Planning a day that combines adrenaline, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure? This ATV and helicopter tour offers a fantastic way to see Iceland’s rugged landscapes without venturing far from the capital. It’s perfect for travelers craving a mix of ground-level exploration and aerial vistas, all wrapped into a five-hour experience.
What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, you’ll get to ride through the Icelandic wilderness on a sturdy quad bike, feeling the gravel under your wheels as you climb mountain trails. Then, you’ll fly over Reykjavik and the surrounding regions in a helicopter, with breathtaking sights that are simply impossible to capture from the ground alone.
One thing to consider is that this experience is best suited for those comfortable with active outdoor activities — a bit of riding and flying can be exhilarating but may be too much for travelers seeking a more relaxed day. Also, the tour’s cost of around $508 per person reflects the combined adventure, which offers great value for those eager to tick off two bucket-list experiences in one go.
If you’re looking for authentic Icelandic scenery, guided expertise, and a well-organized itinerary, this tour offers a memorable taste of the island’s wild beauty. It’s ideal for adventure travelers, first-time visitors wanting a quick highlight reel, or anyone who simply loves a good story to tell.
Key Points
- Two-in-One Adventure: Combines ATV riding and helicopter flying for a full-day thrill
- Stunning Views: See Reykjavik, Faxaflói Bay, Mount Esjan, and potentially volcanoes and glaciers
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance safety and enjoyment
- Convenient Location: Starts close to Reykjavik, saving travel time and maximizing adventure
- Incredible Photo Opportunities: Elevate your Instagram game with mountain-top photos and aerial shots
- Good Value for Unique Experience: A premium price but includes gear, guides, and varied scenery
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Reykjavik.
Starting Point: Pickups and Safety Briefing
The journey begins early in the morning, with pickups available from numerous Reykjavik hotels and central bus stops. You’ll want to be ready around 09:00, as pickup times run between 09:00 and 09:30. The convenience of hotel pickup means no fuss about finding your way — just be sure your hotel is within the pickup zone or designated bus stop.
Once gathered at the base camp on Reykjavik’s outskirts, you’ll receive a comprehensive safety briefing that lasts about 30 minutes. Don’t worry if you’re new to ATVs or helicopters — the guides are experienced and friendly, ensuring everyone feels comfortable before the fun begins.
ATV Adventure: Mountain Trails and Scenic Highlights
The ATV ride takes around an hour and is the heart of this adventure. You’ll be outfitted with helmets, gloves, overalls, rain gear, and ski masks — essential, especially if the weather turns brisk or damp. Guides will assist you in choosing between sharing a two-seater or driving solo (single rider option available). As you set off, you’ll explore rocky trails leading to Lake Hafravatn, a serene spot perfect for a scenic ride.
From there, your guides will lead you up Reykjavik Peak, where the views are nothing short of spectacular. According to reviews, the guides are both patient and knowledgeable. One traveler noted, “Our ATV guide was very welcoming and open,” which really highlights the friendly, approachable nature of the team.
Reaching the summit offers a panoramic view of Reykjavik’s rooftops, Faxaflói Bay shimmering in the distance, and Mount Esjan to the east. On clear days, you’ll also glimpse the volcanoes of Reykjanes and the Snæfellsjökull glacier on the distant peninsula, making it a truly special vantage point.
Rest and Transition: Mountain to Sky
After descending from the mountain, you’ll return to the base camp, where you’ll give back your gear and transfer to Reykjavik’s Domestic Airport. The drive itself offers a moment to relax and reflect on the ride — perhaps a chance to admire the Icelandic landscape from a different perspective.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Helicopter Flight: From Peaks to Clouds
The helicopter component lasts about 45 minutes, with the flight route customized by your pilot. Before takeoff, you’ll receive a briefing about the flight plan. One of the highlights is a midway mountain-top landing, giving you twenty minutes to capture photographs of the surrounding scenery — think snow-capped peaks, volcanic fields, or lush valleys, depending on the weather.
From the air, you’ll see Reykjavik from above — a perspective that reveals the city’s colorful rooftops, the harbor, and the sprawling coastline. The reviews confirm that the aerial views are breathtaking, with one traveler describing it as a “marvellous way to see and enjoy Iceland.”
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The Feeling of Authenticity and Adventure
Throughout the entire experience, guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise. Multiple reviewers mention the friendly guides and excellent service, which significantly enhances the day’s enjoyment. “Everyone is so friendly here,” one said, “it’s infectious,” highlighting how the welcoming atmosphere is a big part of the tour’s appeal.
Analyzing the Value and Practical Details
For $508, this tour provides a full morning of adventure, stunning scenery, and professional guidance. When compared to doing these activities separately, the combined experience offers convenience and a better sense of the landscape’s diversity. While the price might seem high for some, the inclusion of gear, professional guides, and the flight makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone craving a memorable slice of Icelandic adventure.
This tour’s duration of about five hours is efficient, leaving plenty of time afterward to explore Reykjavik or relax. The pickup process is straightforward, with options to be picked up at various central locations, although the need to be ready by 09:00 means planning your morning accordingly.
What’s Included and What’s Not
All essential safety gear, including helmets, gloves, rain gear, and overalls, are provided. The guides are professional and friendly, making sure everyone is comfortable and safe. The helicopter tour is part of the package, but drop-off at the end is not included, so you may want to plan transportation back to your hotel or enjoy the local area.
Considerations for Travelers
This experience is suitable for anyone over 6 years old for passengers, though only licensed drivers can control the ATV. Travelers should be prepared for outdoor conditions, including possible rain or wind, and wear hiking boots or sneakers. Those who are not comfortable with heights or flying should note the helicopter segment may not be ideal for them.
Authentic Feedback from Participants
Based on reviews, travelers continually praise the knowledgeable guides, noting their friendliness and patience. One reviewer said, “Guides for both activities were patient and kind,” which highlights the professionalism and good humor of the staff.
The stunning views are consistently mentioned as a highlight. “Great sights and a marvelous way to see and enjoy Iceland,” one person wrote, encapsulating the experience’s core value — breathtaking scenery accessible through guided adventure.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This combo tour is perfect for adventure lovers, first-time visitors, and those seeking a photo-rich experience. If you’re eager to combine active outdoor fun with aerial sightseeing, this is a solid choice. It’s also a smart pick for travelers who want to maximize their time in Iceland, seeing diverse landscapes without long travels or multiple bookings.
While it’s a bit pricier, the value lies in the all-in-one nature of the experience — professional guides, safety gear, scenic rides, and helicopter views — all packed into one memorable morning.
However, if your preference is for a more relaxed, less physically active day or if you’re traveling with very young children, this may not be the best fit. Also, those with concerns about heights or flying should consider their comfort level before booking.
FAQ
Is pickup included in the price?
Yes, pickup from multiple Reykjavik hotels and bus stops is included, with pickups starting around 09:00.
Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, licensed drivers are required to control the ATV, but passengers simply need to be six years or older.
What should I wear?
Hiking boots or sneakers are recommended. The tour provides all necessary safety gear, including rain protections.
Can I share an ATV or do I need to drive alone?
You have the option to share a two-seater ATV or drive solo if you select the single rider option.
How long is the helicopter flight?
The helicopter ride lasts approximately 45 minutes, including a mid-flight mountain landing.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions; if conditions are unsafe, the experience may be canceled or rescheduled.
Are children allowed?
Children over 6 years old can participate as passengers, but only licensed drivers can operate the ATV.
In the end, this ATV and helicopter combo offers a well-rounded, exciting glimpse of Iceland’s rugged beauty. Whether you’re aiming for spectacular views, active fun, or both, this tour balances adventure with professionalism. It’s a solid pick for those eager to see Reykjavik and beyond from the ground and the sky.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Helicopter Tours in Reykjavik
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