Short Riding Tour with Eye-Catching Photos at Waterfall

Starting in Akureyri, this 30-minute horseback ride cost around $79.82 per person, offering travelers a chance to get close to Iceland’s breathtaking landscape. You’ll visit the impressive Reykjafoss Waterfall and ride along paths with views of Skagafjörður’s mountain panoramas. Guides, like Albert and Daniel in reviews, make the experience friendly and accessible, even if you’re new to riding.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning scenery—a mix of rushing waterfalls and mountain views—delivered through a very manageable ride. Second, the personalized touch from guides who go the extra mile, making the experience feel warm and genuine.

One consideration? The timing and weather can influence your experience. Since the tour is weather-dependent, bad weather might lead to cancellations or changes, so it’s worth planning with some flexibility.

This short ride suits horse lovers, photographers, and those craving an authentic Icelandic outdoor experience. It’s especially perfect if you’re short on time but want a memorable glimpse of Iceland’s natural beauty with some fantastic photo opportunities.

Key Points

• Short but memorable: A 30-minute ride that’s easy to fit into your Iceland itinerary.
• Beautiful scenery: Waterfalls, mountain views, and canyon photos provide perfect photo ops.
• All-season experience: Reliable horses handle snow, frozen ground, or grassy paths.
• Personalized guides: Friendly and accommodating staff make the ride smooth.
• Limited group size: Max of 8 travelers for a more intimate experience.
• Flexible cancellation policy: Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

An Honest Look at the Ride

When we think about a horseback experience in Iceland, what comes to mind? It’s often the sense of connecting with nature, feeling the wind, and capturing that perfect shot of a waterfall or mountain. This tour checks all those boxes by offering a short, guided ride that’s accessible to most travelers and suits various seasons.

Starting at Hestasport’s reception near Varmahlíð, you’ll gather with a small group—typically no more than 8 people—for a quick safety briefing and introduction to the Icelandic horses. These sturdy, friendly animals are well known for their sure-footedness and calm demeanor, making them perfect for those new to riding.

The ride takes you through gentle grassy paths in summer or across snowy, frozen terrain in winter, showing Iceland’s versatility. The guides, as highlighted in reviews, are friendly and helpful, making the experience accessible regardless of riding experience. One traveler, Albert, appreciated how the staff was “very friendly and helpful,” which is a common theme among reviews.

What You’ll See and Experience

The main highlight is reaching the edge of the Reykjafoss Waterfall, a sight that’s both powerful and photogenic. As the water crashes into the canyon Brandgil, you’ll be positioned just high enough for spectacular photos, often taken from riders’ perspectives—between the ears of your horse or with the canyon and waterfall in the background.

The scenery along the ride is equally impressive, with Skagafjörður’s mountain landscapes providing a stunning backdrop. The guides describe local geology and natural features, adding educational value to the visual feast.

Several reviews mention the incredible views—a word repeated by Tom, who called the experience “incredible” and praised the helpful guides. The photo opportunities are plentiful, whether you’re capturing the rushing water or the mountain horizon, making this a top choice for travelers wanting impressive, natural images.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Hestasport’s reception where you’ll meet your guide and your mount. After a brief safety talk and horse introduction, the group heads into the natural surroundings.

The ride itself lasts about 30 minutes, but during that time, you’ll traverse varied terrain—from soft grassy fields to rocky or snowy patches, depending on the season. The guides ensure everyone is comfortable, providing riding tips as needed.

As you approach Reykjafoss, the landscape becomes more dramatic. The waterfall’s roar and spray are almost palpable, and the canyon Brandgil offers a rugged, awe-inspiring setting. Many travelers report taking “beautiful pictures between the ears of your furry companion,” capturing both the majestic waterfall and the playful, sturdy Icelandic horses.

Returning to the start point, you’ll finish the ride with a sense of achievement and a camera roll full of stunning photos. The entire experience lasts approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick but enriching adventure.

Authenticity and Value

For $79.82, this ride offers a direct connection to Iceland’s natural beauty. Compared to longer or more commercial tours, the intimate group size and personal guides make the experience feel authentic rather than touristy. Many reviews praise the friendly staff and well-behaved horses, which contribute significantly to the feeling of comfort and safety.

The photo opportunities are a major plus—many travelers mention taking “impressive photos” that will serve as lifelong memories. Your images will be framed by waterfalls and mountain vistas, capturing Iceland’s rugged charm.

The flexibility of cancelation (full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance) adds peace of mind, especially when weather is unpredictable in Iceland.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for horse enthusiasts or curious travelers wanting a brief, guided horseback experience. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of Iceland’s landscape, or if you want professional guidance and photo opportunities without a long ride.

Travelers with little riding experience will appreciate the friendly guides and calm Icelandic horses, while photographers will love the vistas and the chance to shoot up-close waterfall shots from horseback.

The small group size fosters a relaxed, personal environment, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking an authentic, scenic adventure.

The Sum Up

This short riding tour offers much more than a simple horse ride; it’s a genuine connection to Iceland’s rugged landscapes and powerful waterfalls. The personalized guides, stunning scenery, and photo opportunities make it a rewarding addition to any Iceland trip. Its affordability and flexible cancellation terms make it accessible and low-risk.

While it’s a quick experience, it’s packed with visual moments that will stay with you, whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to blend adventure, photography, and Icelandic culture in a manageable, memorable way.

This tour is especially well-suited to nature lovers and horse enthusiasts looking for an effortless yet authentic Icelandic outdoor experience. It’s also a fantastic option for travelers with limited time but big expectations for scenic beauty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, and guides are helpful in making sure everyone feels comfortable on the horse.

How long is the ride?
The ride lasts approximately 30 minutes, making it a quick but meaningful experience.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. The scenery offers excellent photo opportunities, especially of the waterfall and canyon. Many travelers take pictures from their horse’s perspective.

What’s the weather like, and does it affect the tour?
The tour is available in all seasons, and the horses are equipped to handle winter snow and summer grass. However, poor weather may lead to cancellations with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.

What do I do if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for refunds.

If you’re after a short but scenic horseback adventure with fantastic waterfall views and friendly guides, this tour offers an authentic slice of Icelandic nature without a hefty time commitment. Just remember to bring your camera—and your sense of adventure!