farm offers a peaceful, scenic look at how Icelanders lived for hundreds of years.
In this guide, we’ll cover two top-rated tours: one that explores prehistoric caves and another that reveals traditional Icelandic farm life. Both are perfect for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in understanding Iceland beyond its stunning landscapes. Whether you’re after a quick history fix or a deeper cultural dive, these tours will add real value to your trip.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of what makes each tour special, followed by detailed descriptions to help you decide which experience suits your interests and schedule best.
1. Hella: Guided Tour of Ancient Man-Made Caves
At number 1 on our list, the Guided Tour of Ancient Man-Made Caves in Hella offers a rare glimpse into Iceland’s earliest settlements. These caves, believed to be the home of Iceland’s first settlers, have stood since before the Vikings arrived. This tour is especially appealing because it combines archaeological intrigue with lively storytelling from guides who are clearly passionate about Icelandic history. For many travelers, this stops as part of their journey to the South Iceland region becomes a memorable highlight.
Touring these caves is not just about stepping into a hollowed-out piece of history; it’s about understanding how Icelanders lived in a harsh landscape long before modern comforts. The tour lasts about an hour, making it a perfect quick cultural stop. The caves were until recently closed to the public, which adds an exclusive feel to the experience. Visitors frequently mention how knowledgeable and fun their guides are, with reviews praising the engaging storytelling and insights into Iceland’s early days. One reviewer said, “Hanna’s knowledge kept us mesmerized,” emphasizing the quality of guides here.
The tour’s value lies in its unique access to Iceland’s oldest structures, combined with the chance to learn about prehistoric life in a relaxed setting. It’s ideal for history lovers or travelers eager to see something different from Iceland’s waterfalls and glaciers. Keep in mind that availability varies, so reserving in advance is recommended.
Bottom line: This is a must-visit for anyone interested in Icelandic archaeology, offering a fascinating peek into how the island’s earliest inhabitants lived and built.
2. The Old Turf Farm at Keldur: Want to Travel Back in Time?
Coming in at number 2, the Old Turf Farm at Keldur is a 50-minute visit into Iceland’s rural past. This tour provides an authentic look at traditional turf houses, which served as homes for Icelanders for centuries. What makes this experience stand out is how seamlessly the turf farm blends into its natural surroundings, giving you a feeling of stepping into a living museum.
The highlight of this tour is discovering how Icelanders built their homes from natural materials, using turf, stone, and wood in ways that sustained them in cold, windy conditions. The guide’s friendly approach and deep knowledge make the history come alive. One review sums it up: “Very friendly guide who knew a lot about the Keldur houses,” making it clear that this experience is perfect for those interested in cultural heritage.
This tour is well-suited to travelers who want a peaceful, scenic outing and have a keen interest in rural Icelandic life. It offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the countryside while learning how Icelanders lived without modern conveniences. Since it’s only 50 minutes, it’s a great addition to a day exploring South Iceland.
Bottom line: If you’re curious about traditional Icelandic architecture and want a quiet, educational experience in a beautiful setting, this turf farm tour is a perfect choice.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between the Ancient Caves and Keldur Turf Farm, consider your interests and schedule. The caves are ideal if you love archaeology and want a more active, story-rich experience. Meanwhile, the turf farm is perfect for those wanting a peaceful, scenic glimpse into rural life that’s easy to fit into a shorter itinerary.
Both tours offer a chance to escape the crowds and connect with Iceland’s past in authentic ways. If you’re tight on time, the turf farm’s 50-minute visit is an easy pick. But for a deeper dive into prehistoric architecture and early settlement ways, the caves are unbeatable.
Remember to check availability and book in advance, especially during peak travel season, to ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences.
Final Thoughts
Hella offers a surprising variety of tours that reveal Iceland’s history beyond the obvious natural wonders. For a quick but meaningful cultural encounter, the Guided Tour of Ancient Man-Made Caves is a top-notch choice, giving visitors a rare look at Iceland’s earliest dwellings with engaging storytelling. Alternatively, the Old Turf Farm at Keldur provides a serene, hands-on sense of everyday life centuries ago—perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic experience.
Whether you’re after a history-packed hour or a peaceful rural walk, these tours add depth and perspective to your Iceland trip. Booking early, especially during the busy months, will ensure you secure a spot on these memorable adventures. Dive into Iceland’s past and enjoy the stories these tours have to tell.
