The Lava Tunnel & Whale Watching

  • Free cancellations*
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Full details

Experience the natural phenomenon of Raufarhólshellir lava tunnels as you explore it in an easy and enjoyable manner. The 1360 metre (4500 ft) tunnel was formed during the Leitahraun eruption, which occurred about 5200 years ago and is a unique Icelandic natural attraction.

Our guide to The Lava Tunnel & Whale Watching

A guide will lead you through Raufarhólshellir’s colourful landscape where the formation of the tunnel is highlighted with beautiful lighting. Every winter, spectacular ice sculptures form inside the entrance of the cave, making the experience even more breathtaking. The roughest part of the lava is easily accessible with footbridges and paths so you can explore the cave in a comfortable way. Equipment such as helmets and lights is provided at the location but it is highly recommended that guests wear warm overalls and shoes with ankle support once inside.

The adventure continues as we head to the Old Harbour in downtown Reykjavík for a Whale Watching tour with Special Tours Wildlife Adventures. Experience the wild behaviour of the whales in Faxaflói bay while looking for these phenomenal species, including minke whales, harbour porpoises, humpback whales and white-beaked dolphins. The tour includes a guide that will lead you through the experience with some interesting and useful information regarding the whales. Sit back, grab a hot chocolate or a coffee while enjoying these phenomenal creatures in warm overalls provided on board. (whale watching tour takes approx. 3-3.5 hours).

Your tour ends in the Old Harbour, a short walk from a variety of shops and restaurants in the city centre. A transfer back to your hotel can be purchased for an additional cost.

Lunch can be bought between tours down at the Reykjavík Harbour with multiple selection of restaurants. Please note that you may be short on time between the tours so keep in mind that sandwiches and snacks can also be bought on board the whale watching ship.

Departs

Picks up from most hotels and guesthouses in Reykjavik

Start times

9.00am

Duration

Approximately 7 hours.

Terms and conditions

Terms and conditions for The Lava Tunnel & Whale Watching

  • In the event of inclement weather, road closures or other causes which may impact your hotel pick-up, you will be advised of the nearest collection point. It is the customer's responsibility to be at this location in order to be collected.
  • You will receive a voucher for this experience. Please read it thoroughly.
  • You will be required to present a printed copy of your voucher at the time of tour departure.
  • Please dress warmly (hats, gloves, scarves & warm socks are recommended)
  • A waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes are recommended
  • Remember to bring a camera or a mobile phone with a camera! 
  • Pick-up from hotels and guesthouses starts 30 minutes before the tour departure time. You will be advised of specific times upon reconfirmation locally.
  • Returning from your tour, you will be dropped off at the pick-up point you were collected from or at the closest possible point.
  • Children MUST be aged 1 year old and weigh a minimum of 9kg to participate on this tour. Babies younger than 1 year old (under 9 kg) are only safe in babies car seats that require 3-point seat belts, which cannot be provided. and you can not bring your own car seat. Child´s car seats for children 9 – 18 kg approx. (1 – 3 or 4 years old) will be provided.  Children aged 3 or 4 years and older (over 18 kg) can use the normal seat belts on the bus.
  • *CANCELLATION POLICY: Free cancellations for bookings cancelled with the operator up to 72 hours before your chosen activity date. No refunds are given for cancellations made within 72 hours

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions for The Lava Tunnel & Whale Watching

Frequently Asked Questions for The Lava Tunnel & Whale Watching

Clothing & Accessories

  • Do I need special equipment to visit the Lava Tunnel?

    No, you will be supplied with the necessary equipment such as helmets and lights. It is recommended to wear good hiking shoes and warm clothing as the temperature in the cave is around 0-4 degrees celcius. Waterproofs are also recommended as water sometimes drips from the ceiling of the cave.

Location

  • How far away is the Lava Tunnel from Reykjavik?

    The Lava Tunnel is located about 30 minutes from Reykjavik centre.

Accessibility

  • Is the Lava Tunnel suitable for everyone?

    You do need to be in good physical shape and able to walk through rough terrain with big boulders without difficulty. It is not recommended for guests with back, knee, or mobility issues.

Frequently Asked Questions for The Lava Tunnel & Whale Watching

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Frequently Asked Questions for The Lava Tunnel & Whale Watching

Clothing & Accessories

  • Do I need special equipment to visit the Lava Tunnel?

    No, you will be supplied with the necessary equipment such as helmets and lights. It is recommended to wear good hiking shoes and warm clothing as the temperature in the cave is around 0-4 degrees celcius. Waterproofs are also recommended as water sometimes drips from the ceiling of the cave.

Location

  • How far away is the Lava Tunnel from Reykjavik?

    The Lava Tunnel is located about 30 minutes from Reykjavik centre.

Accessibility

  • Is the Lava Tunnel suitable for everyone?

    You do need to be in good physical shape and able to walk through rough terrain with big boulders without difficulty. It is not recommended for guests with back, knee, or mobility issues.