Exploring Iceland’s incredible landscapes comes with plenty of options, but if you’re after a hands-on, adventurous way to see the Mývatn area, this ATV Guided Safari might just be your thing. We’ve looked into this tour to help you decide if it fits what you’re after—a mix of scenic drives, off-road fun, and learning about the local terrain from a knowledgeable guide.
What really caught our attention is how this experience offers a unique perspective—getting off the usual tourist trail on UTV buggies—and the small group vibe ensures you’ll get more personalized attention. Plus, the scenery around Lake Mývatn, with its volcanic landscapes and hidden gems, makes it clear why many travelers rate it so highly.
That said, it’s worth noting there’s a bit of a price tag involved, and only one person can actively drive at a time, which may influence how you view the value. But if you’re comfortable with a bit of cost for a memorable adventure and enjoy driving or exploring with a guide, this tour could be a real highlight of your trip.
This kind of tour suits travelers who love a mix of scenic exploration and the thrill of off-road driving, especially those curious about Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, nature, and history. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a more active, intimate experience rather than just sightseeing from a bus or car.
Key Points
- Unique exploration through Mývatn Nature Reserve on UTV buggies
- Guided experience with local expertise and interesting stories
- Off-road adventure that uncovers hidden natural and historical sites
- Small group size for personalized attention and a cozy vibe
- Scenic drives on paved and off-road tracks, including private land
- Duration of about 2 hours, with flexible starting times (check availability)
What to Expect from the Mývatn ATV Safari
The Mývatn ATV Guided Safari promises an exciting way to see the landscape around Lake Mývatn. From the moment you meet at the Geo Travel farm base camp, you’ll know you’re in for a tailored experience. The tour starts with a quick safety briefing and the distribution of helmets and overalls—if the weather calls for it—so you’re prepared for the adventure ahead.
Once geared up, you’ll hop into your UTV (utility task vehicle), a side-by-side buggy designed for comfort and ease of driving. These vehicles are safe, comfortable, and user-friendly, which is great if you’re not a seasoned ATV rider. The maximum group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring you don’t get lost in a crowd and that the guide can give everyone enough attention.
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The Driving Experience
The tour involves a mix of driving on paved roads and tackling off-road tracks. The goal is to show you hidden spots and natural beauty that are often inaccessible by regular vehicles. Expect to spend about 10 minutes on paved roads, but the real fun begins once you hit the off-road trails. These might include lava fields, forests, craters, or other volcanic formations—each offering a different perspective on Iceland’s geological story.
According to reviews, the local guides excel at sharing insights about the landscape’s history and geology, making the drive as educational as it is scenic. We loved the way guides like Alejandro and Anton made visitors feel comfortable and informed, sharing stories that added depth to the experience.
Highlights and Hidden Gems
Guides aim to take you off the beaten track, exploring less-visited areas around Lake Mývatn. This might mean venturing into remote lava fields or stopping at scenic overlooks. One review mentions arriving at a “remote spot in the middle of a vast lava field,” a place perfect for photos and appreciating Iceland’s volcanic activity.
The tour’s flexibility means that routes may change depending on the weather. This is a plus, as it keeps the experience fresh and safe—though it could mean some variation from day to day. We appreciate that the guides prioritize safety but still keep the ride exciting and scenic.
The Emotional and Visual Impact
Many reviews highlight how breathtaking the scenery is. The views of volcanic landscapes, craters, and lakes are truly memorable. One traveler described it as a “truly impressive trip through a surreal landscape,” emphasizing how sights like lava fields and volcanic craters make this tour visually compelling.
The sense of adventure comes from navigating varied terrain, and the small group size enhances the feeling of being part of a shared journey rather than just a tourist number.
More Great Tours NearbyWorth the Price?
At $216 per person, this isn’t exactly budget-friendly, but when you consider the personalized guide, the scenic value, and the fun of driving an ATV in such a unique environment, the cost can be justified. Many travelers, including those in reviews, mention the experience as a highlight of their trip to Iceland.
One reviewer pointed out that only one person can actively drive at a time, which might impact the perceived value if you’re hoping for multiple drivers in your group. However, if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, you’ll get the full experience, with a guide sometimes offering to sit with an extra passenger.
The tour includes the buggy, helmet, overalls, and guide—so the main extra cost is personal insurance, which isn’t included. Keep this in mind if you want extra peace of mind.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is perfect for those who enjoy driving or want a more active, immersive way to explore Iceland’s volcanic landscapes. It’s also great for travelers who value small groups and personalized guides, making the journey more intimate and engaging.
While it’s not suitable for children under 6 or those over 95, it’s a nice fit for adventurous adults and older teens who can handle the terrain and follow safety instructions. The experience is less suitable for families with very young kids or anyone looking for a leisurely, sightseeing-only tour.
Practical Details & Tips
- Meeting point is at Geo Travel Iceland’s farm base camp, accessible from the north side.
- Start times vary; check availability, since the tour lasts about 2 hours.
- Bring your driver’s license and gloves for comfort and safety.
- Dress warmly, especially if the weather is cold—it’s Iceland, after all.
- The tour is cancelable up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.
Authentic Traveler Insights
From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Alejandro and Anton are highly appreciated for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer called Anton “knowledgeable, professional, and incredibly friendly,” which really enhances the overall experience. Travelers also love the way guides share stories about Iceland’s landscape and geology, adding depth that pure sightseeing can’t match.
Many reviewers emphasize how scenic and surreal the landscapes are, with some arriving at special spots that seem untouched by crowds. While the price might seem high to some, the personalized attention, safety, and scenic variety make it worthwhile for many.
The Sum Up
If you’re seeking a more interactive and adventurous way to see the natural beauty of Lake Mývatn, this ATV safari offers a memorable, hands-on experience. You’ll enjoy the thrill of off-road driving, learn about Iceland’s volcanic history from local guides, and explore areas that most visitors never see.
This tour is particularly suited for those who appreciate scenic drives and geological stories—and don’t mind a bit of a splurge for a more personal adventure. It’s a solid choice if you want to add something active and exciting to your Iceland itinerary, especially if you’re traveling in a small group or as a couple.
Just be prepared for the cost, and keep in mind that only one driver can actively handle the ATV at a time. Overall, it’s a fun, scenic, and educational experience that many will remember long after the trip ends.
Mývatn: Lake Mývatn ATV Guided Safari Experience
“We were lucky to have a private tour, as it was the first one offered that season and things were still quiet. Our guide Alejandro gave us a brief …”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 6 years old. It’s designed for older teens and adults who can handle driving and off-road terrain.
How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts about 2 hours, but check availability for specific starting times.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the UTV buggy, helmet, overalls (if needed), and the guide.
Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, all drivers must have a valid driver license to operate the ATV.
Can I have more than one person actively driving?
In this tour, only one person can actively drive at a time. Additional passengers can sometimes sit with the guide or book a solo ride.
What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license and gloves. Dress warmly, especially if the weather is cold.
Is the tour canceled if the weather is bad?
Weather conditions can influence the route, but the tour can generally be canceled or rescheduled if necessary. The provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Where do I meet for the tour?
At Geo Travel Iceland’s farm base camp, accessible from the north side by following specific directions.
How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Exploring Iceland’s natural wonders on an ATV offers a kind of freedom and thrill that’s hard to match. Whether you’re a driving enthusiast or just looking for a different way to see Mývatn, this tour provides a memorable adventure that combines scenery, history, and a dash of adrenaline.
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