Evening Lava Tunnel Tour and Northern Lights

A detailed look at Iceland’s volcanic beauty and celestial marvels, this Evening Lava Tunnel Tour combined with Northern Lights hunting offers an unforgettable night out. Based in Reykjavik and costing around $167, it’s a well-reviewed experience that promises both adventure beneath the earth and enchantment in the night sky. With a roughly five-hour timeframe, it’s perfect for travelers eager to combine geology, scenery, and a touch of magic in one evening.

What really stands out are a couple of key features. First, the guided exploration of Raufarhólshellir, Iceland’s fourth-longest lava tube, is genuinely captivating — for both its vivid colors and the geological stories your guide will share. Second, the flexibility in chasing the Northern Lights—with a knowledgeable guide choosing the best viewing spots based on weather forecasts—makes this a rare chance to see one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena.

On the flip side, a consideration for potential visitors is that some parts of the lava tunnel can be uneven, so this tour isn’t suited for anyone uncomfortable walking on natural terrain or with mobility issues. Also, since the tour involves outdoor Northern Lights observation, it depends heavily on weather and aurora activity, which is unpredictable.

Key Points

• Unique underground experience in Raufarhólshellir, Iceland’s fourth-longest lava tube with vibrant volcanic colors.
• Northern Lights chase with local expertise, aiming for the best viewing spots based on weather forecasts.
• Round-trip transportation from Reykjavik, including WiFi, safety gear, and warm comforts like blankets and hot cocoa.
• Flexible itinerary that adapts to weather conditions, increasing your chances of witnessing the aurora borealis.
• Great for outdoor lovers and those curious about Iceland’s volcanic past, but less suited for those wary of uneven terrain.
• Includes photos of you with the Northern Lights, a priceless souvenir of a truly magical night.

An In-Depth Review of the Experience

Introduction and Booking

This tour is a smart choice if you’re looking to maximize your Iceland adventure after dark. The price of $167 includes transportation, guidance, safety equipment, and some cozy extras like blankets and hot chocolate—a fair deal considering the memorable sights and experiences packed into these five hours.

Most travelers describe the pickup in Reykjavík as comfortable and punctual. The tour is capped at 28 participants, which feels intimate enough to ask questions but also large enough to create a lively group atmosphere. The booking process is straightforward, and confirmation arrives promptly, giving peace of mind before the outing.

Itinerary Breakdown

The adventure kicks off with a pickup at 7:30 pm, setting the tone for a relaxed but atmospheric evening. First stop: Raufarhólshellir, Iceland’s fourth-longest lava tunnel. It’s just 45 minutes from the city, making the journey manageable even after a full day of sightseeing.

Once you arrive at the lava tube, your guide—like Gretta, noted in reviews for being great—will gear you up with helmets, torches, and safety instructions. The walk into the cave covers about 900 meters, with a mix of smooth paths, wooden footbridges, and some natural terrain. This natural setting might be a bit slippery, so good footwear and a sense of adventure are advisable. More than one reviewer mentioned how beautifully colorful the cave walls are — emerald greens, fiery reds, turquoise, and delicate lilacs, all shaped by volcanic forces over thousands of years. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, revealing volcanic magic and geological details that make the underground world come alive.

What makes the lava tunnel special? For many, it’s the sheer vibrancy of the colors and the scale of the formations. As one reviewer put it, “The lava tube was fantastic and I would highly recommend it.” The fact that this is the fourth-longest lava tube in Iceland adds a layer of impressive scale, especially for geology nerds or anyone interested in volcanic activity.

Post-Lava Tour and Aurora Hunting

After exploring the underground marvel, the bus heads out into the Icelandic countryside, choosing the best potential spots for aurora viewing based on latest weather and aurora forecasts. This part of the experience is flexible, which really benefits those hoping for a sighting. If the Northern Lights are visible, your guide will take photos of you with the aurora—an attractive bonus that many travelers appreciate, especially since the lights can change in an instant.

In past reviews, travelers appreciated the hot chocolate and blankets provided, adding comfort to an otherwise chilly outdoor experience. Guides like Nicolas are praised for their efforts to help guests capture photos and for their overall helpfulness. Even if the auroras stay elusive, you’ll get a sense of Iceland’s vast, star-studded sky and the quiet beauty of the rural landscape.

Drop-Off and Final Thoughts

By around 12:30 am, the tour concludes with a drop-off in Reykjavík, feeling like a well-rounded, active evening. This setup is ideal for those who want an adventure-packed night without sacrificing comfort or getting lost in complex logistics.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re fascinated by geological features and enjoy outdoor adventures with guided expertise, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for travelers comfortable on uneven terrain and those eager to chase the elusive Northern Lights. The combination of underground exploration and aurora viewing makes it a great value for those wanting variety and a chance to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights in one night.

People who appreciate stories told with humor and clarity, like the guide Gretta, will find this experience engaging as well. And since the tour offers a free reschedule if you don’t see the lights, it’s a low-risk way to try for a once-in-a-lifetime view of the aurora borealis.

On the downside, travelers seeking a purely indoor or easy-access experience might find the uneven terrain and outdoor nature a bit challenging. Also, since the Northern Lights are weather-dependent, some nights might be less productive than others.

Final Wrap-up

This combination tour offers a satisfying balance of Iceland’s volcanic underground and celestial skies. You’ll get a close-up look at the colorful lava formations, guided by knowledgeable professionals who are eager to share their insights. Then, you’ll head into the peaceful Icelandic countryside, cozy with blankets and hot chocolate, waiting for the magic of the Aurora Borealis to appear.

The tour’s value lies in its ability to pack diverse, authentic experiences into just five hours, perfectly suited for curious travelers wanting a taste of Iceland’s natural wonders. It’s most suited for those comfortable outdoors and eager to combine geology with a bit of night-time magic. The flexible planning and friendly guides ensure a memorable night, no matter the weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about five hours, starting around 7:30 pm and ending around 12:30 am.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers transportation, a guided visit to Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel, safety equipment, guides, warm blankets, hot cocoa, and photos of you with the Northern Lights.

Is the tour suitable for children or older adults?
Most travelers can participate, but some parts of the lava tunnel can be uneven and slippery. It’s best for those comfortable walking on natural terrain; very young children or those with mobility issues may find this challenging.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour offers a free reschedule to try again on another night if the lights are not visible during your scheduled time.

How far is the lava cave from Reykjavík?
It’s about 45 minutes away by minibus, making it a manageable trip for an evening outing.

What should I bring or wear?
Dress warmly! Icelandic evenings can be chilly, especially outdoors. Warm layers, sturdy shoes, and perhaps a hat will enhance your comfort.

In sum, if you’re looking for an engaging, well-organized evening exploring Iceland’s volcanic underground and chasing one of nature’s most spectacular light shows, this tour strikes an excellent balance. You’ll come away with vivid memories of underground colors, starry skies, and maybe even the fleeting dance of the Northern Lights — a true Icelandic night to remember.