From Reykjavik: Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel by Bus

From Reykjavik: Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel by Bus

This tour offers a captivating peek into Iceland’s volcanic landscape, taking you roughly 30 minutes from Reykjavik to one of the country’s most impressive lava tubes, Raufarhólshellir. For $125 per person, you’ll spend about three hours exploring a gigantic underground tunnel formed by lava flow roughly 5,200 years ago during the Leitahraun eruption. You’ll enjoy a guided walk through the 1-kilometer-long cave, equipped with a high-quality flashlight and helmet, and travel comfortably on a climate-controlled bus with free WiFi.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to see the range of vivid mineral colors illuminating the cave walls—something truly mesmerizing. The fact that the site was used as a filming location for the Hollywood movie Noah adds a cool touch of cinematic history. Plus, the knowledgeable guides make understanding the geology engaging and fun, making this a worthwhile trip for anyone curious about how Iceland’s landscape has been shaped by volcanic activity.

A potential consideration is that some parts of the cave are uneven and a bit slippery, so sturdy footwear and a reasonable level of mobility are recommended. This tour suits travelers who enjoy natural wonders, are comfortable walking in rocky environments, and want a hands-on, immersive look into Iceland’s volcanic forces without the need for strenuous hiking or spelunking.

Key Points

• Stunning Lava Formations: The cave’s vibrant mineral layers and impressive columns of light near the entrance create an unforgettable visual experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, humorous guides enhance the tour with interesting facts and engaging storytelling.
• Convenient Transportation: Round-trip bus service from Reykjavik with free WiFi makes this a hassle-free half-day adventure.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for most people with reasonable mobility, though some uneven terrain requires caution.
• Unique Filming Location: The cave’s cinematic appearance adds a layer of interest for movie buffs.
• Good Value: The combination of transport, guided tour, and equipment rental offers strong value compared to independent exploration.

When thinking about Iceland, images of volcanoes, steaming hot springs, and rugged lava fields immediately come to mind. This tour is your chance to see some of that volcanic power up close—without the need for full-on spelunking or long hikes. It’s a well-organized, accessible way to learn about and experience Iceland’s volcanic history in just a few hours, making it perfect for travelers with tight schedules or those new to caving.

Location and Accessibility
Starting at the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik, the journey to Raufarhólshellir is straightforward. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes, giving you time to relax and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape. The bus is climate-controlled, and with free WiFi on board, you can share your anticipation or look over some quick facts about Iceland’s geology. This ease of access makes it a popular choice—over 639 reviews give it a 4.6 out of 5, reflecting high satisfaction across a broad range of travelers.

What’s Included and What to Expect
The tour includes bus fare, a guided 1-hour cave tour, a helmet, a flashlight, and access to WiFi. Once at the site, you’ll gear up and walk a short distance to the cave entrance. Inside, you’ll explore one of Iceland’s largest lava tubes, with natural formations that showcase the extraordinary power of flowing lava. The ceiling caves in near the entrance, creating dramatic columns of light—an Instagram-worthy moment that also reveals how volcanic activity sculpts the underground landscape.

Guides are excellent at explaining how the tunnel was formed. Many reviews praise the guides’ passion and knowledge—one even mentioned how the guide confidently showed what the cave looks like in total darkness, giving a real sense of the cave’s atmosphere. Visitors also appreciate the small group environment, which fosters questions and personal interaction.

The Experience
As you descend into the tunnel, the sights are nothing short of spectacular. Expect to see vivid colors on the walls, caused by minerals like iron and copper. We loved how the guide described the forces of nature that created these formations, making geology approachable and interesting. The interior terrain is uneven and can be slippery, so sturdy shoes are a must.

A highlight for many is turning off the lights and experiencing pure darkness—an eerie, almost meditative moment that’s hard to find elsewhere. The cave’s total darkness and silence help you grasp the scale and power of volcanic eruptions. The tunnel is about 500 meters long, and your walk lasts roughly an hour, making it a manageable but impactful adventure.

Historical and Cinematic Significance
An interesting tidbit many reviews share is that this site was used as a filming location for the movie Noah, starring Anthony Hopkins. It adds a bit of Hollywood flair to an already impressive natural wonder—and it reminds us that Iceland’s landscapes often double as movie sets, adding a dash of cinematic magic.

The Value Proposition
While $125 might seem like a premium price for a short tour, it’s justified by the combination of transportation, expert guides, safety equipment, and the unique underground experience. The fact that most reviews mention how informative and entertaining the guides are suggests you’re not just paying for a walk—you’re paying for a story that makes the landscape come alive.

Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for geology enthusiasts, families, and first-time visitors who want an authentic, memorable encounter with Iceland’s volcanic past without strenuous activity. It’s also excellent for those who appreciate a good story—many reviewers highlight how guides made the geology fascinating and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Start at the BSI Bus Terminal
The meeting point is straightforward, with travelers advised to arrive 15 minutes early. We found the check-in process smooth, and the bus punctual. The warm, climate-controlled environment on the bus is a nice touch, especially considering Iceland’s often unpredictable weather.

Journey to Raufarhólshellir
The bus ride itself is about 30 minutes, during which you can enjoy views of the lava fields and perhaps catch some insights from the guide or even share your own curiosity. Many reviews comment on the driver’s friendliness and ease of transport as a big plus—it’s a stress-free way to get here.

Arrival and Gear Up
Once at the site, you’ll receive your helmet and flashlight. Some reviews mention the availability of walking poles, which can be helpful given the uneven terrain. The guides are attentive to safety and encourage questions, making the experience more interactive.

Inside the Lava Tube
The walk into the tunnel takes about 10–15 minutes, with a stretch of about 500 meters. The first thing you’ll notice is the dazzling array of colors along the walls—reds, greens, and browns—each mineral contributing to the stunning palette. The ceiling’s caves and columns showcase the power of flowing lava cooling and solidifying over thousands of years.

Walking and Exploring
The terrain is rocky, with some sections with only rocks to walk on, so caution is advised. Many reviews note that the uneven ground is manageable for most but might be tricky for those with limited mobility. The guide will walk at a pace suitable for the group, often pausing to point out specific formations or tell stories about the volcano’s activity.

The Darkness Experience
One of the most memorable moments is turning off the headlamps. The complete blackness envelops you, highlighting the silence and stillness—an almost surreal experience that reminds us how nature’s forces carve incredible structures with no one watching.

Return and Reflection
After exploring the cave, you’ll walk back to the entrance, carrying some stunning memories and photos. Many visitors remark how the guide’s storytelling and humor added to the experience, making it both educational and fun.

Why This Tour Matters

This trip offers a rare window into Iceland’s volcanic heart—a land shaped time and again by fiery eruptions. The lava tunnel is a natural sculpture gallery, where mineral-rich walls glow with colors that change with the light and mineral deposits. For many, standing inside such a formation is awe-inspiring; it’s a reminder of nature’s raw power and creativity.

On top of that, the accessibility and convenience make it an attractive option for a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re a geology buff, a family with kids, or just someone looking for a different kind of adventure, this tour provides a memorable, authentic experience. The consistent praise for guides’ humor and knowledge underscores that it’s not just about seeing a cave but understanding how Icelandic volcanoes have shaped the landscape—and our planet.

Final Thoughts

To sum it up, the From Reykjavik: Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel by Bus tour is a solid choice for travelers seeking an engaging, educational, and visually stunning introduction to Iceland’s volcanic landscape. The combination of easy logistics, expert guides, and a spectacular underground environment offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy geology, natural wonders, and a dose of cinematic history.

While it’s not a long or physically demanding tour, the uneven terrain means you should be comfortable walking on rocks. The price reflects a package that includes transport, safety gear, and a guided experience—making it a hassle-free, enriching outing that’s well worth the time and money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s appropriate for most people with reasonable mobility, including children. However, since parts of the cave are uneven and slippery, young children or those with mobility challenges should be cautious.

How long is the actual cave tour?
The guided tour inside the lava tube lasts about one hour, with the walk into the cave covering roughly 500 meters.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and wear sturdy footwear, as the interior can be cold and rocky. Some reviews mention the cave’s temperature and the importance of good shoes.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip bus fare from Reykjavik is included, with the bus equipped with free WiFi for your comfort.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You might want to bring a snack or water, especially if you want to extend your experience or if you have specific dietary needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your itinerary changes.

This lava tunnel tour is a perfect blend of adventure, education, and Icelandic natural beauty. If you’re eager to see a stunning underground world shaped by volcanic fire, it’s a trip you’ll remember long after you leave the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: