Access and Information
The area is open and accessible to visitors; however, the caves themselves are closed and entry is prohibited without permission from the Iceland Nature Conservation Agency.
Þeistareykjahraun is believed to have formed during volcanic activity approximately 2,400 years ago. The lava field extends between Stóravítisdyngja to the east and Lambafjöll to the west. Its principal crater is Stórihver, from which a striking row of lava mounds and collapse depressions extends across the landscape.
Protection Status
The lava caves of Þeistareykjahraun are protected as a natural monument. The protected area covers approximately 0.74 km².
Lava caves in Iceland generally receive special protection under Article 61 of the Nature Conservation Act, while cave formations such as stalactites are protected nationwide under Regulation No. 120/1974.
The protection of the caves at Þeistareykir and their surrounding zone aims to ensure their long-term conservation, together with the natural features they contain. Effective protection depends on safeguarding cave entrances and protecting the surface areas above the caves from disturbance, as activities on the lava surface may impact the cave systems below.