Laugarvatnshellar “Cave People of Iceland” Tour on the Golden Circle

Discover Iceland’s fascinating past with a 25-minute guided tour of the historic man-made caves of Laugarvatnshellar. Golden Circle travelers who want a unique glimpse into the lives of Iceland’s cave-dwelling families and the resilience of early Icelandic settlers should book this tour today.

The tour is meet-on-location, conveniently positioned between Thingvellir National Park and Laugarvatn on the popular Golden Circle route. These caves are easily accessible and make an ideal stop for anyone exploring this renowned sightseeing circuit. 

If you’re looking to add an educational and cultural touch to your Golden Circle adventure, this tour is a fantastic option. It’s a short, informative break from the more popular natural landmarks, offering travelers a different kind of immersion into Icelandic life and heritage. 

It’s especially appealing for history enthusiasts or those curious about how early Icelanders thrived in such a unique environment.

Laugarvatnshellar holds a special place in Iceland’s cultural narrative. Originally hand-dug in the early 20th century or even earlier, these caves provided shelter to a few people who adapted to Iceland’s often harsh conditions. 

One of the most memorable chapters in Laugarvatnshellar’s history involves two couples who once called the caves home. In 1910, Indriði Guðmundsson and Guðrún Kolbeinsdóttir moved in, adapting to cave life for a year. 

Later, in 1918, Jón Þorvarðsson and Vigdís Helgadóttir lived here for four years, showcasing remarkable resilience and resourcefulness. Their story reflects the adaptability and courage of Iceland’s early settlers in this rugged landscape.

On this tour, you’ll discover how these cave dwellers made these rocky chambers their homes, using natural resources and inventive solutions to sustain themselves in a climate that could be unforgiving.

As you wander through these caves, the guide will introduce you to the intriguing setup of their former inhabitants’ living quarters. You’ll see where families once slept, cooked, and spent their days, often relying on the warmth of fire and insulated walls. 

The caves provide a rare window into a bygone era, demonstrating the connection early Icelanders had with the land and their surroundings. To make the trip more engaging, don’t hesitate to ask questions from the guide.

Before or after your short but immersive tour, you can also order coffee and Icelandic treats or pastries from the onsite cafe. In addition, a flock of sheep may welcome you in the area with extra luck on your side.

After 25 minutes of exploration, your Laugarvatnshellar caving experience ends. From here, you can continue traversing the Golden Circle independently.

Journey back in time to see how Icelanders thrived in cave dwellings on this guided tour of Laugarvatnshellar and the Cave People. Check availability now by choosing a date.