Standard Lava Tunnel Tour
Season: All year round, daily. Duration: 1 hour
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A journey into Raufarhólshellir is a unique experience and a great opportunity to witness the inner workings of a volcanic eruption as one walks in the path of lava that flowed during the Leitahraun eruption, which occurred east of the Bláfjöll mountains about 5200 years ago. Every winter spectacular ice sculptures are formed inside the entrance of the cave making the experience of visiting the lava tunnel even more breathtaking.
The total length of the tunnel is an impressive 1360 m (4500 ft), the main tunnel being 900 m (3000 ft) long. The tunnel is up to 30 m wide with headroom up to 10 m high, making it one of the most expansive lava tunnels in Iceland. Near the entrance of the tunnel the ceiling has caved in creating three beautiful columns of light inside the tunnel. At the end of Raufarhólshellir the tunnel branches into three smaller tunnels where magnificent lava falls and formations are clearly visible. Raufarhólshellir is a lava tube formed during the Leitahraun eruption and is one of Iceland´s longest cave. Lava tubes are a natural conduit formed when an active low-viscosity lava flow develops a continuous and hard crust, which thickens and forms a roof above the still-flowing lava stream. Up until the last century, the tunnel was full of stalactites but in the 1950s, more and more people started visiting the tunnel and as a result the stalactites began to disappear and today almost none are left. A trip through Raufarhólshellir is a unique opportunity to get a close look of the impressive forces of nature that emerge from the center of the earth and a guided tour of the wondrous world that can be found just under the surface. 
The tour is on the hour every hour and each tour takes approximately 55 - 60 minutes.
The tunnel is located less than 30 minutes drive (approximately 30 km) from Reykjavík and accessible by all vehicles. Driving from Reykjavík east on Route 1 and drive for about 18 km. Turn right onto Route 39 (Þorlákshöfn) and drive for another 12 km. The parking area will be on your left hand side. You can also find it on google maps. The GPS coordinates are: N.63º 56.407 / W. 021º 23.742. Difficulty: 1/5 - For most people although we do not recommend to those that have difficulties with balance, difficulties walking on uneven surface (such as snow) or difficulties walking up or down steep stairs. 
Prices may change without prior notice. If an incorrect price has been listed, we reserve the right to refuse, cancel or limit any order placed at the incorrect price. *Subject to availability - price is confirmed when payment has been made. Book in advance to get the best price!
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PACKAGE DETAILS
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AGE LIMIT: 3 years old BRING: Warm clothes and sturdy shoes Additional information
Voucher: You will receive a secure voucher to either print out or present on your mobile phone. Cancellation Policy: Fee of 100% if cancelled 1 day(s) before event or less. |
