Hvolsvöllur: Iceland Guided Buggy Adventure Tour

Hvolsvöllur: Iceland Guided Buggy Adventure Tour – A Thrilling Way to Experience Iceland’s Natural Beauty

If you’re looking for a way to add some adrenaline and adventure to your Iceland trip, the Guided Buggy Adventure Tour near Hvolsvöllur offers a memorable two hours behind the wheel of a high-quality ATV. For around $252 per person, you get to drive fully automatic, road-legal buggies across rugged tundra, past waterfalls, and through impressive volcanic scenery. The tour departs from Brú Base by Road 249, in the Southern Region, an area packed with natural wonders.

What stands out most is the stunning scenery you’ll encounter, from sweeping sand fields and streams to views over Seljalandsfoss and the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands). We love the way this tour combines adventure with authentic Icelandic landscapes, offering both fun driving and photo-worthy vistas. Plus, the safety features of the buggies – roll cages, safety belts, and double A-arm front suspension – give peace of mind, even if you’re new to ATV riding.

A potential consideration is that the tour lasts only two hours, which means you’ll want to plan your day accordingly. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems. If you enjoy active outdoor experiences and are comfortable with a bit of off-road driving, this tour offers a fantastic way to see Iceland’s wilderness up close.

This adventure appeals most to travelers who love scenery, are eager for a bit of thrill, and appreciate guided expertise. If you want an easy-to-book, well-reviewed, and genuinely fun way to explore Iceland’s volcanic terrains, this tour might be perfect.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Expect views of waterfalls, streams, and volcanic landscapes.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides (like Victor, praised for explaining everything) enhance the experience.
• Safety and comfort: Fully inspected, road-legal ATVs with safety features ensure peace of mind.
• Authentic adventure: Drive through tundra, gravel roads, and crossing small streams for a true Icelandic outdoor experience.
• Short but sweet: Two-hour duration makes it manageable if you’re on a tight schedule.
• Suitable for most: Not ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or those with back issues.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and What to Expect

The tour begins at Brú Base, conveniently located near Hvolsvöllur, where your group gathers for a quick safety briefing. The guide will walk you through the safety procedures and help you gear up in waterproof suits, helmets, and face masks. These suits are designed to keep you comfortable and dry, even when splashing through streams or kicking up dust over gravel.

Once suited up, you’ll hop into your two-seater, fully automatic buggy. The buggies are well-equipped with safety cages, safety belts, and double A-arm front suspension, all inspected and road-legal, providing the right mix of safety and thrill.

The Route and Key Stops

Your guide takes you on a scenic loop around the area between Fljótshlíð and Eyjafjallajökull, Iceland’s famous volcano. The terrain varies from tundra sand fields around Dímon to gravel roads and streams, offering a dynamic and exciting ride.

One of the highlights is the stop at a viewpoint overlooking Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. From here, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the cascade, perfect for photos and just soaking in the landscape. The tour also includes a look over the Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands), visible across the water, adding a touch of island charm to your adventure.

Another memorable part is driving across the Markaðsfljótaurar sand dunes – a true natural playground. The scenic stops give you opportunities to appreciate the raw volcanic and glacial landscapes that only Iceland can offer.

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What You’ll Experience

While driving, you’ll cross small streams, navigate rough terrain, and experience the thrill of off-road driving. Your guide will share insights into the volcanic activity, landscape formation, and local geology, making the ride both fun and educational.

Reviewers universally praise the knowledgeable guides who explain what you’re seeing, making the experience more meaningful. One reviewer mentioned Victor as a fun and knowledgeable guide, which reminds us that the guide’s personality can elevate the tour.

The Overall Atmosphere

The atmosphere is relaxed but adventurous. The two-hour duration packs in a variety of scenery without feeling rushed. Many travelers appreciated the small group size (limited to two per buggy), allowing for personalized attention and a sense of camaraderie.

What to Bring and Consider

Since the tour includes gear, all you need to do is wear warm outdoor clothing and sturdy hiking shoes. It’s advisable to avoid cotton layers, opting instead for warm, moisture-wicking layers. Waterproof jackets and gloves will keep you comfortable during the ride.

Remember, you must bring your driver’s license to operate the ATV. It’s also wise to note that alcohol and drugs are not allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for young children or pregnant women.

Reviews Adding Authentic Perspectives

One reviewer exclaimed, “Extraordinaire! Une balade de folie avec 3 buggys seulement,” emphasizing how unique and memorable the experience is, especially with fewer buggies on the trail, which makes it more intimate. Another rated it a highlight of their ten-day trip, praising the super fun driving and amazing views. The overall consensus is that this is a must-do for anyone seeking an active, scenic adventure.

Cost and Value

At $252 per person, the tour offers excellent value for a guided, all-included experience that combines adventure, scenery, and expert guidance. The safety gear, professional guide, and stunning stops justify the price, especially considering the high quality of the ATVs and the scenic value.

Compared to other adventure activities in Iceland, this tour provides a personalized and accessible way to explore volcanic landscapes, making it a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts and first-timers alike.

Who Is This Tour For?

This adventure is ideal for active travelers who enjoy off-road driving and want to see Iceland from a different perspective. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate scenic views and small-group experiences. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a moderate outdoor excursion but not looking for an all-day commitment. The guides’ reputation for sharing knowledge adds an extra layer of value, making it suitable for curious travelers eager to learn while having fun.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For thrill-seekers, landscape lovers, and those wanting a hands-on experience in Iceland’s wild outdoors, this buggy tour hits the mark. It offers a great balance of adventure, scenery, and safety, delivered by guides who know the land well. The stops at iconic viewpoints and the chance to drive through Iceland’s volcanic terrain make it more than just a ride — it becomes a memorable adventure.

While it’s a relatively short tour, the quality of the experience and the spectacular scenery ensure you’ll walk away with stories to tell. If you’re excited by the idea of off-road driving and want to see some of Iceland’s best landscapes without a long hike or multi-day trek, this tour is a smart choice.

In summary, we’d recommend this adventure especially for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a fun, safe way to explore the volcanic and glacial landscapes around Hvolsvöllur. It’s a unique experience that captures the spirit of Iceland’s rugged beauty with a dose of adrenaline.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 5 years old.

Do I need to have a driver’s license?
Yes, you must bring your driver’s license to operate the ATV.

What should I wear?
Bring warm outdoor clothing, waterproof jackets and pants, sturdy hiking shoes, gloves, and a scarf. The tour provides waterproof suits and helmets.

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

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including briefing and stops.

Is the tour appropriate for pregnant women?
No, it’s not suitable for pregnant women.

What kind of scenery will I see?
Expect views of waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, volcanic sand dunes, streams, and the rugged terrain between Fljótshlíð and Eyjafjallajökull.

Are food or snacks included?
No, snacks are not included, so consider bringing some if you get hungry.

This guided buggy adventure near Hvolsvöllur offers a healthy dose of fun, scenery, and adventure, perfect for travelers who want to get off the beaten path and truly feel Iceland’s wild side. With excellent reviews, safety, and scenery in mind, it’s an experience worth considering if you’re visiting southern Iceland.

You can check availability for your dates here: