Hvolsvöllur: Iceland Guided Buggy Adventure Tour

Experience Iceland on a Guided Buggy Adventure in Hvolsvöllur

For those eager to explore Iceland’s stunning southern landscapes in an exciting, hands-on way, the Hvolsvöllur: Iceland Guided Buggy Adventure Tour offers a memorable experience. Priced at $252 per person and lasting around 2 hours, this tour combines the thrill of driving fully automatic 4×4 buggies with visits to iconic waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. It departs from Brú Base near Road 249, making it accessible for travelers staying in or near Hvolsvöllur.

What makes this tour stand out is its dynamic route through tundra sand fields, small streams, and viewpoints overlooking Seljalandsfoss and the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar). It’s a perfect choice for adventure lovers who want to add a unique twist to their Iceland trip, without the need for extensive hiking or complicated logistics. While safety gear and guidance are included, travelers should bring appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear. The tour’s high ratings, based on 7 reviews, confirm its popularity and quality.

Key Points

• Two-hour guided buggy tour starting from Brú Base in Hvolsvöllur, offering a mix of driving and sightseeing.
• Includes safety gear such as helmet, insulated cover-all, and face mask, ensuring a secure ride.
• Passes through the area between Fljótshlíð and Eyjafjallajökull, with stops at waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
• Visits notable locations like Seljalandsfoss and the Westman Islands, with views from key vantage points.
• Fully inspected, road-legal buggies with safety features like roll cages, safety belts, and double A-arm suspension.
• Designed for ages 5 and up, but not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or young children under 5.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and What to Expect at Brú Base

The tour begins at Brú Base on Road 249, where an expert guide provides a brief safety orientation. Travelers are dressed in waterproof snow/whole suits and helmets before heading out on the two-hour adventure. The route takes you across the tundra sand fields around Dímon, where driving over Markaðsfljótaurar offers an exhilarating experience on rugged terrain.

The guide leads you through the landscape, stopping along the way at a viewpoint overlooking Seljalandsfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, and the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar). The route includes crossing small streams and driving on gravel roads, allowing you to get a true taste of Icelandic nature while testing out the robust safety features of the buggies.

The Buggies: Safety and Comfort Features

The buggies used on this tour are two-seaters with automatic transmission, making them easy to operate even for beginners. They are fully inspected for road legality, and their design emphasizes safety and comfort, including roll cages for protection, safety belts, and double A-arm front suspension for a smooth ride over rough terrain.

All necessary safety equipment, such as helmets, insulated coveralls, and face masks, are provided, ensuring you stay warm and protected during the adventure. These features help make the experience accessible and secure for a wide range of participants.

Scenic Stops with Breathtaking Views

The tour’s highlights include stopping at viewpoints with sweeping views over Seljalandsfoss and the Westman Islands. The scenery here is breathtaking, with volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and expansive tundra. These stops are perfect for photo opportunities and appreciating Iceland’s natural beauty from strategic vantage points.

The view over Seljalandsfoss offers a chance to admire one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls from above, while the lookout over Vestmannaeyjar provides a panoramic perspective on the archipelago’s volcanic formations.

Route and Terrain: Tundra, Streams, and Gravel Roads

The route between Fljótshlíð and Eyjafjallajökull takes you over tundra sand fields, where driving on Markaðsfljótaurar adds a rugged adventure component. The terrain includes gravel roads and small streams that the buggies cross comfortably, thanks to their double A-arm suspension.

This mix of terrain offers a balance of thrilling driving and scenic sightseeing, making the most of Iceland’s diverse landscape. The tour does not involve long hikes or strenuous activity but provides an active way to experience Icelandic wilderness.

More Great Tours Nearby

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from Brú Base, and availability varies, so checking the schedule in advance is recommended. Each buggy accommodates two people, fostering an intimate experience, and the guide is fluent in Icelandic and English, ensuring clear communication throughout.

Participants must bring their driver’s license and wear appropriate outdoor clothing, including warm layers, waterproof jacket and pants, and hiking boots. The tour is not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or people with back issues.

What Is Included and What to Bring

Included in the $252 price are the two-hour buggy adventure, guide service, helmet, insulated coveralls, and face mask. The tour provides everything needed for a safe and comfortable ride.

Guests are responsible for bringing warm outdoor clothing, waterproof jacket and pants, head-wear, gloves, socks, a scarf, and appropriate hiking footwear. Snacks are not included, so packing some for energy is advisable if needed.

The Experience: Safety, Fun, and Spectacular Scenery

This tour offers an excellent balance of excitement and natural beauty. The fully automatic buggies make it easy to focus on enjoying the scenery without worrying about complex controls, while the safety features provide peace of mind.

The scenery is consistently praised as breathtaking, with reviewers highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the fun of driving in such a stunning environment. The short duration allows for an adrenaline rush without feeling rushed, making it suitable for most adventure-seekers.

Suitability and Limitations

While the tour is accessible for most ages 5 and up, it is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with back problems due to the nature of the activity. Participants must have a driver’s license, and alcohol or drugs are not permitted.

The two-hour duration offers an energetic taste of Iceland’s landscapes but may not satisfy those seeking a longer or more intense off-road experience. The focus remains on safety, scenery, and fun.

Why Choose This Tour in Hvolsvöllur?

This buggy adventure provides a distinctive way to explore Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and tundra in a safe, guided setting. Its positive ratings and reviews confirm it delivers an unforgettable experience that balances adventure and sightseeing.

It’s ideal for travelers wanting a hands-on activity that takes them off the beaten path, without requiring advanced off-road skills. Given its easy logistics and inclusion of safety gear, it makes for a practical yet exciting addition to any Iceland itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for children aged 5 and above, but not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems.

What should I wear during the tour?
Guests should bring warm outdoor clothing, waterproof jacket and pants, head-wear, gloves, socks, and sturdy hiking shoes. The tour provides insulated coveralls and safety gear.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, a driver’s license is required to participate in the buggy tour.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, starting from Brú Base. Availability varies, so checking schedules is recommended.

What scenery will I see?
Participants visit waterfalls, enjoy views of Seljalandsfoss, and overlook the Westman Islands. The route includes sand fields, streams, and volcanic landscapes.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby