Hella: Guided Tour of Ancient Man-Made Caves

Tucked away in the heart of Iceland’s dramatic landscape lies a captivating glimpse into the country’s ancient past. The Hella guided tour of ancient man-made caves offers visitors a chance to explore these remarkable underground structures, each with its own fascinating story. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the one-hour adventure takes guests through four unique cave sites, where they’ll uncover the intriguing history and cultural significance of these remarkable archaeological remains. Whether you’re a solo traveler or visiting with family, this tour promises to be a memorable addition to any Icelandic itinerary, leaving you eager to discover more about the country’s rich heritage.

Contents hide

1 Overview and Details

2 Historical Background

3 Guided Tour Experience

4 Visitor Information

5 Accessibility and Facilities

6 Customer Feedback and Ratings

7 Nearby Attractions

8 Booking and Availability

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

A guided tour exploring four ancient man-made caves in Hella, Iceland, showcasing unique archaeological remains and historical insights from local guides.
The caves, believed to be Iceland’s oldest archaeological sites, offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The one-hour tour is priced at €33.33 per person and features short, easy walks between the caves.
The caves maintain a constant temperature of +4°C, ensuring a comfortable experience for visitors.
The tour is highly rated, with guides praised for their engaging storytelling and the experience complementing visits to nearby natural attractions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Details

The guided tour of the ancient Caves of Hella offers visitors an opportunity to explore four man-made caves on the south coast of Iceland, led by a knowledgeable local guide.

Priced from €33.33 per person, the tour lasts approximately one hour and provides historical insights into these unique archaeological remains.

Located near Route 1, the Caves of Hella can be visited by checking availability for starting times. Visitors can take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option, and enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The caves maintain a constant temperature of +4°C, making for a comfortable exploration experience.

Historical Background

Twelve man-made caves have been discovered in Ægissíðan, believed to be Iceland’s oldest archaeological remains.

These ancient structures raise questions about their historical significance and origins, with speculation that they may have been created by Celts or used as places of ancient worship.

Features found within the caves, such as ancient crosses and carved seats, further pique the curiosity of historians and archaeologists.

Little is known for certain about the purpose and history of these enigmatic caves, but their discovery offers a rare glimpse into Iceland’s distant past.

Exploring these well-preserved relics provides visitors with a unique opportunity to connect with the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Guided Tour Experience

Visitors can now explore these ancient Icelandic caves through a guided tour, offering a rare chance to uncover the secrets hidden within these enigmatic structures. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour provides fascinating insights into the caves’ historical significance and the ongoing mysteries surrounding their origins. Guests will have the opportunity to wander through four of the twelve man-made caves, marveling at the ancient crosses, wall carvings, and carved seats that adorn the interiors. Along the way, guides regale visitors with captivating tales of the caves and the surrounding Hella region, creating an immersive and thought-provoking experience.

Highlights	Unique Features	What to Expect
Knowledgeable local guides	Closed to public until 2019	Explore 4 of 12 caves
Insights into historical significance	Constant temperature of +4°C	Encounter ancient artifacts
Captivating storytelling	Short, easy walk between caves	Learn about Icelandic history

Visitor Information

Accessibility to the ancient caves is limited, as the site isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. However, the reception area near the main road offers free parking and toilet facilities for visitors.

Plus, the caves maintain a constant temperature of +4°C, ensuring a comfortable exploration experience.

Despite the challenges, the Hella cave tour provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and discover Iceland’s oldest archaeological remains.

Visitors can expect an engaging and informative guided experience, as the knowledgeable local guides share captivating stories about the caves and the surrounding Hella area.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or exploring with family, this cave tour is a worthwhile addition to any trip to nearby waterfalls and natural wonders.

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Accessibility and Facilities

The caves maintain a constant temperature of +4°C, ensuring a comfortable exploration experience for visitors.

While the caves aren’t suitable for wheelchair users, the short, easy walk between the four caves is accessible to most.

Visitors will find a reception area near the main road, with free parking and toilet facilities available. This makes it easy to prepare for the tour and freshen up afterwards.

The caves’ location, just off Route 1, the famous Ring Road, also provides convenient access.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or exploring with family, the Hella Cave tour offers an engaging and informative glimpse into Iceland’s ancient history in a comfortable and accessible setting.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Reviewers overwhelmingly praise the engaging storytelling and humor of the knowledgeable guides, such as Stephan and Hanna, who lead the Hella Cave tours.

With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 54 reviews, the tours receive glowing feedback for their informative combination of cave exploration and Icelandic history.

Visitors highlight the tours’ suitability for families and solo travelers alike, noting the guides’ ability to bring the ancient site to life.

Many recommend the Hella Cave tour as a worthwhile addition to trips to nearby waterfalls, praising it as a unique opportunity to explore a location that was closed to the public until 2019.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors exploring the Caves of Hella can also enjoy a variety of nearby attractions, including the stunning Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls along the famous Ring Road (Route 1).

These picturesque natural wonders are just a short drive away, offering visitors the chance to witness the power and beauty of Iceland’s cascading waters.

Along With the waterfalls, the area is home to:

The Eyjafjallajökull volcano, notorious for its 2010 eruption
The Seljavallalaug geothermal swimming pool, a hidden gem
The Sólheimajökull glacier, where visitors can embark on ice-hiking adventures
The charming town of Vík, known for its black sand beaches and local culture

Combining the ancient cave tour with these nearby sights creates an unforgettable Icelandic experience.

Booking and Availability

Booking the guided tour of the Caves of Hella is straightforward, with available starting times displayed on the tour provider’s website. Visitors can easily reserve their spot and pay later, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The tour operates daily, so travelers can conveniently fit it into their itinerary.

It’s important to note that the caves maintain a constant temperature of 4°C, so visitors should dress warmly. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, but the short, easy walk between the four caves makes it accessible for most visitors.

With the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, booking the Caves of Hella tour provides flexibility and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Caves Open Year-Round?

The caves are open year-round, with availability varying by season. Visitors can check the tour operator’s website or contact them directly to confirm the current operating schedule and book their preferred tour time.

What Is the Recommended Tour Group Size?

The recommended tour group size is not explicitly stated, but based on the details provided, it is likely a small to medium-sized group. This allows for an engaging and personalized experience with the knowledgeable local guide.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Into the Caves?

Yes, visitors can bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages into the caves. However, the tour operator recommends limiting food and drink to avoid disturbing the delicate cave environment.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour. Children of all ages are welcome, though the caves may not be suitable for very young children who require strollers or close supervision. The tour is appropriate for families.

Are Professional Photography and Videography Allowed?

Photography and videography are generally allowed on the tour, though visitors are encouraged to be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines prior to the visit.