Caves · National park
Vatnshellir lava cave
A lava tube 5,000–8,000 years old under the slopes of Snæfellsjökull, reached by spiral staircases. The one cave on the peninsula you can walk into.
What it’s like inside
Vatnshellir is a lava tube in the Purkhólahraun lava field: a tunnel left behind when molten lava drained out from under a cooled crust. It is about 200 m long with a ceiling up to about 10 m, and its lowest point is around 30 m below the surface (the park’s figure; the regional tourist board says 35 m). You go down two spiral staircases from a small hut at the entrance, with a helmet and torch, and the floor is uneven in low light.
Prices
| Adult | ISK 5,900 |
|---|---|
| Senior (65+) or student | ISK 4,600 |
| Age 12–17 | ISK 2,600 |
| Age 5–11 | Free |
| Under 5 | Not allowed |
Booked directly with Summit Adventure Guides, VAT included, October 2026; they also advertise 8% off early departures. On GetYourGuide the same tour is from €40 per adult, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Getting there
The cave is inside Snæfellsjökull National Park, on road 574 near the Malarrif visitor centre; the nearest toilets are at Malarrif, about three minutes’ drive. The park service fee covers parking (ISK 1,100 per car in 2026, one payment for the day).
Book it
At the cave · Summit Adventure Guides
Snæfellsnes: Vatnshellir Lava Cave Tour
from €40 per person
Best for: adding a cave to a self-drive day
- 45-minute guided walk through a lava tube 30 m underground
- Helmet and torch provided; two spiral staircases
- Meet at the cave car park on Route 574; not for under-5s
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Questions people ask
Can I visit Vatnshellir without a guide?
No. It can only be visited on guided tours run by Summit Adventure Guides, the park’s licensed operator.
How long is the tour?
45 minutes in the cave. Arrive at the car park 10 minutes before your slot.
Is it suitable for children?
From age 5. Children aged 5–11 go free when booked directly. There are two spiral staircases and uneven floors in low light.
Is it open in winter?
Yes, all year. Departure times change with the season and are shown in the booking system; in winter there are fewer tours a day.
What should I wear?
Warm layers and sturdy shoes. Helmets and torches are provided; headlamps are not allowed.