What to expect on an ATV tour

On land and from the water, the Westman Islands really deliver when it comes to making memories. Adventure and fun go hand in hand as you explore the volcanic island of Heimaey. If you’ve never ridden on an ATV before, you might be curious as to what it’s going to be like. We’re happy to answer any questions if you have them, but here’s a brief guide about what to expect on an ATV tour to get you started.

You won’t miss out on Heimaey’s scenery

If you want to see the scenery during your visit to Heimaey, you can go for a hike to some of the island’s sights. But there’s a downside to this option. For one thing, it takes a lot of effort. Although the harbour area is flat, once you start to walk inland the road is a little steep, so you’re going to feel the exertion.

You might choose to get round this by bringing your rental car over on the ferry so you can drive around. This gets over the issue of the hills, though some parts of the island are still accessible to cars so you’d have to get out and walk in some places. The good thing about an ATV is obvious from its name: all-terrain vehicle. You really can immerse yourself in the landscape.

You’ll get full instruction before we set off

Riding an ATV is child’s play – it’s easy to pick up how to do it. Safety’s important and we are fully licensed. We’ll show you the ropes and make sure you’re confident at the wheel before we set off on our tour. That means you can relax and enjoy the scenery as we set off around beautiful Heimaey. Communication shouldn’t be a problem as our guides speak both Icelandic and English. 

Book an ATV ride and you can see some of the island’s sights such as Prestvik Beach and get a close up look at Eldfell volcano’s lava field. Also, it’s a good way of covering more ground if your time in the Westman Islands is limited. Group tours last for an hour, but what an action-packed hour that is! Alternatively, we can customise the tour to your needs, perhaps a puffin add-on or luxury option with food.  

You’ll have lots of fun

Riding our ATVs is a lot of fun. For visitors who don’t have their own driving licence, we offer the option to can ride alongside someone who does – if that’s you, you won’t feel left out. Tandem or solo, you’ll all enjoy the thrill of riding around on these versatile buggies. As long as the youngest travellers are over six years old, our ATV tours are suitable for all the family.

During the tour, you’ll navigate uneven terrain and see what the landscape is like beyond the town. We build in stops at some of the most interesting places on the island. That gives you plenty of opportunity to take some souvenir selfies – your photos will bring a smile to your face again once you get home.

You might get a bit dirty

Adventurous activities are a lot of fun, but you might also get a little dirty as ash and sand flick up from the ATV’s wheels. That shouldn’t be a problem as we supply overalls, gloves and helmets which protect your own clothes – and you – underneath. Nevertheless, we wouldn’t recommend you wear your best outfit.

Another thing to contend with might be the weather. Iceland’s weather is full on, particularly to the south of the island around the Stórhöfði peninsula, which is one of the windiest places in the country. Conditions can change rapidly and you might experience sunshine one minute and rain or sleet the next, but hey, that’s Iceland for you! 

You’ll feel exhilarated 

We can also tell you that it’s an exhilarating ride, but don’t take our word for it. Get in touch and secure your place on our ATV tour and inject some fun into your Westman Islands visit.