ATV & Helicopter Adventure Tour from Reykjavik

When it comes to seeing Iceland, most travelers stick to buses and guided tours that whiz past the scenery. But if you’re craving a more hands-on, adrenaline-fueled experience, this combined ATV and helicopter tour from Reykjavik might just be your perfect day out. It’s a chance to drive through Iceland’s wilderness on an all-terrain vehicle, then soar above the landscape, taking in sights that few visitors get to see.

What really makes this tour stand out are the views—from the rugged mountain trails to the panoramic vistas from the helicopter’s window. Plus, it’s an efficient way to pack a lot into a relatively short period, which is ideal if your time in Iceland is limited. Still, a quick heads-up: it’s a pricey adventure, at $569 per person, but many say the unforgettable experiences and stunning scenery make it worth every krona.

This adventure is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind getting a little muddy or windblown, are comfortable with helicopter rides, and want to see Iceland from both the ground and the sky. It’s also suitable for most, with a minimum age of 6 and no experience necessary for the ATV part, making it an excellent choice for families or groups with varied interests.

Key Points

• Unique combo experience: ATV adventure plus helicopter flight in one tour
• Stunning views: From cityscapes to mountain panoramas, a perspective few others get
• All safety gear included: Helmets, overalls, and rain gear provided for comfort and safety
• Time-efficient: Perfect for travelers with limited days in Reykjavik
• Suitable for all levels: No previous experience needed for ATVs; family-friendly for ages 6+
• Professional guides: Friendly, knowledgeable staff prioritize safety and fun

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off: Convenient Pickup and Introduction

The day begins with pickup from your Reykjavik hotel around 9:00 AM, making it a smooth transition into adventure. The tour lasts about five hours, including transportation, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Once you arrive at the base camp, the staff quickly get you set up with all the necessary gear—helmets, gloves, overalls, ski masks, and rain gear—so you’re prepared for whatever Iceland’s weather throws at you.

The safety briefing is straightforward and reassuring. Guides emphasize that no experience is necessary for the ATV segment, which is perfect if you’re a beginner. They also make clear that their goal is for everyone to have fun while staying safe—a promise they seem to deliver based on glowing reviews.

ATV Adventure: Exploring Iceland’s Wilderness

Once geared up, you’ll hop onto your quad bike and head off across the countryside. The focus here is on off-road trails and mountain tracks just a few minutes from Reykjavik, offering an escape into nature that’s both vigorous and scenic. The routes are designed to be accessible yet exhilarating, with some reviewers noting that speed, mud, and water add to the thrill.

Many travelers rave about the stunning views they encounter along the ride. From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides excel in navigating the terrain and making sure everyone feels comfortable, whether they’re new to ATVs or seasoned riders. As one reviewer puts it, “Great adventures off-road and simply stunning scenery,” which captures the essence of this part of the tour.

The Helicopter Flight: Flying Over Reykjavik and Beyond

After conquering the rugged trails, you’ll be transferred to Norðurflug Tours for the helicopter segment. This is often described as the highlight—a chance to see Iceland from a perspective only a few get to enjoy. The helicopter ride takes you over Reykjavik, sweeping over the cityscape, and then out towards the surrounding mountain ranges.

What makes this part extraordinary is the mountain landing—a 20-minute stop where you can step out and truly take in the scenery. Several reviews mention that landing atop a mountain provides an unforgettable view—and the chance to pause amid this wild landscape. The helicopter ride is described as breathtaking, with some saying it’s “genuinely one of the best days of my life.”

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour includes pickup at 9:00 AM, an hour-long ATV adventure, and the helicopter ride with a mountain landing. All safety gear is provided, contributing to the peace of mind for those wary of adventure sports. The professional guides make sure everyone is well-informed and safe throughout.

It’s worth noting that food and drinks aren’t included, so it’s wise to bring a snack or plan for a meal afterward. Also, hotel drop-off isn’t provided, so you should plan your return accordingly after the tour.

Weather and Flexibility

Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, and this tour is weather-dependent. Several reviewers mention that if weather cancels the helicopter ride, staff promptly offer a refund or rescheduling. For those considering this adventure, it’s good to be flexible and prepared for the possibility of cancellations due to weather.

The Review Breakdown

With 21 reviews averaging 4.9 stars, it’s clear most travelers found this experience worthwhile. Reviewers consistently praise the professional, friendly staff and the stunning scenery. One favorite comment: “Great adventures off-road and simply stunning scenery.” Others highlight how safe and approachable guides made them feel, even if they were new to ATVs or helicopter flying.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Price: At $569 per person, this is a premium experience, but many consider it excellent value given the combination of activities and the scenic highlights.
• Duration: Around 5 hours, making it a full half-day adventure.
• Group Size: Max 15 travelers, which helps ensure personalized attention.
• Age & Weight: Minimum age is 6 years old; each passenger can weigh up to 265 lbs.
• Experience Needed: None for ATV driving, which makes it accessible to most.
• Timing: The tour starts at 9:30 AM after pickup, ideal for fitting into a Reykjavik itinerary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers eager to see Iceland beyond the typical bus route. If you enjoy adventure sports, scenic vistas, and a bit of a thrill, you’ll find a lot to love here. It’s also an excellent choice for families with children (ages 6 and up), couples seeking a romantic yet exhilarating day, or groups looking to add some adventure to their Iceland trip.

Travelers who value professional guides and safety will appreciate the high standards set by Safari Quads. And if you’re a photo enthusiast, the helicopter’s aerial views—especially the mountain landing—offer countless chances for spectacular shots.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In short, this combined ATV and helicopter tour offers a rare blend of outdoor adventure and aerial spectacle that makes it stand out among Iceland excursions. It’s especially appealing for those who want a dynamic experience packed into a few hours, with stunning scenery, professional guides, and a dash of adrenaline.

While the price might give some pause, the value lies in the unique perspectives and memorable moments you’ll gather. If you’re someone who loves active travel and is comfortable with some weather variability, this tour will meet and exceed expectations.

This adventure is not just about ticking off sights but about feeling connected to Iceland’s wild spirit—an experience that likely stays with you long after the trip ends.

FAQ

Is pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup from your Reykjavik hotel is included, starting at 9:00 AM.

What safety equipment is provided?
Helmets, gloves, overalls, ski masks, and rain gear are all supplied to keep you comfortable and safe.

Can children participate?
Yes, children as young as 6 years old can join, making it family-friendly.

Do I need a driver’s license to drive the ATV?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required to operate the quad bike.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather cancels the helicopter portion, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The tour is weather-dependent.

How long is the helicopter landing?
You’ll have approximately 20 minutes to step out and enjoy the mountain view after the helicopter lands.

Are food and drinks included?
No, this is an activity-only tour. It’s best to bring a snack or plan for lunch afterward.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 15 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. No previous experience is necessary for the ATV segment. Guides ensure everyone has fun and stays safe.

In Summary

This ATV and helicopter combo from Reykjavik offers a compelling taste of Iceland’s wild beauty. It combines ground-level adventure with aerial panoramas, making for a well-rounded and memorable day. While it comes with a higher price tag, many travelers find the experience worth every penny for the photos, the thrills, and the unforgettable views. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, families, and anyone eager to see Iceland from both the dirt trails and the sky.

If you’re looking for an exciting, active, and scenic adventure that breaks the mold of traditional sightseeing, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Iceland trip.