ATV & Whale Watching Full day adventure in Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland is a dream for many, and a tour that combines off-road ATV riding with whale watching offers a true taste of what this country has to offer. This particular experience, offered by Safari Quads, promises a full day of outdoor thrills—covering rugged terrain, panoramic mountain views, and encounters with some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures. As someone who’s researched and read reviews about this tour, I can tell you it’s a well-rounded option for adventure lovers eager to get a little bit of everything.

One thing we particularly like about this tour is the seamless integration of land and sea experiences—maximizing your time and giving you a comprehensive Icelandic adventure in just one day. The fact that pickup is included makes logistics easier, especially if you’re staying in Reykjavik. However, a possible consideration is the weather—since much of the tour is outdoors, you’ll want to be prepared for rain or wind, which are common in Iceland.

This tour would suit travelers looking for a mix of adrenaline and wildlife encounters, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities but also want a chance to relax and take in spectacular views. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate guided experiences with knowledgeable guides, as confirmed by positive reviews.

Key Points

• Combination Tour: Enjoy both ATV land adventure and whale watching in a single day.
• Expert Guides: Learn about whale behavior from guides with real insight.
• Scenic Views: Be prepared for breathtaking vistas from Ulfarsfell mountain.
• Flexible Experience: No experience needed for ATV riding; safety instructions provided.
• Value for Money: Combines two popular activities at a competitive price.
• Good for All Ages: Min age as a passenger is 6, making it family-friendly.

The Full Experience Breakdown

Starting Point: Easy Access from Reykjavik

The tour begins with a pick-up at 9 AM from your Reykjavik accommodation—saving you the hassle of coordinating transport. Traveling just 15 minutes to the quad biking base camp means you’ll quickly transition from city center to Icelandic wilderness. The short transfer is appreciated because it maximizes your adventure time.

Part 1: Quad Biking Beyond Reykjavik

Once at the base camp, you’ll receive gear, safety instructions, and a quick briefing. The guides are clearly experienced and focus on making sure everyone feels comfortable, regardless of riding experience—no prior skills are necessary. We loved the way the guides, who are both friendly and knowledgeable, took time to explain the controls and off-road riding techniques.

The terrain varies between dirt tracks, rugged paths, and open fields, making the ride both exciting and scenic. The highlight is reaching the summit of Ulfarsfell mountain, where the views are stunning—reaching across the city, the surrounding mountains, and the ocean. From there, you’ll appreciate how accessible Iceland’s landscapes are, even from a city base.

Reviewers like Hugh_V highlighted the value of the mountain stop, describing it as “the best” part of the trip, with spectacular panoramic views that make the ride worth every bump.

Part 2: Lunch Break in Reykjavik Harbor

After working up an appetite, it’s time for a lunch break at Reykjavik’s old harbor. While the tour doesn’t include the meal, there’s a good selection of cafés and restaurants where you can refuel and soak in the harbor atmosphere. From the deck of the cafés, you can imagine the marine life swimming below—an ideal mental prep for your upcoming sea adventure.

Part 3: Whale Watching in Faxafloi Bay

The second half of the tour takes you onto a 3-hour whale watching cruise. The boat departs from the harbor, giving you a chance to see the bay from a different perspective. The tour includes warm overalls and blankets—a thoughtful touch considering Iceland’s often brisk weather—and a heated indoor saloon for comfort.

While whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, the guides are well-versed in whale behavior and will share insights about the marine ecosystem. The chance to spot minke whales and other marine wildlife makes this part of the tour especially exciting, even if you’re just lucky enough to get glimpses of their splash or spouts.

A reviewer, Hugh_V, praised the guides’ expertise, noting they provided “complete instruction on the bikes,” and enjoyed the “fantastic view” from the mountain. You can expect similar professionalism during the whale cruise, with knowledgeable guides sharing interesting facts about marine life.

What’s Included & What to Bring

The tour’s cost of $379 per person is competitive, considering it bundles two major activities. Included are all necessary gear for both ATVing and whale watching—helmets, gloves, overalls, ski masks, rain gear, plus blankets for warmth on the boat. Pickup and drop-off are also covered, removing logistical stress.

What’s not included? Shoes, so wear sturdy, comfortable footwear. The tour operates with a minimum of two adults for the shared rider option, but single riders are also welcome—making the experience flexible for solo travelers or couples.

Group Size & Practical Considerations

The maximum group size is 80, but tour groups tend to be smaller in practice, which helps with safety and personalized guidance. The timing is convenient—starting at 9:30 AM and lasting about 8 hours, it’s a full day that balances adventure with relaxation.

Authentic Experiences & Tips from Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides whose insights enhance the tour experience. Hugh_V described the guides as “great,” emphasizing their professionalism and enthusiasm. They make the difference between a good tour and a memorable one, especially when explaining whale behavior or guiding you safely through the off-road terrain.

The views from Ulfarsfell are frequently highlighted as a high point—worth the trip even if you’re not a natural thrill-seeker. On top of that, the combination of land and sea activities offers a full-picture appreciation of Icelandic nature, which many travelers find particularly satisfying.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day adventure is ideal for active travelers who want a multi-sensory experience—combining the thrill of ATV riding with the awe of marine wildlife watching. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate guided expertise and want to maximize their day with two iconic Icelandic activities. If you’re traveling with family, the minimum age of 6 makes it accessible for children, and the safety gear and instruction ensure a secure environment.

While weather can be unpredictable, the provided gear and indoor facilities on the boat help keep everyone comfortable. The price reflects a valuable combo—offering two distinct experiences in one day, which could be a more cost-effective and time-efficient choice than booking separately.

In summary, if you’re after adventure, wildlife encounters, and stunning vistas, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s a solid choice for travelers eager to experience Iceland’s rugged beauty and abundant marine life without multiple bookings or complicated logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior experience needed for ATV riding?
No, no experience is necessary. The guides provide full safety instructions and gear, making the ride accessible to all skill levels.

What should I wear for the trip?
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for the ATV part. For whale watching, warm overalls and blankets are provided, but dressing in layers and waterproof clothing is recommended since weather can be unpredictable.

How long is each part of the tour?
The ATV adventure lasts about 1 hour, and the whale watching cruise is approximately 3 hours. The entire day, including transfers and breaks, is around 8 hours.

Are meals included?
No, but there are plenty of cafés and restaurants at Reykjavik’s harbor where you can buy lunch during the break.

What’s the group size?
Tour groups can have up to 80 travelers, but actual group sizes tend to be smaller for a more personalized experience.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 6 and above can join as passengers. Drivers need a valid driver’s license, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

This combined ATV and whale watching tour offers a well-balanced, fun-filled day for those looking to explore Iceland’s landscapes and seascapes in a single trip. With knowledgeable guides, excellent safety measures, and a chance to see iconic wildlife, it’s an experience that promises memorable moments—whatever the weather.