Reykjavik: Buggy Adventure & Northern Lights

If you’re looking for a way to combine some serious adrenaline with the chance to witness Iceland’s stunning natural scenes, the Reykjavik: Buggy Adventure & Northern Lights tour might just be your ticket. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve done similar outdoor adventures in Iceland, and I can tell you—this one packs a punch for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. It’s a solid choice if you want a quick, memorable experience that offers a bit of everything: rugged driving, breathtaking scenery, and maybe even the auroras if the conditions align.

What really caught my eye is how the tour combines driving a fully automatic 4×4 buggy through Iceland’s raw landscapes with the chance to see the Northern Lights — a combo that’s not only exciting but uniquely Icelandic. Plus, the inclusion of transportation from Reykjavik and a meal at Greenhouse Food Hall** makes it a pretty convenient package for travelers short on time but craving adventure. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour requires warm, layered clothing and a valid driver’s license, so it’s not quite a casual outing, especially if you’re not comfortable behind the wheel.

One potential challenge is the price point—at $667 per person, this isn’t a budget activity. But considering what’s included — a 2-hour buggy ride, safety gear, transport, and a meal — it can be viewed as an experience that offers a lot of value for adrenaline junkies and scenery lovers. Overall, it suits travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, don’t mind a bit of cold, and want to check off a memorable Icelandic experience from their trip.

Key Points

• Adventure on rugged terrain: Drive a 4×4 buggy through Iceland’s natural playground.
• Scenic views: Enjoy beautiful landscapes unique to Iceland’s south.
• All-inclusive convenience: Transportation, safety gear, and a meal included.
• Short but impactful: A 2-hour ride that offers a taste of Iceland’s wild side without over-committing.
• Aurora chance: Cap off your day with the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, depending on the conditions.
• Practical considerations: Dress warmly, bring a valid license, and be prepared for a physically engaging experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed as a guided outdoor adventure that starts with pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation. The guide’s role is essential — they’ll give you a safety briefing and ensure everyone is properly dressed in overalls and helmets before setting off. Once suited up, you’ll hop into your fully automatic, road-legal buggy, ready to explore the Icelandic countryside.

The 2-hour buggy ride takes you through Iceland’s natural landscape, which might include gravel roads, open fields, and areas that showcase Iceland’s volcanic origins. The guides are knowledgeable, helping you navigate the terrain while pointing out interesting sights along the way. Many reviews mention the stunning views and how the guides make the experience informative without overwhelming.

After the drive, the tour wraps up back at the base where a meal at Greenhouse Food Hall is included. It’s a nice way to relax, chat about the adventure, and refuel before heading back to Reykjavik. If conditions are right, you might stay out a bit longer or head back to the city with the hope of catching the Northern Lights later in the evening.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup in Reykjavik:
The journey begins with pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point. This convenience is a real plus—no need to worry about finding your way to the activity location, especially if you’re new to the city.

The Scenic Drive:
The guided tour takes you through the Capital Region of Iceland, offering approximately two hours of scenic driving. While the exact routes can vary, what remains consistent is the opportunity to witness Iceland’s rugged beauty. From volcanic landscapes to open fields, the scenery provides plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. According to reviews, guides do a good job of sharing interesting facts and pointing out notable sights along the way.

The Buggy Experience:
The highlight is, of course, the buggy ride. The buggies are fully inspected, road-legal, and designed for adventure, allowing you to test your driving skills in Iceland’s natural environment. Expect to feel the thrill of navigating gravel roads and uneven terrain, with the natural surroundings providing a dramatic backdrop. Several travelers commented on how much fun they had and how surprisingly capable the buggies are, even for those with no prior experience.

Post-ride and Meal:
After your buggy adventure, the group reunites at the Greenhouse Food Hall, where your included food ticket grants you access to a meal. It’s a good chance to unwind, share stories, and reflect on the experience. The quality of the food isn’t detailed, but the inclusion of a meal adds value and convenience.

Potential Northern Lights Viewing:
While not guaranteed, the tour offers a chance to see the Northern Lights if the skies are clear. This addition makes the experience more memorable if conditions cooperate, especially since the tour runs in the evening.

The Practical Details — Transportation, Cost, and What’s Included

Transportation:
The tour includes pickup and drop-off within the Reykjavik area, making it very convenient for city-based travelers. If you’re staying outside the city, you should consider the additional cost of hotel pickup, which is 10,000 ISK per person.

Cost and Value:
At $667 per person, the experience isn’t cheap, but it covers quite a bit: a 2-hour buggy ride, safety gear, transport, and a meal. For adventure enthusiasts, the price is reasonable for the kind of fun and scenery you’re getting. For those less interested in driving or outdoor activities, it might seem steep, especially since it’s a relatively short activity.

Included and Not Included:
The tour covers safety equipment, helmet, overall suit, transport, and food ticket. What’s not included are extra food and drinks outside the meal, and the hotel pickup if you’re staying outside the Reykjavik zone.

Duration and Availability:
The entire experience runs around 4 hours, but the actual buggy ride is just 2 hours. Check availability for specific starting times — they vary depending on the day, so plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy outdoor adventures, driving, and scenic landscapes, this is a fantastic option. It’s particularly suited for those who want a hands-on experience and don’t mind getting a bit muddy or dusty. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making the journey both fun and informative.

However, a valid driver’s license is essential, and the activity isn’t suitable for children under 4 or pregnant women. The physical activity involved, along with the outdoor conditions, means it’s best for active travelers comfortable with an element of ruggedness.

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Final Thoughts

For anyone craving a different perspective on Iceland’s wild terrain, this buggy tour offers a lively and memorable experience. The combination of driving an ATV-like vehicle through volcanic fields, enjoying spectacular views, and possibly spotting the Northern Lights makes it stand out from more typical sightseeing options. The logistical convenience — including transportation and a meal — helps make it a hassle-free adventure.

While the price might be a bit high for some, the value lies in the fun, the scenery, and the memories created. If you’re someone who enjoys unique outdoor activities and don’t mind a bit of cold weather, this could be one of the highlights of your Iceland trip.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off within the Reykjavik area, which makes it very convenient. If you’re outside that zone, there’s an additional charge of 10,000 ISK per person for hotel pickup.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes around 4 hours, with about 2 hours dedicated to the buggy ride itself. The rest involves transportation, safety briefings, and the meal.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, and wear water-resistant shoes. A scarf is recommended to keep warm, especially if you’re out in the evening.

Do I need a driving license?
Yes, a valid driving license is required to operate the buggy, so this activity isn’t suitable for non-drivers.

Is it suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 4 years old, and pregnant women are advised not to participate due to the physical nature of the activity.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a 2-hour buggy ride, safety equipment, helmet, overall suit, transportation, and a meal ticket at Greenhouse Food Hall.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the Northern Lights depend on clear skies, sightings are not guaranteed. The tour itself can run in various weather conditions, but safety is a priority, and the guide will advise accordingly.

Is this a good experience for someone who’s never driven a buggy before?
Absolutely. The buggies are fully automatic and inspected, and guides are there to help you navigate. Many reviews mention how manageable the experience is for beginners.

All in all, if you’re after a lively, scenic, and well-organized outdoor adventure, this tour is worth considering — just keep an eye on the weather and your comfort with outdoor driving.

You can check availability for your dates here: