Buggy & Golden Circle adventure from Reykjavik

Review of the Buggy & Golden Circle Adventure from Reykjavik

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and craving a mix of adrenaline and iconic sights, this combined buggy and Golden Circle tour promises to deliver. The tour, operated by Safari Quads, offers an exciting 10-hour day that kicks off with a fun buggy ride up Hafrafell Mountain—the views from the summit are nothing short of spectacular—and then continues with a classic Icelandic sightseeing route covering Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Geysir.

What I particularly like about this experience? First, the self-driven buggy ride gives you a hands-on adventure that’s perfect for thrill-seekers or those who simply want a different perspective of Iceland’s rugged terrain. Second, the smooth, hassle-free logistics—including hotel pick-up, gear, and round-trip transport—mean you can focus on the fun rather than the planning.

One potential consideration? The cost of $279 per person might seem steep for some travelers, especially since it doesn’t include shoes or food. But when you factor in the quality of guides, the variety of experiences, and the unbeatable views, many find it quite a good deal. Plus, the reviews highlight how well-organized and friendly the team is, making the day feel safe and enjoyable even for first-timers.

Key points / Takeaways

• Self-driven buggy rides up Hafrafell Mountain provide a unique mix of adventure and breathtaking vistas.
• Comfortable round-trip transport and hotel pickup make logistics simple and stress-free.
• The Golden Circle route is packed with natural wonders, from waterfalls to geysers, and is ideal for those with limited time.
• The gear provided (helmet, gloves, overalls, rain gear) ensures safety and comfort in Iceland’s unpredictable weather.
• The tour guides—such as Olaf, Thomas, and Sven—are praised for their friendliness and professionalism.
• Booking early is recommended, as the tour is popular and booked on average 213 days in advance.

An exhilarating start: the buggy adventure

Your day begins with a prompt pickup around 9:00 am that sets a friendly tone. You’ll be briefed and fitted with gear before hopping into your own buggy, which is a rare treat — instead of a guided ride, you get to drive yourself. The route is designed to take you up Hafrafell Mountain, where the panoramic views stretch over Reykjavik, Hafravatn Lake, and the surrounding volcanic landscapes.

One reviewer, Olaf, described the experience as “unforgettable,” highlighting how the guides make safety a priority while ensuring fun. The off-road sections are described as so much fun, with the team doing a good job of making everyone feel secure—even if you’re new to driving a quad. I appreciate the detail that the gear—helmet, gloves, rain gear—is included, so you’re prepared for Iceland’s capricious weather.

Expect a 1-hour buggy adventure that energizes you for the rest of the day and offers unbeatable photo opportunities. The views from Hafrafell are especially worthwhile, giving you a sense of Iceland’s volcanic landscape in a way that photos simply can’t do justice to.

Exploring the Golden Circle

After the thrill of the buggy ride, you’ll settle into a comfortable coach for the 6-7 hour tour of the Golden Circle—the classic Icelandic sightseeing route. This part of the day is about soaking in natural beauty and learning about the land’s geological and cultural significance.

The stops include Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can see the rift valley between North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Here, you’ll likely appreciate the clear evidence of Iceland’s volcanic activity and the historic site of Iceland’s ancient parliament.

Next, you’ll visit Gullfoss Waterfall, a powerful two-tiered cascade that creates a thunderous roar and a frequent rainbow display on sunny days. Many reviews praise the stunning views and drama of this natural wonder, with one stating, “You’ll be missing out if you don’t see it.”

The Geysir geothermal area is another highlight, with the iconic Strokkur geyser erupting roughly every 8-10 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 20 meters in the air. It’s a vivid reminder of Iceland’s geothermal activity that’s both fascinating and photogenic.

Why this experience stands out

The combination of adventure and sightseeing makes this tour appealing to those who want a full, immersive day. Unlike standard bus tours, the self-driven buggy ride adds an element of excitement, and guides like Olaf, Thomas, and Sven are praised for their friendliness and safety consciousness. One reviewer emphasizes, “The route was stunning and so much fun off-roading in 4×4 mode,” capturing how much more engaging this experience is compared to simply riding along.

The gear and logistics are well-organized, with pickups at your hotel and all necessary equipment provided, making the day smooth and enjoyable. The small group size (max 50 travelers) helps foster a relaxed atmosphere where questions and interactions are encouraged.

Who will enjoy this tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re a adventure lover looking for a twist on traditional sightseeing. The self-driven buggy makes it suitable for those comfortable with or eager to try driving in a controlled environment. It’s also perfect for travelers who want to maximize their short time in Iceland with a day packed with iconic sights and a dash of adrenaline.

However, it’s worth noting that you need a valid driver’s license to operate the buggy and that shoes aren’t included, so plan to bring suitable footwear. The tour is family-friendly starting from age 6, but younger children will need to ride as passengers.

Price and value analysis

At $279 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option available for a full day of sightseeing, but the value lies in the quality of experience, the scenic diversity, and the exhilaration of driving your own buggy. For many travelers, the memories—and the photos—are worth the price. The inclusion of gear, transportation, and guides makes it a convenient package, especially if you’re short on time or want a stress-free day.

The reviews suggest you get more than just a sightseeing bus ride—you get a chance to drive in Iceland’s wild terrain and enjoy stunning views that you won’t find on most standard tours.

Practical details and tips

• Tours start at 9:30 am with pickup at 09:00 am; arriving on time helps keep the schedule smooth.
• It’s best to book well in advance—on average, travelers book 213 days ahead—so plan early if you’re set on this experience.
• Remember to bring suitable shoes since they aren’t included.
• The minimum age for passengers is 6 years, making it family-friendly.
• A valid driver’s license is necessary if you want to drive the buggy.
• The tour operates with a maximum of 50 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal.

Cancellation and flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, giving you peace of mind if your plans change. Remember, cancellations less than 24 hours in advance aren’t refundable, so plan accordingly.

Final thoughts

This combined buggy and Golden Circle tour strikes a fine balance between adventure and iconic sightseeing. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a fun, active day that offers stunning views and the chance to drive through Iceland’s incredible landscapes. The guides’ friendliness, the well-organized logistics, and the diverse stops make it a compelling choice for travelers craving a bit of everything.

If you’re comfortable with driving, love photo-worthy scenery, and want an experience that’s more engaging than a typical bus tour, this is worth considering. It’s an excellent way to see many of Iceland’s highlights while adding a memorable adrenaline rush to your trip.

FAQ

Do I need a driver’s license to participate?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required to drive the buggy.

Are shoes included in the tour?
No, shoes aren’t included, so you should bring appropriate footwear for the day.

What’s the minimum age for passengers?
Passengers must be at least 6 years old.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, with the option for young children to ride as passengers.

What is the duration of the Golden Circle part of the tour?
The coach tour lasts approximately 6-7 hours.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, gear for the buggy ride, 1-hour buggy adventure, and the Golden Circle sightseeing stops.

Is lunch provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan a stop for lunch during free time.

How far in advance should I book?
Since the tour is popular and booked far in advance (average of 213 days), it’s best to reserve early.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

This adventure from Reykjavik offers a wonderful mix of thrill and natural beauty, making it a memorable part of any Iceland itinerary. Whether you’re seeking a bit of adrenaline or simply want to see some of the country’s most iconic sights in comfort, this tour delivers a lot of value with a dash of excitement.