From Throttle to Skyline: Reykjavík’s ATV and Helicopter Combo That Shows Iceland Fast and Close
Two ways to see Iceland in one striking half-day—up close on four wheels, and from the sky.
You start the day with the engine under your hands and the horizon daring you. The ATV team meets you at a base just outside the capital, a low-slung cluster of sheds and oil-streaked helmets where the air tastes faintly of metal and hot wool. After a short safety briefing and a pair of gloves, you climb into the single-file line of quads and the landscape opens—black lava hummocks, soft moss that looks like velvet and could be destroyed by a single misstep, and the city’s low-slung geometry shrinking behind you like an afterthought. The machines climb; you climb with them. The peak they call Reykjavik Peak isn’t an Alpine scramble, but from its ridge you get that satisfying, expanding-view breath: rooftops, harbor, and the North Atlantic folding away toward Greenland.
Trail Wisdom
Layer for variable weather
Bring windproof outer layers and a warm midlayer—the temperature can change rapidly between shore and ridge.
Protect Iceland’s moss
Stay on designated trails—moss is fragile and can take decades to recover after being crushed by tires or boots.
Stow electronics safely
Use a wrist strap or chest harness for cameras—rotor wash and jolting ATV terrain make loose gear vulnerable.
Confirm pickup and drop-off
Operator provides pickup from Reykjavík; helicopter teams can’t always return you to hotels but can order a taxi if needed.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Seltjarnarnes lighthouse for quick coastal views of Reykjavík Bay
- •Turf houses near the city outskirts that hint at traditional Icelandic architecture
Wildlife
Arctic tern (seasonal, migratory), Icelandic sheep seen grazing on hillsides
Conservation Note
Iceland’s fragile moss and tundra recover slowly—stay on marked routes, avoid disturbing nesting birds, and pack out all waste.
Reykjavík grew from a few fishing farms into Iceland’s capital in the 18th–19th centuries; geology and harbor access shaped settlement patterns.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Thawing landscapes, Migratory birds, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Unpredictable weather, Boggy ground on some trails
Spring offers fresh landscapes and fewer people but bring waterproof layers and expect variable trail conditions.
summer
Best for: Long daylight, Mild temperatures, Best flight windows
Challenges: Higher demand/bookings fill, Windy days still possible
Summer is optimal for clear helicopter views and comfortable ATV rides—book early for preferred dates.
fall
Best for: Autumnal tones, Cooler light for photos, Lower crowds
Challenges: Shortening daylight, Colder temperatures
Fall delivers rich colors and dramatic skies—pack warm layers and plan around shorter days.
winter
Best for: Snow-dusted landscapes, Aurora potential at night, Crisp air
Challenges: Short daylight, possible cancellations, Colder conditions requiring heavier gear
Winter tours are atmospheric but weather-dependent—expect possible rescheduling and dress for cold and wind.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Protect ankles and provide grip for mounting ATVs and standing at viewing stops.
Windproof shell and warm midlayerEssential
Blocks rotor chill and changing weather on exposed ridges.
Compact camera with spare battery
Helicopter windows and open views reward quick, durable cameras—extra power is essential.
Gloves (and liners)Essential
Provided gear may be bulky—bring comfortable gloves for throttle control and warmth.
Common Questions
Do I need prior ATV experience?
No—operators provide a safety briefing and basic instruction; riders of average mobility are usually fine, but disclose any limitations before booking.
How long is the helicopter flight?
Flight time varies with routing and weather, but the full experience (including transfers and briefings) is about five hours total.
Is pickup included?
Yes—pickups are arranged from central Reykjavík locations, but confirm your pickup point when you book.
Can the helicopter return me to my hotel?
Helicopter teams typically cannot provide hotel drop-off; they can, however, order a taxi for you after the flight.
What happens in bad weather?
Operators prioritize safety and may reschedule or cancel flights in poor weather—book flexible travel plans and check their cancellation policy.
Are children allowed?
Age and weight limits may apply—check with the operator ahead of time; children typically must meet safety requirements for both ATV and helicopter segments.
What to Pack
Waterproof shell (winds and rotor spray), warm midlayer (temperature swings), sturdy boots (ATV footing), compact camera with spare battery (capture aerial and ground shots)
Did You Know
Reykjavík is the northernmost capital of a sovereign state in the world.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early for summer dates; carry ID and confirmation for pickup; tell operator about any mobility or health concerns; keep small Icelandic cash or card for unexpected taxi rides.
Local Flavor
After the tour, head to Reykjavík’s harborfront for a bowl of seafood soup at Sægreifinn (The Sea Baron) or a craft beer at Ölverk or MicroBar; stroll Laugavegur for shops and local design finds.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Keflavík (KEF) ~45 minutes from Reykjavík; Typical pickup: central Reykjavík hotels; Driving distance to ATV base: 20–40 minutes depending on route; Cell service: reliable near the city, intermittent on remote sections; Permits: none required for the tour.
Sustainability Note
Iceland’s moss and tundra are easily damaged and slow to regrow—stay on designated trails, avoid off-trail riding, and pack out all trash to protect fragile habitats.