definitelynotjustin
19 Apr 2022
From the second Olaf picked us up in his van I knew this was going to be an unforgettable experience. Normally I wouldn't suggest getting in a large black van with a stranger, but alas, in this case it was scheduled, and quite honestly, even if it wasn't, Olaf's incredible good looks could make even the most cautious forget their street smarts. Our ride to the Safari Quads Base from downtown Reykjavik was only 15 minutes or so, but in that time I learned more information of benefit than I did during my 4 and a half years of university. Must-go vacation spots (in Iceland and beyond), restaraunts, music, etc. This was honestly the only time I think I wished a car ride was longer. I would tell you more about the conversations that were had during the pick-up ride, but I don't want to expose all the secrets we shared.
Upon arriving at the Base, Olaf's magnificent flowy hair (which I believe was gelled to perfection) guided us into a beautiful, modern space inside which he immediately offered us complementary coffee and hot chocolate. I must admit here that my priority upon entering the building was to find a washroom in which I could unload a very high-pressure liquid spray all over the inside of a toilet bowl, and I was extremely pleased to find that their washroom offerings were genderless! The word progressive was not previously part of my vocabulary in describing my Icelandic adventures, but Safari Quads truly is a space that seems inviting to all. I'll also note that the washrooms were clean -- if that's something that matters to you. If urine on the seat is your thing though, I'd perhaps suggest another tour operator. After my pleasurable experience in the washroom, I was able to quickly enjoy a delicious cup of coffee before being suited up in a very comfortable snowsuit-esque garment, beleclava, helmet, and pair of gloves. I want to take a moment here to appreciate Olaf's attention to detail when it came to my helmet selection as not only did he take into account my glasses, but he also ensured that I was provided with the least scratched visor of the bunch. Because I wear glasses, it is fair to conclude that I'm blinder than Helen Keller, and so I truly appreciate Olaf giving me the best chance at sight for the entire tour.
Once I was suited up and ready to go, Olaf took our group out to stand around the Buggys and admire his beauty even further as he instructed us on how to use the vehicles, and reminded us of some key rules that we signed off on earlier. Once I agreed that I wouldn't intentionally roll the Buggy for a laugh, it was time to get the show on the road. Olaf mounted his ATV (which he explained the guides still use during the Buggy tours in order to ensure that they are able to action any issues that may arise more quickly than if they were also in a buggy) like a prince mounting a stallion, and my group boarded our Buggys. I was lucky in that my group only consisted of my sibling as well as another duo, and thus once we left the base to embark on the hour long journey, there was little slowing us down. We spent a few minutes zooming on the road to get to the trails, and once we were on them, we hit the gas harder than Will Smith hit Chris Rock at this year's Oscars. On gravel and rocky terrain, and through mud and puddles, Olaf had us all overwhelmed with excitement and stopped a few times along the route to ensure that everything was going well with all members of the group. On the day of the tour we had absolutely incredible weather, and as a result we were able to see mountain after mountain, tree after tree, and body of water after body of water. The ride climaxed (as I almost did from all the fun) at a scenic lookout, and Olaf again went above and beyond by offering to take photos of the group without first being asked (which turned out beautifully I might add). Again we enjoyed a fabulous conversation with Olaf about life and its many trials and tribulations, and eventually we took off again to trek back to Base. With more safety stops along the way (including stops to remove large hazardous boulders from the trail for the benefit of future riders), Olaf continued to ensure we felt secure and well cared for on our journey, while also going fast enough between the brief stops to ensure we all had a blast. We arrived back at the Base sad that our adventure was over, but inexplicably happy that it happened. After stripping back down to my civilian garb, I enjoyed another quick caffeine boost, signed their wall, and prepared for the journey to the Bus Terminal for the Golden Circle part of the tour (which I won't touch on in this review as it was unfortunately not run by the amazing folks at Safari Quads). Now, you might think that this is where the review should end given that the actual adventure was over, but alas, as the trip to Base was an adventure in itself, so too was the trip to the Bus Terminal. We loaded up the van with not only our Buggy crew, but also the leftover folks from the ATV adventure who did not drive to the location on their own -- and while Olaf was majestically gazing us from the passenger seat, his colleague Alex took a seat behind the wheel. Like Olaf, Alex was incredibly friendly and engaged us in conversation during the entire journey. He shared with us his favourite food spots, some must-try dishes, and his charming good looks (truly must be something in the water at Safari Quads). Yet another remarkable man working for a remarkable company in a remarkable location of the world.
To conclude, I just want to say that of the tours I've taken thus far during my time in Iceland, this was by far the most fun, friendly, and thrilling of them all. Should I ever find myself back in the area, I will definitely make sure another visit to Safari Quads is on my list, and I hope that Olafur and Alex will be there to entertain me once more.