Have you ever dreamed of exploring rugged landscapes, volcanic terrains, and lush meadows on the back of a unique Icelandic horse? Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, Iceland offers an unparalleled experience.
Imagine feeling the distinctive tölt gait beneath you as you traverse through picturesque scenes while learning about the country's rich equestrian culture. Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey? This guide reveals the best tours for horseback riding in Iceland, ensuring you'll find the perfect adventure tailored to your skill level and desire for exploration.
Fascinating Facts About Icelandic Horses: A Unique Horseback Experience
Icelandic horses are not just adorable but also steeped in history and unique traits that make horseback riding in Iceland truly one-of-a-kind. Here are some fun facts:
Five Gaits: These horses have five different gaits - walk, trot, gallop, tölt, and pace.
Purebred Lineage: The breed has remained pure for over 1,000 years.
Small but Mighty: They may be compact, but their strength and stamina are unmatched.
Weather Warriors: Adaptable to the harsh Icelandic weather, they thrive in diverse conditions.
Gentle Giants: Despite their tough nature, they are known for being friendly and approachable.
20 Best Horseback Riding Tours in Iceland You Shouldn't Miss
Now, let's dive into the ultimate list of horse riding tours in Iceland. Whether you want to ride through volcanic landscapes or explore hidden trails, these tours have got you covered.
1. The Sea Horse
Duration: 8 hours
Price: Starts from 32,900 ISK
Experience the thrill of two incredible animals in one day with The Sea Horse tour! Start your adventure with a 1.5-2 hour ride at our charming farm, Vellir. After a delightful light lunch at Hótel Eldhestar, you set sail on a Whale Safari boat tour.
This tour is perfect for all skill levels; beginners and experienced riders will tölt together while galloping is avoided for safety. Be sure to share your riding experience when booking the best horse match.
2. Horse Riding & Golden Circle
Duration: 9.5 hours
Price: Starts from 24,299 ISK
Experience the ultimate combo of an exciting horseback riding tour with the iconic Golden Circle tour. Begin your adventure with a drive to the Eldhestar riding center near Hveragerði, where you'll meet the sturdy and easy-tempered Icelandic horse.
Ride on excellent riding paths and take in the beautiful local sights, followed by a light lunch at the farm Vellir. The journey continues to the Geysir geothermal area, the spectacular Gullfoss waterfall, and the historically rich Thingvellir National Park.
3. The Viking Horse & Golden Circle
Duration: 7 hours
Price: Starts from 28,490 ISK
Discover the charm of horseback riding in Iceland combined with a journey through history and natural wonders. The Viking Horse & Golden Circle tour takes you to Þingvellir National Park, famous for its remarkable geological features and the birthplace of Alþingi in 930 AD, the world's oldest functioning parliament.
Witness the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, explore the bubbling Geysir geothermal area, and marvel at the Strokkur hot spring. As you travel through picturesque agricultural areas on your return to Reykjavík, keep in mind this tour isn't recommended for children under 8.
4. Horse Riding & Caving From Reykjavík
Duration: 5 hours
Price: Starts from 1815 ISK
Explore the terrain of Iceland's lava fields in the Blue Mountains on this family-friendly horseback riding tour in Iceland. Dive into the hidden world beneath the landscape with the Raufarhólshellir Lava Caving tour, where you'll witness an array of colors and jagged rock formations from previous eruptions.
After the cave tour, head to Íshestar Riding Center to ride beautiful Icelandic horses through the scenic rough lava and Bláfjöll Mountains. This unique adventure offers an unforgettable blend of Iceland's natural wonders.
5. The Elfin Tour
Duration: 5 hours
Price: Starts from 18,150 ISK
Dive into the enchanting world of Icelandic folklore with the Elfin Tour. Elves play a significant role in Icelandic culture, often influencing road and construction planning. This horseback riding in Iceland adventure takes you to areas believed to be inhabited by elves, including Alfakví and the elves' church, Skjólklettur.
Wander through the elfin hill Einbui, known for its friendly, sometimes singing elves. Perfect for riders of all levels, this tour offers excellent tölt paths and ensures safety by focusing on tolting rather than galloping.
6. Viking Tour
Duration: 3 hours
Price: Starts from 29,900 ISK
Starting at the stables in Hafnarfjörður, the Viking Tour offers a thrilling ride through the Reykjanes preservation area with expert tour guides. Cross the Kaldá River and ride around the dormant Mt. Helgafell volcano, or venture into the picturesque Heiðmörk nature park.
After a rewarding journey, enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate back at the stables, where staff are available to answer questions about the Icelandic horse. This adventure, designed for strong intermediate riders, ensures optimal experiences with small group sizes and seasonally adjusted routes.
7. Lava Tour
Duration: 2 hours
Price: Starts from 16,900 ISK
Join the Lava Tour for a splendid ride right outside Reykjavík's city center. Friendly horses and specially trained guides lead the way on excellent riding paths, showcasing stunning scenery filled with lava fields and green hillsides.
After the ride, enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate back at the stables, which are conveniently just a 20-minute drive from Reykjavik's city center. This tour is perfect for both beginners and experienced riders!
8. Silfra Snorkeling - With Underwater Photos & Horseback Riding
Duration: 9 hours
Price: Starts from 41,490 ISK
The Silfra Snorkeling and Horseback Riding tour is the perfect combination for a great outdoor day in Iceland. Start with snorkeling in the freshwater fissure Silfra, located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thingvellir National Park. Observe the tectonic drift as the North American and Eurasian plates move apart.
After snorkeling, go horseback riding in Reykjavik and experience the unique five gaits of the Icelandic horse. You'll ride along beautiful paths around the Redhills or Rauðavatn for about 1.5 - 2 hours, enjoying the stunning Icelandic nature and the friendly temperament of these wonderful horses.
9. Horses and Sky Lagoon Tour
Duration: 5 hours
Price: Starts from 29,500 ISK
Start your day with a horseback riding adventure located just outside Reykjavík's city center. This tour offers excellent paths through lava fields and green hillsides. After the ride, enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate back at the stables, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
It's suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. Continue your day with a relaxing visit to the oceanside geothermal spa, Sky Lagoon. Sky Lagoon offers stunning views across the North Atlantic Ocean, dazzling sunsets, moody skies, and possibly the Northern Lights.
10. Laxnes Special
Duration: 2 hours
Price: Starts from 16,900 ISK
The Laxnes Special is one of the best horseback riding tours in Iceland, welcoming riders of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to experts. Located just 15 minutes from Reykjavik, the friendly horses at Laxnes Farm are matched to your riding experience, ensuring an enjoyable trip for everyone.
With pickup service from Reykjavik hotels or guesthouses and a return trip after your adventure, this tour makes a fantastic and convenient start to your Icelandic journey.
11. Horses & Northern Lights By Boat
Duration: 6 hours
Price: Starts from 28,250 ISK
Enjoy a truly magical experience with this horseback riding in Iceland adventure, combining an exciting day and night itinerary. Start with a 1.5-2 hour ride exploring the beautiful Icelandic landscapes around the farm area, soaking in the serenity and natural beauty.
As evening falls, head to the Old Harbour in Reykjavík to embark on a boat tour. Sail along the Reykjavík coastline, escaping city lights to enhance your chances of spotting the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
Expert guides will share fascinating scientific facts and enchanting global myths about the Northern Lights. Even if they don't appear, you won't miss out, as you'll receive a free ticket to try again. This tour offers a truly unique way to experience the best of Icelandic nature and culture.
12. Midwinter Warmth
Duration: 5 hours
Price: Starts from 15,400 ISK
Let an adorable Icelandic horse heat your body and soul on the Midwinter tour! Spend an hour on horseback with these amazing horses, softening up in the big and warm hotpot at Hveragerði's famous swimming pool.
For the brave, a steam sauna is available, offering a unique Icelandic experience. Picture enjoying steamy water while light snowfall turns the grass white. A light lunch at Hótel Eldhestar rounds out this tour, which is suitable for all levels of riding experience, from beginners to advanced.
13. Soft River Banks
Duration: 5 hours
Price: Starts from 21,500 ISK
Embark on the Soft River Banks tour, tailor-made for experienced riders to truly appreciate Icelandic nature. This tour starts on serene riding trails through meadows, offering an ideal opportunity to perfect the unique Icelandic gait, tölt.
Riders will journey across grassland along the Gljúfurá River to an old cemetery before descending to the soft Ölfusá River banks. With spectacular views of Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull volcanoes, the path also meanders through a picturesque bird sanctuary before returning to farm Vellir.
14. Horses and Hot Springs
Duration: 5 hours
Price: Starts from 20,800 ISK
On this tour, you'll ride along excellent trails on the slopes of Mt. Reykjafjall, passing through a green forest and the fascinating hot springs of a geothermal area that expanded dramatically during the 2008 earthquake.
Continue your adventure along the colorful hills above the village of Hveragerði, nestled between volcanic mountains and wide plains. Stop for refreshments and learn more about the charming Icelandic horse before heading back to the farm. It's an unforgettable experience combining natural beauty and Icelandic culture.
15. Horses and Puffins
Duration: 8 hours
Price: Starts from 25,630 ISK
Enjoy a day with Iceland's most charismatic animals: horse riding in the morning and puffin watching in the afternoon on the Horses and Puffins tour.
This delightful horse-riding experience takes you through areas populated by elves, including Alfakví and an old sheep's house. You'll also get the chance to experience the Icelandic horse's special gait, tölt. After a light lunch at Hotel Eldhestar, you'll transfer to Reykjavik.
Arrive at the harbor around 1:00 PM and explore before embarking on a one-hour puffin-watching tour to Puffin Island. Learn about these charming birds and hear romantic stories and fun facts during the tour.
16. Black Beach Riding Tour
Duration: 1 hour
Price: Starts from 14,000 ISK
Perfect for beginners and infrequent riders, the Black Beach Riding tour is an incredible way to experience Iceland's famous black sand beaches. The sure-footed and friendly Icelandic horses ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for riders of all abilities.
During the summer, you might even spot puffins flying above, adding to the tour's charm. In the winter, the rugged landscape offers ever-changing weather conditions that showcase Iceland's wild beauty. The tour is primarily at walking speed, but capable riders can try the unique töl gait.
17. Ride on the Wild Side
Duration: 3 hours
Price: Starts from 18,500 ISK
Experience a truly unique adventure with the ride on the Wild Side tour. This pleasant ride heads to the abandoned Kleif farm, where you'll have time to absorb the beautiful surroundings and explore the old farmhouse.
For the daring, there's the chance to tow yourself across the Jökulsá River using a traditional cableway. Enjoy exclusive freedom riding through the wilderness on Icelandic horses. After the ride, feast on an exquisite buffet in the Wilderness Center's kitchen.
18. Give Me 5
Duration: 3 hours
Price: Starts from 31,000 ISK
Ideal for experienced riders or experts, the Give Me 5 tour isn't suitable for beginners. You'll get to ride 2-3 different horses, exploring the unique potential of Iceland's 5-gaited horses. Taking place at the Vindheimamelar showgrounds and nearby areas, the program balances practice and hacking. Under the guidance of a highly skilled riding teacher, you'll master the various gaits and truly appreciate the versatility of these amazing animals.
19. Red Lava Horse Riding Tour
Duration: 2.5 hours
Price: Starts from 14,400 ISK
A tailored adventure for all skill levels, the Red Lava Horse Riding tour offers customized routes to suit everyone. Beginners can enjoy a smooth and scenic ride along the beautiful Redhills, while more experienced riders can tackle the challenging paths by Rauðarvatn.
As you traverse the breathtaking landscapes, you'll ride through natural paths surrounded by stunning Icelandic scenery, making it an unforgettable Icelandic horseback riding experience.
20. Mountains & Meadows
Duration: 1 hour
Price: Starts from 12,000 ISK
The Mountains & Meadows tour is a fantastic way to enjoy horseback riding in Iceland. Featuring good, soft, and fairly broad tracks, this tour presents stunning views of volcanoes and glaciers. It's especially charming, with young horses playing in the fields and plenty of Icelandic birds around.
The track is easy for horses, allowing riders to focus on the view and enjoy the ride. The customizable ride can vary based on rider experience and how much tölt you'll tackle. With ample trails to explore, there's no risk of running out of paths.
Tips for Icelandic Horse Riding
Exploring the stunning landscapes of Iceland from the back of an Icelandic horse is an adventure like no other. Here are some handy tips to make the most of your Icelandic horse riding experience.
Be honest about your experience level: It's essential to be truthful about your riding skills so that the tour company can match you with an appropriate horse and route. Safety and enjoyment depend on this honesty.
Beginners should choose shorter, easier routes: If you're new to horseback riding, opt for shorter tours on even terrain. This will ensure you have an enjoyable and safe experience without overexerting yourself.
Experienced riders can opt for longer, more challenging rides: For those with more riding experience, longer tours through mountainous or rugged areas can offer an exhilarating challenge and the chance to experience the landscape's wilder side.
Ask questions about horse care: Don't hesitate to inquire about how Icelandic horses are treated and cared for. It's important to know the animals you will be riding are well-maintained and healthy.
Pack proper clothing: Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so it's crucial to wear the right gear. Pack waterproof layers and clothes suitable for various weather conditions.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes or boots: Ensure you have appropriate footwear for riding, such as sturdy, closed-toe shoes or boots. This will make your ride more comfortable and safe as you traverse different terrains.
Trust your horse: Icelandic horses are incredibly sure-footed and reliable. Trust in your horse's abilities, and they will take you safely through the landscape.
Why Horseback Riding in Iceland Should Be on Your Bucket List
Horseback riding in Iceland is an unparalleled adventure that melds the thrill of riding with the country's stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, the variety of tours ensures there's something for everyone.
As you plan your journey, consider enhancing your trip by exploring more of Iceland's beauty — a perfect way to do this is to rent a campervan in Iceland. A campervan allows you to travel at your own pace and discover hidden gems along the way. So saddle up and hit the road for an unforgettable adventure!
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