Vatnshellir Lava Cave Tour: A Unique Icelandic Adventure
Take a journey to one of the best examples of lava caves in Iceland. The Vatnshellir Lava Cave is located in Snæfellsjökull National Park, an area rich in volcanic history. The region surrounding the Snæfellsjökull Volcano contains hundreds of lava caves. The Vatnshellir cave itself is an 8,000-year-old lava tube, formed during a volcanic eruption from a nearby crater in the Purkhólar crater family.
As lava rushed down the hill, it cooled quickly on the surface, creating a crust over the flowing lava. Once the eruption stopped, the outer shell of the lava solidified, forming an insulating layer. Meanwhile, the lava beneath the crust continued to drain away. Eventually, this process left behind an empty “tube” with a roof that gradually cooled.
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Tour Details for Vatnshellir Lava Cave
This is a guided 45-minute tour into the Vatnshellir Lava Cave, where visitors descend into a 200-meter-long cave, reaching 35 meters below the surface. As one of the most accessible lava caves in Iceland, it offers a fascinating look into the island’s volcanic past. However, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended for the tour. If you’re able to walk up 2-3 flights of stairs without stopping and don’t mind walking on uneven surfaces, you’ll likely find the tour manageable.
How to Prepare for the Tour
Dress warmly for the cave tour, as the cave’s ceiling is well-insulated, and the temperature inside remains just above freezing throughout the year. Make sure to wear good walking shoes or sports shoes—no high heels or flat shoes (including flip-flops) are allowed for safety reasons. Gloves are also recommended for both comfort and safety.
When and How to Go
This tour is available year-round, with opening hours varying by season. To check availability, consult the calendar on this page to see available time slots for your preferred date. Please arrive at the cave at least 10 minutes before your scheduled tour time for check-in.
Safety equipment such as helmets and flashlights are provided. Headlamps are not allowed in the cave.
There are no restroom facilities inside the cave, but the nearest toilets are located at the Malarrif Visitor Center.
- Minimum age: 5 years old
- Location: The cave is situated between Djúpalónssandur Beach and the village of Hellnar.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your booking for a full refund up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.
Vatnshellir Lava Cave is a must-see for anyone visiting Iceland. With its fascinating geological features, easy accessibility, and year-round availability, this tour offers a rare opportunity to explore one of Iceland’s volcanic wonders. Make sure to book your tour in advance as availability can be limited.