Hvolsvollur is a fantastic base for exploring some of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes. Its location in the southern region means you’re within reach of glaciers, waterfalls, volcanic craters, and black sand beaches. What makes this area stand out isn’t just the scenery but the variety of tours available to suit different interests and activity levels. If you’re craving an up-close encounter with glaciers, the Glacier Hike Experience on Sólheimajökull is a stellar option — it’s a walk on the ice with a guide, perfect for those wanting to learn about glacial formations while enjoying breathtaking landscapes.
For thrill-seekers and adventure lovers, Hvolsvollur offers exciting options like ATV rides and buggy adventures. These tours give you an unbeatable way to see the Icelandic countryside, from tundra sands to cascading waterfalls. If you prefer more relaxed exploration, scenic tours like the Scenic Buggy Adventure provide quick yet memorable glimpses of waterfalls and dramatic vistas. And for those who want to chase the Northern Lights, the Northern Lights Hunt Guided Tour offers a chance to see this natural wonder in comfort.
Below, you’ll find a detailed rundown of each top-rated tour, helping you decide which experience suits your trip best.
1. Glacier Hike Experience on Sólheimajökull – Meet on location
At number one, the Glacier Hike Experience on Sólheimajökull ranks highly for its accessibility and the chance to walk directly on a glacier. This tour is designed for those who want a hands-on encounter with Iceland’s icy wilderness without requiring extensive climbing experience. The tour begins at the glacier parking lot, where you’ll gear up with crampons, helmets, and ice picks. The 2.5-hour experience involves a 35-minute walk to the glacier, a 20-minute safety briefing, and a guided hike across the ice for about an hour.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on educating participants about glacier formation and glacial processes during the hike. Visitors rave about the safety and friendliness of guides like Otto, who shares engaging anecdotes and safety tips — even the ones about polar bears, which are more for fun than necessity! The landscapes are stunning, with fascinating ice formations and deep crevasses. Priced at $105 per person, it offers great value for a memorable adventure. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic glacier experience that combines scenic views with educational insights.
Bottom Line: A safe, engaging, and scenic glacier trek suited for most fitness levels, especially if you appreciate learning about glacial landscapes firsthand.
2. Hvolsvöllur: Iceland Guided Buggy Adventure Tour
For adrenaline junkies, the Iceland Guided Buggy Adventure Tour is hard to beat. This tour packs two hours of high-speed fun as you drive ATVs across Icelandic tundra and sand dunes. You’ll cross small streams, visit waterfalls, and stop at viewpoints overlooking Seljalandsfoss and Vestmannaeyjar, offering some of the best scenery in the area.
What makes this experience special is the guided aspect and the variety of terrain you’ll cover. Victor, the guide, is praised for his enthusiasm and knowledge, making the ride both safe and exciting. The tour costs $252 per person, but for the thrill and the scenic diversity packed into two hours, it’s well worth the price. The mix of fast-paced riding and scenic stops makes it suitable for those who enjoy active outdoor activities but still want to take in the landscape.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers craving an action-packed way to see Iceland’s rugged terrain, with plenty of opportunities for photos and fun.
3. Hvolsvöllur: Scenic Buggy Adventure
If you’re short on time but still want a taste of Icelandic nature, the Scenic Buggy Adventure offers a quick hour exploring the surrounding area. This tour is more relaxed than the ATV adventure but still provides a dose of excitement and excellent scenery. Riding through the countryside, you’ll see majestic waterfalls and enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape.
Participants praise the guide for being personable and knowledgeable about local history. It’s an ideal choice for families, couples, or anyone who wants a manageable yet memorable outdoor experience. The $147 price point makes it accessible, and the focus on Icelandic nature and waterfalls makes it especially appealing for travelers interested in scenic photography.
Bottom Line: A great short outing that combines scenic beauty with a manageable pace, suitable for most fitness levels.
4. Þórsmörk Super Jeep Day Tour: From Hvolsvörur
At number four, the Þórsmörk Super Jeep Day Tour climbs to the top for its full-day exploration of one of Iceland’s most stunning valleys. Starting at Midgard Base Camp, this 8-hour tour takes you into the Valley of the Thunder God, surrounded by three shimmering ice caps: Mýrdalsjökull, Tindfjallajökull, and Eyjafjallajökull.
What makes this tour special is the combination of off-road driving and short hikes, all in a super-capable Jeep that handles rivers and rugged terrain with ease. The itinerary includes river crossings, scenic vistas, and fantastic photo opportunities, making it ideal for travelers who want to see Iceland from a comfortable yet adventurous perspective. Guides are praised for their friendliness and engaging storytelling, making the long day feel like a local’s outing.
Priced at an impressive value considering the length and the all-day adventure, it’s suited for those who want a comprehensive, active experience in the Icelandic wilderness. It’s particularly good for nature lovers who don’t mind getting a bit muddy and who want to see multiple landscapes in one day.
Bottom Line: An immersive, full-day tour ideal for those looking to explore Þórsmörk and surrounding glaciers in comfort and style.
5. Southern Iceland: Black Beach Riding Tour
Horseback riding on Iceland’s black sand beaches is a must because it combines stunning scenery with the unique Tölt gait of the Icelandic horse. The Black Beach Riding Tour lasts two hours and takes you to the coast, where you can enjoy views of the ocean, volcanic black sands, and the rugged Icelandic landscape.
This tour is perfect for riders of all skill levels, though some reviews note that the pace can be slow for experienced riders, especially if the group is large. The guide, Sofie, is praised for her personable manner and her knowledge of the region’s history. The ride is a peaceful way to connect with nature and enjoy the landscape from a different perspective.
Priced at $180, it offers a nice balance of activity and scenery. It’s especially suitable for those who love horses or want a gentle introduction to riding in Iceland. While the weather can impact the experience, rainy days can still be quite memorable, as long as you’re prepared.
Bottom Line: A scenic, leisurely horseback ride perfect for those wanting to combine Iceland’s wild beaches with a gentle equestrian experience.
6. From Reykjavik: South Coast Guided Tour in Spanish language
For travelers who prefer their tours in Spanish, this South Coast Guided Tour offers a comprehensive day exploring the highlights from Reykjavik. The small-group tour spans about 10 hours, visiting waterfalls like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, the Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the glacier at Sólheimajökull.
What makes this tour stand out is the fully guided experience in Spanish, making it ideal for Spanish-speaking travelers who want a personal and relaxed atmosphere. The itinerary includes scenic stops and short walks, with plenty of opportunities for photos. The tour also visits Vík, a charming village, and provides an up-close view of the glacier.
Priced on request, this tour offers excellent value considering the length, guided nature, and the variety of stops. Its personal approach makes it appealing for travelers who want to learn about Iceland’s natural wonders with a local guide.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for Spanish speakers wanting a detailed, comfortable day tour of Iceland’s iconic south coast.
7. Hvolsvollur: Northern Lights Hunt Guided Tour
Hunting the Northern Lights is a bucket-list experience, and this guided tour maximizes your chances of catching the aurora borealis. The three-hour tour takes you into areas with minimal light pollution, crossing rivers in a modified luxury Super Jeep to find the best viewing spots.
What makes this tour appealing is its focus on optimizing the viewing experience with flexible routing based on weather conditions. Guides with local knowledge know where the skies are clearest, and the experience can include warm drinks and storytelling by the fire. This tour is perfect for those who want to combine comfort with the likelihood of witnessing Iceland’s most famous natural spectacle.
While Northern Lights are never guaranteed, weather and solar activity are the main factors. The $1,642 price is for groups up to four, making it a more intimate experience. It’s best suited for travelers with flexible schedules and a desire for a cozy yet adventurous night out.
Bottom Line: A reliable, comfortable way to chase the Northern Lights, especially if you’re willing to travel in style and are patient with the unpredictable nature of the aurora.
$1,642 per group up to 4
8. Private Glacier Hike Experience on Sóló – Meet on location
Finally, for those seeking a more exclusive adventure, the Private Glacier Hike Experience on Sóló offers a personalized, intimate outing. This 2.5-hour tour is similar in scope to the first glacier hike but tailored to small groups of up to five people, ensuring a more private experience.
You’ll meet at the glacier parking lot, gear up, and then hike across the ice, exploring fascinating formations and learning about glacial geology. The guide, who has reviews praising their friendliness and safety awareness, ensures a tailored experience, perfect for couples or small groups wanting a more secluded outing. The $1,070 price reflects its private nature, providing excellent value for those wanting exclusivity.
Ideal for travelers who want a premium, personalized glacier experience, this tour offers the same awe-inspiring scenery as the public hike but with added comfort and attention.
Bottom Line: A luxurious and private way to enjoy Iceland’s glaciers, suited for small groups or those celebrating a special occasion.
$1,070 per group up to 5
How to Choose the Right Tour in Hvolsvollur
When choosing among these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and activity preferences. If you’re eager for a glacier hike and don’t mind a bit of physical effort, the Glacier Hike Experience on Sólheimajökull offers a great balance of scenery and education. For thrill-seekers, the Buggy Adventures deliver adrenaline and spectacular views quickly.
Those wanting a more relaxed experience focused on scenery should consider the Scenic Buggy Adventure, while families or horse lovers will enjoy horseback riding along the Black Beach Riding Tour.
For travelers interested in Iceland’s iconic waterfalls, glaciers, and beaches, the South Coast Guided Tour in Spanish offers an in-depth day. If you’re lucky, catching the Northern Lights can turn into a once-in-a-lifetime moment with the Northern Lights Hunt.
Booking early is always a good idea, especially in peak seasons, to ensure availability for your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Hvolsvollur offers a wide array of tours, from active glacier hikes and ATV rides to serene horseback rides and spectacular Northern Lights chases. For a solid all-round experience, the Glacier Hike and Þórsmörk Super Jeep stand out for their memorable scenery and expert guides. If your trip is shorter, the scenic buggy rides provide a quick yet fulfilling taste of Icelandic nature.
Travelers with a sense of adventure or a desire for a tailored experience might find the private glacier hike or the Northern Lights tour perfect. Whatever your choice, these tours show the incredible diversity of what Hvolsvollur has to offer. Book early, prepare for weather surprises, and you’ll leave with stories to tell for years.