Buggy & Golden Circle Full day adventure from Reykjavik

The Buggy & Golden Circle Full day adventure from Reykjavik offers a dynamic way to explore Iceland’s most famous sights. For $272 per person, this 10-hour tour combines an adrenaline-pumping 1-hour buggy safari with visits to Gullfoss Waterfall, the Geysir hot spring area, and Þingvellir National Park. The tour departs from Reykjavik with pick-up options from 15 different locations, making it convenient for city-based travelers.

What makes this experience unique is the inclusion of a modern buggy ride, allowing travelers to go off-road to stunning viewpoints like Hafrefell mountain. While the buggy adventure is highly praised for its fun and safety, the full-day itinerary also includes a guided tour of the Golden Circle’s iconic sites. One notable consideration is that the buggies are two-seaters, so sharing or opting for a single rider is required.

This tour suits those seeking a mix of adventure and sightseeing, with the thrill of driving a powerful off-road vehicle paired with visits to some of Iceland’s most photographed landscapes. The full-day format ensures ample time at each stop, although some reviews highlight the importance of punctuality to maximize daylight hours.

Key Points

• Includes a 1-hour buggy safari with professional gear and safety instructions
• Visits three major sites: Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir, and Þingvellir National Park
• Departs from Reykjavik with 15 pick-up locations for easy access
• Operated by Safari Quads, with live English guides and flexible booking options
• Duration of 10 hours, with the tour starting early in the morning and returning in the evening
• Not suitable for children under 6 years and requires a driver’s license

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Starting Point and Pickup Logistics

The tour begins with pickups between 09:00 and 09:30 from various centrally located points in Reykjavik, including the Hotel Ísland, Grand Hótel Reykjavík, and Bus Stop #6 – Safnahúsið. After pickup, travelers are taken to the base camp, only 15 minutes from the city, where a 30-minute safety briefing and instruction are provided.

The convenience of multiple pickup options makes it easier to plan, though travelers should be ready at 09:00 to ensure the full itinerary can be completed comfortably.

The Buggy Safari Experience

The highlight of this tour is the 1-hour buggy ride, where a modern, two-seater vehicle allows you to tear through off-road trails. The versatile buggy enables access to mountaintop views at Hafrefell, providing panoramic sights overlooking Reykjavik. The professional guide leads the group, offering safety tips and navigating the rugged terrain.

Travelers have praised the fun and safety of the buggy, with many appreciating the comfortable gear provided, including helmets, gloves, and overalls. The ski mask and raingear ensure protection regardless of weather. Sharing a buggy is optional; a single rider option is available for those who prefer their own vehicle.

Visiting Gullfoss Waterfall and Geysir

After the buggy adventure, the tour switches to a guided sightseeing segment of the Golden Circle. The Gullfoss Waterfall is an essential stop, where the immense power of the cascading water impresses visitors. The Geysir hot spring area is equally captivating, with eruptions from Strokkur spring that regularly shoot water high into the air.

While the guided tour at these locations is generally well-organized, one review notes that timing can be tight, sometimes resulting in almost pitch-black conditions at the waterfall if the group leaves late. Punctuality is advised to maximize daylight and enjoyment at each site.

Þingvellir National Park and Its Significance

The Þingvellir National Park is included as part of the 6.5-hour guided tour after the off-road adventure. Known for its geological significance and historical importance, the park features fault lines and scenic vistas. The guide explains the area’s unique features as visitors walk through this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The park’s natural beauty combined with its cultural history makes it a compelling stop. The tour allows time to appreciate the silence and expansive views that make Þingvellir a standout location.

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The Pacing and Schedule

The full-day itinerary is structured to balance adventure and sightseeing. The safety briefing takes 30 minutes, followed by the guided tour to Reykjavik Peak, which offers hour-long panoramic views. Then, a 30-minute transfer takes the group to the Golden Circle for a 6.5-hour guided exploration.

While the schedule is comprehensive, some feedback suggests that leaving early helps avoid late arrivals at the waterfall, especially during shorter daylight hours in winter. The return to Reykjavik is typically in the late afternoon or early evening.

Practical Tips and What’s Included

The included items cover pickup, the 1-hour buggy adventure, safety gear, coffee at basecamp, and guided visits to the main sights. After the buggy ride, the Golden Circle tour continues with visits to Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss.

Not included are shoes and food or drinks, so travelers should dress appropriately and consider bringing snacks. The driver’s license is required to operate the buggy, and alcohol or drugs are not permitted.

Experience Quality and Reviews

While the buggy ride receives high praise for its fun and safety, reviews highlight some disappointments with the Golden Circle bus tour segment. One review mentions a rude guide and excessive noise from a microphone, which can detract from the experience. Timing issues, such as getting late at stops, can reduce daylight hours at key sites.

However, the guides on the buggy ride are described as lovely and polite, contributing positively to the activity. Most appreciate the professional gear and safety instructions provided, making the adventure feel secure and enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day adventure is perfect for adventurers who want to combine off-road driving with the classic sights of the Golden Circle. It appeals to those comfortable operating a 2-seater buggy and eager to enjoy stunning views from mountaintops.

However, travelers should be prepared for long bus hours during the guided tour and should be punctual to get the most out of the daylight. The tour is not suitable for children under 6, and participants must bring a driver’s license.

Final Thoughts on the Buggy & Golden Circle Tour

The combination of an exhilarating buggy safari with visits to Iceland’s top natural attractions offers a balanced mix of adventure and sightseeing. The professional guides, well-maintained vehicles, and beautiful locations make this a memorable option for active travelers.

The main limitation remains the potential for timing issues during the guided tour, which could impact enjoyment at key sites. Still, the quirky thrill of driving a buggy and the breathtaking scenery make this tour a compelling choice for those seeking a dynamic Iceland experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the buggy adventure?
The buggy safari lasts approximately 1 hour, during which you explore off-road trails and enjoy views from Hafrefell mountain.

What locations are visited during this tour?
You visit Gullfoss Waterfall, the Geysir hot spring area, and Þingvellir National Park as part of the Golden Circle.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 6 years. An adult driver’s license is required to operate the buggy.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes pickup, the buggy adventure with gear, coffee at basecamp, guided visits to the main sights, and drop-offs; food and shoes are not included.

Can I share a buggy with a partner or friend?
Yes, the buggies are two-seaters, so you can share or choose the single rider option for your own vehicle.

Is transportation arranged between stops?
After the buggy adventure, the group is transferred to the Golden Circle sites for guided touring, with drop-offs arranged at the end.

What is the pace of the tour?
The schedule is quite full, with timing designed to include sightseeing, off-road driving, and photo stops, but some reviews note the importance of timeliness to maximize daylight.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Participants should bring a driver’s license. Weather gear such as rain gear is provided, but comfortable shoes are not included and recommended.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is conducted in English.

How do I book and pay?
Reservations are flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What should I expect weather-wise?
Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable; the provided rain gear helps, but dressing in layers and prepared for rain is advisable.

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