Discover Iceland from a New Perspective: ATV & Helicopter Adventure from Reykjavik
Imagine exploring the rugged Icelandic wilderness on a quad bike before soaring above the landscape in a helicopter. This two-in-one tour, priced at $569 per person, lasts around five hours and offers a fantastic way to see more of Iceland’s stunning scenery without spending your entire trip in transit. Starting from Reykjavik, you’ll first enjoy an off-road ATV ride through the countryside, climbing up to nearby mountains for sweeping panoramic views, then take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of Reykjavik and the surrounding mountain ranges.
What we love most about this experience are the accessibility and variety—the ATV ride is suitable for all levels, and helmets, clothing, and safety gear are all provided, making it a straightforward, worry-free adventure. Plus, the mountain landing during the helicopter ride is a real highlight—standing on a mountain top with a view of Iceland’s rugged terrain feels almost surreal.
One possible consideration is the weather—Iceland’s climate can be unpredictable, and the helicopter ride may be canceled if conditions are poor. However, the tour’s flexible cancellation policy offers a full refund if that happens. The tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with outdoor activities and those eager for a unique, memorable perspective beyond the typical bus tour. It’s perfect if you want a combination of adventure and breathtaking scenery in a relatively short time.
Key Points
- Versatile Experience: Combines off-road ATV riding with an aerial helicopter tour for maximum scenery in a short period.
- Suitable for All Levels: No prior experience needed for ATV riding; helmets and safety gear are provided.
- Unbeatable Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of Reykjavik, mountain ranges, and Iceland’s wilderness.
- Time-Effective: Ideal for travelers who want a thrilling activity without dedicating an entire day.
- Professional Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides ensure safety and add local insights.
- Weather Considerations: Weather can affect the helicopter component, but flexible policies are in place.
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The Full Experience: A Deep Dive
Starting Point and Logistics
The tour kicks off with a pickup from your Reykjavik hotel around 9:00 a.m., setting the tone for a hassle-free day. The short drive to the ATV base camp allows everyone to settle in before the adventure begins. We appreciated how well-organized the process was — helmets, gloves, rain gear, and overalls are all provided, which means we didn’t need to worry about packing or renting gear separately. The professional guides provide safety instructions and driving tips, ensuring everyone, regardless of experience, feels confident.
ATV Adventure: Off-Road Excitement Near Reykjavik
The ATV ride lasts about an hour, taking you through Iceland’s countryside and up into the mountains. From reviews, many travelers note how safe and enjoyable the ride is, even for beginners. One reviewer shared, “no experience necessary,” which makes this accessible to families, couples, or solo travelers wanting some active fun.
The guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise, making sure everyone feels comfortable. “Great adventures off road and simply stunning scenery,” one visitor said. The trails are a mix of dirt tracks, mountain paths, and possibly muddy sections, adding to the thrill. Expect to see views of Reykjavik’s skyline, rolling hills, and possibly snow-capped mountains depending on the season.
Helicopter Ride: Flying High Over Iceland’s Landscape
After the ATV portion, you’ll be transferred to Norðurflug Tours for the helicopter segment. This part of the tour offers spectacular aerial views of Reykjavik, mountain ranges, and volcanic landscapes. The highlight is a mountain landing where you’ll step out of the helicopter and get 20 minutes to stand amidst these rugged heights, taking in the view that few visitors ever experience.
Multiple reviews praise this helicopter experience as breathtaking. One traveler called it “the best view in Iceland,” and many mention how the bird’s-eye perspective reveals the true scale and beauty of the landscape, far surpassing what’s visible from the ground.
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Overall Value and Experience
At $569, this tour provides an engaging mix of adventure and sightseeing in about five hours, making it a great value for the memorable experiences packed into such a short time. The combination allows you to cover ground and sky perspectives without the need for multiple bookings or long days.
Authenticity and Personal Touches
Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, with some mentioning how they went above and beyond to make sure everyone felt safe and had a good time. One guest noted, “I have now done two sessions with them and am going back again before my flight,” demonstrating how much visitors enjoy the experience.
Weather and Flexibility
Weather can be a wild card in Iceland, especially for the helicopter segment. Fortunately, the tour’s policy allows for full refunds or rescheduling if weather cancels the helicopter ride, providing peace of mind. Travelers like hongxian_l appreciated this flexibility and detailed explanations about weather-related cancellations.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This adventure suits active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits and want a mix of adrenaline and awe-inspiring scenery. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, efficient way to see Iceland’s landscapes from multiple angles. Families with children as young as six, couples, or small groups looking for a special day out will find this experience rewarding.
Final Reflection: Is This Tour Right for You?
For those seeking a thrilling, multi-sensory experience of Iceland’s terrain and skies, this ATV & helicopter combo is hard to beat. It offers stunning vistas, professional guidance, and an element of adventure that many bus tours simply cannot match. The mountain landing during the helicopter ride is a real showstopper, turning a scenic flight into a tangible, memorable moment.
On the downside, the weather can impact the helicopter component, but the tour’s flexible policies help offset that risk. If you’re not comfortable with outdoor activities or dislike unpredictable weather, this might not be your best fit.
This tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting to maximize their Iceland experience in a fun, active way. Whether you’re an adventure junkie or simply love breathtaking views, you’ll come away with stories to tell and memories to cherish.
FAQ
Is the ATV ride suitable for beginners?
Yes, no experience is necessary. Guides provide safety instructions, and the ride is designed to be accessible for all skill levels.
What gear is provided?
Helmets, gloves, overalls, ski masks, and rain gear are included to keep you warm and dry during the ATV portion.
Can I participate if I’m over 265 lbs?
The maximum weight per passenger is 265 lbs, so if you’re over this, it might not be suitable.
What if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?
If weather cancels the helicopter ride, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The ATV part can usually proceed unless conditions are unsafe.
What is the meeting time?
Tour starts at 9:30 a.m., with pickup at 9:00 a.m. from your Reykjavik hotel.
Can children join the tour?
Yes, the minimum age for passengers is 6 years old.
Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required to operate the ATV.
How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring plenty of personalized attention.
Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to eat afterward.
Final Thoughts
This ATV and helicopter tour from Reykjavik offers a blend of active exploration and breathtaking aerial views that are hard to beat. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers eager to experience Iceland in a way that combines speed, scenery, and altitude. The professional guides, flexible cancellation policy, and stunning landscapes make it a valuable addition to any Iceland itinerary.
If you’re looking for a short but exhilarating adventure that leaves you with incredible photos and stories, this tour is well worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who want a more personal, off-the-beaten-path experience beyond the usual bus excursions. Because it balances excitement with safety and comfort, you’ll come away with a truly memorable day in the Land of Fire and Ice.
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