Reykjavik: Small-Group Mjölnir Afternoon Horse Riding Tour

Imagine riding through Iceland’s stunning volcanic terrain, feeling the gentle pace of a friendly Icelandic horse beneath you, and soaking in views of mountains, lakes, and lava fields—all within a quick trip from Reykjavik. For $182 per person, this 3-hour experience offers a peaceful afternoon escape, perfect for those eager to connect with Iceland’s rural charm without straying far from the capital.

We love the personal touch of this tour, with small groups limited to 10 riders, ensuring attentive guidance and a warm, friendly atmosphere. The highlight is definitely the chance to bond with Icelandic horses, famed for their unique gait and gentle demeanor. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup simplifies logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery or chatting with fellow travelers.

One potential caveat is the inconsistency noted in some reviews—while most praise the landscape and guides, one reviewer had a disappointing experience with a missed pickup and rescheduling issues. It’s worth keeping an eye on confirmation details and communicating clearly with the provider.

This ride suits travelers of all riding abilities, especially those curious about Icelandic horses or eager for a scenic, laid-back outdoor activity. If you’re after a relaxed introduction to Iceland’s countryside, this tour might fit the bill.

Key Points

Small-group format offers a more intimate experience and personalized attention.
Friendly Icelandic horses are well-trained, making it suitable for beginners and those with limited riding experience.
Scenic stops include Hólsmheiði forest and the striking Rauðhólar lava rock formation.
Expert guides provide insights into the Icelandic horse’s unique gait and local terrain.
Convenient hotel pickup within Reykjavik simplifies planning and ensures a hassle-free experience.
Post-ride relaxation with hot tea or coffee provides a cozy end to your adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Icelandic Horse Riding Experience

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Starting Out: Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Reykjavik, usually around 13:30 to 13:45, a practical detail that saves the hassle of finding a meeting point. Once you’re collected, you’re whisked away to a small family-owned farm just outside the city—an authentic setting that offers a peek into Icelandic rural life. The farm’s intimate size means that the guides can give you more personalized attention, which is especially valuable if you’re new to riding or unfamiliar with Icelandic horses.

Safety and Preparation

Before hitting the trails, you’ll receive a riding lesson and safety briefing. Helmets and rain gear are provided, so you can focus on what matters—enjoying your ride. The trainers are experienced, and they tailor the instruction to your ability, whether you’re a complete novice or have some riding background. We appreciated how the guides explained the Tölt, the unique four-beat gait of the Icelandic horse, which offers a smooth, comfortable ride even on uneven terrain.

The Ride: Scenic Highlights and Unique Terrain

The highlight of the trip is exploring the hills around Reykjavik, with views of volcanic mountains and lakes—imagine the contrast of lush greenery against the stark volcanic landscape. The tour takes you through Hólsmheiði forest, where the trees add a lush backdrop and a cool respite from the open hills.

The endpoint at Rauðhólar, a striking red lava rock formation, is a sight not to miss. The color and texture of the rocks are quite otherworldly, and the stops along the way are perfect for photos and taking in the scenery.

Riders will have the chance to ride Tölt, which makes the journey especially comfortable. Guides often explain how Icelanders have traveled across their rugged country for centuries using this gait, and riding it gives you a real sense of the horses’ unique capabilities.

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Post-Ride: Relaxation and Reflection

After about 1.5-2 hours in the saddle, you’re returned to Reykjavik. The tour concludes with a cozy moment over hot tea or coffee with sweet cookies, offering a chance to chat about the ride or simply unwind. This small gesture adds a nice touch of warmth to the day.

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The Value of the Experience

At $182, you’re paying for a combination of scenic riding, cultural insight, and personal service. While not the cheapest option, the small-group setting, friendly horses, and beautiful landscapes make it a worthwhile outing—assuming seamless logistics and good weather.

The Caveats

One reviewer shared a less positive experience, noting that the provider asked to reschedule their reservation and then failed to show up. This highlights the importance of confirming arrangements and perhaps having a backup plan. Plus, the tour is rain or shine, so packing appropriate clothing is essential.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic horseback ride that offers a taste of Icelandic rural life, this tour is ideal. It’s especially good for beginners or those with limited riding experience, thanks to the gentle horses and guided instruction. Those wanting a more energetic or advanced riding experience might find this tour too mellow, but for sheer landscape and cultural charm, it hits the right notes.

Final Thoughts

This small-group Icelandic horse riding tour near Reykjavik combines beautiful scenery, friendly horses, and personalized attention into a memorable afternoon. It’s a chance to see Iceland’s volcanic landscapes from a different perspective, learn about the unique gait of the Icelandic horse, and enjoy a relaxed, authentic experience with helpful guides.

While logistical hiccups have been noted, most travelers find the scenery and guides make up for these minor issues. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a gentle, scenic activity that connects them with Iceland’s rural traditions without straying far from the city.

Whether you’re a horseback riding enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking an authentic Icelandic experience, this tour can add a memorable chapter to your trip. Just remember to confirm your reservation, dress warmly, and enjoy every moment on horseback.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for beginners and riders with little experience, with guides providing instruction and safety briefings.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, as the weather can be chilly or change quickly. Rain gear is provided, but layering comfortable clothes will keep you comfortable during the ride.

How long is the actual riding time?
You will spend approximately 1.5-2 hours in the saddle, with total tour duration around 3.5-4 hours including pickup, briefing, and post-ride relaxation.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off within Reykjavik, helmets and rain gear, a riding lesson, hot beverages, and cookies.

Are the horses well-trained?
Yes, the Icelandic horses used are friendly and well-trained, making for a smooth ride and a positive experience regardless of riding ability.

What scenery will I see?
Expect views of volcanic mountains, lakes, Hólsmheiði forest, and the impressive Rauðhólar lava rocks—perfect for photos and soaking in Iceland’s landscape.

Is the tour rain or shine?
Yes, the tour takes place regardless of weather, so dress accordingly.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Embark on this gentle horseback journey and discover a side of Iceland that’s both scenic and authentic—an experience that will linger long after you return to Reykjavik.