Plan your visit

Plan Your Visit

Prepare for near-freezing temperatures and steep spiral staircases. Here is what you need to know before you go.

Vatnshellir Cave

Útnesvegur (Route 574), Snæfellsjökull National Park

GPS 64.7476, -23.8178

Open directions

Getting there

Getting to the cave

How	Time	Cost	Notes
Car: Drive along Route 574 (Útnesvegur) on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The cave parking lot is located directly off the road in Snæfellsjökull National Park.	About 2.5 to 3 hours from Reykjavik (200 km); 10 minutes from Hellnar.	Free parking; rental car costs vary.	Winter driving requires a 4x4 vehicle and extreme caution due to snow, ice, and high winds.
Tour: Join a multi-day or full-day guided bus or super jeep tour of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavik that includes the cave as a stop.	Full-day tours typically take 10-12 hours.	From 15,000 to 30,000+ ISK depending on the length and inclusions.	Cave entry is often an optional add-on for broader peninsula tours; confirm if tickets are included in your package.

When to go

QuietModerateBusyPeak

The cave is open year-round with daily tours. May through September is the best time to visit. Summer provides better road conditions and more frequent tour departures. Winter driving requires a 4x4 vehicle and extreme caution due to snow and high winds.

What to bring

Sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots with strong grip
A warm, insulated jacket or fleece
Waterproof or water-resistant outer pants
Warm gloves to protect hands from the cold and sharp lava rocks
A thin beanie or hat that can comfortably fit under a safety helmet
Thick woolen socks for warmth
A camera or smartphone with low-light/night mode capabilities
A small, hands-free daypack (or leave bags in the car)
Warm mid-layers, as the cave temperature hovers near freezing year-round

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The cave stays near freezing year-round.

Pack warm layers even in mid-summer.

How the day runs

Suggested schedules

A quick visit for those driving the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

13:45
Arrive and Park
Park at the national park lot directly off Route 574.
13:50
Get Equipped
Meet your guide and put on your helmet and headlamp.
14:00
Cave Tour Begins
Descend the metal spiral staircase into the lava tube.
14:45
Tour Ends
Return your gear and continue your peninsula drive.

Important Rules

You cannot touch the delicate lava formations. The rock is fragile and sharp. You must wear closed-toe shoes with good grip. Hiking boots are strongly recommended due to uneven surfaces.

Participants must walk unsupported. You will navigate steep spiral staircases. Leave bulky backpacks in your car. See FAQ for more answers.

Easiest way to do it

People descending a spiral staircase inside Vatnshellir Cave with lighting.

Vatnshellir Lava Cave Tour

45 min 4.8 (151)

Helmet and flashlight

From$45per person

Viator$45 GetYourGuideCompare

Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.

Planning questions

How do I get to Vatnshellir Cave from Reykjavik?

Drive Route 574 (Útnesvegur) on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The trip is 200 kilometers and takes 2.5 to 3 hours. The parking lot is located directly off the road.

What should I wear to Vatnshellir Cave?

Wear sturdy hiking boots, an insulated jacket, and warm gloves. The cave is cold year-round. Bring a thin beanie that fits under a helmet. See Cave Clothing Guide.

How long is the tour?

The standard guided tour lasts 45 minutes. You will spend this time descending, walking the 200-meter path, and listening to the guide.