Gjábakkahellir Cave

Gjabakkahellir lava tube cave in Thingvellir was formed during an eruption 9,000 years ago and has a unique feature. It is open on both ends, allowing visitors to walk directly through it. Inside are amazing rock formations of various colors, as well as stalactites of various shapes and sizes. Gjabakkahellir cave is a 360-meter-long (1.181-foot-long) lava tube in Thingvellir National Park. It was discovered in 1907 while workers were constructing a road between Thingvellir and Geysir for the King of Denmark, who ruled Iceland as a colony at the time. More than a dozen caves have been discovered in the area since then. One of these appears simply as a hole in the ground within a 20-meter (66-foot) radius of Gjabakkahellir.

Gjabakkahellir is easily reached. The opening of the cave is only 50 meters (164 feet) away from the road. Once inside, you'll notice all of the typical characteristics of a lava tube. The lava falls and shark tooth stalactites are particularly impressive. Large rocks have fallen from the cave ceiling during the cooling phase of the lava field, covering the cave floor. Keep in mind that in some areas, you will need to use both your hands and your feet to navigate the rough terrain.

Location: Thingvellir National Park, Iceland