Buggy ‘Lava Field Adventure’ from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s volcanic landscapes has always been a bucket-list experience for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. The Buggy ‘Lava Field Adventure’ from Reykjavik offers a unique way to get up close with Iceland’s wild terrain—riding in a 4×4 mountain buggy across lava fields, snow, and muddy pools. This tour is designed for those craving a mix of adrenaline and scenic beauty, with the chance to take the wheel or simply enjoy the ride.

What we love most is how personalized and interactive the experience feels. The guides are well-trained and friendly—many guests mention their knowledgeable and approachable guides, like Gonzalo and Marco, who make safety and fun a priority. The views from the summit, overlooking Reykjavik, Esja Mountain, and the North Atlantic, are undeniably breathtaking.

A potential consideration is that the tour emphasizes speed and off-road thrills, which might not appeal to everyone looking for a more scenic, leisurely ride. If you’re after a purely sightseeing tour, this might feel a bit fast-paced.

This experience suits adventurous travelers, families with kids over six, or anyone wanting a memorable, adrenaline-pumping day that offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a full-on Icelandic adventure.

Key Points

• Off-road thrill: Conquer lava fields, mud pools, and snowy patches in a 2-seater buggy.
• Stunning viewpoints: Enjoy panoramic views of Reykjavik, Esja Mountain, and the North Atlantic from the summit.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, approachable guides ensure safety and share interesting insights.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children aged six and above as passengers.
• All gear included: Helmets, gloves, overalls, and rain gear provided for comfort and safety.
• Value for money: A 2-hour adventure priced at $225 per person offers a balanced mix of thrill and scenery.

The Tours Breakdown: What to Expect

Convenient Pickup and Introduction

The adventure begins with hotel pickup in Reykjavik around 1:00 pm, making it a seamless start after a day exploring the city. This is especially appreciated, as it saves you the hassle of finding your way to the buggy station on the outskirts of town. Once at the base, you’ll attend a safety briefing, where the staff emphasizes safety and fun. They equip you with helmets, thermal coveralls, gloves, and rain gear—gear that ensures you’re protected from the elements, no matter how muddy or snowy the terrain gets.

The Buggies and Driving Experience

The two-seater buggy is surprisingly comfortable and well-designed for off-road adventures. You can opt to drive or ride as a passenger; many reviews mention how much fun it is to switch between the two, especially if you’re traveling with a partner or family member. A full valid driver’s license is necessary if you wish to drive, but if not, riding shotgun still provides an exhilarating experience.

Guided by professionals, you’ll start off on lowland trails through rocky lava fields, muddy pools, and water crossings. The terrain is diverse and intentionally challenging—perfect for those wanting a true off-road experience. Reviewers often mention the speed and excitement—somegetting quite fast on the straightaways—and the thrill of bouncing over rugged ground. One guest described it as “safe, bumpy, and fast,” which speaks to the fun but controlled nature of the ride.

Climbing Úlfarsfell Mountain

The highlight of this tour is the ascent up Úlfarsfell Mountain. The guides expertly navigate the steep, rocky slopes, and many guests comment on how satisfying it is to reach the summit. From there, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Reykjavik, the expansive North Atlantic, and Esja Mountain looming in the distance. Several reviews mentioned how impressive the vistas are, with one noting, “The views from the top are breathtaking, and you get a real sense of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.”

Scenic Stops and Landscape Highlights

After descending from Úlfarsfell, the tour makes a stopp at Hafravatn Lake. Guests have described this as a “beautiful reflection of the surrounding landscape,” offering a quieter moment to appreciate the wild beauty of Iceland’s geothermal and volcanic environments. The lake’s mirror-like surface provides perfect photo opportunities.

Duration and Overall Experience

The entire experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including pickup and drop-off, with about two hours of actual buggy riding. Reviewers universally praise the value for money—many feel that the adrenaline rush, stunning views, and personalized guides make this a worthwhile addition to their Iceland itinerary.

Additional Options and Upgrades

For those seeking more challenge or longer rides, there’s a 3-hour version that promises an even more intense off-road adventure. The tour is quite popular, often booked around 42 days in advance, indicating high demand among travelers.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests consistently mention the friendly and professional guides, like “Marco” and “Gonzalo,” who keep everyone safe and entertained. Several comment on the knowledgeable nature of guides, sharing interesting facts about Icelandic volcanic activity and geothermal features, which adds educational value to the thrill.

Many reviewers highlight how fast the buggies can go—some noted their surprise at the speed and the importance of listening carefully to the guide’s instructions for safety. Despite the fast pace, the majority felt the experience was well-controlled and safe, thanks to the thorough safety briefing and gear provided, including helmets and rain gear.

A recurring theme is the breathtaking scenery—the views from the summit are frequently described as “epic” and “spectacular,” often mentioned as a highlight of the day. The mix of lava fields, snowy patches, and water crossings creates an authentic Icelandic landscape that feels like stepping onto another planet.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Price and Value

At $225 per person for a 2-hour buggy adventure, the price reflects a good balance between cost and experience, especially considering the inclusion of transport, safety gear, and a professional guide. The shared vehicle option allows for fun social interaction, while the single rider option offers more control and personal attention.

Group Size and Schedule

The tour typically operates with up to 60 travelers, but many groups are smaller, especially during off-peak times. The pickup at 1:00 pm makes it a perfect afternoon activity, fitting comfortably into a Reykjavik itinerary.

Suitability and Requirements

You should have moderate physical fitness to manage the bumpy ride and potentially challenging terrain. Children aged 6 and over can ride as passengers, which makes it accessible for families. A full valid driver’s license is required to drive the buggy.

Weather and Cancellation

The tour is weather-dependent—if conditions are poor, it might be canceled or rescheduled. Luckily, the policy allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, which offers peace of mind.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

This buggy lava field adventure is perfect for adventure lovers craving a high-energy, off-the-beaten-path experience. It’s especially suited for families with kids over six and groups who enjoy a combination of scenic views and adrenaline-fueled fun. The knowledgeable guides, safety gear, and well-maintained buggies ensure a secure environment, even at speed.

If you’re after a more leisurely exploration of Iceland’s landscapes, or prefer a tour focused on scenic stops rather than thrills, this may not be the best fit. But for those who want a dynamic, memorable, and exhilarating day in Iceland’s volcanic playground, this adventure offers top-tier value and genuine fun.

FAQ

Can I drive the buggy myself?
Yes, a full valid driver’s license is required if you want to drive the buggy. Otherwise, you can choose to ride as a passenger.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 6 and over are allowed to ride as passengers. They should be comfortable with off-road vehicles and wearing the provided safety gear.

What should I wear?
The tour provides helmets, gloves, overalls, and rain gear. We recommend wearing comfortable, layered clothing suitable for outdoor activities, especially as weather can vary.

How long does the tour last?
Including pickup and drop-off, the entire experience takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes. The actual buggy riding time is approximately 2 hours.

Can I book the longer, 3-hour ride?
Yes, there’s an option to upgrade for a more challenging 3-hour adventure, which is ideal if you want more off-road fun.

What terrains will I encounter?
Expect rocky lava trails, muddy pools, snow patches, and water crossings. The terrain is diverse and designed to test your driving skills and provide an authentic Icelandic landscape.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations. If that happens, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s best to bring water and a snack if you wish.

How many people typically join the tour?
The tour can accommodate up to 60 travelers, but many rides are smaller, especially during quieter periods.

In sum, the Buggy ‘Lava Field Adventure’ from Reykjavik delivers a thrilling ride through Iceland’s volcanic terrain with exceptional guides, stunning vistas, and a perfect mix of adventure and scenery. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone keen to add some adrenaline and rugged landscapes to their Iceland trip.