7 Safari Tours in Iceland to Build a Day Around

1.Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins by Speedboat

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 1,221 reviews · 2 hours · from $175Our pick

Húsavík RIB safari to Puffin Island and Skjálfandi Bay. Modern boat, warm overalls, expert guide, big-whale odds in 2 hours.

“We had such an unforgettable whale-watching tour! For the first two hours, we searched without any luck, but that only made the adventure more exciting. The typical Icelandic weather — strong wind and rain — added to the atmosphere and gave us some pretty high waves, which made the whole experience feel even more real and adventurous. Spotting whales was definitely more challenging in those conditions, and although we didn’t get to see any humpbacks, the tour ended in the most magical way. In the last five minutes, a group of bottlenose whales appeared right next to the boat! Absolutely fantastic and a memory we’ll never forget.”

Check availability →Read our full review

2.Mýrdalsjökull: South Coast ATV Quad Bike Safari

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 470 reviews · 1 - 2 hours · from $144

Ride ATVs at the foot of Mýrdalsjökull, race across black sand at Sólheimasandur, see the DC3 wreck, and enjoy Dyrhólaey views.

“We had a great time, we did this tour two and a half years ago and it was even better the second time. Amazing views and wonderful guides.”

Check availability →Read our full review

3.Original Big Whale Safari & Puffins Speedboat Tour from Húsavík

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 417 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $180Top rated

RIB speedboat whale and puffin safari from Húsavík with expert guides, warm suits, and a 2-hour Skjálfandi Bay chase for giants.

“Fabulous day with an expert crew. We saw several whales and dolphins that were close to the boat. It was a truly magical experience. The size and maneuverability of the rib boats sets it apart from any other experience. Highly recommend!”

Check availability →Read our full review

4.Reykjavik Peak with Safari Quads ATV

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 335 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $129Best value

Quad up Reykjavik Peak with gear and a safety-focused guide, plus Lake Hafravatn views. Hotel pickup and drop-off included.

“The ATV experience was so exhilarating! We rode our ATVs to the top of a mountain for a beautiful view of Reykjavik! The tour guides were fun, professional, and very safety minded!”

Check availability →Read our full review

5.Buggy Safari Tour with Hotel Transfers

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 106 reviews · 2.5 hours · from $206

Reykjavik buggy safari takes you off-road near Hafravatn for a 1-hour drive, Reykjavik Peak views, and hotel transfers, with gear included.

“Was an amazing trip with an amazing guide, that you for a great trip!”

Check availability →Read our full review

6.1 Hour Iceland Nature and Wildlife RIB Small Group Guided Safari

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 62 reviews · 1 hour (approx.) · from $160

Spend an hour in East Iceland on a small-group RIB safari for Atlantic puffins, seals, and possible whales near Bakkagerði.

“Great view of puffins and other animals, RIB is fun. The guides are very nice and knowledgeable. Comedy schtick wears thin. Overall highly recommend.”

Check availability →Read our full review

7.Mývatn: Lake Mývatn ATV Guided Safari Experience

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 42 reviews · 2 hours · from $223

Guided side-by-side ATV safari around Lake Mývatn, with helmet and overalls, offroad riding, and stops for nature and history.

“Ontzettend gave ervaring gehad! Voor de tijd had het geregent dus het terrein was op sommige plekken lekker modderig. Onze gids had een fijn tempo en stopte af en toe om ons meer uitleg te geven over de natuur en het leven op IJsland. Echt een aanrader! ☺️”

Check availability →Read our full review