You’ll ride ATVs from Reykjavik across lakeside trails and up two rugged peaks with a local guide leading the way. Expect wild mountain views, volcanic landscapes under your wheels, gear included (plus strong coffee), and hotel pickup so you don’t have to worry about logistics. It’s a real taste of Iceland’s wild side — not just scenery but that feeling of being right in it.
I’ll admit, I was a little nervous when the van picked us up in Reykjavik — I’d never driven an ATV before, and my hands were already cold just thinking about it. But the team at the base made it feel easy; they handed out thick gloves and overalls (the kind that make you look like you’re about to walk on the moon), and there was hot coffee waiting. Our guide, Hjalti, joked that if we fell off he’d just take our photo first. I still laugh thinking about that.
The start of the Twin Peaks ATV tour felt almost too calm — we rolled past Hafravatn Lake, mist curling off the water, everything quiet except for the engines and the occasional shout from someone behind me trying to figure out reverse. The air smelled sharp, like wet stone and moss. Hjalti kept pointing out little things — steam rising from Hellisheidi power plant in the distance, sheep chewing grass like nothing dramatic was happening around them. The first climb up Reykjavik Peak wasn’t as hard as I thought it’d be. My heart was racing but mostly because of the view: Faxafloi Bay stretching out below us, Reykjavik looking tiny and far-off.
Then came Lava Fields Mountain — steeper, rougher, definitely more “hold on tight” moments. The gravel rattled under my wheels and once or twice I nearly let out a yelp (don’t tell anyone). At the top, wind whipped through my helmet and I could see all the way to Esja mountain and even a glimpse of Snæfellsjökull glacier if you squinted right. There’s something about standing up there with your visor fogged up and your face numb that makes you feel weirdly alive. We didn’t talk much at that point — just took it in.
The tour lasts about 2 hours on ATVs, plus time for pickup and drop-off.
Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Reykjavik is included before departure.
No previous experience needed; guides provide instructions and safety gear.
You need a valid driver’s license to drive; all other gear is provided.
The minimum age as a passenger is 6 years old.
This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.
You’ll see Hafravatn Lake, Reykjavik Peak, Lava Fields Mountain, views over Faxafloi Bay, Esja mountain, steam from Hellisheidi power plant, and more.
No lunch is included but there’s free coffee at headquarters before you start.
Your day includes pickup from your hotel in Reykjavik by the operator’s team, all safety gear like helmets and overalls (plus rain protection if needed), full instructions from your local guide before heading out on fully automatic quad bikes for two hours across lakeside trails and up both Reykjavik Peak and Lava Fields Mountain — with free coffee at base before setting off.
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