Iceland’s grandeur is difficult to put into words. This three-day, mostly off-road adventure out of the town of Selfoss delivers striking scenery at every turn—across open highlands, over rolling crests, and through terrain shaped by relentless geological forces. Earthquakes, geysers, volcanic eruptions, and constant tectonic movement have carved a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth.
The tour is operated by Ride with Locals, an Iceland-based outfit with access to more than 22,000 kilometers of trails throughout the interior. Founded to solve the logistical challenge many international riders face when traveling to a remote island in the North Atlantic, the company makes Iceland’s highlands accessible without the complexity of shipping motorcycles or support equipment.
After a direct flight into Reykjavík, the route heads inland toward the highlands. The itinerary is designed around maximum time on the trail, with overnight stays in remote mountain huts. Bikes carry minimal luggage, while a 4x4 support vehicle transports additional gear and provides mechanical backup if needed.
Day one begins with a short stretch of pavement before transitioning onto double-track trails that lead deep into the interior. Regular rainfall keeps dust to a minimum and traction high, allowing riders to focus on navigating the terrain rather than managing conditions. The landscape quickly opens up, setting the tone for the days ahead.
Late August temperatures typically hover in the mid-50s Fahrenheit, and river crossings become a defining element of the ride. Smaller crossings are manageable, while wider rivers with stronger current require careful assessment. In deeper sections, walking the bikes across is often the safest option. Glacial water is cold and fast-moving, making conservative decisions essential. A single mistake in these conditions can quickly turn a routine crossing into a serious mechanical issue.
Evenings are spent in quiet, remote huts scattered throughout the highlands. After long days of riding, these stops provide a chance to rest, share meals, and prepare for the following day. The pace of the tour allows time for photography and exploration, without the pressure of covering excessive distance before nightfall.
Days two and three expand on the experience, traversing a wide range of terrain including black sand tracks, rocky climbs, and repeated river crossings. Each section highlights a different aspect of Iceland’s interior, offering a comprehensive view of the country’s rugged backcountry. The second night’s lodging is even more remote, reinforcing the sense of isolation that defines much of the route.
The tour concludes with riders and machines intact, typically with only minor trail-related issues such as flat tires. The advantage of traveling with a local outfitter lies in route knowledge—understanding where trails connect, how conditions change, and where the landscape opens into truly memorable vistas. Navigation often relies on experience rather than GPS, allowing the ride to flow naturally through the terrain.
As Ride with Locals notes on its website, “Sometimes you find yourself in the middle of nowhere, and in the middle of nowhere you find yourself.” That philosophy defines the experience. The result is an immersive journey through one of the most remote and visually striking riding environments on the planet.
More information is available at www.ridewithlocals.is.
