Best Lava Tubes in the World
Lava tubes form in basaltic volcanism — fluid lava beneath a chilled crust. The visitor experience is different from karst caves: warmer, drier, more geometric, and very fast-formed by geological standards.
Manjanggul, South Korea (Jeju)
UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the longest lava tubes in the world at 13 km, partially open to visitors. Famous for its internal lava column and basaltic ceiling features.
Thurston Lava Tube, Hawaii
The most-visited lava tube on the planet, in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Walking tour through a 500-year-old basalt tube. Free access.
Raufarholshellir, Iceland
5,200-year-old tube near Reykjavik with daily guided tours. Iceland's most accessible lava tube.
Cueva del Viento, Tenerife (Canary Islands)
18-km lava tube system, one of the longest in Europe. Guided tours of the most spectacular sections.
Vatnshellir, Iceland
Smaller Snaefellsnes peninsula tube — guided tour with descent into the lava tube via spiral stairs.
Lava River Cave, Oregon USA
Newberry National Volcanic Monument near Bend; 1.5-km walking through a basalt tube. Bring your own light.
Ape Cave, Washington USA
Mount Saint Helens lava tube. Two routes (upper and lower) with different difficulties.
Lava Beds National Monument, California USA
Hundreds of lava tubes in one location; free self-guided access to many.
What to expect
Lava tubes are not constant-temperature like karst caves — they match local ambient temperature plus a few degrees. Dry; floors are often rough basalt. Headlamps required; many tubes provide them.
Explore on the map
See lava tubes on the interactive map.