Discover the Midnight Sun ATV Adventure in Iceland

The Midnight Sun ATV Tour offers a unique way to experience Iceland’s famous summer daylight. Priced at $226 per person, this 3 to 4-hour tour takes place in the Capital Region and is perfect for those eager to explore Iceland’s natural beauty under the glow of nearly 24-hour sunshine. The tour is operated by Safari Quads – Reykjavik and has earned a high rating of 4.8 out of 5 across 21 reviews.

This adventure highlights climbing Hafrafjall and Ulfarsfell Mountains, two spots that provide incredible panoramic views over Reykjavik. It’s a tour suited to outdoor enthusiasts and families, with the chance to ride luxurious ATVs on off-road trails, passing hikers en route to mountain peaks. While the experience is exhilarating, it’s important to note that participants must be at least 17 years old and weigh no more than 220kg (485 lbs).

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Two-hour ATV ride through the Icelandic summer landscape, climbing two mountains.
Departs at 21:00 from Reykjavík with pickup from multiple hotel options.
Full gear included: helmets, gloves, overalls, and rain gear if needed.
Experience breathtaking views of Reykjavik from mountain tops in broad daylight.
Suitable for ages 6+ (non-drivers) and drivers must hold a valid license.
Cancel free up to 24 hours before the tour.

While in Reykjavik, here are other experiences we've covered

The Exciting Climb of Hafrafjall & Ulfarsfell Mountains

This tour begins with a pickup from 15 different locations in Reykjavik, including hotels, bus stops, and cruise terminals, starting around 21:00. After a short drive to the basecamp, participants receive all necessary gear, preparing for off-road adventures. The ride involves driving on trails leading up to the first mountain, Hafrafjall, where you enjoy the cool Icelandic air and stunning views over Reykjavik.

The climb to Hafrafjall is a key highlight, offering an unrivaled perspective of the city during the midnight sun. Once on top, the sense of being atop a mountain in broad daylight at nearly midnight is an experience unlike any other in Iceland. After soaking in the scenery, the journey continues toward Ulfarsfell, a mountain known for its excellent vistas, where hikers are often seen passing by—a reminder of Iceland’s outdoor spirit.

Riding the Luxurious ATVs Along Icelandic Trails

The ATVs used on this tour are luxurious and capable, designed for off-road terrain. Each ATV can carry two persons (shared rider), with an option for a single rider. The guides lead you over mountain trails, where you quickly feel confident in your driving skills, thanks to the guides’ expert instructions.

The ride is paced to allow ample time to enjoy the fresh air and marvel at the scenery, with the guides providing insights about the landscape. The off-road trails include ascents on trails and mountain slopes, making this experience an adrenaline boost while surrounded by Iceland’s natural beauty.

Views Over Reykjavik from Mountain Peaks

From Hafrafjall and Ulfarsfell, the views over Reykjavik are genuinely impressive. These mountain tops, accessible via ATV, give a bird’s-eye view of the city, the coastline, and the surrounding landscape. The broad daylight during the midnight sun enhances the scenery, making the entire experience feel surreal.

Guides often pass hikers on the way, adding a friendly touch to the adventure. The mountain peaks provide perfect spots to pause, breathe in the crisp air, and take photos of the vast, sunlit landscape—a rare Icelandic spectacle.

More Great Tours Nearby

Safety and Gear for an Off-Road Adventure

Safety is a top priority on this tour. All participants receive helmets, gloves, overalls, and ski masks if needed, ensuring protection against the elements. The guides conduct a 30-minute safety briefing before heading out, covering driving instructions and trail etiquette.

The tour is suitable for those comfortable with outdoor activities and capable of handling moderate driving. The weight limit of 220 kg (485 lbs) ensures safety during the ride. It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing to stay warm and dry in the varying mountain conditions.

While you're exploring Reykjavik, here are other experiences we've looked into

Practical Details: Pickups, Duration, and Included Extras

The pickup service covers multiple locations in Reykjavik, with pickups starting around 20:00. Travelers are advised to be ready by 20:00-20:30. The full experience, including transportation, gear, the ATV ride, and a coffee at basecamp, lasts between 3 and 4 hours.

The actual ATV riding time is approximately 2 hours, giving ample opportunity to enjoy the off-road trails and mountain views. The tour is ideal for outdoor lovers who want to combine adventure with scenic sightseeing in Iceland’s summer light.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Midnight Sun ATV Tour is notable for its unique timing—riding under the sunlit sky at nearly midnight—a phenomenon that only occurs during June and July in Iceland. The combination of mountain climbs, stunning views, and a thrilling off-road ride distinguishes this experience from typical sightseeing tours.

Guides are highly praised for their friendliness and expertise, with reviews highlighting their ability to explain the landscape and ensure safety. The tour’s high rating of 4.8 out of 5 reflects satisfaction with both the scenery and the quality of the ride.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers a remarkable experience, it does require drivers to be at least 17 years old with a valid license. Participants must also meet the weight limit. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

The absence of food is worth noting; travelers should plan to eat beforehand or bring snacks. Also, rental shoes are not included, so sturdy outdoor footwear is recommended.

Who Will Enjoy This Icelandic Adventure?

This Midnight Sun ATV Tour is best suited to adventurous travelers who enjoy off-road driving and scenic mountain views. It’s particularly appealing to those wanting to experience Iceland’s natural beauty during the midnight sun, a truly unique phenomenon.

Families with children aged 6 and above can participate, provided they are non-drivers. The guided nature of the tour and the high safety standards make it a reliable choice for a memorable outdoor activity in Iceland.

Final Thoughts on the Midnight Sun ATV Tour

The Midnight Sun ATV Tour offers an exciting blend of adventure, scenic vistas, and Icelandic summer daylight. Its climbing excursions to Hafrafjall and Ulfarsfell Mountains give a panoramic view of Reykjavik and the surrounding landscape. For those eager to see Iceland from above during the midnight sun, this tour provides an exceptional experience.

The high ratings and praise for guides reflect the quality and safety of the trip. While it requires a bit of physical stamina and adherence to age and weight restrictions, it promises a memorable ride across Iceland’s stunning terrain. For outdoor lovers and adventure seekers, this tour is a great way to enjoy Iceland’s summer daylight in a dynamic, scenic setting.

Ready to Book?

Midnight Sun ATV Tour

4.8

(21)

“They assigned another tour guide with us because we drove slowly then other.”

— Lieyin, June 25, 2019

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 6 and above can participate as non-drivers. Drivers must be at least 17 years old with a valid driver’s license.

What should I bring on the tour?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing suitable for mountain conditions. All safety gear—helmets, gloves, overalls—are provided.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour also offers the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

How long is the overall experience?
Including pickup and drop-off, the entire experience lasts 3 to 4 hours, with approximately 2 hours of ATV riding.

What makes this tour unique?
The opportunity to drive on trails at midnight during the midnight sun and enjoy panoramic mountain views over Reykjavik is what we love about this tour.

Is the tour physically demanding?
While the ride involves off-road driving on trails and mountain slopes, guides ensure safety and provide instructions, making it accessible to most outdoor-active participants.