ATV & Lava Caving Tour in Iceland
Ride through volcanic highlands by day, descend into ancient lava tunnels by afternoon.
This Iceland ATV and Lava Caving Tour combines two of the country's most compelling outdoor experiences into a single full-day journey from Reykjavik. Guests ride quad bikes through mountain terrain before exploring one of Iceland's most significant lava tubes on foot. The itinerary is structured for efficiency, making it well-suited for travelers with limited time who want a broad introduction to Iceland's geological character.
The ATV segment takes riders around Lake Hafravatn and up to Reykjavik Peak, where sweeping views encompass the capital, Faxaflói bay, the Hengill volcanic system, the Hellisheiði geothermal power plant, and the Bláfjöll and Esja mountain ranges. Guides handle the safety briefing and gear distribution at basecamp, and no prior riding experience is required. All necessary equipment, including helmet, gloves, overalls, ski mask, and rain gear, is provided on-site.
The caving portion brings guests underground into Raufarhólshellir, a lava tube formed roughly 5,200 years ago during the Leitahraun eruption. The tunnel extends approximately 1,360 meters, with chambers reaching up to 30 meters wide and 10 meters high. Visitors encounter layered rock formations and, in winter months, icicle clusters near the entrance. A headlamp and helmet are provided for this section of the tour.
A lunch break is included in the schedule, allowing guests to rest between the two activities. Pickup and drop-off service operates from selected bus stops, major hotels, and the cruise ship port in Reykjavik, making logistics straightforward for visitors staying anywhere in the capital area.
Tour Highlights
Ride an ATV through mountain trails around Lake Hafravatn and ascend to Reykjavik Peak for panoramic views of the capital region.
Walk through Raufarhólshellir, one of Iceland's longest and most visited lava tubes, formed over 5,200 years ago.
Take in unobstructed views of the Hengill volcanic system, Hellisheiði geothermal plant, Faxaflói bay, and the Esja mountain from Reykjavik Peak.
All safety gear is provided on-site; no prior ATV or caving experience is required to participate in either activity.
The tour is designed for families, solo travelers, and groups, with passengers as young as 6 and drivers from age 17 with a valid license.
In winter, icicle formations appear near the entrance of the lava tunnel, adding a seasonal visual element to the underground experience.
Tour Itinerary
Guests are collected from selected bus stops, major hotels in and around Reykjavik, or the cruise ship port. The drive to the lava cave site takes a minimum of 45 minutes.
Guests explore the Raufarhólshellir lava tube for approximately one hour. Helmets and flashlights are provided, and a guide leads the group through the tunnel's chambers and rock formations.
A one-hour break is scheduled between the caving and ATV portions of the tour, giving guests time to eat and rest before the ride.
Upon arrival at the ATV basecamp, guides spend approximately 30 minutes outfitting guests with helmets, gloves, overalls, ski masks, and rain gear if conditions require it. Safety and driving instructions are covered before departure.
Guests ride along Lake Hafravatn and navigate varied terrain on the ascent to Reykjavik Peak. The one-hour ride offers views of the surrounding mountains, bay, and geothermal infrastructure.
Guests are returned to their original pickup location in Reykjavik, completing the full-day itinerary of approximately 8 hours.
What Is Included
Included
- Hotel or bus stop pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik
- ATV helmet, gloves, overalls, ski mask, and rain gear
- Caving helmet and flashlight
- Professional guide for both activities
- Safety briefing and driving instructions
- Access to Raufarhólshellir lava tube
- One-hour ATV ride to Reykjavik Peak
Not Included
- Meals and beverages (lunch break is scheduled but not catered)
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for guides
- Any items of a personal nature
Important Information
Ready to Explore Iceland Above and Below Ground?
Secure your spot on this full-day ATV and lava caving adventure from Reykjavik. Places are limited and the tour departs at a fixed time each morning.
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