Vestmannaeyjar in 1 Day for Families - Guided 1-hour ATV circuit around Eldfell volcano
In Collaboration with Volcano ATV. Updated on February 13, 2026.
Come and enjoy a 1 hour guided ATV tour around the volcano Eldfell on Heimaey (Vestmannaeyjar). The route includes Prestvík beach (site of the Pelagus wreck), the coastal area where Guðlaugur Friðþórsson reached land after the Hellisey VE 503 sinking, driving around recent lava fields and into the middle slopes of Eldfell with dramatic coastal views. Automatic two-person ATVs; drivers must hold a驾
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Volcano ATV, inspired by the tour Volcano ATV Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided 1-hour ATV circuit around Eldfell volcano
- Visit Prestvík beach (Pelagus shipwreck area)
- See the landing site associated with Guðlaugur Friðþórsson and the Hellisey VE 503 sinking
- Drive across recent lava fields and coastal viewpoints
- Family-friendly ATVs (2-person machines) with waterproof gear and helmets
- On-helmet communication to hear stories at stops
Itinerary
Day 1
1-hour guided ATV experience around Eldfell and nearby historical coastal sites. Total booked time on location is 60 minutes.
Meet & check-in at Volcano ATV base
Arrive, sign waivers, be fitted with waterproof jacket/pants, gloves and helmet. Staff assign ATVs and double-check driver licences and passenger ages (passengers must be 6+).
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time to allow for paperwork and fitting of helmets and waterproofs.
- Drivers must bring a valid driving licence (passport is not an accepted replacement for licence verification).
- Bring warm layers and closed-toe shoes — waterproof outerwear is provided but inner layers are important in summer Icelandic coastal weather.
Safety briefing & practice run
Short safety briefing, demonstration on the automatic ATV controls and a brief supervised practice loop near the base to confirm drivers are comfortable before heading onto open terrain.
Tips from local experts:
- Listen carefully to commands and ask staff to repeat any instruction — helmets include communication units so you will hear the guide at all times.
- Children riding as passengers must be able to sit securely; bring any necessary child harnesses if your child normally uses one (staff will advise on safe seating).
- If anyone in your group is pregnant or has recent injuries, notify staff before mounting the ATV; staff will advise about suitability.
Guided ATV tour: Prestvík beach, Guðlaugur landing area, Eldfell slopes & coastal viewpoints
Main guided circuit (approx. 35 minutes of driving) visiting Prestvík beach (Pelagus wreck area), the coastal stretch associated with Guðlaugur Friðþórsson's landing after the Hellisey VE 503 sinking, driving around and onto lava fields and into the middle slopes of Eldfell for panoramic coastal views. Guide stops at key historical points to share stories using the helmet communication system.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep cameras and phones in a secure pocket or small dry bag — rough terrain can jostle loose items during the ride.
- Follow the guide’s spacing and speed instructions closely; groups will travel at family-friendly pace with frequent stops for photos and storytelling.
- Expect gusty coastal winds near Eldfell and on exposed ridges — secure any loose hats and eyewear before leaving the vehicles.
Return, gear drop-off & quick debrief
Return to base, remove and return provided waterproofs, helmets, and gloves. Short wrap-up with opportunity to ask the guide questions or get local recommendations.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow a few minutes after the tour for staff to inspect and collect equipment; keep any personal rubbish with you until bins are available at the base.
- If you need to change clothing, bring a dry towel or quick-change clothes; the base has limited space, so plan accordingly.
- Ask the guide for short, family-friendly walking suggestions on Heimaey if you plan to continue exploring after the ATV (timing and daylight vary by season).
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 6 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 4 |
| Activities Types | Experience, Outdoor, Break |