Lava Caving & Aurora Basecamp
A wonderful group activity
Lava caves, Northern Lights and coffee
A great team building activity day
There's no doubt that Iceland is probably the best place on Earth to see the forces of nature at work. This is true for the whole island and right here in the Capital area we are so lucky that we can witness nature's show just a short drive away from the city.
On this tour we take you to the Leidarendi lava tube. This cave system formed about 2000 years ago following very intense volcanic activity in the Reykjanes Peninsula. What we are left with is a 1000-meter long lava tunnel that showcases the most common features of Icelandic caves. We will gear up in helmets and headlamps and then start descending into the lava tunnel from the opening in the middle of a lava field. Once down in the tunnel, our lamps will shed light on a mesmerizing scenery made of bright colors ranging from yellow to red and even purple. For about one hour we will move along the tube and observe the beautiful rock formations, stalactites and stalagmites that populate the cave.
This tour is suitable for everyone, but please keep in mind that there are parts of the cave where the ceiling is very low or the floor is unstable and we will have to bend down, squat or even crawl through. We highly recommend you wear sturdy hiking shoes.
We will emerge after the caving tour and continue our day with a visit to the unique Aurora Basecamp Northern Lights Observatory**). These domes were built in 2019 to provide a unique Northern Light experience and you will visit the Dark Park, where you will find a lifelike simulation of the lights. Additionally, the guides will give you tons of information and tips on how to hunt the lights and how to take pictures of them on your camera or phone.
Included in this tour is appr. 1 hour coffee and hang out time at Aurora Basecamp. Perfect for team building or just for your group to hang out and relax.
If you would prefer inviting your group to dinner or a party, Aurora Basecamp is the perfect location for that as well. Food can be provided by one of our trusted catering partners. Please contact us at dive@dive.is if you would like to know more.
Tour Details
-
3 - 4 hours
-
Available on request, we will find the best time for your group
-
This tour is not set in stone, we can tailor make a tour for your group
-
Price is based on 10 or more people. We can also accommodate large groups
-
Contact us to book or get details
Please bring:
- Sturdy hiking shoes
Not included
- Transportation to Aurora Basecamp
- Food
Included
- Guided caving tour
- All necessary caving equipment
- Guided visit to the Dark Park
- Approx. 1 hour at Aurora Basecamp
- Coffee
Safety requirements
-
be physically fit
-
be able to communicate in English
YOU'LL VISIT THIS AREA
OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
-
Can I use my full face snorkel mask?
-
Although we understand that many people prefer to snorkel with a full face snorkel mask (also known as a Easybreath mask or Ninja mask), it is regrettably not possible to use them here in Iceland as it is not possible to get them to seal around the hood that you need to wear. This would result in your mask constantly flooding with water, which would not be an enjoyable experience
-
-
Can I wear my gloves?
-
We advise that you bring gloves, at all times of the year, to keep your hands warm before you get in and warm them up after you get out of the water. This is especailly important in winter. However, whilst in the water, you will be wearing neoprene mittens that we provide for you.
-
-
Do you have prescription masks?
-
Unfortunately we do not offer prescription masks, due to the amount of prescriptions we would need to cover. If you use glasses we recommend that you bring contact lenses as the glasses do not fit under the mask. If you do however own a prescription mask, you are of course welcome to use it on the tour.
-
-
Do you provide life jackets?
-
Unfortunately, we do not offer any life jackets on our tours. All our participants must be able to swims and feel comfortable in water.
-
-
Do you rent out underwater cameras?
-
Unfortunately we do not offer cameras for rent, we do however offer a very reasonably priced photo package including photos taken by your guide during your tour, and access to our "Best of Silfra" collection. You are however welcome to bring your own waterproof camera.
-
-
How can I pay for the photos?
-
The photo package can be paid for with either cash or debit/credit card, on site with your guide. If you decide at a later date that you would like to purchase the photos you can contact our office and a payment link will be sent to you, allowing you to pay online.
-
-
How long are we in the cave for?
-
We are usually underground for 45-60 minutes, depending on the speed of the group.
-
-
How long are we in the water?
-
During our snorkel tour we are in the water between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on the speed that the group travels and how long they want to explore in the lagoon at the end.
-
-
How long is the cave?
-
We use 2 different caves on this tour, depending on the time of year and weather/road conditions. Gjábakkahellir cave in Thingvellir is 360 meters long and Leiðarendi cave in Reykjanes is 880 meters long.
-
-
I use glasses, is that a problem?
-
Unfortunately it is not possible to wear glasses underneath the dive mask, as the mask would fill with water. We therefore advise that if you are near-sighted (i.e. you need glasses for distance), that you consider wearing contact lenses or bring your own prescription mask with you. If you are snorkelling and have prescription swimming goggles you are able to wear them, but you must also bring a nose clip to close of your nose, so that you are able to use your snorkel. If your prescription is not very strong (up to approximately -4) you may find that the natural magnification of the water will still allow you to see quite clearly. Should you need to purchase contact lenses, there are several opticians in Reykjavik where you would be able to do so.
-
-
Is food included on the day tours?
-
We offer hot chocolate, tea and cookies after the dives and snorkels, but do not provide any other form of food. There is also drinking water on site. You are however welcome to bring your own food and drink with you and are allowed to consume it in our vehicles. We kindly ask that you have eaten breakfast/lunch before your tour, as you will need the energy it provides. If you have not had a chance to do so, please let our guides know when you are picked up and they can make a stop at a convenience store so you can pick something up.
-
Show all FAQ
