Caving & ATV full day adventure From Reykjavik

A full day of adventure combining two iconic Icelandic experiences—caving in a 5,200-year-old lava tunnel** and an exciting ATV ride to Reykjavik Peak—for $278 per person. Starting with a pickup from various Reykjavik locations, you’ll spend about 7-8 hours immersed in Iceland’s rugged natural wonders. During this trip, we loved how accessible and well-organized both activities are, with guides who are knowledgeable and eager to share their passion for Iceland’s geology and landscape.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of underground exploration and mountain panoramas—a perfect balance of contrasts. We especially appreciated the stunning stalactite formations and the thrill of riding an ATV to high vantage points with sweeping views of Reykjavik and its mountains. A potential consideration is that the tour can be quite full and may feel rushed if you prefer a more leisurely pace, so time management is key.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy hands-on adventures, natural scenery, and family-friendly activities. If you’re looking to make the most of a single day with diverse Icelandic highlights, this tour offers great value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with lava caving and ATV riding.
• Suitable for families and travelers in decent physical shape.
• Guides are knowledgeable and make the experience engaging.
• Includes all safety gear and detailed safety briefings.
• Offers superb panoramic views from Reykjavik Peak.
• Flexible options with free cancellation and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Highlights: What You Can Expect

This full-day adventure from Reykjavik offers a thoughtfully curated mix of two very different but equally captivating activities. It’s designed to give you a taste of Iceland’s volcanic power and scenic landscapes, all wrapped into one seamless experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, you’re likely to find both parts engaging and enriching.

The Lava Tunnel: A Journey 5,200 Years into Iceland’s Past

Your day begins with a visit to Raufarhólshellir, a lava cave formed during a volcanic eruption approximately 5,200 years ago. Guided by experienced professionals, you’ll don safety gear—helmet, head torch, crampons (if visiting in winter)—and descend into the dark, narrow tunnels. This cave is regarded as one of Iceland’s most accessible lava tunnels, making it an ideal first stop for those new to caving.

The experience is described as “relatively mild”, meaning you don’t need special climbing skills or extreme physical fitness. Yet, the feeling of being surrounded by natural ice formations and stalactites—some shimmering in the dim light—is unforgettable. A highlight for many is the moment when guides switch off the headlamps, plunging everyone into complete darkness, and tell stories about Icelandic Santa Clauses or the formation of the cave.

Reviews confirm that the knowledge and friendliness of the guides enhance this experience, with visitors commenting on how they answered all questions and made the underground world come alive. The cave’s natural beauty, combined with the thrill of venturing beneath the earth, makes it a highlight of the day.

The Mountain Top: ATV Ride to Reykjavik Peak

After emerging from the underground, the tour continues with a one-hour ATV adventure up Reykjavik Peak Mountain. Here, a professional guide leads you to the summit via purpose-built quad bikes, giving you a chance to speed across the Icelandic countryside.

What we loved about this part is the spectacular panoramic views. From high above, you look over Reykjavik, the surrounding mountains, and sometimes even the Atlantic in the distance. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Iceland’s rugged terrain and get a sense of scale. You’ll enjoy a safety briefing before the ride, with gear provided—helmet, gloves, overalls, and a ski mask or rain gear if needed.

Several reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and skill, mentioning guides like Sir Kaktuz who made the ride more enjoyable and engaging. The speed and agility of the quads are a big plus for those seeking a bit of adrenaline, and the views are often described as “breathtaking”.

A Well-Organized Schedule for a Full Day

The itinerary is tightly packed but thoughtfully planned. You’ll be picked up from one of 17 designated locations around Reykjavik at 8:00 am. After arriving at Raufarhólshellir and completing the cave exploration (roughly one hour), you’ll return to your pickup point for a lunch break before being picked up again for the ATV adventure. The entire day wraps up around 3:30 pm with drop-offs at your original pickup location.

The timing and logistics are important—this is a set schedule with specific start and end times, so flexibility may be limited if you like a relaxed pace. But the structured plan ensures you see both highlights without rushing, and the transportation is comfortable and efficient.

More Great Tours Nearby

Deep Dive into the Itinerary: Why It Matters

Pickup & Travel: Starting early from various locations in Reykjavik, the comfort of a pre-arranged pickup helps you avoid logistical hassles. The drive to Raufarhólshellir is scenic, often offering glimpses of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

Lava Cave Exploration: The guided tour takes about an hour, during which you’ll experience the underground world formed by volcanic activity. The cave features stalactites and natural ice formations, which are not only beautiful but also testament to Iceland’s ongoing geological activity. The mild difficulty level makes it accessible to most, but you should wear appropriate shoes—sturdy and closed-toe.

Lunch Break: After the cave, you’ll have about 45 minutes to grab a bite—either pack your own or find something nearby. This break is a good chance to relax, process what you’ve seen, and get ready for the next adventure.

Reykjavik Peak ATV Ride: After a brief safety briefing and gear-up, you’ll hop onto the quads for a one-hour ride. The views are the real star here—you’ll see Reykjavik from a vantage point few get to enjoy. The ride balance is suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, as guides tailor the experience to the group.

Drop-offs & Flexibility: The tour ends with a return to your Reykjavik accommodation or chosen drop-off point, leaving you with plenty of time to explore the city or relax.

Authentic Experiences & Real Traveler Feedback

The reviews paint a clear picture of what to expect. Multiple guests commend the knowledgeable guides who make each part engaging. Zoe’s comment, “The lava cave in the afternoon was very interesting, and our guide was very knowledgeable,” underscores how guides enhance the experience. She also mentions the “story about Icelandic Santa Clauses,” which adds a fun, local flavor to the underground tour.

Mary describes the quad experience as “incredibly fast and enjoyable,” while Jenny praises the friendly staff and the weather making the ATV ride even more memorable. Such genuine reviews highlight that this tour offers a diverse and memorable day, with the right mix of adventure, scenery, and storytelling.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking and cave exploration.
• Bring your driver’s license if you plan to ride the ATV.
• Luggage or large bags are not allowed, so leave valuables behind.
• The entire tour lasts about 7-8 hours, so plan accordingly.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the physical nature of activities.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This combo adventure is ideal for travelers seeking a full day of Icelandic excitement, especially those who want to experience both volcanic undergrounds and mountain vistas in one go. The activities are family-friendly, with guides who are attentive and knowledgeable, making it a great choice for varied ages and physical levels in decent shape.

If you love adrenaline, natural landscapes, and learning about Iceland’s volcanic past, you’ll find this tour worth the price. It offers good value for money—covering two major highlights with professional guides, all equipment, and transport included. Keep in mind that the schedule is tightly packed, making it perfect for travelers who prefer a structured, adventure-packed day rather than a slow-paced exploration.

To sum it up, whether you are a geology enthusiast, adventure seeker, or just want a memorable day away from Reykjavik, this tour delivers a satisfying blend of thrill, discovery, and scenic beauty. It’s a well-organized, enjoyable way to deepen your Iceland experience and make some unforgettable memories.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickups from 17 different Reykjavik locations and drop-offs at the end, making it convenient.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience lasts between 5 to 8 hours, depending on the schedule and group size.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a driver’s license if you plan to ride the ATV, and leave large luggage or bags behind as they are not allowed.

Is the cave exploration suitable for everyone?
The lava cave is described as a mild caving experience, suitable for most in decent physical shape and who wear appropriate footwear.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there age restrictions?
The tour is generally suitable for families; however, it is not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to activity nature.

What gear is provided?
All necessary safety equipment, including helmets, head torches, crampons (during winter), gloves, overalls, and rain gear if needed, are included.

What are the main highlights?
Exploring the 5,200-year-old lava tunnel and riding a quad bike to Reykjavik Peak Mountain for panoramic views.

Is there food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there will be a break where you can get lunch nearby.

This carefully curated tour offers a genuine slice of Iceland’s volcanic history and landscape, all packed into one memorable day. It’s perfect for those eager to combine adventure with education, all in a safe, organized setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: