ATV & Helicopter Adventure Tour from Reykjavik

Review of the ATV & Helicopter Adventure Tour from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland often means long bus rides and crowded sightseeing spots, but this ATV & helicopter adventure offers a fresh, adrenaline-fueled way to see the land of fire and ice. It combines the thrill of off-road riding through Icelandic wilderness with the awe-inspiring views from above, making it perfect for travelers who crave activity and authentic scenery without sacrificing time.

What we really love about this tour is how it delivers diverse perspectives — you get to feel the rugged terrain beneath your wheels and then soar over the landscape in a helicopter. It’s a compact experience that maximizes your time in Reykjavik, giving you a full day of fun, adventure, and incredible sights.

One thing to consider is the weather. Since Iceland’s climate can be unpredictable, the helicopter ride might be canceled if conditions aren’t ideal — but the tour provider offers full refunds or rescheduling options, which adds peace of mind.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy active adventures, want a taste of Iceland’s stunning landscapes, and are comfortable with some physical activity (no experience necessary for the ATV). It’s popular among couples, groups, and solo travelers alike looking for a memorable, diverse experience packed into just five hours.

• Diverse Perspectives: Combines ground exploration with an aerial view for a complete experience.
• Suitable for All Levels: ATV riding is accessible, with clear safety instructions, making it perfect for beginners.
• Time-Efficient: Perfect for travelers wanting a big bang for their limited time in Reykjavik.
• Professional Guides & Equipment: Guides are highly praised for their friendliness and expertise, and all safety gear is provided.
• Unforgettable Views: Expect sweeping panoramas of Reykjavik, mountains, and volcanic landscapes.
• Weather Contingency: Helicopter rides may be canceled if weather conditions aren’t ideal, but full refunds or rescheduling are available.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This ATV & helicopter tour is designed to give you a taste of Iceland’s wild beauty without leaving Reykjavik. It kicks off early in the morning with a hotel pickup around 9:00 am, making it a seamless start to your day. The tour lasts roughly five hours, balancing adventure on the ground with soaring in the sky, and is operated by Safari Quads, a company with a stellar reputation and plenty of positive reviews.

The ATV Adventure: Off-Road Excitement Near Reykjavik

From your hotel, you’ll be whisked away to a nearby quad biking base camp — just minutes from the city but feeling worlds away. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be fitted with helmets, gloves, overalls, ski masks, and rain gear, ensuring you’re cozy and safe regardless of the weather. The guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, with one reviewer noting that they are “so friendly, professional, and a delight to meet.”

No prior experience is needed, which is great news for beginners or those who haven’t ridden an ATV before. The guides give thorough safety briefings and instructions, making sure everyone feels comfortable before hitting the trails. The ride itself takes you across Iceland’s terrain, heading toward the mountains with stunning views as your backdrop.

One visitor described it as an “amazing buzz,” praising the off-road trails that include mud, water, and rugged paths. For some, the highlight was the mix of speed and scenery—more water, more mud, and more fun — with one reviewer saying, “it leaves you wanting more.” The guides seem to excel at balancing safety with fun, with many noting how they felt well looked after during the ride.

The Helicopter Ride: Flying Over Reykjavik and Beyond

After conquering the ground, you’ll transfer to Norðurflug Tours for the aerial portion of the adventure. The helicopter ride offers unmatched views of Reykjavik, the mountain ranges, and volcanic landscapes that are simply impossible to appreciate from the ground alone. One reviewer called it a “breathtaking experience” and described the sensation of flying over the landscape as “unbelievable.”

A standout feature is the 20-minute stop where the helicopter lands on a mountain for a photo-worthy moment and a chance to marvel at the surroundings. This is a rare opportunity to step out and truly connect with the scenery from an elevated vantage point.

While weather can always play spoilsport in Iceland, most reviews mention that guides do a great job communicating about weather conditions. One guest shared that the helicopter was canceled due to weather but appreciated the staff’s clear instructions and full refund. This shows the company’s commitment to safety and transparency.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour includes hotel pickup at 9:00 am, a one-hour ATV adventure, all necessary safety gear, and the helicopter flight. The price of $569 per person might seem steep, but considering the combined experiences and the professional guidance, it’s a solid value for those looking for a full-day adventure.

Note that food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning a meal afterward is recommended. Also, the maximum weight per passenger is 265 lbs, and a valid driver’s license is required to operate the ATV, so plan accordingly.

Group Size and Practicalities

The tour caps at 15 travelers, which is a nice balance — enough to keep it social but not crowded. Most travelers are able to participate, with the minimum age for passengers being 6 years old, making it family-friendly if kids are comfortable with outdoor activities.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Multiple reviewers mention how knowledgeable guides made all the difference, with one saying the instructor was “professional and very knowledgeable” and ensuring a “carefree ATV adventure.” The consistent praise for guides’ friendliness and professionalism adds comfort, especially for those new to ATV riding.

One reviewer described the team as “so friendly, professional and a delight to meet,” emphasizing how important good guides are for safety and enjoyment. The reviews also highlight the stunning scenery — from sunrise views over snowy mountains to sweeping city panoramas from the helicopter, the visuals are unforgettable.

Interestingly, a few reviews touched on weather challenges. One noted that the helicopter ride was canceled due to poor weather, but appreciated the staff’s honesty and the full refund or rescheduling options, which speaks to the overall reliability and transparency of the provider.

Price & Value

At $569, this tour isn’t cheap, but it packs in two different types of exploration — land and air — into a manageable timeframe. Many reviewers feel the experience is worth the cost, citing the professional guides, stunning scenery, and unique perspective as major value points. It’s a way to tick off multiple must-do Icelandic experiences in one go, making it ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This adventure suits active travelers, adventure seekers, and anyone eager to escape the typical tourist trail. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with physical activity and want a personalized, hands-on experience. Families with kids over six will find it accessible, and the combination of ground and aerial views offers a comprehensive glimpse of Iceland’s rugged beauty.

Final Thoughts

This ATV & helicopter tour from Reykjavik offers a well-rounded, exciting way to see Iceland’s landscapes. The combination of off-road riding and flying above volcanic mountains, glaciers, and cityscapes makes for a truly memorable day. The professional guides, safety gear, and flexible cancellation policy add peace of mind, making it a dependable choice for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

While weather can be unpredictable, the company’s clear communication and refund options mean you won’t be left high and dry. The experience is best for those who want more than just sightseeing — it’s about feeling connected to the land, whether through the power of your quad or the perspective from the sky. If you value authentic, active, and visually stunning adventures, this tour is a fantastic pick.

FAQ

Is there an age limit for participating?
Yes, children as young as 6 years old can participate, provided they are comfortable with outdoor activities.

Do I need prior experience to ride the ATV?
No. The guides provide full safety instructions, and the ride is suitable for beginners.

What should I wear?
The tour provides helmets, gloves, overalls, and rain gear, but dressing in layers and waterproof clothing is recommended to stay comfortable.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The helicopter ride may be canceled due to poor weather, but the tour operator offers full refunds or rescheduling. ATV riding can often proceed in rain, but safety is always prioritized.

How long is the helicopter flight?
The helicopter ride includes a scenic aerial tour over Reykjavik and surrounding mountains, with a 20-minute landing on a mountain for photos and appreciation.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup is offered at 9:00 am, making logistics straightforward. Drop-off at the hotel is not included.

This combined adventure provides an exciting, authentic way to experience Iceland’s rugged beauty — perfect for those eager to see more in less time while getting their adrenaline fix.