The lava tunnel Raufarhólshellir is one of the most famous lava tunnels, and it is only a 30-minute drive from Reykjavik.
Iceland is home to beautiful landscapes. When I went, I was expecting fire and ice. But the lava flow had stopped two weeks before my arrival. What better way to compensate for that than going to a lava tunnel that erupted over 5,000 years ago?
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Iceland The land of Fire and Ice
It was perfect because it was a rainy day, and as you know, the weather in Iceland can be very unpredictable. You must book a tour to access the tunnel, which you can easily do here. However, they also accept people walking in, but you are unlikely to get a free slot.
You will receive all the necessary equipment for the tunnel, including a helmet and flashlight. However, depending on the time of year, it is recommended that you wear appropriate clothing and shoes.
Our excellent and knowledgeable guide gave us much background about the tunnel. Like many other lava tunnels, Raufarhólshellir was formed during a volcanic eruption 5200 years ago. There are a few others, but this is closer when you are in Reykjavik.
A walk through time in the lava tunnel
Everything on the walls in the tunnel tells a story with its beautiful pallet colors. The tunnel is dark, with some lighting in designated places. These colors are only visible when you turn a flashlight on them. But how did these vibrant colors come to be? They were once a riverbed for molten lava that came about due to minerals and gases.
Due to iron oxide, most rocks have red and orange hues and some warm tones. Minerals, such as sulfur, contribute to the color palette. For instance, Sulphur can create vibrant yellows, while copper has a touch of green or blue hues.
When the lava solidified, it created intriguing formations called stalactites. Lava drips from the tunnel’s ceiling while still partially molten, leaving these icicle structures hanging on the walls. You see them everywhere in the tunnel; some are short, while others are long. They are dark and metallic-like.
Lava Tunnel Tour
The tunnel is 1.4 km long, and the tour lasts 1 hour. It’s not just a tourist destination; apparently, people have weddings there, too. Occasionally, they hold musical performances down there. If you are fortunate enough to attend a concert in Raufarhólshellir, it will surely be an unforgettable experience.
