Reykjavik Lava Tunnel & Golden Circle Combo — Raufarhólshellir Caving plus Gullfoss, Geysir & Þingvellir
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in regular physical condition; requires ability to crouch and walk on uneven surfaces for short periods.
Overview
Descend into Raufarhólshellir’s lava tube, then sweep around the Golden Circle to Gullfoss, Geysir and Þingvellir on a single small-group day trip from Reykjavík. This combo balances beginner-friendly caving with classic Icelandic geology and efficient logistics.
Reykjavik Lava Tunnel & Golden Circle Combo — Raufarhólshellir Caving plus Gullfoss, Geysir & Þingvellir
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On a gray morning outside Reykjavík the bus hums awake and the air smells of wet asphalt and distant sulfur: the kind of sharp, clean tang that tells you you’re leaving ordinary terrain behind.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring waterproof layers
Weather shifts quickly—waterproof jacket and pants keep you comfortable during caving and at Gullfoss’s spray zone.
Sturdy footwear only
Uneven lava rock and wet boardwalks demand closed-toe hiking shoes with good tread; trainers may slip.
Protect electronics
Steam at Geysir and spray at Gullfoss can damage cameras—use a dry bag or weather-sealed case.
Pace yourself in the tunnel
Short crawls and low passages require flexibility—take your time and follow the guide’s route.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Arctic fox sightings are rare but possible in remote areas
- Various waterfowl (e.g., eiders) around Þingvellir and river margins
History
Þingvellir was the site of Iceland’s Althing, one of the world’s oldest parliaments, where laws were made and disputes settled in the open rift plain.
Conservation
The Golden Circle sites are managed to minimize erosion—stay on boardwalks and follow guides to protect fragile soils and geothermal features.
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Adventure Hotspots in Reykjavík
Recommended Gear
Waterproof shell (jacket & pants)
Keeps you dry from geothermal spray and Iceland’s unpredictable rain.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Necessary for traction on lava rock, boardwalks and wet surfaces.
Insulating base layers and wool socks
Retain warmth in cool underground chambers and windy lookouts.
Small daypack and water bottle
Carries snacks, camera, and layers during the 10-hour loop.