Golden Circle and ATV: Full-Day Combo Tour from Reykjavík

If you’re visiting Iceland and want to see the country’s most iconic sights in one day, this full-day combo tour is hard to beat. Starting with an exhilarating ATV ride to Reykjavik Peak, followed by a comprehensive Golden Circle sightseeing tour, it offers a balanced mix of adventure and culture. Priced at $267 per person and lasting around 9 to 10 hours, it’s tailored for travelers eager to maximize their Iceland experience without wasting time or money.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines thrilling outdoor fun with the chance to see some of Iceland’s most photogenic and meaningful sites. The ATV adventure up Mount Hafrafell offers fantastic panoramic views of Reykjavík, setting an energetic tone for the day. Then, visiting Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall provides a chance to witness Iceland’s natural wonders firsthand.

A potential consideration is the long duration, which might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to a full day of outdoor activities. Also, food isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for meals or snacks along the way. Still, this tour suits first-time visitors or those eager to see a lot in a short time, especially if you’re craving a mix of adventure and spectacular scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Balanced Experience: Combines a fun ATV ride with a comprehensive Golden Circle tour.
Beautiful Views: Offers stunning vistas from Reykjavik Peak and around the Golden Circle sites.
Guided Convenience: Includes knowledgeable guides and all necessary gear for ATV riding.
Time-Saving: Perfect for travelers with limited time who want a full day of activity.
Authentic Sights: Focuses on Iceland’s top natural and historical landmarks.
Value for Money: Offers a good combination of adventure and sightseeing at a reasonable price.

While in Reykjavik, here are other experiences we've covered

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out and the ATV Adventure

Your day begins with a pickup from multiple central Reykjavík locations between 09:00 and 09:30. The early start is ideal because it gives you a full day’s worth of exploration. Once you’re picked up, you’ll head to a nearby quad base for a safety briefing and to get fitted with helmets, gloves, overalls, ski masks, and rain gear. The gear provided ensures you stay warm and dry, which is especially valuable given Iceland’s often unpredictable weather.

The highlight here is the guided ATV ride to the top of Mount Hafrafell. Here, your guide will lead you up the rugged trails, giving you a chance to experience Iceland’s vast landscapes from a unique vantage point. Ben’s review captures the thrill: “The ATV was so fun. Already want to go back and do it again.” We loved the feeling of the wind and the sense of freedom that comes with driving your own ATV. The panoramic views from the mountaintop afford a photo-worthy backdrop of Reykjavík stretching out below.

Transition to the Golden Circle

After roughly an hour of ATV riding and exploring the mountain, you’ll return to the van for a short drive to the Golden Circle sites. This transition is smooth, letting you relax and prepare for the next phase of your adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

Þingvellir National Park

Your first major stop is Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of the nation. This is where you get a palpable sense of Iceland’s history and geological drama. Here, you’ll see the rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet above ground—a rare geological spectacle visible in the fault lines and rift valleys.

Your guide will likely provide insights into the site’s significance, both historically and geologically. The scenery here is striking, with rugged cliffs and clear waters, making it a favorite for photographers. As one reviewer noted, this site is “the national shrine of Iceland,” emphasizing its cultural importance.

While in Reykjavik, here are other experiences we've covered

Geysir Geothermal Area

Next, you’ll visit the Geysir hot springs area, dotted with bubbling mud pools and steam vents. The star here is Strokkur, which erupts every 10 minutes, shooting a column of boiling water up to 20-30 meters high—a spectacular display of geothermal power. The area’s vibrant colors and primitive plants give it an otherworldly feel.

While Geysir itself is often dormant, the nearby Strokkur reliably erupts, providing great photo opportunities. The geothermal activity also adds a sensory thrill—the smell of sulfur and the sight of steaming vents.

Gullfoss Waterfall

A short drive takes you to Gullfoss, Iceland’s most famous waterfall. White water crashes down into a deep canyon, creating a thunderous sound and a spectacular visual. If the weather’s sunny, you might catch a rainbow through the spray—a classic Icelandic scene. During winter, Gullfoss can partially freeze, giving it a frozen, magical appearance.

This stop perfectly encapsulates Iceland’s raw and powerful natural beauty. It’s a sight that tends to leave visitors both awestruck and eager to return.

Tour Logistics and Group Experience

The entire Golden Circle part of the tour lasts around 6.5 hours, with plenty of time for photos, brief walks, and soaking in the scenery. The group size is not specified, but guided tours generally tend to be small enough for personal interaction, especially given the detailed reviews mentioning excellent guide service.

Drop-off and Additional Details

After a full day, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or a nearby location, completing a well-organized journey. The tour includes transportation, gear, and guiding, which adds to its value, especially considering the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

From authentic reviews, we see that guides make a big difference, with some describing guides as “great,” and providing entertaining, knowledgeable commentary. The views from Reykjavik Peak are a highlight, with one reviewer saying, “the views from the mountaintop are stunning,” capturing the memorable moments of the ATV ride.

Many also appreciate the balance of activities; the tour’s mix of adventure and sightseeing enables you to escape the more tourist-heavy spots and enjoy Iceland’s spectacular scenery firsthand. Ben’s quote sums it up: “the ATV was so fun… got to see the geysers, Gullfoss waterfall, and the tectonic plates.”

However, the long duration and outdoor nature mean you should be prepared for variable weather and a full day on your feet. While food isn’t provided, snacks and meals are available at key stops, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who appreciate a mix of thrilling outdoor activities and cultural sights. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see Iceland’s highlights without sacrificing the exhilaration of outdoor exploration. If you enjoy guided tours with an energetic guide and don’t mind a full day outdoors, this tour will leave you with lasting memories.

The Sum Up

This Golden Circle and ATV combo tour offers a comprehensive, value-packed way to experience Iceland’s most famous sights with an added dash of adventure. The combination of mountaintop views from Reykjavik Peak, the historical significance of Þingvellir, and the spectacular power of Gullfoss makes it a well-rounded introduction to Iceland’s natural beauty.

The guided experience ensures you’re well-informed and safe, while the adventure aspect keeps the day lively. We believe the tour’s value for money is solid, especially considering the inclusion of gear, transportation, and expert guides.

If you’re a first-timer in Iceland or an explorer eager for a full day of variety, this tour hits all the right notes. Just be ready for a long, active day, and you’ll return home with fantastic stories, stunning photos, and a genuine sense of Iceland’s wild, beautiful spirit.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off from central Reykjavík, a 1-hour ATV adventure, all necessary gear (helmet, gloves, overalls, ski mask, rain gear), a guided Golden Circle tour, and transportation between sites.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but they can be purchased at stops like the Gullfoss Café or at the BSI terminal.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a valid driver’s license, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. Waterproof gear is provided, but layering is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drivers?
It’s primarily for drivers of the ATV, so non-drivers might need to sit this one out or inquire about options. Pregnant women and wheelchair users are not suitable for this tour.

How long is the Golden Circle part of the tour?
The Golden Circle tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours, allowing time for sightseeing and photos at each stop.

What are the pickup options?
Pickup is available from 15 different locations in Reykjavík, including hotels and bus stops. Be ready between 09:00-09:30 for pickup.

How physically demanding is the ATV ride?
It’s suitable for most, but some level of comfort riding a quad bike on rugged terrain is needed. The ride offers the right challenge for most outdoor enthusiasts.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour good value for the price?
Given the combination of adventure, sightseeing, gear, and expert guides, many find it a good deal that covers a lot of ground in one day.

This tour stands out as a lively, authentic way to experience Iceland’s highlights with a splash of adventure—perfect for those wanting a memorable, well-rounded day.