Buggy 'Lava Field Adventure' from Reykjavik

Exploring Iceland’s Lava Fields and Mountains by Buggy

Imagine zipping through volcanic landscapes, splashing through mud pools, and climbing up a mountain with panoramic views of Reykjavik and the North Atlantic. That’s exactly what the Buggy ‘Lava Field Adventure’ offers. For around $225 per person, this 3.5-hour tour takes you on a thrilling off-road ride around Reykjavik’s outskirts, led by knowledgeable guides who know exactly where the wildest terrain is. The highlight? A demanding climb up Úlfarsfell Mountain, with stunning vistas at the summit, plus a scenic stop at Hafravatn Lake.

What we love about this experience is the chance to drive or ride in a two-seater mountain buggy, giving everyone a real sense of adventure. The guides are friendly and safe, making the whole ride feel both exhilarating and secure. Plus, the scenery is breathtaking—from lava fields and bubbling mud pools to snowy ridges, you’ll see a side of Iceland that’s often hidden from the typical tourist trail.

One thing to consider: this tour emphasizes speed and rugged terrain, which can be a bit overwhelming for some. If you’re seeking a more relaxed sightseeing experience, this might be less ideal. However, for those craving adventure, adrenaline, and authentic Icelandic landscapes, it’s a perfect fit. It suits travelers who enjoy hands-on activities, don’t mind getting a little muddy, and want a memorable story to tell.

This adventure is particularly well-suited for families with children over six, small groups, or anyone eager to test their driving skills in a safe, guided environment. If you’re looking to see unique landscapes and have a blast doing it, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

Off-road adventure in volcanic lava fields and rugged mountains
Choice of driving or riding in a 2-seater buggy with professional guides
Spectacular views of Reykjavik, Esja Mountain, and the North Atlantic
Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy
Suitability for children aged six and up as passengers
A focus on speed and challenging terrain, for those craving adrenaline

A Deep Dive into the Lava Field Buggy Experience

If you’re after an activity that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and a dash of challenge, the Lava Field Buggy Tour from Reykjavik delivers. It’s a chance to see Iceland’s volcanic landscape from a perspective few get to experience firsthand. The tour’s departure point is conveniently located on the city’s outskirts, with a pickup at your Reykjavik hotel, making the process straightforward and hassle-free.

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What the Tour Entails

Once you arrive at the buggy station, the first step is a safety briefing. The guides, friendly and clear, go over how to operate the vehicle and what to expect. You’ll be supplied with helmets, gloves, thermal coveralls, ski masks, and rain gear, ensuring you stay comfortable no matter the weather. This thoughtful preparation makes a big difference, especially given Iceland’s variable climate.

You’ll hop into a two-seater buggy, which is designed for both fun and safety. The price is based on two people sharing the vehicle, each taking turns driving or riding as a passenger, which means you’ll get a good mix of control and sightseeing.

The Itinerary and Terrain

The journey begins with a drive through lava fields, rocky and often dotted with mud pools and water crossings. According to reviews, the variety of terrains keeps the ride interesting. Some travelers have noted the buggies are fast, which adds to the thrill, but you’re always guided and instructed to stay safe.

Then comes the challenging ascent of Úlfarsfell Mountain. This segment is especially popular because of the spectacular panoramic views at the summit. From this vantage point, you can see Reykjavik sprawling below, the icy peaks of Esja in the distance, and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. The descent, which is just as exciting, takes you through more rugged terrain, including muddy paths and snow patches, depending on the season.

A quick stop at Hafravatn Lake allows you to enjoy the mirror-like reflections of the surrounding landscapes. Many reviews praise this part as a highlight, with some travelers remarking how the scenery is awe-inspiring and “breathtaking.”

Guides and Group Size

Guides like Gonzalo or Marco have received high praise for their knowledgeability and friendliness. They explain local geology and volcanic activity, making the experience both fun and educational. The tour typically operates with groups of up to 60 people, but many reviews mention that on certain days, the experience feels more personal, especially if your group is small.

Additional Considerations

While most travelers report feeling safe and well-cared-for, some mention that the focus on speed can be intense. A review noted that the “emphasis was on how fast we could get from one place to another,” which might be a bit too much for those who prefer a leisurely sightseeing pace. If you want to enjoy stopping frequently and soaking in the views, it’s wise to communicate this with your guide.

The tour lasts around 2 hours in the buggy, with the entire experience including transportation and briefing taking roughly 3.5 hours. It’s a great value considering the adrenaline rush, scenic stops, and guided expertise packed into it.

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Authenticity and Customer Feedback

Authentic reviews show consistent enthusiasm. Many travelers highlight the professional guides, friendly attitudes, and the breathtaking landscapes. From families enjoying the fun and safe environment to adventure seekers loving the fast-paced ride, it appeals to a broad audience.

Several mention that they would do it again, with one traveler saying, “It was such a blast and I’d recommend it to anyone who wants a taste of real Icelandic adventure.” The variety of terrains and the challenge of the ascent make it an experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for families with children over six, small groups, or even solo travelers eager for a speedy, scenic ride. If you’re a nature lover who appreciates dynamic landscapes and enjoys active experiences, you’ll find this tour engaging. It’s also ideal for those who don’t mind getting a little muddy and wet, as the terrain can be quite rugged and the water crossings splashy.

If you’re looking for a relaxed sightseeing tour, this might not be the best choice. But if your goal is to combine fun, scenery, and a bit of adrenaline, it’s hard to beat.

FAQs

Do I need a driver’s license to drive the buggy?
Yes, a full valid driver’s license is required if you want to drive. You can also choose to be a passenger if you prefer not to drive.

Is there an age limit for passengers?
Children aged six and over can ride as passengers, making it family-friendly.

What should I wear during the tour?
You’ll be supplied with helmet, gloves, thermal coveralls, ski masks, and rain gear to stay warm, dry, and comfortable.

How long is the tour?
The buggy adventure itself lasts about 2 hours, but the whole experience, including pickup and briefing, takes around 3.5 hours.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide instructions and safety briefings, so even first-timers can enjoy the ride—though it’s a demanding drive that requires some physical coordination.

What about weather cancellations?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are group sizes large?
The tour can accommodate up to 60 travelers, but many reviews mention feeling more like a private experience if your group is small.

What are the main highlights?
The mountain climb for panoramic views, lava trail exploration, and stopping at Hafravatn Lake are the key highlights.

Can I upgrade for a longer ride?
Yes, there’s an option to upgrade to a more challenging 3-hour ride for those wanting more adventure.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly before or after your tour.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an adventure that combines off-road fun, breathtaking scenery, and the chance to drive or ride in a rugged Icelandic landscape, the Buggy ‘Lava Field Adventure’ delivers. It’s a balanced mix of excitement and natural beauty, led by guides who know the terrain and safety protocols. The views from Úlfarsfell Mountain alone are worth the trip, and many reviewers say it’s a highlight of their Iceland visit.

This tour offers great value for those who want more than just sightseeing — it’s an interactive, adrenaline-packed experience that will leave you with stories to tell. It’s especially well-suited for adventurous families, small groups, and solo travelers eager for a taste of Iceland’s volcanic wilderness.

Choose this if you want to push your limits a bit, enjoy spectacular views, and create memories on bumpy, muddy trails that few get to see. Just be prepared for a fast-paced ride, and you’ll have an experience you won’t forget.