Description
Summary
Description
Ride straight into Iceland’s raw geothermal power on this 1-hour ATV tour in the Hengill Volcanic Area, just minutes from Reykjavik. This activity tour in Iceland packs off-road adventure, steaming geothermal landscapes, lava field riding, renewable energy sights, and a taste of hot spring-baked rye bread into one exciting escape close to the city.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want an active, easy-to-reach adventure near Reykjavik without committing to a full-day trip. It’s especially well suited for first-time ATV riders, couples, families with older kids, and anyone curious about Iceland’s lava fields, geothermal power, and hot spring traditions.
The Hengill area is a striking geothermal region near Reykjavik, known for lava fields, steam vents, and underground heat. Available year-round, this tour makes it easy to explore the area by ATV while seeing the volcanic forces and renewable energy that shape Iceland.
The ATV ride in Iceland begins at the Litla Kaffistofan base. It’s a convenient starting point, only under 30 minutes from central Reykjavik. After a short safety briefing, your English-speaking guide provides insulated overalls, helmets, and waterproof boots (if needed) before you gear up for the ride.
After a safety briefing and gearing up, you'll head out across the Hellisheidi Plateau into one of Iceland's most active geothermal zones.
The ATV tour then crosses the black lava fields of Svinahraun, formed around the year 1000 AD during a pivotal moment in Iceland's history. The terrain is easy to navigate with guidance from your guide, making it ideal for beginners with no prior experience.
Hengill rises 2,634 feet (803 meters) above sea level and sits directly on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. This is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly pull apart, creating one of the most geothermal-rich environments in the country.
The landscape changes along the route. Steam vents appear across the hillsides, releasing heat from deep underground. On clear days, the views extend toward Lake Thingvallavatn in the north and the Reykjanes Peninsula stretching toward the Atlantic Ocean.
A stop near an active geothermal borehole brings you face to face with Iceland’s energy source. Powerful steam rises from below the surface for a close look at the forces that shape the island and sustain daily life.
Along the way, you pass Hellisheidi Power Plant, one of the largest geothermal plants in the world. This facility uses underground heat to produce electricity and hot water for Reykjavik and nearby towns.
The route ends at Skidaskalinn in Hveradalir, a historic mountain lodge set in a steaming valley. Here, you’ll taste traditional hverabraud, a sweet rye bread baked underground using geothermal heat. Please note that tasting availability may depend on daily operations at the lodge.
This 1-hour ATV tour is designed to maximize experience in a short time, with departures scheduled throughout the day for flexibility. Participants must hold a valid driver’s license to operate an ATV, while passengers can join without driving.
Explore Iceland’s active geothermal landscape on the Hengill Geothermal ATV Tour near Reykjavik. Check availability now by choosing a date.
