Reykjavik: Evening Lava Tunnel and Northern Lights Hunt

Reykjavik: Evening Lava Tunnel and Northern Lights Hunt — A Thorough Review

Exploring Iceland’s extraordinary landscapes often involves witnessing its volcanic heart and, if luck is on your side, catching the elusive Northern Lights. The Reykjavik: Evening Lava Tunnel and Northern Lights Hunt offers a blend of underground geology and skyward marvels, all packed into a manageable four-hour adventure. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of Iceland’s volcanic history and an authentic attempt to see the aurora borealis, all with expert guides and cozy touches.

What really charms us about this experience is its combination of geological exploration inside the lava tunnel and the chance to witness the Northern Lights in a comfortable, well-organized setting. The guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm shine through, adding layers of context to each part of the journey.

One thing to consider is that Northern Lights sightings depend heavily on weather conditions—cloud cover can spoil the view, but the tour’s policy of free re-tries for up to three years helps mitigate this. This tour suits adventurous, curious travelers eager for an authentic Icelandic experience that balances education, adventure, and a touch of magic.

Key Points

• Unique underground experience: Explore the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel, shaped by a volcanic eruption over 5,000 years ago.
• Expert-guided tour: Guides are knowledgeable, passionate, and eager to share insights about Iceland’s volcanic landscape.
• Northern Lights hunting: The tour offers a great chance to see the aurora in a cozy, comfortable setting, with re-try options if clouds block the view.
• Comfort and safety: Provided safety gear, helmets, head torches, crampons (in winter), blankets, and hot cocoa make the experience both safe and cozy.
• Transportation: Traveling by minibus allows access to offbeat spots for optimal aurora viewing, away from city lights.
• Authentic Icelandic experience: The combination of geology, sky-gazing, and warm treats creates a well-rounded adventure.
• Cost and value: At $190 per person, the tour offers a lot of value—especially considering the included professional guidance, safety equipment, and photos.
• Accessibility note: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments, given the walking on uneven surfaces and cave exploration.
• Rescheduling: The free re-try policy for Northern Lights is a big plus for those concerned about weather unpredictability.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Departure

Your adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your Reykjavik hotel or designated location. The minibus transfer itself is part of the charm—small enough to navigate Iceland’s backroads, giving you an early look at the countryside before settling into your adventure. The guides, such as Jon or Katrín (based on reviews), are friendly and eager to answer questions, setting a welcoming tone.

Exploring Raufarhólshellir Lava Cave

Arriving at the Blue Mountains, you’ll be introduced to your safety gear—helmets, headlamps, and in winter, crampons. The guide will give a safety briefing, making sure everyone feels comfortable before descending into the lava tunnel.

Once inside, the real magic begins. The lava tube, formed by an ancient volcanic eruption over 5000 years ago, is a mesmerizing space. We loved how the walls shimmer with mineral deposits in shades of emeralds, rubies, turquoises, and lilacs. These mineral deposits aren’t just pretty—they tell a story of volcanic activity, mineral-rich lava flows, and the passage of time.

The guide will explain how the tunnel was created, what volcanic processes shaped this landscape, and point out the different mineral formations. One reviewer praised the guide’s passion and knowledge, saying, “The lava tunnel guide was passionate and knowledgeable,” which made the experience even more engaging. It’s a fantastic way to learn about Iceland’s volcanic heritage while appreciating the natural beauty.

Northern Lights Hunt

After exiting the cave, the journey shifts into countryside mode. The goal is to find a dark, open spot away from city light pollution for the best chance at seeing the aurora borealis. The guides are experienced at reading the sky—if the clouds shift, they’ll keep trying different locations.

Throughout the hunt, you’re provided with warm blankets and hot cocoa, making the cold nights more enjoyable. You might find, as a reviewer did, that the effort is worth it: “Mother Nature and the clouds weren’t cooperative, and we couldn’t see the Northern Lights, but I loved that the tour offers re-tries.” This flexibility is a real perk, especially given how unpredictable aurora sightings can be.

Photos and Memories

One of the highlights is the complimentary photo taken with the aurora as your backdrop. This is a thoughtful touch—an easy way to capture a memory without worrying about camera settings or flash, especially in cold, dark conditions. Several travelers have noted how helpful and friendly the guides are, making sure everyone gets a good shot.

Return and Drop-off

After several attempts and plenty of cozy moments, the tour wraps up with a comfortable ride back to Reykjavík. The whole experience is designed to be smooth and hassle-free, leaving you with lasting memories and a sense of Icelandic adventure.

The Price and Value

At $190 per person, this tour offers good value for the variety of experiences packed into just four hours. You’re getting a guided exploration of a significant lava cave, expert insights into volcanic geology, an authentic Northern Lights hunt with re-try options, and warm treats—all of which would cost more if booked separately.

The inclusion of safety equipment, professional guides, and photos ensures you’re well looked after. Plus, the flexible re-try policy means you won’t feel pressured to see the aurora on your first try—an important consideration in Iceland, where weather can be unpredictable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits adventurous travelers interested in geology and natural phenomena, those who enjoy a bit of walking and exploring, and anyone wanting a guided, educational experience. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer small-group settings, as the minibus allows access to offbeat locations. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for visitors with mobility issues due to walking on uneven surfaces and cave exploration.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavik: Evening Lava Tunnel and Northern Lights Hunt combines the enchanting underground world of Iceland’s volcanic past with the thrill of chasing the aurora borealis. The guides’ expertise, the cozy comforts, and the flexibility of re-tries make it a standout option for those eager to experience Iceland’s natural wonders without a lengthy commitment.

While the aurora isn’t guaranteed (that’s nature’s call), the effort, the scenery, and the knowledge gained make this tour a worthwhile addition to your Iceland itinerary. It’s especially appealing for curious travelers wanting an authentic, hands-on experience that balances adventure, education, and comfort.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for families?
It can be, but keep in mind that the cave involves walking on uneven surfaces, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments. Children should be prepared for some walking and cold weather.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, including transportation, cave exploration, and Aurora hunting.

What should I bring?
Comfortable, warm clothing, sturdy shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate gear are recommended. The tour provides blankets and hot cocoa for warmth.

Can I see the Northern Lights if the weather isn’t clear?
If clouds block the sky, the tour offers free re-tries within three years, so you can try again later.

Is there a limit to the group size?
Since transportation is by minibus, it allows access to offbeat spots, but the exact group size isn’t specified. Smaller groups are generally more personal and flexible.

What safety measures are in place?
Guides provide helmets, headlamps, and crampons (in winter) if needed, plus a safety briefing before descending into the cave.

Will I get photos of the Northern Lights?
Yes, the guides capture complimentary photos of you with the aurora, making it easy to remember the experience.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, but the Northern Lights are seasonal, best seen from September to April, with re-try options available if not seen.

What is the cost of the tour?
It’s priced at $190 per person, which includes guided cave exploration, safety equipment, hot chocolate, blankets, photos, and transportation.

This tour offers a balanced mix of Iceland’s volcanic beauty and sky-high wonder. Perfect for curious explorers and aurora chasers alike, it promises a memorable, educational, and cozy adventure.