Evening Lava Tunnel Tour and Northern Lights

Discover the Magic of Iceland’s Lava Tunnel and Northern Lights in One Evening

This $167 tour from Arctic Adventures offers a captivating journey into Iceland’s volcanic underground and the night sky’s natural wonder, all within about five hours. Starting from Reykjavik, the tour takes you to explore Raufarhólshellir, Iceland’s fourth-longest lava tube, formed over 5,000 years ago. The guide-led adventure includes a walk through vibrant, intricately shaped lava formations, with safety gear and expert narration ensuring an engaging experience suitable for most ages and walking confidence levels.

Following the underground exploration, the tour shifts gears to a Northern Lights chase in Iceland’s countryside. The team carefully selects locations like Þingvellir or Reykjanes based on weather conditions, aiming for the clearest skies. The experience is enhanced by warm blankets, hot cocoa, and the chance to have your photo taken with the Aurora Borealis. This tour’s combination of adventure and natural beauty makes for a memorable evening, especially with the free rebooking option if the lights remain elusive on the first attempt.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $167 for around 5 hours, including transportation, safety equipment, and guides.
• Includes Lava Tube Exploration: Walk up to 900 meters into Raufarhólshellir, experiencing vibrant volcanic colors and formations.
• Northern Lights Chase: Flexible destination based on weather with hot cocoa, blankets, and free photos.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides lead both the lava cave and Aurora search, providing safety gear and insights.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pick-up from Reykjavík, WiFi on board, and a maximum group size of 28 travelers.
• Flexible Rescheduling: Free rebooking for Northern Lights viewing if not seen during the initial attempt.

Starting Your Night with a Visit to Raufarhólshellir Lava Cave

The tour begins with a pick-up from Reykjavík in a comfortable minibus at 7:30 pm. Within 45 minutes, you arrive at the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel, a stunning underground world carved by volcanic activity over 5,000 years. The walk into the cave lasts about an hour, during which you explore well-made paths, footbridges, and natural terrain. The guide explains how volcanic forces created the striking emerald green, fiery red, turquoise, and lilac hues on the walls.

This lava tube offers a unique opportunity to see intricate rock formations and vivid colors that are a testament to Iceland’s volcanic past. The terrain is suitable for all ages, with the only caveat being uneven ground in parts, which visitors should be prepared for. The guide’s commentary adds depth, sharing details about the geological magic that formed this underground landscape.

The Unique Experience of Guided Lava Cave Exploration

Entering Raufarhólshellir is like stepping into a different world. The smooth paths and natural terrain create a mixture of accessibility and adventure. The vibrant colors decorating the walls are the result of volcanic activity, making each section of the cave a visual feast. The expert guide provides safety equipment, including helmets and torches, along with insightful commentary about the cave’s formation and volcanic history.

The walk into the tunnel is enjoyable and manageable, with safety gear provided to ensure confidence in navigating the uneven surfaces. The vivid greens, reds, and turquoises give a visually stunning dimension to the underground experience. Visitors generally find this part highly memorable, thanks to the guide’s engaging storytelling and the cave’s natural beauty.

The Transition to Nighttime Aurora Hunting

After the lava tube adventure, the bus heads out into the peaceful Icelandic countryside to start the Northern Lights chase. The destination is carefully chosen based on latest weather forecasts to optimize the chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis. The guides leave city lights behind, heading toward spots like Þingvellir or Reykjanes, known for their clear skies and minimal light pollution.

The journey allows for a relaxing drive under the stars, with the option to snuggle under blankets and enjoy hot chocolate and treats. The guides keep a close watch for aurora activity, and if the Northern Lights appear, they are quick to snap photos so visitors can take home a lasting memory of this magical moment. The flexible approach to location increases the likelihood of a successful sighting, even if weather conditions change unexpectedly.

The Northern Lights Experience and Photo Opportunities

The search for the Aurora Borealis typically lasts around 2 hours and 30 minutes. The guides are experienced in finding the best spots under the night sky, and they often manage to secure a spectacular backdrop for the Northern Lights. If the lights are visible, expect to see dynamic, colorful displays dancing across the Icelandic sky, a truly breathtaking sight.

Included in the tour are free photos of you with the Aurora, allowing you to treasure the moment. Warm blankets and hot cocoa help keep everyone cozy while waiting for the skies to light up. Even if the Northern Lights stay hidden, the guides are eager to offer a free retry, so you have additional opportunities to witness this elusive phenomenon during your stay.

Convenient Return to Reykjavík and Final Drop-off

After the Aurora hunt, the tour concludes with a 45-minute drive back to Reykjavík. The bus drops visitors off at their chosen location in the city, making it easy to plan your evening in Iceland’s capital. The smooth transfer ensures a comfortable end to a busy night of exploration and awe-inspiring sights.

The tour wraps up around midnight or early hours, depending on the sightings and pace. The overall experience offers excellent value for the price, with expert guidance, safety gear, and flexible options making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This tour’s combination of lava cave exploration and Northern Lights chasing is relatively rare, offering a well-rounded Icelandic adventure in just one evening. The guided experience is highly praised for knowledgeable guides and warm hospitality, with many reviewers highlighting the comfort of the bus and the quality of the scenery.

The free rebooking if the Aurora remains unseen during the first attempt adds a layer of flexibility, reducing the pressure to see the lights on the first try. The inclusion of hot cocoa, blankets, and free photos makes the experience both cozy and memorable. The manageable walking terrain within the lava cave makes this suitable for most visitors, though those uncomfortable on uneven ground should consider their comfort level.

Final Thoughts on the Evening Lava Tunnel and Northern Lights Tour

This 5-hour evening tour from Reykjavik successfully combines adventure, education, and natural beauty into one package. The guided lava cave exploration offers a vivid glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic past, while the Northern Lights chase creates a magical, once-in-a-lifetime moment.

While the tour’s success in viewing the Aurora depends on weather and sky conditions, the availability of a free rebooking makes it a low-risk option. Highly recommended for those seeking both underground volcanic landscapes and sky-high aurora views, this tour balances comfort, expert guidance, and unforgettable scenery—perfect for visitors eager to experience Iceland’s most iconic sights in one evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the lava tunnel walk is generally suitable for all ages, provided participants are confident on uneven terrain. The tour includes safety gear and a guided walk, making it accessible for most.

What should I bring for the Northern Lights chase?
The tour provides blankets and hot cocoa, but it’s advisable to wear warm layered clothing and suitable footwear for outdoor nighttime conditions.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
No, Aurora sightings depend on weather and solar activity. The tour offers a free rebooking if the lights are not visible during the initial attempt.

How long is the lava cave exploration?
The guided walk inside Raufarhólshellir lasts about an hour, covering up to 900 meters into the lava tube.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The vivid lava formations, expert-guided cave walk, Northern Lights chases in scenic locations, and souvenir photos are the key features.

Is the tour physically demanding?
The terrain can be uneven, but most you will find it manageable. It’s best suited for those comfortable walking on natural surfaces.