Northern Lights Viking Way ATV Adventure
Hunt the Aurora Borealis by quad bike under Iceland's vast night sky
This Northern Lights ATV adventure takes small groups away from Reykjavik's city glow and into the open darkness surrounding Lake Hafravatn and Mount Hafrafell, offering a rare combination of off-road riding and aurora hunting in a single evening. Only 15 minutes from the capital, the landscape shifts dramatically, revealing panoramic views over the illuminated city and the mountains beyond. It is the kind of night that stays with you long after you return home.
Riding through the dark with only your headlights to guide the way is a thrill in itself, independent of any aurora sighting. The route winds past Lake Hafravatn and up toward Mount Hafrafell, where the absence of light pollution gives your eyes the best chance of catching the Aurora Borealis dancing above the horizon. On clear nights, stargazing and shooting star spotting are part of the experience as well.
The tour operates in small groups of up to eight people, keeping the atmosphere intimate and allowing guides to adapt stops based on conditions and aurora forecasts. Warm overalls are provided on-site, though riders are encouraged to layer up with thermals underneath, as night riding in Iceland can be significantly colder than daytime temperatures suggest.
Booking early in your Iceland stay is strongly recommended. If weather or aurora activity is unfavorable on your first attempt, rescheduling to a later date remains an option, giving you the best possible chance of witnessing the lights during your trip.
Tour Highlights
Ride an ATV through Iceland's dark wilderness on a guided night route around Lake Hafravatn and Mount Hafrafell.
Hunt for the Aurora Borealis far from city light pollution, in one of the most accessible dark-sky zones near Reykjavik.
Experience the tour in a small group of no more than eight participants, ensuring a personal and unhurried adventure.
Enjoy sweeping panoramic views over the glowing cityscape of Reykjavik and the town of Mosfellsbær from elevated vantage points.
Gaze at Iceland's unpolluted night sky and watch for shooting stars on clear evenings between aurora stops.
Warm overalls are provided on location so you stay comfortable during the cold night ride without needing specialist gear.
Flexible rescheduling is available when weather or cloud cover prevents a fair attempt, protecting your booking investment.
Tour Itinerary
Guests are collected from most hotels in the Reykjavik area. Those with a private vehicle may meet the group directly at the launch point near Lake Hafravatn using a designated promo code for a discounted rate.
On arrival, riders are fitted with warm overalls and helmets. Guides walk all participants through ATV operation, safety procedures, and the planned route before departure.
The convoy heads into the darkness surrounding Lake Hafravatn, leaving city lights behind. Riders follow the guide along trails that offer open views of the sky and the illuminated Reykjavik skyline in the distance.
The guide selects optimal stopping points around Mount Hafrafell where participants scan the sky for the Northern Lights. On clear nights, shooting stars are frequently visible and the guide shares information about the aurora and Iceland's night sky.
At elevated points along the route, riders pause to take in the full panorama of Reykjavik and Mosfellsbær glowing against the dark landscape, a striking contrast unique to this area.
After approximately 90 minutes of riding, the group returns to the base. Hotel drop-off is provided for those who were picked up, completing the round trip.
What Is Included
Included
- ATV rental for the duration of the tour
- Warm overalls and helmet provided on-site
- Professional guide throughout the ride
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from most Reykjavik area hotels
- Flexible rescheduling option if weather is unfavorable
Not Included
- Northern Lights sighting (natural phenomenon, not guaranteed)
- Personal thermal or wool base layers
- Camera or photography equipment
- Gratuities for guides
- Pickup from downtown Reykjavik hotels (city restrictions apply)
Important Information
Reserve Your Night on the ATV
Spaces on this small-group tour fill quickly, especially during peak aurora season. Book your spot now and keep your options open with the flexible rescheduling policy.
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