Introduction
If you’re dreaming of mixing adrenaline with incredible scenery in Iceland, the 3-hour Volcanic Springs ATV adventure might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t personally taken this specific tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of an action-packed journey through some of Iceland’s most striking landscapes.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert guides—noted for their friendliness and knowledge—make the ride both safe and engaging. Second, the diverse terrains, from lava fields to geothermal zones, promise a variety of views and adventures. Third, the small-group setting ensures personalized attention and a more intimate encounter with Iceland’s wilderness.
A potential caveat? The tour is described as adrenaline-filled but not overly demanding, so those seeking intense, physically challenging rides might find it more moderate. Still, if you’re after a fun, scenic ATV experience that’s accessible to most, this could be just right.
This tour suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, enjoy scenic drives, and want a hands-on way to explore Iceland’s volcanic landscapes without the hassle of self-driving.
Good To Know
- Stunning Views: From mountain peaks to lava fields, this tour offers panoramic vistas of Iceland’s diverse terrain.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and safety tips.
- Well-Equipped: All necessary gear—helmets, gloves, overalls, rain gear—is provided for comfort and safety.
- Flexible and Convenient: Pickup and drop-off from multiple Reykjavik locations make logistics easy.
- Authentic Experience: Small group sizes create a personalized, less commercial feel.
- Great for All Levels: Minimum age is 6, and drivers must be 17+ with a valid license, making it accessible for most.
Exploring the 3-Hour Volcanic Springs ATV Adventure
More tours and activities we've covered in Reykjavik
What to Expect from This Tour
This tour promises a blend of thrill and scenic beauty through roughly three hours of off-road exploring, with the total time including transportation. It begins with a pickup from one of 15 convenient Reykjavik locations—ranging from hotels like the Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Natura to the Bus Terminal at Ráðhúsið. Expect to be ready by 13:00 for pickup between 13:00 and 13:30, with a safety briefing lasting around 30 minutes before setting off.
Once underway, your adventure will take you through Iceland’s iconic lava fields—a landscape shaped by volcanic activity—where you’ll get your hands dirty in dust, dirt, and mud. The guides are praised for their friendliness, extensive knowledge, and ability to answer questions about geothermal features and Icelandic history, adding depth to the ride.
Trail Highlights and Scenic Stops
- Hveradalir Geothermal Area: Guided tour and quad biking through this geothermal zone allow you to marvel at bubbling mud pots, steam vents, and volcanic formations. Reviewers mention the geothermal features as a highlight, with one saying guides are well-informed about these natural wonders.
- Hengill Volcanic Mountain: An adrenaline-filled drive takes you toward Hengill, a rugged volcanic mountain known for its geothermal activity. Expect sweeping views and a sense of riding through a land formed by fire.
- Reykjavík Peak Mountain: The highest point on the tour offers striking panoramic views of Esja Mountain, Faxaflói Bay, and Reykjavik itself. One reviewer appreciated the “mountain top view” as a stunning culmination of the ride.
- Blue Mountains and Hafrafell Peak: You’ll navigate trails near the Blue Mountains and climb Hafrafell, providing a chance to see Iceland from above, with clear vistas of the bay and beyond.
The Experience in Action
The ride involves off-road driving across mixed terrains, where you’ll whip through dirt, dust, and mud—just as the tour promises. Some reviews note that the ATVs are top of the line, enabling safe yet exciting speeds (most between 5-40 kph), with brief bursts on paved roads where you can speed up.
While the tour is lively, reviews also suggest it is not overly physically demanding—making it accessible for a broad group, including children as young as 6 and drivers aged 17+ with valid licenses. One reviewer noted, “Most of the time was spent driving over trails and rough terrain,” and added that the gear kept participants warm and dry, even in rainy conditions.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Guides and Group Size
The small group format (1:7 ratio) means your guide can offer personalized attention, answer questions in detail, and adjust the pace if needed. One reviewer specifically praised guide Sir Cactus, highlighting his knowledge and friendliness, which made the experience more enjoyable and educational.
More tours and activities we've covered in Reykjavik
Logistics and Practicalities
Transportation logistics are straightforward, with pickup from 15 locations in Reykjavik. The total tour duration from pickup to drop-off is around 4.5 hours, including transfer, safety briefing, riding, and a coffee break at basecamp. The recommended gear includes comfortable shoes and a driver’s license, with the tour providing helmets, gloves, overalls, and rain gear if needed.
Notably, food and shoes are not included, so bring snacks and sturdy footwear for before or after the ride. The tour is also flexible in terms of cancellation—full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
What Reviewers Say
Multiple reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, with one describing the experience as “the most fun I’ve had in a while.” Participants appreciated the personalized touch of small groups and the quality of the ATVs, emphasizing that paying extra for the single rider option is worthwhile for maximum fun.
Some reviewers mentioned that the experience isn’t as physically demanding as they initially thought but still found it exhilarating and scenic. Rain or shine, the tours operate, so weather won’t spoil your adventure.
Pricing and Value
At $339 per person, the tour isn’t the cheapest activity in Reykjavik, but the value lies in the all-inclusive nature—gear, guide, scenic stops, and transportation are covered. You’re getting roughly three hours of off-road fun in some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes, guided by knowledgeable locals who can turn a ride into a mini geography lesson.
Compared to other outdoor activities, this ATV tour offers a hands-on way to see Iceland’s volcanic terrain without the need for hiking or complicated arrangements. For travelers seeking an active and authentic Icelandic adventure, this delivers excellent bang for your buck.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This adventure is perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends who want a memorable outdoor experience. It’s suited for those who enjoy moderate physical activity, scenic drives, and a touch of adrenaline. While not the most physically demanding ride, the varied terrain keeps it interesting for most participants.
If you’re after a personalized, guided, and photo-worthy journey through Iceland’s volcanic landscape, this ATV tour checks all the boxes.
Final Thoughts
The 3-hour Volcanic Springs ATV adventure from Reykjavik offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, fun, and expert guidance. The scenic stops, especially the mountain views and geothermal areas, provide memorable photo ops and a true taste of Iceland’s volcanic character.
The tour’s small-group format and quality equipment ensure a comfortable and intimate experience, while the moderate challenge level makes it suitable for a wide range of travelers, from families to adventure seekers.
If your idea of a perfect Icelandic adventure involves off-road exploration, stunning vistas, and a dash of excitement, this tour hits the mark. Just remember to bring sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure—you’ll leave with stories to tell for years.
FAQ
Can I cancel this tour? Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
Is a driver’s license required? Yes, all drivers must be 17+ years old and hold a valid driver’s license. Passengers do not need a license.
How long does the total experience last? The total duration, including pickup and drop-off, is approximately 4.5 hours, with about 3 hours of riding.
What should I bring? Comfortable shoes and a driver’s license are needed. The tour provides helmets, gloves, overalls, and rain gear if necessary.
Are children allowed? Yes, the minimum age is 6 years old, but drivers need to be 17+ with a license.
Is the tour suitable in bad weather? Yes, the provider operates in all weather conditions, and gear is provided to stay warm and dry.
What is included in the price? Pickup and drop-off, ATV riding, gear, a guide, and coffee at basecamp.
Where do I meet for pickup? There are 15 pickup locations in Reykjavik; confirmation of your specific spot is provided upon booking.
Do I need to bring food? Food is not included, so consider bringing snacks if you’re hungry before or after the ride.
Is the terrain difficult? No, it’s suitable for most levels, with some mixed terrain—most riders find it easy to handle.
To sum it up, this ATV adventure offers a fantastic way to get close to Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, with knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and fun off-road driving. It’s well-suited for adventure lovers, families, or anyone wanting to combine scenic sightseeing with a little adrenaline rush. The small-group experience, quality gear, and scenic diversity make it a top choice for those visiting Reykjavik looking for something both memorable and authentically Icelandic.
You can check if your dates are available here:More 3-Hour Experiences in Reykjavik
More Quad Bikes in Reykjavik
More Tour Reviews in Reykjavik
Looking for something different? Other Reykjavik activities we've written about
- Reykjavik: Whale Watching & Lava Show
- Reykjavík: Whale Watching and Food Lovers Combo
- Volcanic Landscape Iceland Horse Riding Tours
- The Icelandic Storyteller
- South Coast Iceland Private Tour
- South Coast & Glacier Lagoon Private Tour (Up to 8 Pax)
- Skaftafell: Small-Group Vatnajökull Glacier Hike (Moderate)
- Reykjavik: Small-Group Horse Volcano Riding Tour with Pickup
- Reykjavik: Silver Circle of West Iceland Day Tour
- Reykjavik: South Coast, Waterfalls, Black Beach Private Tour
- Reykjavik: Small-Group Mjölnir Afternoon Horse Riding Tour
- Reykjavík: Volcano Hike, Visit Grindavík and Blue Lagoon