Reykjavik Peak with Safari Quads ATV

If you’re dreaming of a unique way to see Iceland’s rugged landscapes without straying far from the capital, the Reykjavik Peak with Safari Quads ATV tour offers an exciting option. We haven’t done it ourselves, but with hundreds of glowing reviews and a stellar 5-star rating, it’s clearly a popular choice for travelers craving adventure, panoramic views, and a taste of Iceland’s wild side.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines an adrenaline rush with astounding scenery, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable professionals who keep safety front and center. Plus, the fact that everything, from gear to transport, is handled for you, makes it a hassle-free way to add a layer of thrill to your trip. That said, it’s worth noting that ATV riding can be physically demanding, especially for those new to it, and the tour’s duration is just enough to be fun without feeling rushed.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to explore Iceland’s outdoors in a dynamic way. It’s suitable for most, including those who enjoy active experiences, but keep in mind that participants need a valid driver’s license to operate the quad bikes. If you’re after an off-the-beaten-path adventure with spectacular views, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: From the summit of Mt. Esja to Lake Hafravatn, the scenery is breathtaking.
• Comprehensive Gear & Safety: Helmets, gloves, overalls, and rain gear are provided, ensuring comfort and protection.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides lead the way, ensuring safety and sharing insights about the landscape.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transport from Reykjavik hotels and all equipment included make it a straightforward outing.
• Suitable for Beginners: No prior ATV experience needed; guides provide an orientation and practice run.
• Time & Value: About 2.5 hours total, including pickup, safety briefing, and the ride itself, offering good value for the price.

This adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is a real plus—no fiddling with directions or finding a meeting point in an unfamiliar city. The short drive from Reykjavik takes you away from the urban scene and into the more lunar-like landscapes of Iceland’s outskirts, setting the tone for an exciting outdoor escapade.

Once at the base camp, you’ll meet your guide, who will equip you with the necessary gear: a helmet, gloves, overalls, and a rain jacket (even if the skies seem clear, it’s always good to be prepared). The company supplies warm jumpsuits and face masks, which are especially appreciated if the weather turns chilly or windy—a common occurrence in Iceland. If you’re riding alone, you’ll get to decide whether to go solo or share a quad with a friend, making it flexible for different comfort levels.

Before hitting the trails, everyone receives a safety briefing and a quick practice spin to get familiar with the ATVs. Even if you’ve never driven one before, guides are attentive and ensure you’re comfortable with the controls. We’ve seen reviews highlighting how easy it is for beginners—many mention how laid-back and friendly the guides are, taking time to check on everyone’s confidence and offering tips along the way.

The Off-Road Adventure

The ride begins along paved roads that lead out of Reykjavik, gradually transitioning onto gravel tracks through grasslands and rocky terrain. This change in scenery is notable, as the landscape around the city quickly transforms from urban to wild. Expect to pass by fields with purple lupines in June, adding pops of color to your views.

One of the highlights is reaching Lake Hafravatn, where the mirror-like surface of the water contrasts beautifully with the snow-capped peaks in the distance. Many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful this spot is, a real photo-worthy moment. After a brief stop to take in the scenery, it’s time to ascend Reykjavik Peak, also known as Mt. Esja, where the views unfold in all directions.

Riding up rocky slopes, you’ll feel the power of the quad bikes as they handle off-road challenges with ease. The summit offers panoramic vistas of the capital below, the sprawling grasslands, and distant mountain ranges that seem almost mythical in their scope. The exhilaration of cruising down mountain tracks adds an extra thrill—many reviewers describe it as a perfect mixture of adventure and awe.

The Guides & Group Experience

Throughout the tour, guides keep a close eye on everyone, making adjustments for comfort and safety. As one reviewer put it, guides “explain things well before you get started and appreciate that the company supplies warm jumpsuits, gloves, face masks, and helmets.” Their friendly attitude and expertise help make the experience enjoyable and accessible, even for first-timers.

Group sizes are manageable, with most reports indicating a maximum of 60 travelers—meaning you won’t be lost in a crowd. The convoy style ride ensures you stay with the group, and guides often take photos or videos for you, capturing those special moments atop the mountain.

The overall pace is relaxed but energetic enough to keep the adrenaline flowing. Some reviews mention that riding the ATV can be tiring—arms especially—so it’s worth being prepared for a bit of physical exertion. A few travelers with no motorcycle experience found it surprisingly easy, thanks to the clear instructions and supportive guides.

Duration and Value

The entire tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including pickup, safety instructions, the ride, and drop-off back at your hotel. The ATV adventure itself runs for about an hour, which many consider just right—it feels substantial without overdoing it.

At $129 per person, the tour offers good value, considering the included gear, professional guides, and transportation. It’s a well-rounded experience for those looking to add some active exploration to their Iceland itinerary without breaking the bank.

Many reviews praise the stunning scenery and friendly guides. The ability to ride off-road and explore small mountain tracks, rivers, and ice-covered patches makes this tour stand out as a genuinely adventurous outing. Several reviewers mention how much they enjoyed the panoramic views from the summit, describing it as a highlight of their trip.

The provided gear, especially the warm jumpsuits and face masks, is frequently appreciated, as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. Guides are often singled out for being helpful, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic—making the experience feel safe and fun.

However, some travelers note that ATV riding can be physically demanding. As Laurene pointed out, “riding one would make my arms so tired,” especially if you’re new to it. It’s worth considering your comfort with such activities and whether you’re prepared for a bit of a workout.

A handful of reviews mention that the experience feels a bit rushed—possibly due to tight schedules or group sizes. One reviewer suggested that, if doing it again, they’d opt for the 2-hour version for a more relaxed pace and extra photo stops.

This ATV adventure is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking to experience Iceland’s wild landscapes from a different perspective—on four wheels, rather than just hiking or sightseeing from a distance. The tour is accessible to beginners, thanks to comprehensive instructions and friendly guides, but be prepared for some physical effort.

It’s also perfect if you want a safe, guided experience that takes care of all the logistics. The inclusion of transportation, gear, and safety briefings means you can focus on the thrill and the scenery, rather than worrying about details. Those with a valid driver’s license will be able to drive, while passengers can still enjoy the ride and the incredible views.

If you’re traveling with kids aged 6 and above, they can be passengers, but adults should be aware of the physicality involved. If you crave a quick, scenic, and fun adventure just outside Reykjavik, this tour hits the mark.

The Reykjavik Peak with Safari Quads ATV tour offers an accessible, exhilarating way to see Iceland’s rugged landscapes. With friendly guides, all gear provided, and breathtaking views, it’s an adventure that can appeal to most travelers seeking a dash of adrenaline with a side of natural beauty. The easy logistics—hotel pickup, brief safety briefing, and manageable duration—make it a low-stress option that still delivers plenty of excitement.

While riding an ATV can be tiring for some, especially beginners, the overall experience is praised for its safety, scenic variety, and guide support. It’s especially valued for the chance to reach the summit of Mt. Esja and enjoy sweeping vistas of Reykjavik and beyond. If you’re looking for a memorable outdoor activity that combines adventure with stunning photo ops, this tour is a solid choice.

In short, this experience is ideal for thrill-seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those eager to see Iceland’s wild side without straying far from the city. It’s a convenient, fun, and scenic way to add some adventure to your Iceland trip.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Reykjavik hotels is included, making it very convenient to join the tour without extra hassle.

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required if you want to operate the quad bike. Passengers do not need a license but must be at least 6 years old.

Can I go if I’ve never ridden an ATV before?
Absolutely. The guides give a full safety briefing and a practice run, so even beginners can feel comfortable before setting off.

What should I wear?
You’ll be provided with overalls, a rain jacket, helmet, gloves, and face masks. For extra warmth, consider wearing layers underneath, especially in cooler weather.

How long is the actual ATV ride?
The ride lasts approximately 1 hour within a total experience of around 2 hours 30 minutes, including pickup and drop-off.

Is it suitable for families?
While most reviews focus on adult participants, children aged 6 and above can ride as passengers. Adults should be aware of the physical effort involved.

What kind of views will I see?
Expect panoramic vistas of Reykjavik, Lake Hafravatn, snow-capped mountains, and the sweeping Icelandic landscape from the mountain summit.

Is this tour available in bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The tour typically hosts up to 60 travelers, ensuring a manageable group size for safety and guide attention.

If you’re craving a fun, scenic, and safe way to explore Iceland’s terrain, the Reykjavik Peak ATV tour by Safari Quads could be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to dress warmly, listen to your guides, and enjoy every moment of those stunning views.