Lava tunnel
Walk through a 5,200-year-old lava tunnel formed during a volcanic eruption. In winter, ice sculptures form at the entrance, making the experience even more extraordinary.
Area
Reykjavik
Type
Wildlife & Nature
Who
Adults
Teens
Difficulty
Challenging
Duration
Half Day
Raufarhólshellir is a lava tunnel formed during an eruption east of the Bláfjöll mountains around 5,200 years ago. Walking inside is like witnessing the inner workings of a volcanic eruption, following the exact path the lava took as it flowed beneath the surface. A private guide leads you through with helmets and lights. In winter, spectacular ice sculptures form inside the entrance, adding another layer to an already extraordinary experience. The temperature inside sits around zero to four degrees, and the scale of the tunnel is far bigger than you expect.
Tours Featuring This Experience
Be inspired by the itineraries below which include this experience and let our travel specialists craft a bespoke luxury holiday for you.
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View TourHighlights of Iceland
An immersive journey through Iceland, combining volcanoes, glaciers, black sand beaches and private adventures with seamless guiding, exceptional stays and unforgettable experiences throughout.
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View TourWonders of the North: Iceland and Ireland
Discover Iceland’s glaciers, geysers, and volcanoes, then explore Ireland’s castles, coastlines, and cultural highlights. Private guides, exclusive access, and exceptional experiences make this a seamless journey through two of Northern Europe’s most iconic destinations.
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View TourFOCUS: Iceland Wonders - A private Family Adventure
A private, family-focused journey through Iceland’s iconic sights, from Reykjavík and the Golden Circle to glaciers, lava fields, and puffin-filled fjords, with exclusive access, expert guides, and seamless luxury throughout.
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View TourLimitless Iceland Expedition: The Land of Fire & Ice
Discover the Land of Fire & Ice like never before. Embark on an 11-day adventure exploring Reykjavik's vibrant culture, the Golden Circle's natural wonders, and the remote beauty of the Central Highlands, Northern Coast, and Troll Peninsula.
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View TourFamily Fun in Iceland
A thoughtfully paced Iceland adventure for families, combining Reykjavik, glaciers and volcanoes with hands-on experiences, expert guides and space to relax, from whale watching and snowmobiling to lava caves and the Blue Lagoon.
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View TourFOCUS: Iceland Decoded - Exploring the Elements
Experience Iceland’s volcanoes, glaciers, and hidden landscapes with private guides, family-friendly adventures, and exclusive access, from inside a dormant volcano to secret ice caves and Zodiac glacier tours.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationBlabjorg Resort
A remote Eastfjords retreat in Borgarfjörður Eystri, Blábjörg Resort blends authentic Icelandic charm with dramatic landscapes, geothermal spa experiences and unrivalled access to one of Iceland’s most untouched regions.
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View AccommodationHotel Borg
Hotel Borg blends Art Deco elegance, central Reykjavík convenience, and personalised service, offering discerning travellers a refined base from which to explore the city and bespoke Icelandic experiences beyond.
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View AccommodationBlue Lagoon Silica Hotel
A tranquil hideaway set in lava fields with exclusive access to a private lagoon, Silica Hotel offers serene luxury and a restorative base to experience Iceland’s elemental beauty with Scott Dunn.
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View AccommodationSörla Camp
Discover the untouched beauty of Iceland with a stay at Sörla Camp, offering luxury yurts, bespoke adventures, and personalised service in an extraordinary wilderness setting. A once-in-a-lifetime experience tailored to you.
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View AccommodationParliament Hotel
A stylish retreat in the heart of Reykjavik, Parliament Hotel Blends contemporary design with Icelandic heritage, offering an intimate base for exploring the city's vibrant culture and dramatic landscapes.
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View AccommodationTorfhus Retreat
Torfhus Retreat offers an exclusive Icelandic escape with stylish suites, bespoke adventures, wellness treatments, and local cuisine, surrounded by untouched wilderness for discerning travellers seeking privacy and connection to nature.
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View AccommodationHotel Grimsborgir
Hotel Grímsborgir offers luxurious Scandinavian-inspired accommodation in the Golden Circle,with tailored adventures, local cuisine, and private hot tubs or fireplaces,providing discerning travellers with a personalised and immersive Icelandic experience.
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View AccommodationThe Retreat at Blue Lagoon
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon offers exclusive lagoon access, sophisticated suites, world-class wellness, and bespoke Icelandic experiences, providing discerning travellers with an unparalleled blend of luxury, privacy, and natural beauty.
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View AccommodationHotel Ranga
Hotel Ranga offers a warm welcome, delicious gourmet food and wine, and the opportunity to enjoy the natural wonders of this remarkable part of the country. Its location means there is good chance of catching sight of the Northern Lights.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceGeothermal helicopter tour
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View ExperienceATV across the lava
ATVs across the Reykjanes peninsula. Lava fields, black sand, mountain trails, and views over the Blue Lagoon and the island of Eldey.
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View ExperienceFlyOver Iceland: A Journey Above the Extraordinary
Soar over Iceland’s dramatic landscapes on FlyOver, a thrilling, multi-sensory journey. Feet dangling, senses awakened, guests discover hidden wonders and sweeping vistas in a uniquely immersive experience.
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View ExperienceCook the family dinner
Take over the kitchen at Salt Eldhús for a hands-on Nordic cooking class. Three courses of Icelandic fish and free-range lamb, then the whole family sits down to eat together.
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View ExperienceNorthern Lights Hunt
Escape Reykjavik’s lights and journey into Iceland’s wilderness with a private guide, tracking the elusive Northern Lights. Witness the Aurora Borealis shimmer across the night sky in serene isolation, with the magic of the Arctic unfolding before you.
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View ExperienceReykjavik food tour
Take over the kitchen at Salt Eldhús for a hands-on Nordic cooking class. Three courses of Icelandic fish and free-range lamb, then the whole family sits down to eat together.
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View ExperienceSky Lagoon
Soak in an infinity-edge geothermal lagoon carved from lava, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Five minutes from Reykjavik and the perfect way to land in Iceland.
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View ExperienceBlue Lagoon Retreat
Two nights at the Retreat, built into an 800-year-old lava flow in the heart of the Blue Lagoon. Milky teal mineral waters, volcanic landscapes, and complete serenity.
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View ExperienceReykjavík Walking Tour
Experience Reykjavík intimately on a private walking tour, wandering historic streets, colourful houses, and iconic landmarks, while uncovering hidden gems and the city’s Viking and modern stories.
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