Litluborgir consists of lava formations and pseudocraters within the Þríhnúkahraun lava field, formed when lava flowed across a standing body of water. The area contains lava caves and rock shelters featuring delicate lava formations, many of which are highly sensitive to disturbance. The dominant ecosystem type is moss-covered lava habitat, where the moss species hraungambri is prevalent. This ecosystem supports relatively few vascular plant species. Bird species commonly observed in this habitat include the golden plover, whimbrel, meadow pipit, wheatear, and ptarmigan. The area is considered highly sensitive to disturbance and trampling.
Protection Status
Litluborgir was designated a natural monument in 2009. The purpose of the protection designation is to preserve the unique geological formations within the municipality of Hafnarfjörður. A further objective is to safeguard the geological features of the area because of their high educational value, particularly as Helgafell and its surroundings have long been a popular outdoor recreation area.
Litluborgir is notable for its lava formations and pseudocraters, created when lava flowed over a lake. Other interesting geological features in the area include lava stalactites and deposits of diatomaceous earth (siliceous sediment).