Iceland is a land of dramatic landscapes—volcanoes, geothermal areas, glacial rivers—and nothing beats exploring these wild terrains on an ATV or quad bike. Unlike conventional sightseeing, riding an ATV gives you the chance to see the country’s less accessible areas, with the wind in your hair and a sense of real adventure. We particularly like the Reykjavik Quad Bike Twin Peaks Tour for its panoramic city and mountain views, and the ATV guided trip near Dettifoss for its proximity to one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls. Whether you’re after a quick thrill or a full-day exploration, Iceland’s ATV tours deliver a unique way to experience the island’s rugged beauty.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the three best ATV and quad bike tours in Iceland, each offering a different flavor of adventure. From city-escape mountain rides to wildlife encounters near glaciers, these experiences stand out for their scenery, guides, and value.
1. Reykjavik Quad Bike Twin Peaks Tour
At number one, the Reykjavik Quad Bike Twin Peaks Tour combines city views with mountain terrain, making it one of the most comprehensive urban escapes. For around $197 per person, you get a 3.5-hour ride that takes you through challenging dirt trails in the Icelandic wilderness. The tour starts with a pickup from 13 locations in Reykjavik, making logistics straightforward, especially if you’re staying downtown. Once equipped with safety gear and a briefing, you head off to explore both the Reykjavik Peak and Lava Field Peak, offering sweeping vistas of the city, bay, and beyond.
This tour is notable because of its multi-track terrain, which includes streams, steep inclines, and rugged trails—perfect if you want a mix of adrenaline and scenery. Guides share insights about the volcanic landscape, and you’ll stop at scenic points like Lake Hafravatn and the Hengill Geothermal mountain park. Guests frequently mention how friendly and professional the guides are—one reviewer called the team “top tier,” highlighting the smooth pick-up, engaging guide, and spectacular views.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventure lovers who want a taste of Iceland’s wild side without leaving the capital area. The combination of challenging terrain and stunning vistas makes this a top pick for a half-day thrill.
2. ATV guided trip close to Dettifoss Iceland
Second on our list is the ATV guided trip near Dettifoss, priced at $177 per person for a 1-hour adventure. This tour takes you into northeastern Iceland, where you can explore the natural beauty along the glacier river Jökulsá á Fjöllum. It’s a shorter ride but packed with sights, including the chance to spot wildlife like seals and birds during the summer months.
What makes this tour special is its proximity to the impressive Dettifoss waterfall—Europe’s most powerful waterfall—and the surrounding waterways teeming with animal life. The tour operator provides waterproof jumpsuits, helmets, and gloves, ensuring you stay comfortable as you navigate the terrain. Guides are attentive, sharing not only safety instructions but also stories about the geological and ecological features of the area. One reviewer described the scenery as “absolutely gorgeous,” emphasizing the seals seen swimming in the river and the lupine in bloom.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a quick, nature-focused ride in a remote setting. It’s a good choice if you’re short on time but want to see some of Iceland’s wildest landscapes and wildlife.
3. Iceland atv. ATV guided trip close to Dettifoss
Number three is the Iceland atv. ATV guided trip near Dettifoss, a 2-hour tour priced at $338 per person. This experience builds on the shorter ride, offering a more extensive exploration of the river and surrounding wilderness. It’s ideal for those who want a deeper dive into the Icelandic nature, with a chance to see bird colonies and seals along the way.
Guides again focus on safety and sharing insights about the landscape, but the longer duration allows for a more relaxed pace and more impressive scenery. One customer remarked, “My daughter and I had a wonderful time,” highlighting the friendly guides and memorable sights. The tour’s strength is its combination of wildlife encounters and stunning natural landmarks, making it suitable for those looking for a more in-depth adventure.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want to spend a good chunk of time exploring remote areas on an ATV, with ample opportunity for wildlife viewing and photos.
How to Choose Your Iceland ATV Tour
When selecting the right ATV experience, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re based in Reykjavik and want a scenic, challenging ride that combines city views with mountain terrain, the Reykjavik Quad Bike Twin Peaks Tour is hard to beat. For those on a tight schedule but eager to see wildlife and a powerful waterfall, the near Dettifoss trips offer a quick but memorable outdoor escape. The 2-hour Iceland atv tour provides a longer, more immersive experience—ideal if you want to spend more time in nature.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular tours, and keep in mind the seasons—summer offers longer daylight hours and wildlife sightings, while winter can add snow and ice fun but requires warmer gear.
Final Thoughts
Iceland offers a fantastic variety of ATV tours that let you see some of its most striking landscapes from a new perspective. Whether you prefer riding across volcanic peaks just outside Reykjavik, exploring remote river valleys near Dettifoss, or opting for a longer wildlife-focused adventure, there’s something for every thrill-seeker. For urban-based explorers, the Reykjavik Twin Peaks Tour combines accessibility with adventure, while the Dettifoss trips are perfect for nature lovers craving a more secluded experience.
If you’re planning your trip, consider your main interests—city views, wildlife, or remote wilderness—and book early, especially in the busy summer months. These tours are truly memorable ways to connect with Iceland’s wild side and create stories you’ll tell for years.