Iceland: Volcanic Landscape Horse Riding Tour

Imagine riding through otherworldly volcanic terrain, where rugged lava fields meet rolling hills, all while sitting comfortably on one of Iceland’s iconic Icelandic horses. This Volcanic Landscape Horse Riding Tour offers a chance to see the wild beauty of Iceland from a fresh perspective—on horseback, under the guidance of local experts.

Starting in the Capital Region, this 2-hour tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of Iceland’s geology, culture, and equine charm. We love how the small group setting (limited to 8 participants) ensures a personal experience, with knowledgeable guides eager to share their insights. The highlight is definitely learning about the tölt, the smooth, distinctive gait that makes Icelandic horses revered worldwide.

One thing to keep in mind: this experience may not be suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with certain physical restrictions. But if you’re comfortable outdoors and eager to connect with Iceland’s landscape and its famous horses, this tour can be a memorable highlight of your trip.

This experience really suits travelers who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path excursions. Whether you’re a horseback riding enthusiast or just curious to see Iceland’s volcanic terrain from a different vantage point, you’ll find this tour both enjoyable and enriching.

Key Points

Unique volcanic scenery: Ride through lava fields and rugged landscapes, experiencing the raw beauty of Iceland’s geology.
Small group intimacy: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Learn about Icelandic horses: Discover the tölt gait, a hallmark of these resilient animals, and appreciate their importance in Icelandic culture.
Expert local guides: Guides are knowledgeable about the landscape, horses, and Icelandic traditions.
Flexible scheduling: Tours run in the morning or afternoon, so you can choose a time that fits your day.
Family-friendly considerations: Not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with allergies; proper outdoor attire is recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

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The Meeting Point and Ease of Access

You’ll meet your guide at a designated spot in the Capital Region, where the horse trailers are parked near a boom barrier. The instructions are clear: arrive 15 minutes early to get ready. If the gate doesn’t open promptly, a quick call will solve the issue. The meeting point’s accessibility, including public transport options like bus number 2, makes it simple to reach without renting a car.

The Ride Itself

Once introduced to your Icelandic horse, expect a brief safety and riding orientation—important since these horses have a unique gait called the tölt. This gait is renowned for its silky smoothness, providing a comfortable ride even across uneven volcanic terrain.

As you set off, your guide will lead you through the volcanic landscape, where you’ll see lava fields, volcanic craters, and rugged hills. The scenery feels almost untouched, with the raw power of Iceland’s volcanic past evident in the jagged rocks and blackened earth.

The Landscape and Views

The tour offers a chance to appreciate Iceland’s dramatic scenery. We loved the way the landscape seems both familiar and alien, with black lava formations contrasting against the green moss and distant mountains. The views are suitable for photography, but keep your camera ready—you’ll likely want to capture the sweeping vistas.

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The Guide Experience

Our guide, named in some reviews as patient and knowledgeable, made all the difference. They explained not only the technical aspects of riding but also shared stories about Iceland’s geology and horse culture. One reviewer noted, “The guide teaching patiently. The trip was very great,” highlighting how helpful a good guide can be, especially if you’re new to riding or unfamiliar with Icelandic horses.

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The Horses

The Icelandic horse is a charming, sturdy breed, prized for its endurance and unique gait. You’ll enjoy the tölt, a smooth, single-foot gait that makes for a surprisingly comfortable ride over volcanic rocks and uneven ground. The horses are well-trained and calm, making it a safe experience for most riders.

Duration, Cost, and Value

At two hours, the tour strikes a good balance—long enough to learn about the landscape without feeling rushed. The price is reasonable considering the personalized experience, the quality of the horses, and the expertise of the guides. Remember, this includes the introduction to horseback riding, making it suitable even for beginners—though some physical activity is involved.

What to Expect and How to Prepare

What to bring: Comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing are a must, as weather in Iceland can change quickly. Dress in layers and bring rain gear if necessary.

What’s not included: Transportation to the meeting point, food, and drinks. Plan ahead if you want a snack afterward or need assistance with logistics.

Accessibility note: Not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with certain animal allergies. The weight limit is 243 lbs (110 kg), so check if you fall within this range.

Timing: The tour runs at various times, so check availability to find a slot that fits your schedule. Arriving early helps ensure a smooth start.

The Authenticity of the Experience

This tour offers more than just a ride; it’s a chance to connect with Iceland’s landscape and culture in a genuine way. The landscape’s volcanic features are unmatched elsewhere, and riding through lava fields is a rare privilege. The guide’s insights deepen your understanding of the terrain’s volcanic history, adding educational value to the adventure.

Authenticity and Reviews

A review from Allen sums it up well: “The guide teaching patiently. The trip was very great.” That personal touch, combined with stunning scenery, makes this experience stand out. The small group size cultivates a relaxed environment where questions are encouraged, and you can truly appreciate the landscape without feeling rushed.

Analyzing the Value

Compared to other outdoor activities in Iceland—like glacier hikes or whale watching—this horseback tour offers an intimate, less crowded alternative. It’s particularly appealing if you’re interested in local culture and horses or want a break from more physically demanding excursions.

The cost reflects the personalized guided experience, the quality of the horses, and the scenic environment. For those who value authentic encounters and a quiet, scenic ride, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure travelers who enjoy riding and want to discover Iceland’s volcanic beauty without a lengthy commitment. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with family members over 12 who are comfortable outdoors. If you’re keen to learn about Icelandic horses and experience nature in a peaceful setting, this tour fits the bill.

However, it’s less suitable for pregnant women, those with allergies to animals, or travelers over 110 kg. Also, those seeking a high-adrenaline adventure or a longer ride might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

The Iceland: Volcanic Landscape Horse Riding Tour offers a wonderfully authentic way to experience Iceland’s rugged terrain on the back of a resilient Icelandic horse. The two-hour ride balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a gentle introduction to riding, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

You’ll love the expert guidance and the chance to see volcanic landscapes that are unlike anywhere else. The smooth tölt gait makes the ride comfortable even over uneven ground, adding to the pleasure of the experience. Plus, the small group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure you’ll feel looked after and informed.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate nature, culture, and horses—and are looking for a personal, less touristy way to explore Iceland’s volcanic past. If you want to combine adventure with education and enjoy stunning scenery from a local perspective, this ride may just become one of your favorite Icelandic memories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, an introduction to horseback riding is included, and the horses are well-trained, making it accessible for beginners.

How long is the ride?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, outdoor clothing, and layers are recommended, as weather can change quickly.

Can children participate?
Not suitable for children under 12 years old.

Are pregnant women allowed?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate.

How do I get to the meeting point?
Public transportation like bus number 2 is available, or you can drive and follow instructions to the gate where all horse trailers are parked.