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Drive an ATV into Iceland’s high-country after dark to hunt the northern lights above Hafravatn and Hafrafell. This guided night-ride pairs rugged trails, stargazing and panoramic views back to Reykjavík.
Drive an ATV into Iceland’s high-country after dark to hunt the northern lights above Hafravatn and Hafrafell. This guided night-ride pairs rugged trails, stargazing and panoramic views back to Reykjavík.
Headlamps fade and the city’s glow slips behind you as the ATV’s thrum becomes the only human sound. The trail opens onto black lava fields and a dark mirror of Hafravatn; above, the night sky waits. Guides steer quads up toward Hafrafell where panoramic ridgelines give sweeping views back over Reykjavík and Mosfellsbær, and every pause is an invitation to scan for green curtains and meteors.
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Operated by Action Adventures · Reykjavík, Capital Region
Headlamps fade and the city’s glow slips behind you as the ATV’s thrum becomes the only human sound. The trail opens onto black lava fields and a dark mirror of Hafravatn; above, the night sky waits. Guides steer quads up toward Hafrafell where panoramic ridgelines give sweeping views back over Reykjavík and Mosfellsbær, and every pause is an invitation to scan for green curtains and meteors.
This corner of the Capital Region sits atop recent volcanic rock and glacially-sculpted valleys; basalt outcrops and thin soil mean moss and lichen reclaim the ground slowly. The area around Hafravatn has been used historically for grazing and small farms, and modern Reykjavíkers still head here for short escapes from urban light. Culturally the night hunt blends practical Icelandic toughness with a long standing respect for the elements—guides watch weather windows carefully and treat aurora-chasing as patience more than promise.
Practical guidance: rides run 2–3 hours; drivers must hold a full driving license and be prepared for cold, wind, and dust. Dress in insulated layers, bring handwarmers and a phone or camera with night mode. Expect uneven, rocky tracks and short uphill sections; speeds vary by conditions and visibility. Operators commonly double up riders on quads unless a single-ride option is purchased.
If the aurora doesn’t appear, the trip still delivers winter landscapes, stargazing and a raw night-ride experience. Leave headlamps low, follow the guide, and treat the ground and sky with equal care—this is a high-adrenaline way to meet Iceland’s night.
Yes—drivers must present a full driving license; passengers do not need a license and must be at least six years old.
Tours run when skies show potential; if the aurora fail to appear operators often focus on stargazing and scenic viewpoints or will cancel for unsuitable weather with a full refund if within policy.
Yes—most hotels in the Reykjavík area are included; downtown pickup may use designated tourist bus stops instead of door-to-door service.
Yes—the operator supplies helmets, gloves and riding gear; bring your own warm socks and layered clothing though.
Action Adventures operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Headlamps fade and the city’s glow slips behind you as the ATV’s thrum becomes the only human sound. The trail opens onto black lava fields and a dark mirror of Hafravatn; above, the night sky waits. Guides steer quads up toward Hafrafell where panoramic ridgelines give sweeping views back over Reykjavík and Mosfellsbær, and every pause is an invitation to scan for green curtains and meteors.
Headlamps fade and the city’s glow slips behind you as the ATV’s thrum becomes the only human sound. The trail opens onto black lava fields and a dark mirror of Hafravatn; above, the night sky waits. Guides steer quads up toward Hafrafell where panoramic ridgelines give sweeping views back over Reykjavík and Mosfellsbær, and every pause is an invitation to scan for green curtains and meteors.
This corner of the Capital Region sits atop recent volcanic rock and glacially-sculpted valleys; basalt outcrops and thin soil mean moss and lichen reclaim the ground slowly. The area around Hafravatn has been used historically for grazing and small farms, and modern Reykjavíkers still head here for short escapes from urban light. Culturally the night hunt blends practical Icelandic toughness with a long standing respect for the elements—guides watch weather windows carefully and treat aurora-chasing as patience more than promise.
Practical guidance: rides run 2–3 hours; drivers must hold a full driving license and be prepared for cold, wind, and dust. Dress in insulated layers, bring handwarmers and a phone or camera with night mode. Expect uneven, rocky tracks and short uphill sections; speeds vary by conditions and visibility. Operators commonly double up riders on quads unless a single-ride option is purchased.
If the aurora doesn’t appear, the trip still delivers winter landscapes, stargazing and a raw night-ride experience. Leave headlamps low, follow the guide, and treat the ground and sky with equal care—this is a high-adrenaline way to meet Iceland’s night.