Raufarholshellir
Iceland
Explore Raufarhólshellir, one of the longest lava tunnels in Iceland, with transport to Reykjavik. An ideal half-a-day activity that combines amazing Icelandic nature just outside the capital Reykjavik. You will be provided with a helmet and headlamp and on this guided tour you will learn about and witness amazing geological features that can only be found inside a lava tube. Paths and platforms are provided making this accessible activity for most people and our lighting design has won numerous awards. Tours with transfer from Reykjavik are provided 2- 3 times a day.
Contents
9 sections · tap a section for its opening lines1Orientation
Welcome, distinguished travelers, to a geological marvel that transports us deep beneath the surface of the earth. We are standing at the threshold of Raufarholshellir, a magnificent subterranean conduit located just a brief…
Listen in the app2The Visitor Center and Conservation Surface
As we begin our approach, take a moment to survey the surface infrastructure that now facilitates our exploration of Raufarholshellir. We are currently standing near the visitor center, a modest but essential structure that…
Listen in the app3The Built Wall and Descent
We have now arrived at the formal threshold of Raufarholshellir, standing before the constructed wall and doorway that seal the mouth of the beast. Before we cross this boundary, let us discuss the vital safety protocols and the…
Listen in the app4The First Skylight and the Oasis of Light
As we progress deeper into the initial chambers of Raufarholshellir, we arrive beneath the awe-inspiring phenomenon known formally as a skylight. Look directly upward to witness this dramatic architectural feature of the lava…
Listen in the app5The Chromatic Canvas of the Lava Walls
Moving beyond the immediate influence of the first skylight, we find ourselves immersed in a section of the tunnel that completely defies conventional expectations. When one envisions the interior of a subterranean cave,…
Listen in the app6The Cathedral of Ice Stalagmites
As we navigate further into the depths of Raufarholshellir, we encounter an extraordinary seasonal phenomenon that transforms this volcanic tomb into a glittering palace of ice. Dependent upon the harshness of the preceding…
Listen in the app7Transitioning to the Dark Side
We have now reached a critical juncture in our subterranean expedition, a boundary that marks a profound shift in the physical environment. Take note of the sudden change beneath your feet as we transition away from the natural…
Listen in the app8The Deep Tube and Lava Falls Descent
As we stand at the precipice of the deeper tunnel, peering into the cavernous void that stretches out infinitely before us, we must acknowledge the immense scale of the geological structure we occupy. We have traveled…
Listen in the app9Closing
As we ascend from the chilling depths of Raufarholshellir and navigate our way back toward the welcoming embrace of the Icelandic daylight, it is essential to pause and reflect upon the profound journey we have just undertaken.…
Listen in the app
What is Raufarholshellir?
Raufarholshellir is a place in Iceland with 9 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.
| Location | Iceland |
|---|---|
| Type | Activity |
| Story sections | 9 |
| Text language | English |
| Coordinates | 63.9387, -21.3955 |
| Last updated |