If you’re craving a way to see Iceland that’s a little more adrenaline-fueled and hands-on, then this buggy tour covering the famous Golden Circle might just be your perfect match. For around 10 hours, you’ll explore some of Iceland’s most iconic sights—Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir—not from a bus window, but behind the wheel of a sturdy 4×4 buggy. This experience is hosted just outside Reykjavík, giving you a chance to combine easy access with epic landscapes and high-octane fun.
What sets this tour apart from the usual sightseeing trips is the chance to drive across tectonic plates—literally standing on the boundary where the North American and Eurasian plates meet. Add in the rugged trails, river crossings, and scenic highland routes, and you’ll feel more like an explorer than a tourist. The guides are experienced, ensuring safety while sharing insightful tidbits about the land.
A couple of things to consider: This tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with off-road driving and wearing safety gear. Also, it’s a full-day adventure, so it might not appeal if you’re looking for something more relaxed or are traveling with very young children. But if you want a unique, high-energy way to see Iceland’s highlights, this is a top contender.
This tour will suit adventure seekers, tech-savvy travelers, and anyone eager to see Iceland from a different perspective. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate hands-on experiences and are curious about the geological forces shaping this volcanic island.
Key Points
- Unique Tectonic Experience: Drive across the North American and Eurasian plates at Þingvellir.
- High-Adrenaline Off-Roading: Rugged trails, river crossings, and scenic highlands provide an exhilarating ride.
- Comprehensive Sightseeing: Visit iconic sites—Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir—while adding an adventure twist.
- Small Group Tours: Personalized experience with knowledgeable guides ensuring safety and fun.
- Value for Duration: A full 10-hour tour that combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
- Practical Info: Includes safety gear and helmets; hotel pickup is available but optional; requires a valid driving license.
An Overview of the Experience
This 10-hour adventure begins in Reykjavík, where you’ll meet your guide and get suited up for the ride. The tour promises a blend of scenic sightseeing and thrilling off-road action—a perfect combination for those who want more than just a bus tour. Starting from Lambhagavegur 13, the route takes you over gravel tracks into the Icelandic wilderness, where the landscape becomes increasingly wild and spectacular.
What immediately strikes us is how accessible yet adventurous this trip feels. You won’t need to worry about navigating—your guide handles the route, but you’ll be in the driver’s seat of a robust buggy, experiencing the land from a truly unique vantage point. The tour is designed to take you through some of Iceland’s most iconic and geologically fascinating areas, with a special highlight being the crossing of tectonic plates at Þingvellir.
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The Itinerary: From Reykjavík to the Heart of Iceland
Starting Off: Reykjavík to Hafravatn and Skammidalur
The adventure kicks off with a drive from Reykjavík, heading toward Hafravatn, a scenic lake, and Skammidalur. Here, the gravel tracks immediately hint at what’s ahead—rough, thrilling terrain that tests your driving skills and ignites your sense of adventure. The small group size means we get plenty of personalized attention, and the guides are quick to point out natural features and geological formations along the way.
Crossing into the Highlands at Mosfellsdalur
Next, the route takes us into Mosfellsdalur, a lush valley that leads into the highlands. We pause briefly at Hraðastaðir, a good spot to stretch and take in the fresh air. From here, the landscape shifts to more rugged terrain, with salmon rivers like Leirvogsá adding a touch of serenity amid the adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyÞingvellir: Standing on Tectonic Plates
One of the tour’s biggest highlights is arriving at Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, we get to drive a buggy across the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—a rare chance to physically stand on the fault line that shaped Iceland’s geological history. The guide shares insights into how this area is both a cultural and geological treasure.
We loved the way our guide explained the significance of Þingvellir as the site of Iceland’s first parliament, Alþingi, established in 930 AD. The combination of natural beauty and historical importance makes this stop especially meaningful. As one reviewer noted, “It’s incredible to be on the same ground where laws were made over a thousand years ago.”
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Highland Trails and Scenic Stops
Leaving Þingvellir, we traverse highland trails that wind past glaciers visible from afar—Vestari Hagafellsjökull and Eystri Hagafellsjökull—adding to the sense of wilderness. The route takes us through areas like Mosaskarð, Hagavatn, and Sandvatn, each offering stunning views and photo opportunities.
Gullfoss: The Golden Waterfall
Next, we arrive at Gullfoss, Iceland’s iconic “Golden Waterfall.” The powerful cascade plunges 32 meters into a deep canyon, and the sight of the water racing over the three-tiered staircase is awe-inspiring. If the sun’s right, a rainbow often arches over the falls, making it a picture-perfect moment. We loved how close the buggy could take us to the viewpoints—more intimate than bus tours—allowing us to feel the raw power of nature.
Geysir: The Geyser Area
Continuing south, we reach the Haukadalur geothermal valley, home to Geysir and Strokkur. The original Geysir, from which all geysers get their name, erupts infrequently but with impressive height, while Strokkur erupts every few minutes, shooting water up to 35 meters. The bubbling springs and steaming pools give this area a lively, primal feel. Our guide explained how the geothermal activity here is a result of Iceland’s volcanic activity, adding context to the spectacle.
Scenic Highland Route Back
On the return journey, we travel through Lyngdalsheiði, passing abandoned farms like Gjábakki, which give a glimpse into Iceland’s rural past. The highland route offers sweeping views before reconnecting with the original trail and descending back into Þingvellir to finish the loop.
What We Loved About the Tour
The guides, notably, are very knowledgeable—sharing geological insights and local stories that enrich the experience. We also appreciated the variety of scenery—from lush valleys and volcanic landscapes to historic sites and waterfalls, all within one day. The off-road buggy rides add an exciting, tactile element to the sightseeing, making it feel like more than just a tour but an adventure.
The fact that safety gear, including helmets and overall suits, is provided means we could relax and fully enjoy the ride. Plus, the small group size keeps the experience personal and flexible, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos.
A Few Considerations
While the tour is packed with action and sights, it’s physically demanding—expect to wear water-resistant shoes and dress warmly in layers. Also, the tour is not suitable for children under 12 or pregnant women, due to the off-road nature and safety requirements of driving the buggies.
Plus, the hotel pickup option costs extra (10,000 ISK per person), and since it’s not included in the base price, budget-conscious travelers might prefer to meet at the starting point directly. Keep in mind, the full-day duration means it’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, active experience rather than a quick glimpse of Iceland.
Is It Worth the Price?
Considering the inclusion of safety equipment, a guided experience, and the chance to drive across tectonic plates, the value is quite good for travel enthusiasts seeking adventure. The personal nature of small-group tours enhances the overall experience, making it well worth the cost if you’re looking for a memorable, hands-on way to see Iceland.
This buggy adventure is perfect for adventure lovers who don’t mind getting a little dirty and want to see Iceland’s iconic sights from a more active perspective. It’s ideal for geology buffs, nature enthusiasts, and those craving a thrill. If you prefer relaxed sightseeing or are traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit.
This tour offers an authentic, energetic way to experience Iceland’s natural wonders. The combination of scenic landscapes, geological marvels, and adrenaline-pumping off-road driving makes it stand out in the realm of Golden Circle excursions. The knowledgeable guides, safety measures, and small-group setting ensure you’ll feel both secure and immersed in Iceland’s wild charm.
For those looking to add a touch of adventure to their visit, it’s a memorable way to see the country’s most famous sights while enjoying the thrill of driving through volcanic landscapes and historic sites. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, this tour offers a genuine, high-value experience that will stay with you long after returning home.
FAQ
Is transportation included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are available for an additional 10,000 ISK per person but are not included in the base price. You can also choose to meet at the starting point in Reykjavík.
What should I wear for the tour?
Dress warmly in layers and wear water-resistant shoes. The tour provides safety equipment, including helmets and overall suits, so focus on staying dry and comfortable.
Can I drive the buggy if I don’t have a license?
A valid driving license is required to operate the buggy, so make sure you have yours ready before booking.
Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience is not suitable for children under 12 years old owing to safety considerations with off-road driving.
How long is the tour?
The entire adventure lasts about 10 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and driving.
What makes this tour different from regular Golden Circle trips?
Unlike typical bus tours, this one gives you the chance to drive a buggy across tectonic plates and rugged trails, adding a hands-on, thrilling element to your Iceland experience.
This adventure is a fine choice for travelers craving more than just scenery—it’s about feeling the land beneath your wheels and seeing Iceland’s natural beauty from a truly active perspective.
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