west-iceland · Iceland
Gjábakkahellir Lava Cave — Þingvellir
Gjábakkahellir is a remarkable volcanic wonder in Golden Circle. This dramatic landscape was shaped by powerful volcanic forces over thousands of years. Visitors can witness the raw geological power of Iceland's volcanic heritage through dramatic lava fields, craters and unique rock formations.
About Gjábakkahellir Lava Cave — Þingvellir
Gjábakkahellir is a remarkable volcanic wonder in Golden Circle. This dramatic landscape was shaped by powerful volcanic forces over thousands of years. Visitors can witness the raw geological power of Iceland's volcanic heritage through dramatic lava fields, craters and unique rock formations.
History & Background
Gjábakkahellir has been a significant site in Iceland's landscape. Throughout the years, this location has played an important role in Icelandic culture and natural history.
Did You Know?
- ✔Iceland sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet
- ✔There are around 130 volcanic mountains in Iceland, about 30 of which are active
- ✔Iceland experiences a volcanic eruption roughly every 4-5 years on average
- ✔Volcanic activity has shaped Iceland's unique landscape of lava fields, hot springs, and geothermal areas
Tours Near Gjábakkahellir Lava Cave — Þingvellir
Best-rated Iceland experiences — book with free cancellation
Private Silfra Snorkeling 6 p. group - Meet on Location - with Underwater Photos
From $899
Book Now
Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
From $7240
Book Now
Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
From $7400
Book NowAbout Gjábakkahellir Lava Cave — Þingvellir
Gjábakkahellir is a remarkable volcanic in Iceland. Gjábakkahellir is a remarkable volcanic wonder in Golden Circle. This dramatic landscape was shaped by powerful volcanic forces over thousands of year... Gjábakkahellir is a lava tube cave in the Þórsmörk area accessible as part of the hiking network around that valley. Lava tube caves form when the outer crust of a lava flow solidifies while the molten interior continues flowing, eventually draining . This location offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Iceland's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Reykjavík All In One Food Tour - Eat, Drink & Explore with Locals
From $207.37
Book Now
Glacier Adventure at Sólheimajökull Private Tour
From $385.11
Book Now
Reykjavik Private Northern Lights Tour with Pro Photographer
From $1647.1
Book NowHistory & Background
Gjábakkahellir has been a significant site in Iceland's landscape. Throughout the years, this location has played an important role in Icelandic culture and natural history.
Reykjanes Peninsula Private Day Tour - up to 9 passengers
From $2500
Book Now
2 hour Round Trip in Vestmannaeyjar on a RIB Boat
From $242.92
Book Now
Iceland: Diamond Beach Glacier Lagoon Black Sand Beach 冰岛冰河湖中文一日团
From $229.9
Book NowStory & Folklore
Gjábakkahellir is a lava tube cave in the Þórsmörk area accessible as part of the hiking network around that valley. Lava tube caves form when the outer crust of a lava flow solidifies while the molten interior continues flowing, eventually draining and leaving an empty tube. This cave is smaller and less developed than Vatnshellir or Víðgelmir but has the advantage of being accessible on foot in a hiking context. The cave interior shows the characteristic features of lava tubes: the smooth parabolic cross-section, lava benches where the magma level dropped, and surface lava decorations on the walls.
Private Aurora Hunt in Iceland with Professional Photos
From $1699
Book Now
Private Iceland Tour - Hidden Gems & Local Experience
From $2300
Book Now
Full Day Golden Circle - Guided Tour
From $2160.34
Book NowVisitor Information
Best Time
Summer months (June-August) for safe access
Duration
1-3 hours depending on the site
Access
Varies; some require 4x4 vehicles or guided tours. Check road conditions.
Why Visit
Less touristy cave experience
Did You Know?
Bring your own headlamp
The Outlaws' Refuge at Gjábakkahellir
Gjábakkahellir once served as a hiding place for outlaws in medieval Iceland. Legend says these outlaws were protected by hidden people who lived deeper in the cave. Some believe the spirits of the outlaws still guard their former refuge, and strange echoes heard in the cave are their whispered conversations from centuries past.
Hidden Gems Nearby
Lava Formations Close-Up
Look carefully at the lava formations near Gjábakkahellir — each tells a story of how it cooled.
Rope lava, pillow lava, and columnar basalt each formed under different conditions, creating a geological textbook in stone.
Moss & Lichens
The moss and lichen growing on the volcanic rock are some of the first life to colonize new lava fields.
Some of these organisms grow less than 1cm per year, meaning the patches you see may be decades or centuries old.
Sunset Colors
The volcanic rock takes on incredible red and gold hues during sunset.
The iron-rich minerals in the lava glow in warm light, creating a photographer's paradise.
Practical Information
Best Time
Summer months (June-August) for safe access
Duration
1-3 hours depending on the site
Access
Varies; some require 4x4 vehicles or guided tours. Check road conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to visit volcanic sites in Iceland?▾
Most volcanic sites are safe when you stay on marked trails. Always check SafeTravel.is for current volcanic activity alerts.
Do I need a guide to visit this site?▾
Many volcanic sites can be visited independently, but guided tours offer valuable geological insight and enhanced safety.
Can I visit in winter?▾
Access depends on the specific site and road conditions. Check road.is for current conditions before your visit.