ATV & Rafting Full day adventure from Reykjavik

An Adventure That Combines Two Iconic Icelandic Experiences

This full-day tour from Reykjavik offers a chance to see Iceland from two very different perspectives — the rugged mountain trails via ATV and the thrilling white-water rapids of Hvítá river. It’s designed for those who crave excitement, scenic beauty, and a touch of Icelandic authenticity in one package. The tour is offered by Safari Quads, and with a 5-star rating based on just four reviews, it seems to hit the mark quite well.

What I really love about this experience is the combination of adrenaline-filled activities sprinkled with some well-deserved relaxation afterward. First, the ATV adventure takes you over lava fields and up Hafrafell Mountain, where the views of Reykjavik and the surrounding mountain ranges are simply spectacular. Then, the white-water rafting on Hvítá river plunges you into some of Iceland’s most breathtaking canyon scenery, topped off with access to a sauna — yes, a genuine Icelandic sauna after a day of splashing and bouncing on rapids.

The only thing to keep in mind? The itinerary involves two separate tour companies for the ATV and rafting portions, which some travelers found a bit confusing during booking. You won’t be transferred directly from one activity to the other, so understanding this beforehand helps set expectations. Still, if you’re up for a full day of adventure, the level of guidance and the stunning scenery make it worthwhile.

Key points / Takeaways

• Diverse landscapes: Experience Iceland’s wilderness from mountain peaks to canyon rapids.
• All-inclusive gear: Wetsuits, helmets, and safety gear for rafting, plus ATV overalls and rain gear — no hidden costs.
• Expert guides: Guides like Mariana get high praise for safety and friendliness, making the day more enjoyable.
• Post-activity relaxation: The sauna, hot tubs, and showers provide a perfect way to unwind after the water-based adventure.
• Flexible options: Choose between single or shared ATV rides, with most travelers booking 19 days in advance.
• Value for money: At $329, the tour offers a substantial day of adventure, scenery, and comfort (including hotel pickup).

Starting with the ATV Adventure Near Reykjavik

Your day begins with a hotel pickup around 9:00 am, which helps eliminate the stress of transportation logistics. Within minutes, you’re at the ATV base camp where safety instructions are clear and thorough. No previous experience is necessary — I appreciated how the guides ensure everyone feels comfortable before heading out.

The one-hour ATV ride is the highlight for many. You’ll be racing over lava fields, rocky tracks, and lakes, with the trail depending on weather and trail conditions. The thrill of hitting the throttle and feeling the power of the ATV is undeniable, but what sets this apart are the stunning views. Climbing Hafrafell Mountain offers panoramic scenes of Reykjavik, mythical mountain ranges, and the surrounding wilderness — a perfect moment for photos and reflection.

As one reviewer, Molly_Y, put it, “Mariana was a fantastic guide,” and the excitement of the ride was only topped by the spectacular vistas. The ride itself is accessible to all, with safety gear provided and a guide who keeps everyone comfortable and safe.

Navigating the Hvítá River Rapids: White-Water Thrills and Scenic Beauty

After your ATV adventure, you’ll hop into a vehicle for a scenic drive to the Hvítá river. The rafting portion is rated as easy, making it suitable for most travelers looking for a fun, water-based adrenaline rush.

On the river, you’ll navigate through the Grand canyon of Hvítá, with grand rock formations and portholes carved by centuries of rushing water. This part of the tour is for those who enjoy a bit of excitement without feeling overwhelmed. The guides provide all necessary equipment — wetsuits, helmets, neoprene shoes, and paddles — and their instructions are clear and friendly.

One of the standout moments, as highlighted in reviews, is the opportunity to jump from a cliff into the river — a daring move that many found exhilarating. After the rapids, the tour concludes with access to a sauna, hot tubs, and showers, which are perfect for relaxing muscles sore from bouncing over rapids.

The guides, like Mariana, are praised for their safety knowledge and ability to make everyone feel at ease. The combination of the scenic canyon, powerful rapids, and relaxing post-activity amenities makes this part of the day memorable.

Practical Details and Logistics

This tour costs $329 per person, which covers both activities, all necessary gear, hotel pickup, and access to sauna facilities afterward. While it might seem like a significant outlay, it’s quite reasonable considering the full-day scope, outdoor gear, and included amenities.

The entire experience lasts roughly 8 hours, starting with pickup at 9:00 am and ending with your return to Reykjavik in the late afternoon or early evening. Group sizes are capped at 48, ensuring plenty of personal attention from guides.

Particularly helpful is the hotel pickup, which removes the hassle of navigating Iceland’s sometimes tricky roads. You’ll want to wear warm undergarments, wool socks, a fleece or wool sweater, and bring a bathing suit and towel for the sauna. Remember, cotton clothing is discouraged because it won’t keep you warm when wet.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers, especially those who want a full day packed with adrenaline and scenic beauty. It’s also perfect for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities but prefer a guided experience rather than self-driving or navigating unfamiliar terrain.

It’s suitable for most age groups from 11 years and up, provided you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates a combination of thrill and relaxation, this tour hits that sweet spot.

Keep in mind that two separate tour companies handle the ATV and rafting, so clear expectations about the schedule and transfers are helpful. If you’re looking for a seamless, continuous experience, this could be a minor inconvenience, but many feel the quality of the guides and scenery more than compensates.

Value for Money

While $329 might seem steep at first glance, consider what’s included: a full day of adventure, professional guides, all gear, hotel pickup, and access to sauna facilities. The reviews suggest that guides like Mariana make the experience special, and the scenery—especially from Hafrafell Mountain and within Brúarhlöð canyon—is worth every penny.

The experience offers a rare combination of thrill-seeking, breathtaking views, and relaxing comfort, making it a worthwhile addition to your Iceland trip if you’re craving excitement and authentic landscapes.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who dreams of racing over lava fields and then plunging into icy rapids, this tour is tailored for you. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their day with adrenaline, stunning scenery, and relaxation afterward. The guides, especially Mariana, are praised for their safety and friendliness, making everyone feel comfortable regardless of experience level.

The only consideration is the separate logistics for the two activities; if you prefer a more seamless experience, plan your expectations accordingly. But overall, this tour packs a punch — a true Icelandic adventure that will be on your mind long after you leave.

FAQ

How early do I need to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 19 days in advance, as it’s quite popular, especially in peak seasons.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup is scheduled for 9:00 am, with the tour beginning shortly after and lasting about 8 hours.

Is prior experience necessary for ATV riding?
No, this tour is suitable for beginners. Guides provide comprehensive safety and driving instructions.

What should I wear for the rafting?
Warm undergarments like fleece or wool, thermal underwear, and a bathing suit for underneath the wetsuit. Bring a towel and change of clothes.

Are the activities suitable for kids?
Yes, with a minimum age of 11 years and a minimum of 2 adults per booking for the shared rider option.

What’s included in the price?
All gear for ATV and rafting, hotel pickup and drop-off, guiding services, and access to sauna, showers, and hot tubs.

Can I choose a single rider for the ATV?
Yes, there’s an option for a single rider, but check availability as most bookings are for shared rides.

What is the difficulty level of the rafting?
Rated as easy, suitable for most participants looking for fun rather than extreme white-water.

Is food included?
No, but food can be purchased on-site. The tour does include a grilled lamb meal or drinks at the restaurant post-rafting.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

In the end, this adventure from Reykjavik offers a well-rounded taste of Icelandic nature — perfect if you’re after a lively, scenic, and memorable day on your trip.