Golden circle: Buggy ride Þingvellir Gullfoss Geysir

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines Iceland’s stunning landscapes with a dose of adrenaline, then this buggy tour along the Golden Circle deserves your attention. It’s not just about sightseeing; it’s about feeling the rugged terrain beneath you, crossing tectonic plates, and soaking in some of the country’s most iconic sights—all in one exhilarating day.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the thrill of driving a 4×4 buggy through wild, Icelandic terrain is hard to beat. Second, the tour’s focus on small-group intimacy ensures you won’t be just another face in a crowd—your adventure feels personal and fully engaging. However, it’s worth noting that this tour demands a valid driver’s license and is not suited for children under 12 or pregnant women, so it’s best suited for active, adventurous travelers ready to embrace Iceland’s rugged side.

In this review, we’ll explore every detail so you can decide if this off-road escapade matches your travel style. From the scenic stops to the adrenaline rush on the trails, you’ll learn what to expect, how to prepare, and whether it’s a good value for your Iceland trip.

Key Points

• Unique Tectonic Experience: Drive across the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates at Þingvellir, a UNESCO site.
• Stunning Natural Sights: Visit the powerful Gullfoss waterfall and the bubbling Geysir geothermal area.
• Adventure and Comfort: Includes safety gear, helmets, and overall suits, with an emphasis on secure, fun off-road driving.
• Small Group Tours: Ensures personalized attention and a more intimate adventure.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Not for Everyone: Participants must be at least 12 years old, hold a valid driver’s license, and be physically able to handle rugged terrain.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Off-Road Journey into Iceland’s Wonders

This 10-hour tour offers much more than your average day trip. It’s a full-blown adventure that combines scenic beauty with the thrill of off-road driving. Starting from Reykjavík, you’ll leave behind the city’s bustle and head into some of Iceland’s most remarkable landscapes, all while riding in a sturdy buggy that’s built for rugged trails.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is that it’s not just about sitting and staring at sights—you’re actively driving through the terrain, feeling the power of the vehicle as you cross rivers, navigate rocky paths, and conquer steep trails. This gives you a sense of connection to the land that typical bus tours simply can’t match.

The Itinerary: From Reykjavík to Tectonic Plates

The journey begins at Lambhagavegur 13 in Reykjavík, where safety equipment, helmets, and overall suits are provided. Once suited up, you’re on gravel tracks that wind past scenic spots like Hafravatn and Skammidalur. The route then takes you into Mosfellsdalur for a quick break at Hraðastaðir, giving you time to soak in the local atmosphere before hitting more challenging terrain.

You’ll follow the Leirvogsá salmon river, passing through charming areas like Sámsstaðir, Stardalur, and Sauðafellsflói, ascending into the highlands of Mosfellsheiði. Here, the trails grow more adventurous, and you’ll get a real sense of Iceland’s rugged, untamed beauty.

One of the tour’s highlights is reaching Þingvellir National Park, where you’ll drive across the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This is the only place in the world where you can physically cross between two continental plates on land—a geological wonder that adds a profound sense of significance to the adventure.

Þingvellir: Where History Meets Geology

At Þingvellir, you’ll discover a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s both historically important and geologically fascinating. It’s the site of Iceland’s first parliament, Alþingi, founded in 930 AD, where early Icelanders gathered to create laws and resolve disputes. The park is enormous, covering 24,000 hectares, and the part designated as a UNESCO site highlights its unique cultural and geological attributes.

We loved the way guides explain the significance of standing on this rift, feeling the immense forces that have shaped Iceland’s landscape. The scenery here is breathtaking—craggy cliffs, clear lakes, and expansive views—making it a perfect spot for photos and reflection.

From Þingvellir to Gullfoss: A Waterfall Marvel

Leaving the historic park, the route heads into more rugged country, following the Eyfirðingaleið trail toward Hlöðufell. Along the way, you’ll see glaciers like Vestari Hagafellsjökull and Eystri Hagafellsjökull, adding a dramatic backdrop to your ride. Passing Mosaskarð, Hagavatn, and Sandvatn, you gain a true sense of Iceland’s diverse terrain.

The next major stop is Gullfoss, arguably Iceland’s most famous waterfall. The water plunges 32 meters in a powerful cascade, creating a thundering spectacle that’s impossible to ignore. On sunny days, many visitors report catching rainbows over the falls, adding to the visual drama. It’s a great spot to step out of the buggy and absorb the raw force of nature.

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Geysir: Iceland’s Geothermal Powerhouse

After Gullfoss, the tour continues to Haukadalur geothermal valley, home to the geysers that gave the area its name. The Great Geysir itself erupts infrequently, but when it does, water can shoot up to 60 meters into the air—an impressive demonstration of geothermal power. Nearby, the more active Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes, reaching heights of 35 meters, giving plenty of chances for spectacular photos.

The geothermal area is filled with bubbling springs, steaming vents, and colorful mineral deposits, providing a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.

Scenic Highland Routes on the Return

On the way back to Reykjavík, the route takes you through Lyngdalsheiði, passing abandoned farms like Gjábakki—adding a touch of historical nostalgia. The highland roads offer sweeping views, and the adventure concludes with a descent back into the city, bringing your day of adrenaline and awe to a close.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who make the geography and history come alive, enriching the experience beyond just driving. Others highlight the stunning views—from the tectonic plates to waterfalls, every stop is picture-perfect.

Some mention the exhilaration of off-road driving, describing it as “thrilling” and “unlike anything I’ve experienced before.” A few note that the rugged trails require a good deal of focus and physical stamina, and that the tour is most suitable for those comfortable with active pursuits. The safety equipment and small group sizes are often appreciated for adding a layer of confidence and intimacy.

Practical Details and Considerations

This tour runs approximately 10 hours, with specific start times that you should check in advance. The price includes safety gear, helmets, and overall suits, but food and drinks are not included—so bring your own snacks and water. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available at an extra cost (10,000 ISK per person), which might be worth considering if you want a hassle-free day.

You need a valid driving license to operate the buggy, and the tour is not suitable for children under 12 or pregnant women. Dress warmly, in layers, and wear water-resistant shoes since you’ll be exposed to the elements and possibly splashed during river crossings.

The tour operator, Buggy Iceland, offers flexibility with reservations—booking now and paying later is an option, with free cancellations up to 24 hours beforehand.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits travelers who crave active, hands-on experiences and want to see Iceland’s natural wonders from a fresh perspective. If you enjoy a bit of adrenaline and don’t mind getting dirty, this tour offers a satisfying mix of scenic beauty and rugged fun. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate insightful guides, as many reviews point out their knowledge and enthusiasm.

However, if you prefer relaxed sightseeing or have mobility or safety concerns, this tour might not be ideal. It’s also not recommended for very young children or pregnant travelers, so consider your personal comfort and fitness level before booking.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Circle buggy tour provides a rare combination of Iceland’s most famous sights with the thrill of off-road driving. It’s a fantastic way to actively engage with the landscape, crossing tectonic plates, standing beneath waterfalls, and watching geysers erupt—all in one day.

The value here isn’t just in the sights but in the experience itself. You’ll leave with a deeper connection to Iceland’s volcanic, icy terrain and a memorable story to tell. For adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to do something different, this tour offers a well-rounded, exhilarating, and authentic slice of Icelandic life.

FAQ

Do I need a driver’s license to join? Yes, a valid driving license is required to operate the buggy, which is part of the adventure.

Is hotel pickup included? No, but it is available at an extra cost of 10,000 ISK per person. Alternatively, you can meet at the main base in Reykjavík.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience runs approximately 10 hours, with specific start times to be checked in advance.

Is it suitable for children? The tour is not suitable for children under 12, primarily because of safety and the nature of off-road driving.

What should I wear? Dress warmly in layers and wear water-resistant shoes, as you’ll be exposed to Iceland’s weather and splashes.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This buggy adventure along Iceland’s Golden Circle promises a blend of natural beauty, thrilling driving, and a chance to see some of the country’s most iconic sites from a truly unique perspective. It’s perfect for those who want more than just passive sightseeing—an authentic, high-energy way to experience Iceland’s wild side.

You can check availability for your dates here: