Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik

Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik: A Genuine Icelandic Experience

If you’re heading to Reykjavik and looking for a way to truly connect with Iceland’s rugged landscape and its legendary horses, the Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour offered by Ishestar is a solid choice. For $143.66 per person, you get approximately two hours of riding through volcanic lava fields, moorlands, lakes, and distant mountains, led by friendly, knowledgeable guides. The tour’s high rating of 5.0 from over a thousand reviews speaks volumes about its quality—and the fact that 96% of travelers recommend it suggests this isn’t just a fun ride but a highlight of many trips.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it caters to different experience levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy the scenery comfortably. Plus, the chance to learn about and meet the Viking descendants—the Icelandic horses—adds an educational layer that enriches the experience. The opportunity for a hot chocolate at the end makes it feel well-rounded and cozy, especially given Iceland’s often brisk weather.

One thing to consider is the weather dependency; since this is an outdoor activity in Iceland, rain or wind can affect your ride. But the tour provider is clear about cancellations for poor weather, making it more practical to plan accordingly.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, horseback riding enthusiasts, and anyone eager to get off the beaten path—literally—to explore Iceland’s wild side. It’s suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, with options to customize the pace and route.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic horses: Descendants of Viking breeds, known for their smooth tölt gait.
• Flexible experience levels: Rides tailored for beginners to advanced riders, with customized paces.
• Stunning scenery: Lava fields, volcanic mountains, lakes, and moorlands all part of the route.
• Comfort and safety: Helmets, rain gear, rubber boots, and warm overalls provided.
• Convenient options: Tours with or without pickup from Reykjavik; just check the booking details.
• Post-ride refreshment: Warm coffee, tea, or hot chocolate to unwind and reflect.

An In-Depth Look at the Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This isn’t just a simple horse ride; it’s a carefully curated experience that combines Iceland’s natural beauty with its history. The tour’s starting point at Sörlaskeið in Hafnarfjörður, just a short drive from Reykjavik, makes it accessible and manageable whether you’re relying on transportation or driving yourself. The guided format ensures safety and education, with instructors adjusting routes based on your skill level.

The guides are consistently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. As one reviewer noted, “The guides were great! Very helpful and friendly,” which instantly reassures first-timers or nervous riders. The guides also provide insights into the history and care of the Icelandic horses, descendants of the Vikings, which adds a layer of cultural appreciation to the ride.

The Itinerary and Riding Experience

Upon arrival, you’ll meet your instructor, who will ask about your riding experience—be it beginner, intermediate, or experienced. Following a brief instructional video and the required gear fitting (helmets, rain gear, rubber boots, warm overalls), you’ll mount your horse. The staff takes care to match riders with appropriate horses, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience.

The core of the ride is through lava fields and volcanic terrain, which means you’re not just riding through a manicured pasture but a landscape shaped by ancient eruptions. These lava-laden scenery offers an otherworldly backdrop that really sets this tour apart from more typical equestrian outings.

Depending on your skill level and preference, you can choose between a gentle walk or a more adventurous ride that includes the unique tölt gait—a smooth four-beat gait unique to Icelandic horses that makes riding over rugged terrain surprisingly comfortable. One review enthusiastically mentioned trotting and even a short gallop, appealing to those who crave a bit of speed.

Group Size and Personal Attention

With a maximum of 30 participants, the group is well-sized for safety but still small enough for personalized attention. Several reviews highlight how guides actively assist and communicate during the ride, often taking photos with your own phone if asked, which is a thoughtful touch. Riders have also appreciated the split into different groups, including a slower, beginner-friendly route and faster options for more confident riders.

Scenery and Authenticity

The highlight of the ride is undoubtedly the landscape. Expect to weave through lava fields, pass volcanic mountains, and cross small lakes, all while riding beside these gentle, sturdy horses. Many reviewers rave about the stunning views and how the landscape’s raw, volcanic beauty makes this a memorable outing. One enthusiast described the scenery as “amazing,” and another said snow in the landscape added to the experience, showing how versatile this tour is across seasons.

Post-Ride Comfort and Reflection

After the ride, you’ll return to the stables and be offered warm coffee, tea, or hot chocolate—a welcome treat after being outdoors in Iceland’s often brisk weather. The hospitality at the stables receives consistent praise, with travelers mentioning the welcoming atmosphere and the well-cared-for horses.

Pricing and Value

At roughly $143.66 per person, this tour offers excellent value given the duration and quality. The inclusion of riding gear, instructions, and refreshments means there are few hidden costs. The reviews emphasize that the guides’ knowledge, the quality of the horses, and the stunning scenery make this a worthwhile expense—particularly for those interested in authentic Icelandic culture and adventure.

Practical Considerations

• Booking ahead is recommended, with most travelers booking about 36 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.
• Age and weight limits are 8+ years and 110kg/240lbs, respectively, ensuring safety for most riders.
• Weather sensitivity is an important point; Iceland’s climate can change rapidly, so be prepared for rain or wind.
• Transportation: If you arrive by car, plan to be at the stables 30 minutes early.
• Physical fitness: Moderate fitness is needed; riders must be able to mount independently and stay balanced during the ride.
• Children count: Up to two children per adult can join, paying full fare, making this suitable for families.

Review Highlights and Authentic Voices

Several reviews echo how much riders appreciated the guides’ professionalism and the well-cared-for horses. One reviewer called it “a great horse riding stable with wonderful and friendly guides,” while another shared how the staff managed a tricky situation efficiently, which speaks to their professionalism.

For beginners, the experience feels approachable—guides are attentive and often split groups to match comfort levels. For seasoned riders, options to go faster or attempt a tölt make the ride more exciting. Many mentioned how the guides helped them feel at ease, even if they were initially nervous. That kind of personalized care makes all the difference.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback riding adventure is perfect for nature lovers who want more than just a scenic drive; it’s for those eager to get hands-on with Iceland’s legendary horses. It suits beginners and experienced riders, with the flexibility to choose your pace and route. If you’re looking for an authentic encounter with Iceland’s volcanic landscapes and a chance to learn about Viking-era horses, this tour fits the bill.

It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with family, as the age limit is 8, and the safety measures are reassuring. Those with a moderate level of physical fitness will find it manageable, and if weather is clear, you’ll enjoy picture-perfect vistas that will stay with you long after your return home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need riding experience to join this tour?
No. The tour is designed for all levels—beginners, intermediates, and experienced riders—so you can participate whether you’re just starting out or have been riding for years.

What should I wear?
The tour provides rain gear, rubber boots, helmets, and warm overalls, but it’s wise to dress in layers and bring a hat and gloves, especially if it’s cold or windy.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 8 and over can join, as long as they are accompanied by an adult. Up to two children per adult can ride, and they pay full fare.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe or too poor, the tour will be canceled, and you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are the horses well cared for?
Absolutely. Reviewers consistently mention how well groomed and friendly the horses are, and guides are praised for their knowledge and kindness.

Is transportation included?
Pre-booked pick-up and drop-off are available, but if you arrive on your own, plan to be at the stables 30 minutes before your scheduled start.

How long does the ride last?
The ride lasts approximately two hours, including instructions, mounting, riding, and cool-down time.

What makes the Icelandic horse unique?
These horses are descendants of Viking breeds, known for their tölt, a smooth gait that makes riding over Iceland’s uneven terrain surprisingly comfortable.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik means opting for a memorable, authentic Icelandic experience that combines natural beauty, cultural history, and the joy of riding these friendly, resilient horses. The tour’s flexible structure and attentive guides make it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of travelers, whether you’re in Iceland for a brief visit or looking to deepen your understanding of its landscape and heritage.

The scenery alone justifies the expense—lava fields, volcanic peaks, and lakes as your backdrop—and the chance to learn about the Viking heritage embedded within the breed makes this a truly special outing. If you appreciate good value, well-organized tours with a personal touch, this ride deserves your consideration.

Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned equestrian, the gentle, stable Icelandic horses and the breathtaking landscape promise a highlight that will stay with you long after you’ve left the volcanic terrain behind.