Volcano ATV Tour

If you’re considering adding a bit of adventure to your trip to Iceland, the Volcano ATV Tour on Heimaey Island might just be the right choice. This experience offers a chance to explore the island’s volcanic terrain in a relaxed, small-group setting—perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing but aren’t necessarily looking for adrenaline-pumping rides.

Two things we really like about this tour are the knowledgeable guides who bring the island’s stories to life and the spectacular views you get along the way, from lava fields to coastlines. Plus, at just over an hour, it’s a manageable outing, especially after a flight or ferry ride.

A potential consideration is that the tour isn’t a high-speed adrenaline rush, so if you’re craving that, this might feel a bit tame. Also, drivers need a valid license, which makes it less suitable for younger kids or non-drivers. Still, it’s an experience best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, scenic beauty, and a light adventure.

This tour appeals most to travelers who want a well-rounded, guided exploration of Heimaey’s volcanic landscape with ease and safety, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo explorers eager to see the island from a new perspective.

Key Points

• Small group size keeps the experience intimate and personalized.
• Easy-to-drive ATVs make it accessible for most without prior riding experience.
• The itinerary includes historical sites and breathtaking views.
• All safety gear and protective suits are provided, ensuring comfort and safety.
• The tour is recommended for ages 6 and up, making it family-friendly.
• Booking in advance is suggested, as this tour is popular and often booked 78 days ahead.

Exploring Heimaey’s Landscape in a New Way

The Volcano ATV Tour is a fantastic way to get your feet (or wheels) dirty while learning about Heimaey’s fiery history. This island, part of Iceland’s Westman Archipelago, is renowned for its volcanic activity, most famously the eruption of Eldfell in 1973. The tour offers a laid-back approach, focusing more on the scenery and stories than on high-speed thrills, which makes it appealing for a wide range of travelers.

The tour lasts about an hour, which might seem brief, but it’s enough time to experience the key highlights. You won’t just be riding around aimlessly; the guide takes you to specific, meaningful spots, like Prestvik beach and the area where Guðlaugur Friðþórsson swam 5-6 km after the Hellisey VE 503 sank. These stops are rich in history and provide stunning backdrops for photos.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll See and Do

Prestvik Beach and the Stranded Ship Pelagus

Your adventure begins with a visit to Prestvik beach, where you’ll see the remains of the fishing ship Pelagus, stranded on the shore. It’s a poignant reminder of Iceland’s often turbulent relationship with the sea. The beach’s rugged beauty offers a perfect starting point for your exploration, giving you a taste of the island’s raw coastal environment.

The Story of Guðlaugur Friðþórsson

Next, you’ll drive past the site of Guðlaugur Friðþórsson’s incredible swim—an inspiring tale of survival. After the volcanic eruption, he swam 5-6 km in cold, dark waters to reach safety. Hearing this story from your guide adds a layer of depth to the landscape, transforming scenery into a narrative of resilience.

Riding Around Eldfell Volcano and Lava Fields

The core of the tour is driving around Eldfell, the volcano responsible for the 1973 eruption. This part of the island is riddled with lava formations, offering a landscape that feels both alien and fascinating. The ATVs are automatic and easy to handle, so even if you’re not experienced, you’ll find it manageable to cruise along the rugged terrain.

Coastal Views and Photo Stops

The tour also takes you along the island’s coast, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Atlantic and, on clear days, even the mainland glacier. Many reviews highlight how breathtaking the scenery is—an excellent opportunity for photos and just soaking in the vastness of this volcanic island.

The Experience: What to Expect

Most visitors mention that the ATVs are well-maintained, relatively new, and equipped with safety gear including helmets, gloves, and overalls—important for keeping warm and protected from dust. The small group size (maximum 14 participants) ensures that everyone gets attention and the guide can tailor the experience based on the group’s pace.

Guides like Mar and Adrian receive praise for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness. They share stories that bring the landscape alive, making the trip informative as well as fun. One reviewer pointed out how their guide took many photos, which is great if you want memories without the hassle of taking your own.

Since drivers need a license, this isn’t suitable for children under six or non-drivers. Passengers who aren’t driving must be 6 years or older, making it a decent family outing if your kids meet these age and license requirements.

Pricing and Value: Is it Worth the Cost?

At $115.28 per person, this tour is fairly priced considering what you get. The small group setting, guided storytelling, and access to off-road terrains elevate the experience beyond just renting an ATV. Many travelers feel this is a good value for the money, especially because it combines scenic beauty, history, and hands-on fun in one package.

Reviews consistently commend the professionalism of staff and the quality of the equipment. For many, the highlight was the combination of easy driving and the stunning, unspoiled landscape. One guest mentioned that this was the highlight of a weeklong trip to Iceland, underscoring how memorable and unique this experience is.

Booking and Logistics

It’s advisable to book this tour well in advance—most people reserve around 78 days before their trip. The tour departs from Strandvegur 65 in Vestmannaeyjar, and it ends at the same point, making logistics straightforward. You should plan for about an hour of riding, plus a bit of time for safety briefings and gear fitting.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing some peace of mind if your plans change. Note that if you cancel less than 24 hours ahead or miss your scheduled time, you won’t get a refund.

Real Traveler Perspectives

Reviewers consistently rave about guides like Mar and Veli, calling them energetic, knowledgeable, and engaging. Many mention how the scenery exceeded expectations—”beautiful views,” “amazing weather,” and “great photo opportunities” are common themes.

Some noted minor drawbacks, like a misunderstanding about the tour length or the island’s location, but these are minor compared to the overall positive feedback. For example, one reviewer pointed out that the tour isn’t adrenaline-fueled, which is good to know if you’re expecting a high-speed ride—this tour emphasizes scenic and historical sights over speed.

The Sum Up

This Volcano ATV Tour on Heimaey offers a fantastic blend of scenery, stories, and light adventure. It’s a well-operated experience with friendly guides, manageable vehicles, and a focus on safety and comfort. Travelers who enjoy a bit of history, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed outdoor activity will find this to be a memorable part of their Iceland trip.

If you’re visiting Heimaey and want to see the volcanic landscape up close without the pressure of high-speed rides, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially good for families, small groups, or anyone interested in a balanced mix of education and scenery.

For those craving adrenaline or a longer ride, this might not satisfy that craving—but for most, it offers a genuinely worthwhile, beautifully scenic experience that’s worth planning ahead for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes, drivers must hold a valid driver’s license to operate the ATV. Passengers need to be at least six years old but do not require a license.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 1 hour, including safety briefings, gear fitting, and riding time.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 6 and up can join as passengers, but drivers must have a license. It’s best suited for families with kids who meet these age and license requirements.

What should I wear?
All necessary gear such as overalls, gloves, and helmets are provided. It’s advisable to wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes underneath the gear.

Can I book this tour if I’m arriving on a cruise?
Yes, cruise ship passengers can book, but be aware that if the island isn’t accessible due to weather or other reasons, you might get a 70% refund if you cancel.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Not particularly. The ATVs are automatic and easy to drive, making it accessible for most people without prior riding experience.

What are the main highlights?
You’ll see Prestvik beach, the wreck of Pelagus, learn about Guðlaugur Friðþórsson’s survival story, and drive around Eldfell volcano and lava fields, all with breathtaking coastal views.

How do I prepare for weather conditions?
The tour provides protective gear, but Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and wear water-resistant clothing if possible.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. For cancellations within 24 hours, no refund is provided.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic ride with a sprinkle of history and incredible views, this ATV tour on Heimaey might just be the highlight of your Iceland trip. It combines safety, comfort, and fun in a way that makes a memorable adventure accessible to many.