Leidarendi Cave is a true treasure hidden beneath the Blue Mountains. Its convenient location just half an hour drive from the capital city makes it a favourite spot for the lovers of caving. The cave is a 900 m long lava tube famous mainly for its fascinating rock formations.
Continuous lava flows (the cave is over 2,000 years old), combined with frost and erosion resulted in diverse and otherworldly shapes. Along with curious lava flakes, you'll see stalagmites, stalactites, and other unusual formations. In winter, the already weird underworld is complemented with natural ice sculptures.
Icelandic name Leiðarendi is translated as "the end of the road". The cave acquired such a dark name after skeletons which were found inside when it was first discovered (it was mapped for the first time in 1992). For somebody, it became the last trip. Not to let this sad story happen once again, cave tour organizers provide the cave goers with an experienced guide as well as all necessary cave gear.
The cave is accessible all year round. The caving tour lasts for three to four hours. The approximate time inside the cave itself is one hour. Depending on the route chosen the caving adventure may involve some crawling. So make sure you have comfortable hiking shoes and warm water-proof clothes, or you can hire that for an additional fee.
Practical info
What can be found in Leiðarendi Lava Tube and where is it situated?
Situated in Reykjavik, Iceland, the 900m long Leiðarendi Lava Tube features unique rock formations formed by a combination of continuous lava flows, erosion over time and frost. The formations include interesting lava flakes, stalactites, stalagmites and various unusual shapes. The cave is an impressive and otherworldly natural phenomenon. Show more
What is special about the rock formations in Leiðarendi Lava Tube?
The rock formations within the Leiðarendi Lava Tube formed as a result of various elements over a long period, contributing to the diverse and unusual shapes including curious lava flakes, stalactites, stalagmites and otherworldly formations. This cave also features natural ice sculptures during winter months, which make the experience even more unique and fascinating. Show more
When is the ideal time to explore Leiðarendi Lava Tube?
Leiðarendi Lava Tube is accessible throughout the year, offering tours to visitors. However, the winter months from November to March are particularly special because of the natural ice sculptures within the cave. Visitors are encouraged to take a guided caving tour, with all necessary gear provided by the tour guide. This way, they can witness the cave's beauty safely and comfortably. Show more
What is the recommended attire for exploring Leiðarendi Lava Tube and what equipment is provided?
During the caving tour, it is recommended that visitors wear comfortable hiking shoes and warm, waterproof garments. The tour lasts for three to four hours, of which approximately one hour is spent in the cave. Caving gear, including a helmet, a head torch, and an overall, is provided by the tour guide. Visitors can also rent full-caving gear for an additional fee. Show more
What are the potential risks of exploring Leiðarendi Lava Tube with a tour guide?
An experienced tour guide ensures a safe and enjoyable experience, although caves always carry some risk. Tour guides will offer visitors appropriate safety gear and instructions before the tour, and advise on the suitable route depending on visitors' physical condition. There may be crawling involved, but the tour guide will suggest the ideal path to take. A fun and safe experience depends on visitors' adherence to the guide's instructions. Show more
