Buggy & Golden Circle Full day adventure from Reykjavik

Imagine zipping across rugged Icelandic terrain in a modern buggy, feeling the wind and adrenaline, all while exploring the iconic sites of the Golden Circle. This tour, priced at $272 per person and lasting around 10 hours, offers a mix of adventure and sightseeing that appeals to travelers craving a more hands-on experience of Iceland’s natural wonders. The ride is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic vistas, and a bit of off-road fun.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines the thrill of off-road buggy driving with visits to well-known spots like Gullfoss Waterfall and the Geysir springs. Plus, the panoramic views from Hafrefell give a fresh perspective on Reykjavik’s landscape. The focus on safety briefing and guidance means even beginners can join with confidence, and the professional guides bring a friendly, personal touch.

One potential drawback is that the bus portion of the trip can feel less engaging, especially if the guide isn’t as personable. Several reviews mention that the bus guide’s tone can be a bit rude or unapproachable, which might dampen the overall mood. Also, the long hours on the bus—sometimes leaving late at certain stops—may mean less daylight for seeing the waterfalls or geysers.

This experience suits adventurous travelers who want to combine self-driven exploration with sightseeing. If you’re comfortable with a driver’s license, enjoy outdoor activities, and don’t mind a full day with some bus time, this tour offers a memorable way to see Iceland’s highlights with a dash of excitement.

Key Points

• Unique off-road experience in a modern buggy, offering both adventure and scenic views.
• Visit top Icelandic sites like Gullfoss, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park.
• Includes a safety briefing and brief instructions, suitable for beginners.
• Guided tours provide insight, though experiences may vary depending on guide approach.
• Long day with bus and activity portions, so prepare for a full schedule.
• Great for active, adventurous travelers seeking a mix of thrill and sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Buggy & Golden Circle Tour

If you’re heading to Reykjavik and want to experience Iceland’s iconic sights with a bit of a twist, this full-day adventure stands out. It combines off-road buggy driving with visits to the famous Golden Circle, giving you a chance to see some of the country’s most postcard-worthy landscapes in a way that’s both exhilarating and informative.

What’s Included and How It Works

The tour starts with your pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation—a convenience that saves you from navigating public transport early in the morning. After being taken to the base camp, you’ll receive a safety briefing and instructions on operating the two-seater buggies. This step is crucial, especially if you’re new to driving off-road vehicles, but the guides do a good job of keeping it simple for all levels.

Once briefed, you’ll hop into your versatile buggy—either sharing with a partner or opting for a single rider—and head out on the trails. The ride is designed to give you a mix of off-road trails and panoramic mountain views, culminating in a photo stop at Hafrefell that offers sweeping vistas of Reykjavik.

The Off-Road Buggy Experience

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the adventure in the buggy. We loved the ability to tear through rugged terrain, feeling the raw power of the vehicle as we maneuvered through Iceland’s rocky paths. The guide provides interesting snippets about the area while keeping safety a priority.

One reviewer mentioned, “The buggys were fantastic. Our guide was lovely and polite.” This reflects the generally positive attitude from guides that adds to the fun, though some note that more frequent photo stops would be appreciated for capturing the views. The off-road trails not only add excitement but also allow you to explore areas inaccessible to regular vehicles, making the experience feel more authentic and adventurous.

Visiting the Golden Circle Highlights

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll be driven to the Golden Circle’s most famous sites: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir hot springs, and Gullfoss Waterfall. The full-day itinerary includes a guided tour at each stop, providing context about Iceland’s geological wonders and history.

Þingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart—a fascinating geographical feature. You’ll walk through rift valleys and witness the site of Iceland’s historic assembly.

Next, the Geysir geothermal area showcases spouting hot springs, including the famous Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes. The raw power of these springs is awe-inspiring and provides excellent photo opportunities.

Finally, Gullfoss, the “Golden Waterfall,” is a double-tiered cascade that plunges into a deep canyon. You can stand close enough to feel the mist and appreciate the sheer force of the water. Several reviews mention the crowds and timing, suggesting that leaving earlier or later might help avoid the busiest periods.

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The Experience and Its Challenges

While most travelers find the buggy ride the highlight, some note that the bus guide on the Golden Circle portion can impact the overall experience. One reviewer described the guide as “rude, unfriendly, and unapproachable,” which can make hours on the bus less enjoyable. The use of a loud microphone for extended periods also caused discomfort, especially when trying to relax or focus on the scenery.

Another potential issue is the timing—if the bus doesn’t leave on schedule, you might find yourself in diminishing daylight. As one reviewer pointed out, “We left late at the first two stops, which meant by the time we got to the waterfall, it was almost pitch black.” For nature lovers, that’s a shame, since the best light for photos and sightseeing is often earlier in the day.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At $272, this tour offers a balance of adventure and sightseeing. The included gear, such as helmet, gloves, overalls, and rain gear, ensures you’re prepared for Iceland’s unpredictable weather and rugged terrain. The coffee at basecamp adds a nice touch of comfort after the buggy ride.

However, food and drinks are not included, so it’s wise to bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward. The full-day schedule means you should be prepared for a long, active day, with pickup between 09:00-09:30 and drop-offs afterward.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who aren’t afraid of some off-road driving and are eager to add a bit of excitement to their sightseeing. It works well for couples or friends sharing a buggy, but single riders are also an option. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides and stunning panoramic views, you’ll find plenty to love here.

While the Golden Circle sites are unmissable, keep in mind that the bus portion can vary in atmosphere based on your guide. If you value friendly, engaging guides and well-organized timing, you might want to confirm the guide’s reputation beforehand or prepare for a less chatty ride.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded Icelandic experience—a thrilling buggy ride complemented by visits to legendary natural sights. You’ll get a chance to feel the landscape’s raw power from the seat of a modern vehicle, and then step into some of Iceland’s most iconic spots with guided insights. The cost reflects the uniqueness of the adventure, especially given the high-quality gear and personalized guide service.

It’s a strong choice for active travelers who want more than just sightseeing, but also appreciate the beauty and grandeur of Iceland’s landscapes. Even with some minor drawbacks—like the timing issues and variable guide interactions—the overall value and authentic excitement make this a tour worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 years old are not suitable for this tour, likely due to safety requirements and the off-road nature of the buggy ride.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, you must bring your driver’s license to operate the two-seater buggy safely.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your driver’s license, and consider comfortable shoes since they are not included. Weather gear like raincoats or warm clothing may be helpful.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly for snacks or a meal afterward.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Will I get enough time at each site?
The tour’s schedule is tight, especially with the bus portion, so if you prefer ample time at each stop, consider the timing or early start options.

This adventure perfectly blends adrenaline, nature, and culture—a great way to see Iceland in a memorable, active way. Whether you’re craving the thrill of off-road driving or simply want to explore the Golden Circle with a different perspective, it offers a lively day out with plenty of scenic highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here: