ATV and Buggy Tours in Iceland
ATV and buggy tours ride lava fields, black sand and mountain tracks close to Reykjavík. We sell 5 from 2 operators, from about ISK 14,000, with no licence needed for most passenger seats.
ATV & Buggy tours
5 tours
About atv & buggy in Iceland
What is an ATV tour in Iceland?
An ATV tour is a guided ride on a quad bike or side-by-side buggy across terrain closed to normal vehicles — lava fields, river beds, black sand and mountain tracks. Most depart within 30 minutes of Reykjavík, which makes them one of the few genuine adventure activities you can fit into a half day from the city.
Do you need a driving licence?
You need a valid driving licence to drive an ATV yourself, and operators check it. Passengers do not, so a licence-free traveller can still ride pillion on most tours. Minimum ages are typically 18 to drive and lower to ride as a passenger, and vary by operator.
Where do ATV tours go?
The most common routes are the Reykjanes peninsula's lava fields, the slopes of Mount Esja across the bay from Reykjavík, and black sand areas on the South Coast. Riding is restricted to marked tracks: Icelandic law prohibits off-road driving entirely, because the moss and thin soil that cover lava can take decades to recover from a single set of tyre marks.
What is provided?
Helmets, gloves and waterproof overalls are standard, along with a briefing and a guide who leads the group. You supply warm layers and sturdy shoes. Tours here run from about ISK 14,000 to ISK 72,000 depending on length and whether you take a solo machine or share.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence to drive an ATV in Iceland?
Yes to drive, and operators check it. Passengers do not need one, so travellers without a licence can still join as a pillion rider.
What is the minimum age?
Typically 18 to drive and younger to ride as a passenger, though limits vary by operator. Each tour states its own.
Is off-road driving allowed in Iceland?
No. Off-road driving is illegal everywhere in Iceland and carries heavy fines. Tours stay on marked tracks because lava moss can take decades to recover from tyre damage.
What should I wear?
Warm layers and sturdy closed shoes. Helmets, gloves and waterproof overalls are provided. Expect to get dusty or muddy depending on the season.
Can you ride two people on one ATV?
On most tours yes, at a lower price than two solo machines. Buggies seat two side by side. Check the tour page, as some routes are solo-only.
Do ATV tours run in winter?
Yes, year-round, though routes change with snow and daylight. Winter rides on snow-covered lava are popular; dress considerably warmer.
How long do ATV tours last?
Usually 1–2 hours of riding within a 2–3 hour booking including briefing and kitting up. Longer combination tours pair ATV riding with caving or a lagoon.
Are ATV tours suitable for beginners?
Yes. The machines are automatic, the briefing covers everything needed, and guides lead at a pace set by the least confident rider.