riding tours iceland horses

Best Horse Riding Tours in Iceland

Select starting location

Select dates

Add travelers

Horse Riding Tours

Refine the results by using the filters

Excellent 2.5 Hour Horse Riding Tour of the Volcanic Raudholar Countryside & Transfer from Reykjavik

Fantastic 1 Hour Horseback Ride on a Black Sand Beach with Transfer from Vik

Best Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik

Scenic 8-Hour Horse Riding & Whale Watching Day Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Excellent 10 Hour Tour with Horseback Riding & the Golden Circle with Transfer from Reykjavik

Excellent 3 Hour Horse Ride & Hot Springs Tour of Gufudalur Valley

Family-Friendly 1-Hour Horseback Riding Tour Through the Stunning Countryside

Scenic 5-Hour Horse Riding Tour for Experienced Riders with Transfer from Reykjavik

1 Hour Horse Riding Tour over the Mountains & Meadows of South Iceland Departing from Skeidvellir

Scenic 1.5 Hour Winter Horseback Riding in the Countryside of North Iceland

Family-Friendly 30 Minute Horseback Riding Tour on a Black Sand Beach with Transfer from Vik

Scenic 9-Hour Icelandic Horse Riding Tour Amidst Southern Iceland's Beauty From Reykjavik

Scenic 5-Hour Horseback Riding & Icelandic Heritage Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Lava Caving and Horseback Riding Day Tour from Reykjavik

Silfra Snorkeling & Horseback Riding | Free Underwater Photos

Classic 11 Hour Golden Circle & Horse Riding Tour with an Audio Guide and Transfer from Reykjavik

Combination 6 Hour Horse Riding & Northern Lights Hunting by Boat with Transfer from Reykjavik

Charming 1 Hour Horse Riding Tour through the Countryside of Hveragerdi

Exceptional 9 Hour Horseback Riding Tour with Geothermal Pool and Transfer from Reykjavik

Family-Friendly 1 Hour Horse Riding Tour with Lunch & Geothermal Pool Bathing

Magical 2 Hour Horseback Riding Tour of Icelandic Elves & Mysteries

Exciting 4.5 Hour Horse Riding Tour near Hekla Volcano with Lunch with Transfer from Skeidvellir

Family-Friendly 40 Minute Icelandic Horse Stable Visit with Hot Drinks at Skeidvellir

Scenic 2 Hour Horseback Riding Tour in the Icelandic Countryside with Transfer from Skeidvellir

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Vacation Packages in Iceland

Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

André Glaser

It was just great! Amazing scenery and cute islandic horses. Will be again included in next trip

Annie Brown

Had a wonderful time even in the driving wind and snow. The supplied extra layer of waterproofs were very much appreciated, as was the hot drink on return. The horses were very sure footed, sturdy and friendly and all the staff very helpful and knowledgeable. Everyone on the trip - from first time riders to more experienced ones thoroughly enjoyed it. The scenery was very interesting too. Highly recommend it to all

Robert Newman

Huge thanks to everybody involved for this wonderful tour. Careful of everybody's skill levels, looked after all participants well, and friendly people and horses! Definitely a highlight of our time in Iceland.

Kevin Pridemore

It was great fun. Me and my daughter really enjoyed it. The horse's are amazing and the staff were very helpful.

The Icelandic Horse

Initially imported by Norse settlers, the Icelandic horse is one of the oldest, rarest and purest breeds in the world, having existed on the sub-arctic island in isolation for over 1000-years.

The breed is known and revered for its shaggy, stocky appearance, raw strength and gentle temperament. Unlike other breeds, moreover, the Icelandic horse has a fifth gait called "tölt." Before the arrival of the automobile, this gait proved invaluable to Icelanders as it made it relatively easy to travel long distances by guaranteeing a smooth ride on the poorest of roads.

To protect the Icelandic horse against disease, and to preserve the purity of the breed, no foreign horses are allowed to enter the country. In fact, Icelandic horses may not return home once they have left the island. Therefore, when Icelandic equestrians travel internationally for competition, they will often leave their best horses at home to avoid having to abandon them abroad.

Icelandic horses were initially used for transport and farming. Although they are mostly only used for competitions and leisure riding today, many farmers still use them for backcountry travel and sheep herding.

There are over 80,000 horses in Iceland—a significant number when you consider that there are only 350,000 people. This means that where ever you may find yourself while travelling in Iceland, you will have the option of exploring the country on horseback via a horse riding tour , and get to know the beautiful animal that is the Icelandic horse.

Should you love horses, Skagafjörður fjord is a must-visit, as this area is renowned for its horse riding culture and its large horse population.

Frequently asked questions

How long is typical horse riding tour in iceland, do i need any riding experience for my horse riding tour in iceland, what should i wear on a horse riding tour in iceland, how old do you have to be to go on a horse riding tour in iceland, is there a weight limit for horse riding tours in iceland, will my horse riding tour in iceland be cancelled if there is rain, do i need to bring any equipment for a horse riding tour, what gaits will i experience on my horse riding tour in iceland, what do icelandic horses like to eat can i bring them treats for my horse riding tour in iceland, do icelandic horses only exist in iceland does iceland have any other horse breeds, is the icelandic horse a pony.

Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.

Top things to do in Iceland

Book your complete trip with the best companies only

Explore an Ice Cave

Visit a Live Volcano

Find the Northern Lights

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

See the Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tours

Discover the true essence of riding in Iceland.

Owned by icelandic farmers, íslandshestar is known for providing an extensive choice of multi-day riding tours in iceland, as well as an excellent array of day tours starting from our farms..

Company owned by farmers

Íslandshestar is a leading Icelandic horse riding tour company that offers a variety of riding tours in Iceland. Our tours are organized and run by local Icelandic farmers who own and operate the company. Icelandic horses are a unique and beloved breed, and riding tours are a popular way for riders to experience the stunning Icelandic landscape. Every tour is arranged starting from the farms of our farmers, determined by their locations across the country.

Íslandshestar is known for its multi-day riding tours, which allow riders to explore Iceland’s natural beauty on horseback while staying in comfortable accommodations along the way. These multi-day tours often take riders through diverse landscapes, including lava fields, glaciers, and lush valleys, providing an immersive and unforgettable experience.

In addition to multi-day tours, Íslandshestar also offers day tours that are ideal for travelers with limited time or those looking for a shorter riding experience. These day tours typically start and end at the farms owned by the Icelandic farmers who run Íslandshestar, making it convenient for visitors to access these unique horseback adventures.

Icelandic horses are known for their gentle temperament and unique gaits, making them well-suited for riders of all levels of experience. Riding with Íslandshestar allows tourists to connect with these remarkable animals and explore the breathtaking Icelandic countryside in a memorable and authentic way.

Experiencing the beauty of our stunning country on horseback, guided by knowledgeable local farmers intimately familiar with the terrain, represents the epitome of authentic travel in Iceland. Riding Icelandic horses in their natural habitat enhances the uniqueness of our breathtaking landscapes. Our primary aim is to provide our guests with outstanding service, top-notch horses, and a secure riding experience amidst Iceland’s pristine nature. Many of our tours feature riding alongside a herd of free-running horses, adding an extra layer of wonder to the Icelandic riding experience.

Happy travelers

The holiday was one of the best experiences I’ve had, the country is amazing the scenery spectacular. All the additional trips just makes it special. Everything at such a relaxed pace, nothing rushed or hurried. Sophie and Hannes are so lovely and kind. Had a great time, would maybe go back in summer next time. KF – Great Britain

Perfect tour! Great staff, beautiful landscapes. Amazing horses, good food. I would definitely recommend it!  M.O. Germany.

This riding holiday was superb. The hosts Sophie and Hannes couldn’t have been more friendly. They were extremely knowledgeable about all things Iceland/Icelandic horse related. The accommodation and food were excellent. Pride of place were the Icelandic horses themselves. Such kind, honest, tough characters. Was great to experience the famous tölt – very smooth. Overall a great holiday and would LOVE to get back to do a summer tour… someday maybe… NM.D. Great Britain

From the blog

Horseback riding with Íslandshestar

The Icelandic Horse: A Majestic Breed with a Rich History

Discover the true essence of riding in Iceland!

• Stable Visits
• Private Riding Experience

Longer Trail Rides

• Private Rides
• Reiðnámskeið fyrir fullorðna
• Reiðklúbbur
• Hestur í fóstur
• Fyrirtækjaferðir
• Barnaafmæli hjá Íshestum

Riding tours all over Iceland

For riders of all levels, shorter rides, for beginners to experienced riders.

Horses and Puffins

Family friendly

Two daily departures.

Short Rides

Experience the best of Icelandic nature with our Horses and Puffins tour. This exciting adventure combines a boat ride to a puffin island and a horseback riding experience surrounded by stunning nature

Horses and Waffles

Daily departures.

This tour is ideal for beginners as well as more advanced riders, families and groups. We calmly ride through beautiful lava fields surrounded by mountains and pristine nature.

High Noon Exclusive Tour

Private rides

This NEW Exclusive Private tour is tailored for individuals or groups who together want to enjoy riding the Icelandic horse surrounded by beautiful nature

LONGER TRAIL RIDES

We offer multi-day riding tours all over iceland for intermediate to advanced riders.

Chasing Waterfalls Tour

5 riding days.

Waterfalls, mountains, caves, lava fields and lupins: This tour leads south of Tindfjallajökull into the Southern Highlands. You will ride with a small group and get to explore this remote area on horseback.

Snæfellsnes Beach Ride

2 riding days, 1 sightseeing day.

We ride long distances on golden sand at Löngufjörur beach, where only the tide sets a boundary to the freedom of horse and man. Witness the beauty of Snæfellsnes Peninsula while riding the Icleandic Horse.

Wonders of Fjallabak

Join us riding an ancient trail through the Highlands of Iceland, exploring the Fjallabak Natural Reserve's multi-coloured landscapes, volcanic formations, hot springs and majestic glaciers like Eyjafjallajökull.

We care for our horses!

OUR REVIEWS

Ishestar was awesome. The experience was so pleasant, everyone was nice and accommodating, the horses were beautiful and the facility was very comfortable. Our leader, Patti, was super nice and took us at different speeds as comfortable.

Trip Advisor

Absolutely loved this excursion! I’ve had a horse in America for almost 20 years. These horses were a brand new experience for me. They are beautiful and have such unique gates. I went with my friend who was a beginner rider and she loved it as well. The staff are so nice and helpful and the horses are very responsive. The landscape is gorgeous and on a clear day you can see all the way to the mountains and the active volcano. 10/10 would do again!

OUR LOCATION

Join our mailing list

Submit your email for our monthly newsletter and special offers.

Sörlaskeið 26 220 Hafnarfjörður Iceland

+354 555 7000 [email protected]

www.ishestar.is

Íshestar | allur réttur áskilinn | 2021, privacy overview.

• Horseback private tours
• Horseback special tour to the Black Sand Beach
• Horseback ride and dinner with a Viking
• Overnight stay at the Viking farm
• Mr Iceland Exclusive
• Black Beach
• Hvolsvöllur
• Jökulsárlón
• Seljalandsfoss
• Vestmannaeyjar
• Mr Iceland The best horse riding adventure in Iceland
• About us Where horse and you become one
• Welfare How we treat our horses
• Ecosystem The farm regenerating Iceland
• Blog Experience the magic of Icelandic horses
• Contact We look forward to hearing from you

Be part of the legendary adventure

Horse riding tours with a Viking

Visit our farm and have dinner with us

Small groups only for real horse riding experience

Riding a horse in Iceland is a cultural experience

We have been riding the Icelandic horse since the settlement of Iceland. The Icelandic sagas are full of descriptions of the Vikings riding their Icelandic horses not only for battles but also for social gatherings, where they would ride the Icelandic horse together from farm to farm and visit political allies, friends or family.

Want an experience of a lifetime?

Overnight stay in our new cabins

Sleeping with the horses

Riding a horse is only a part of the experience of visiting the Mr Iceland farm.

We practice spiritual and physical connection with the horse and with that in mind we designed the “sleeping with the horses” cabins.

The cabins are placed in the middle of the field, surrounded with an amazing view of horses , glaciers and volcanos .

1100 years of tradition, education and culture

Have dinner with a real Viking

After the ride we sit down at the long table and feast! We tell stories of our ancestors – the Vikings, stories of good and evil but we also love to hear stories from other countries and cultures that you want to share. The dinner consists of local food , lamb and local vegetables . The dinner is a place where we sit down and share our experiences , dreams and tell stories.

There are only 8 seats available at the table. We are looking forward to having you at our table – welcome my friend!

« The world is not in your books and maps... it's out there. »

Gandalf, The Lord of the Rings

A non-profit and regenerating farm

Committed to eco-friendly farming practices

Our mission is that every guest that comes to our farm helps us make the farm and its surroundings a better place than it is today.

We are not satisfied with only sustaining our farm but want to make our area better than it is today for soil , plants , animals and humans .

Private horse riding tour

For you, that would like to make a private riding tour and experience our farm (4000 acres) and its surroundings, we offer a one-hour private adventure.

Each tour is designed for your riding level , both in terms of speed of the ride and the level of horses.

What they say about us

Words from our dear guests

We are proud of the fact that our guests have voted us for being the best experience of all experiences in Iceland. Feel free to look at our reviews.

5.0 357 reviews

Horses are our passion – the foundation upon which we design all of our tours. But we also believe that the power of the Icelandic Sagas multiplies when paired with horse riding, natural beauty, and camaraderie that nourish the heart, body, and soul. That’s why each of our luxury horse riding experiences combines mindfulness, history, great food… and so much more.

Eldhestar has offered the largest variety of horse-riding tours in Iceland since 1986, the tours have always been operated by Eldhestar. From half-day, day and combo tours to multi-day tours ranging from 2-8 days with accommodation and meals at our cozy countryside hotel.

We are located just 30 minutes´ drive from the Reykjavík Capital area and we have tour guides from around the world who all speak English. All of our guides have been trained before we entrust them with guiding tours, so you can be sure you are in good hands. Scandinavian and German-speaking guides, as well as some other languages, might be available on request. We try our best to find a guide that speaks your language. We also have 350 amazing horses, so we promise that we will find a horse that suits your riding skills and makes you happy!

This formula is how we maintain a high level of service for all aspects of our tours and operations.

ELDHESTAR RIDING TOURS

Experience the unique Icelandic horse on a half-day tour. Regardless of experience, time or budget, there’s a perfect ride available.

Tour 1A – Countryside Charm  / 1 hour riding Tour 2A – The Heritage Tour  / 1,5 – 2 hours riding Tour 2B – The Siggi Tour  / 1,5 – 2 hours riding Tour 2C – Speciality of the Season  / 1,5 – 2 hours riding Tour 2D – Midwinter Warmth  / 1 hour riding & 1 hours in the pool Tour 2E – The Elf Tour  / 1,5 – 2 hours riding Tour 2G – Icelandic Diversity  / 1,5 – 2 hours riding Tour 3A – Meadows and Mountains  / 2,5 – 3 hours riding Tour 3B – Soft River banks  / 2,5 – 3 hours riding Tour 3C – Horses and Hot Springs  / 2,5 – 3 hours riding

Eldhestar offers a variety of day tours for riders of all experience levels. Our day tours usually range from 4 – 6 hours. We ride through stunning landscapes and enjoy the serenity of the Icelandic Nature.

Tour 5A – The Hot Springs Tour  / 5 – 6 hours incl. riding, breaks and bathing Tour 5B – Below the mountains  / 5 – 6 hours riding with breaks Tour 5C – Riding and Relaxation  / 2,5 – 3 hours riding & 2 – 2,5 hours in the pool Tour 5D – Riding and Hiking in Reykjadalur Valley  / 1,5 – 2 hours riding & 2 – 2,5 hours hiking Tour 6A – The Beach Ride  / 4,5 – 5,5 hours riding Tour 6C – The Valley of Horses – Maradalur  / 5 – 6 hours incl. transportation, riding and breaks

Our combo tours are a great way to combine horse riding with other activities. We partner with verified tour companies to create action-packed tours for those who want to make the most of their stay in Iceland.

Tour 4A – Bike and Ride / 2,5 hours biking & 1,5 – 2 hours riding Tour 4B – The Sea Horse / 1,5 – 2 hours riding & 3 hours whale watching Tour 4C – Riding and rafting / 1,5 – 2 hours riding & 1 – 1,5 hours rafting Tour 4D – Riding and Golden Circle / 1,5 – 2 hours riding & 4.5 hours Golden Circle Tour 4F – Horses and Puffins / 1,5 – 2 hours riding & 1 hour puffin watching

Eldhestar specialises in adventurous multi-day riding tours. The multi-day tours are perfect for those who are looking for an authentic riding experience.

• Winter tours

Tour 7 – Volcano Contrasts / 3 days – 2 nights – 2 days on horseback. Tour 8A/B – Nature’s Treasures and Rider’s Pleasures / 8A: 4 days – 3 nights and 3 days on horseback / 8B: 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days on horseback Tour 8C – The Best of Eldhestar / 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days on horseback Tour 8F – Eldhestar Exclusive / 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days on horseback Tour 9 – Around the Volcano / 4 days – 3 nights and 3 days on horseback Tour 9A – Around the Volcano & Beach Ride / 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days on horseback Tour 10 – Thórsmörk / 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days on horseback Tour 10A – Thórsmörk & Beach Ride  / 6 days – 5 nights and 5 riding day on horse back. Tour 11 – Krýsuvík and the Blue Lagoon / 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days on horse back. Tour 12 – Thingvellir and around Lake Thingvallavatn / 6 days – 5 nights and 5 days on horseback

Tour 13 – The Golden Highlights of the South / 8 days – 7 nights and 7 days on horseback Tour 14 – Snæfellsnes peninsula / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 days on horseback Tour 15 – The Volcano Hekla / 6 days – 5 nights and 5 days on horseback Tour 16 – Treasures of Borgarfjörður / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 days on horseback Tour 17 – Landmannalaugar / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 days on horseback Tour 18 – Between the Deserts / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 days on horseback Tour 19 – Sprengisandur / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 days on horseback Tour 20 – Kjölur / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 days on horseback Tour 21 – Sheep Roundup / 6 days – 5 nights and 5 days on horseback

Tour 7 – Volcano Contrasts Winter Program / 3 days – 2 nights and 2 days on horseback Tour 8A/B – Nature’s Treasures and Rider’s Pleasures – Winter / 8A: 4 days – 3 nights and 3 days riding & activities / 8B: 5 days – 4 nights and 4 days riding & activities Tour 8D – Northern Lights tour / 4 days – 3 nights and 3 days riding & activities Tour 8E – Northern Lights Grand Tour / 6 days – 5 nights and 5 days riding & activities Tour 30 – Winter Riding Course / 30A: 4 days – 3 nights and 3 days riding lessons & activities / 30B: 6 days – 5 nights and 5 days riding lessons & activities Tour 31 – Breeding and Riding / 4 days and 4 nights Tour 32 – Culture and Riding / 4 nights – 3 days of riding & activities Tour 33 – Family Vacation /33A: 4 days – 3 nights and 3 days riding & activities / 33B: 6 days – 5 nights and 5 days riding & activities

ELDHESTAR lodging

You are welcome to download our riding tour brochure! Now available in 4 languages. Choose yours: English Deutsch Dansk Svenska 

Hotel Eldhestar offers single, twin, double, triple and one large family room, all with private bathroom facilities. The hot tub and on-site restaurant are perfect to relax after a day of horse riding or other activities.  

Guesthouse Eldhestar offers 19 beds in twin, triple or quad rooms and is ideally positioned on the property to provide convenience, as well as quality service to meet your needs. The guesthouse is cosy and offers an eating area and shared bathroom facilities.

@hoteleldhestar

ABOUT SALTVÍK RIDING TOURS.

Saltvík offers all kinds of riding tours, both short day-tours from our farm along with longer rides that last from 5 – 9 days in the highlands of Iceland.

The Saltvík tour

1. Lýtingsstadir Riding Tours

2. Ishestar Horse Riding Tours

3. Langhús Farm

4. Icelandic HorseWorld

5. Vík Horse Adventure

6. Polar Hestar

7. Nupshestar

8. Solhestar

9. Bakkahestar

10. Dalahestar

11. Saltvik

12. Hella Horse Rental

13. Skjaldarvik Tours

14. Tvistur Horse Rental

15. Glacier Horses

16. Stori Kambur Horse Rental

17. Reykjavik Riding Center

18. Safari Horse Rental

19. Hekluhestar

20. Islenski Reidhesturinn - The Icelandic Horse

21. Viking Horses

22. Lyngfell Stables

23. Galsi Horse Rental

24. Skalakot

25. The Icelandic Horse Park Fákasel

26. Laxnes Horse Farm

27. Arctic Horses

28. Eyjardalsa

29. Mr. Iceland

30. Hella Horses

What travelers are saying

🐎 The 5 Best Iceland Horseback Riding Tours [2024 Reviews]

Enjoying sightseeing by horse, we look at the top horseback riding tours in iceland.

Iceland is a place of unimaginable beauty – but perhaps not your typical “pretty” vacation spot, like a tropical island would often be considered to be.

However, its varied terrain, volcanic activity, and intense weather, makes for a surreal location that is fascinating to explore. If you want to see the best views that the country has to offer, you will need to take a smaller mode of transportation.

One of the most fun options out there, is by horse! Hop on an Icelandic horse to see areas that most people don’t get the chance to. Let’s not waste any time – without further ado, here are the top horse riding tours in Iceland available!

Be sure to see our reviews of Northern Lights Tours , Whale Watching Tours and ATV Tours .

Best Horseback Riding Tours in Iceland

Quick answer: the 5 best iceland horse riding tours for 2024.

• Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik
• Private Horse riding tour from Reykjavík
• Horse Riding Tour in Akureyri
• Red Lava Horse Riding Tour From Reykjavik
• Family Friendly Horse Riding Tour in Skagafjörður

Iceland Horse Riding Tour Reviews

1. viking horse riding and golden circle tour from reykjavik.

• Duration: 9 hours
• Departure:  Vonarstræti 10, 101 Reykjavík
• Departure Time: 9:30 am
• Includes: Professional English speaking guide, National Park fees, transportation, necessary gear for riding

If you really want to experience the Icelandic wilderness, you can’t go wrong with this comprehensive, 9-hour tour. The Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik tour packs a ton of adventure in to one day.

Go back in time, and see all kinds of natural beauties, as well as important pieces of man-made history. First, you’ll be picked up from your Reykjavik hotel, which is ultra-convenient.

You can pretty much roll out of bed and be ready – so long as you remember to bring some boots and clothing appropriate for ice and snow! You’ll head straight to the ranch located on the outskirts of the capital and is no more than 20 minutes away.

Once you arrive, you’ll get acquainted with your horse – an Icelandic horse. These majestic beauties are known for being gentle and able to perform 5 gaits, as opposed to most that can only perform 3 or 4.

The result is a much more comfortable ride, as you won’t be hopping around in the saddle. As you can imagine, this is a pleasant ride for all, but particularly great for beginner riders.

After you take a ride on these beauties, you’ll go on an express tour of 3 of the most popular Icelandic attractions: the Gullfoss Waterfall, the Geysir geysers, Thingvellir, and the Hveragerdi village. The Gullfoss and Geysir hot water springs are impressive, and are 2 different ways of displaying just how powerful water is!

Taking a quick stop at the UNESCO site, Thingvellir, is one of the crowd favorites and is home to the oldest functioning parliament on the planet! The national park holds one of the most special sites, too: the rift valley. Here, continental plates meet, creating a massive rift that really displays just how robust these plates are

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. private horse riding tour from reykjavík.

• Duration: 2 hours
• Departure:  Akrar 2, 271 Mosfellsbær
• Departure Time: Variety Available
• Includes:  Light refreshments, local guide, use of helmet and gloves, warm overalls (in winter)

While the other guide is certainly a comprehensive, full-day tour, not everyone wants to commit to an entire day outdoors. If you’re looking for something shorter, to give you a taste of what the Icelandic nature has to offer, then this next tour is for you.

The Private Horse Riding Tour from Reykjavik is just 2 hours long, and will let you hop on and ride a beautiful Icelandic horse to explore rugged trails around a mountain!

The Icelandic horse has essentially been unchanged since the 9 th century, and is known for being so docile. Oh, and did we mention they’re absolutely gorgeous?

They feature unique coat and mane colors and combinations, with icy blue eyes and a fluffy mane that will instantly make you fall in love with them.

Mt. Ulfarsell sits in the countryside right outside the capital, making it remote yet close enough that it’s not inconvenient to travel from Reykjavik.

Once you arrive to the ranch, your guide will give you a safety briefing and make sure that both you and your horse are comfortable with each other. They will teach you how to mount the horse, and the basics of riding.

Not only that, but the guides offer a very interesting history lesson in the Icelandic culture and history. Check out breathtaking vistas over the mountain and the picturesque countryside while you ride, making it the perfect tour to fit into a busy day.

After you’re done riding, you’ll get to enjoy some light refreshments and get back to your hotel!

3. Horse Riding Tour in Akureyri

• Duration: 1 hour
• Departure: Skjaldarvík Guest House Road 816, 601, Akureyri
• Departure Time:  Variety Available
• Includes:  Coffee, tea and cake, helmet, use of hot tub, professional guide

This next one is yet again another shorter tour, at just 1 hour, with hotel pickup and drop-off offered. The Horse Riding Tour in Akureyri also takes you on the special Icelandic horse, known for their docile, smooth gait.

This is one of the best ways of taking in the best vistas of Akureyri, with horses that know exactly what they’re doing. The groups are typically very small, which is great for safety and exploring more places!

Not only that, but you can feel confident asking your guides any questions you may have. They are very friendly and professional, making sure you’re well-prepared to ride. While giving a safety briefing, they’ll provide you with helmets as well.

You will be matched with a horse, depending on your comfort level and riding abilities. We felt that the staff did a great job here, and the horses seemed to have a good time, too!

As you ride around, the guide will tell you all about the history of your horse breed as well as the history of this area. The countryside is overall very easy to navigate, and is perfect if you’ve never ridden a horse before.

If you feel comfortable, you can absolutely go a bit faster when your guide says it’s okay to. Akureyri is known for its incredible beauty, with notable waterfalls and canyons, as well as important ports.

When you’re finished exploring, they invite you to enjoy some delicious coffee, tea, and dessert back at the guest house. If you’d like, you can even use the hot tub on site, which is great for relaxing the muscles after that horse ride!

4. Red Lava Horse Riding Tour From Reykjavik

• Departure:  Surtlugata 19
• Includes:  Coffee and/or tea, winter clothing, rain clothing, helmets

The Red Lava Horse Riding Tour from Reykjavik may sound like a scene from a Hollywood action film, but rest assured, this is a tour perfect for beginners and advanced riders, alike.

This 2-hour tour does include hotel pickup and drop-off options, and will take you through iconic lava hills, around lakes, and more.

Once you arrive to the ranch, you will be matched up with an Icelandic horse, depending on your experience level. The guides have many beginners on these tours, so they know which horses are ideal for newbies.

The route that your group takes will depend on your experience level, as well. If you’re just starting out, you’ll take the smooth, easier route on the Redhills. If you’re more experienced, you’ll head through Rauoarvatn.

The horses are so sweet, and know exactly what to do. Even when to stop for photo ops! They ride very well through thick snow, and will even show you the tolt gait!

Both routes offer incredible views of the Icelandic country, and offer you the opportunity to better your riding skills and hang out with a friendly horse. You will all go to the Heidmork Nature Reserve, where the lava hills are located. You’ll learn all about the 5,000-year-old volcano history, as well.

At Rauoavatn, you’ll breathe in fresh air emitted from the thick forests in this area. The first processes of forestry in Iceland were taken at the start of the 20 th century, which also has quite an extensive history here.

5. Family Friendly Horse Riding Tour in Skagafjörður

• Departure: Vegamót, 560 Varmahlið
• Includes:  English speaking guide, riding helmet, rain jackets/trousers if required, coffee and/or tea

Are you on the hunt for a riding tour in Iceland that’s perfect for the whole family? If so, we’ve got just the one for you! The Family Friendly Horse Riding Tour in Skagafjorour is an hour-long tour – perfect for little ones who may have less patience.

Not only that, but the guides manage to make it fun, even for children! This tour also involves Icelandic horses, with their special trot much smoother than regular horses.

As they also tend to be a bit shorter, this seems to intimidate children less, who’ve never been on one. The guides do a great job at matching the rider with the horse, based on personality and skill.

Once the guide gives a safety briefing and provides everyone with their helmets, you’ll follow them to discover this area’s magnificent landscape! With small group sizes, the experience is very personalized.

You’ll have enough time to ask the guide any questions you may have, and they’ll pay attention to making sure everyone feels comfortable.

There will be moments along the trails where you have the option to go faster. The horses perform well at just about any pace, and adds a bit of fun to the adventure.

There will be various moments along the trails that are great for stopping and taking some photos. With the guide’s professional knowledge about the area, you’ll see the most picturesque locations – from bubbling streams to ridges! They include all necessary gear, and a hot beverage for you, so you stay warm and comfy!

Iceland Tour Guide

There are many reasons the Land of Fire and Ice has seen an explosion in tourism since 2019. Not only can you see the Northern Lights, active volcanoes, glaciers, and puffins, you can also relax in a geothermal spa and even bake bread inside a pot buried underground.

What you decide to do in this fascinating country is your choice, but you should take the time to do some research before you go. This guide is here to inform you where you can go, what you can do, and how you can get there, because we want you to have the best vacation of your life in Iceland.

Airports & Entry

Most visitors to Iceland arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF). Although Iceland only has a population of 359 thousand people, in 2018 this busy airport handled 9.8 million passengers. Despite the number of visitors, there is only one terminal. You will find the check-in times minimal, with an average 20-minute waiting time at the security check.

Inside the terminal, you will find everything clearly signposted in English. Charging points for cellphones and laptops are provided in the waiting area along with free Wi-Fi.

Strollers are provided for children, and there is a dedicated kids’ play area. The usual selection of food outlets and shops are found on the upper floor of the main building. Manned information stands are located throughout the airport.

It is 30 miles from the airport to Reykjavik, the capital city. The speed limit is 55 mph, but the drive usually takes 50 minutes due to traffic. Shuttle bus services link KEF to the city, which you can book in advance online or pay for at the airport.

Some hotels offer airport collection, and you should ask about that when you book your room. You can, of course, jump in a taxi at the airport, but it will be extremely expensive compared to the airport bus service. Car rental is available at the airport, but it is advisable to book in advance.

Planning Tips

With so many exciting things to do and see in Iceland, you’re guaranteed to have a great holiday. However, things do not always go to plan, so here are 5 tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Tip #1: If you want to see the Aurora Borealis, go between September and March

It’s easier to view the Northern Lights when the sky is at its darkest. In Iceland, the nights are especially long between September and March, but the sky doesn’t grow dark enough to view this magical phenomenon during the summer months. However, do not plan a visit around a full moon, because its light can dampen the impact of this natural light display. The best days to go are around the time of a new moon.

Tip #2: Check out the SolarHam website

If you are especially interested in the Aurora Borealis and want to earn your Geek Badge, check out the SolarHam website. This techy site provides a 3-day geomagnetic forecast, which is useful for aurora hunters to select the best time to view the Northern Lights. The same site provides a satellite map of where the natural light show is right now, so you can look up if you’re near.

Tip #3: Take your time to enjoy all the attractions of Iceland

There’s so much to see in Iceland, it would be a crime not to explore and experience as much as you are able in the time you have. While you are there, do not miss the opportunity to see so many unforgettable natural phenomena in one place. There is nowhere else on the planet where you can see active volcanoes, glaciers, and ice caves , all in one national park.

Tip #4: Book everything in advance, especially in winter

Tourism is on the rise in Iceland, and hotel rooms, tours, and attractions get fully-booked ahead of time.  Don’t miss out on seeing the Northern Lights from the best vantage point possible because all the tours were booked-up before you arrived. Many tours like the ones detailed above offer a 24-hour-in-advance free cancellation, so you take no financial risk booking. Ask about free cancellation when buying your ticket.

Tip #5: Impress your friends with quintessentially Icelandic souvenirs

The budget chain store Bonus stocks many unique Icelandic products, such as Omnom chocolate, Icelandic specialty teas, herbal sea salt blends, and licorice mixed with chocolate. At Bonus, you can pick up great, inexpensive gifts for your friends! Vinbuoin, the state-run liquor store, sells a fine selection of renowned Icelandic spirits, including Iceland’s signature tipple, Brennivin.

And if you like to sort through other folks’ debris for the hidden treasures, a special weekend market is held at Kolaportio in downtown Reykjavik where Icelanders come to sell off their unwanted goods when moving to a new house. You could find anything!

Restaurants & Eating Out

Because of Iceland’s geographical position and climate, vegetables and grains are rare in traditional foods, and many famous dishes focus on preserved seafood or meat. Also, food was scarce in yesteryears, so every part of an animal or fish was eaten. You’ll find many traditional meals involve fish or meat that is salted, smoked, dried, or fermented. Watch out for such culinary delights as baked sheep’s head and fermented shark.

Seafood restaurants are common throughout Iceland, and all serve “fish of the day”, which is usually salmon, monkfish, haddock, or cod. However, if you wish, you can seek out some of the more exotic options. Humar is a kind of lobster caught off the south coast of Iceland, renowned for its tender and tasty flesh.

It is served fried, baked or grilled, though it can also be found as a pizza topping! Plokkfishkur is a fish stew, made to the chef’s specific recipe but usually combining white fish with onions, potatoes, milk, and flour. Harofiskur is a snack you can buy in any grocery store. It is dried stockfish, eaten with butter or straight out of a bag.

Because it is difficult to grow wheat in Iceland, there are many traditional varieties of rye bread, like flatkaka, baked in thin disks on hot stones. One variety of rye bread you should try is rugbrauo, a sweet-tasting, dark bread.

The reason rugbrauo is so interesting for visitors to Iceland is that a common baking technique is to bury a dough-filled pot near one of the many hot springs, such as Fontana Hot Springs, and use geothermal heat to bake the bread. Rugbrauo baked that way is also called hyerabrauo (hot-spring bread).

Icelanders don’t only eat fish and rye bread. Sheep are the most common livestock in Iceland, so lamb is often on the menu. Sheep wander freely around the countryside, eating seaweed, grass, and berries, which tends to make lamb tender with a mild flavor.

Smoked lamb is called hangikjöt and is often served boiled during the winter holidays. Also watch out for varieties of meat you won’t see in most other countries, like puffin, horse, and whale. Despite international concern over puffins and whales, they are still commonly consumed in Iceland.

A meal on vacation isn’t complete without dessert. Popular local sweets include rugbrauosis (rye bread ice cream), pönnukökur (Icelandic pancakes), and snuour (cinnamon bread covered in caramel or chocolate). A dairy product unique to Iceland is skyr.

It is a kind of sour milk cheese eaten like yogurt and often sweetened and flavored with fruit or vanilla.

Nightlife & Entertainment

With long, cold nights throughout the winter, it’s no surprise Icelanders love their nightlife, and much of it is centered where most of the people live—Reykjavik. Because the capital is so small, most of the clubs and bars are within walking distance of one another. In fact, many are along one street, Laugavegur, the commercial artery of downtown.

Most social venues are informal and entrance fees rare. When Icelanders go out for the night, they tend to begin late, and many clubs and bars don’t get busy until after midnight. This is in part because alcohol in bars is expensive, so locals drink at home before setting out.

Many clubs and bars stay open as late as 5 am. Cocktail bars are a recent addition to Iceland’s nightlife, but with the booming tourist trade, they are rapidly expanding.

And don’t worry too much about safety at night. In 2019, the Institute for Economics and Peace in Sydney ranked Iceland the most peaceful nation on Earth for the 12 th year running. Crime rates in Reykjavik are probably lower than anywhere you have ever lived.

Getting Around

Iceland is a small country covering an area slightly smaller than Kentucky. If you wanted to drive from Reykjavik on the west coast to Faskruosfjorour on the east coast, the 425 miles route would take only 8½ hours.

However, because of its small population outside of the capital, you cannot rely on public transport to go sightseeing around the country or reach the best place to view the northern lights. This leaves you with two options: hiring a car or booking a coach tour, like the Golden Circle tour detailed above.

Within the capital and its immediate area, you do have more options: bus, taxi, bicycle, or walk. The public bus service is inexpensive and efficient, and you can ask for help to find the right bus from your hotel reception. Given that Reykjavik is so small a city, taxis are affordable.

If you want a little exercise, bicycle rentals are available in many hotels, and the city is crisscrossed by dedicated bicycle paths. If you decide to walk, make sure you wrap up well. The weather can deteriorate rapidly in Iceland.

Accommodations

Over the past few years, Iceland has seen a huge expansion in tourism. With a 378% increase since 2010, hotel rooms fill up quickly. Through Christmas and summer, hotels are usually fully booked. Since 228 of Iceland’s 359 thousand citizens live within the capital and its immediate hinterland, settlements throughout the rest of Iceland are small and rooms for visitors limited. Most hotels are in the capital.

You will probably find it most convenient to stay in Reykjavik. You will find a broad range of hotels there, it is near the airport, and many of the attractions along with most of the nightlife are found there or nearby. Many organized tours to other parts of Iceland and major tourist attractions set out from Reykjavik, such as most of the Northern Lights tours detailed above.

Within the downtown and central area of Reykjavik you will find a choice of luxury hotels, like the Hotel Borg downtown and The Icelandair Hotel Marina, overlooking the harbor. If you head a little more out of the center, you’ll find more affordable hostels, such as The Capital Inn and Bus Hostel Reykjavik .

There are some popular hotels outside of the capital near to tourist attractions, such as Hotel Skaftafell in the Vatnajökull National Park, which offers spectacular views of Iceland’s largest mountain, or Skyrhusid Guesthouse near Lake Jökulsarion in the south. Wherever you decide to stay, the important thing is to book in advance. If you don’t, you will miss out on the best rooms.

Iceland is not the place to go if you want year-round sunshine and dry weather. In fact, on 22 nd December there are only 4 hours of daylight, because that is the shortest day. That’s great if you want to see the Aurora Borealis, since it can only be seen during dark nights, but not so good for other sightseeing. In contrast, the longest day boasts 21 hours of daylight, 21 st June.

The “warm” summer period covers June, July, and August, with an average daily high of 55 0 F and a low of 46 0 F. Yes, 55 0 F is their summer high! Summers are short and cloudy. The winter period covers November through March, two months longer than summer, and is cold, wet, windy, and overcast, with frequent snow. The average daily high drops to 35 0 F in January with a low of 27 0 F.

If your main interest is the Northern Lights, you should go anytime September through March, because the sky is dark enough to view those fantastic electromagnetic displays. If the Aurora Borealis does not interest you, you’ll get the warmest weather and longer days from the end of June to mid-August.

Attractions

The Northern Lights are not the only unique and fascinating attraction in Iceland. The Land of Fire and Ice is the best place in the world to see and experience the majesty and power of two extremes in Nature: glaciers and volcanoes. These attractions are all part of what is called the “Golden Circle”. Taking a day tour of the Golden Circle with a guide is a great way to take in all of the best sights.

12 miles from KEF is the world-famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. Here you can laze in pools of hot, milky blue water heated by a lava flow. Nearby stands the Svartsengi Geothermal Power Plant, which uses superheated water from the lava flow to generate electricity and also provide heat for a municipal water heating system.

There are geothermal spas like the Blu Lagoon throughout Iceland, so wherever you choose to stay, you can find one near you and experience the power of molten rock.

Perhaps one of the most unique attractions is seeing the continental plates splitting apart at Silfra. Here the North American and Eurasian plates are separating. If you are daring you can take a snorkel tour of Silfra and see it for yourself!

If you are there in the winter, be sure to see the migrating whales. To have the best chance of see them, that a whale watching tour . The boat captains know the best places to go to see them.

If ice and Arctic landscapes interest you, head 140 miles east from Reykjavik to Vatnajökull National Park , which is centered on Vatnajökull glacier and the surrounding beautiful landscape. This park covers 14% of Iceland and is filled with glacial rivers and active volcanoes. To fully see it, take a tour of the glaciers !

Vatnajökull glacier empties into the glacial lake of Jökulsarion in the south, where you can see 100-feet-tall icebergs freshly broken away from the glacier. Jökulsarion served as a setting in several major Hollywood movies. On your drive back to Reykjavik, you can see two beautiful waterfalls around Skogar. The first, Skogafoss, is an impressive waterfall and a popular destination for Icelandic day-trippers.

18 miles west of Skogafoss is picturesque Seljalandsfoss waterfall . A path allows sightseers to pass behind the curtain of water as it falls into the crystal-clear plunge pool.

If it’s man-made cultural and historical attractions you seek, you’ll find plenty to do and see around Reykjavik. The capital’s earliest history stretches back to 874, but it only became a true city in 1785.

Around Reykjavik, you’ll find an interesting assortment of museums and tourist attractions, like the National Museum of Iceland and the Reykjavik Maritime Museum.

A famous landmark visitors flock to see is the Hallgrimskirkja Church, which is the largest church in Iceland. This unique structure was designed by a local architect to resemble the glaciers and mountains of Iceland.

The Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik is our Editor's Choice for the best horse back riding tour in Iceland

Robert Baker

Related articles.

🐋 The 7 Best Iceland Whale Watching Tours [2024 Reviews]

The 7 Best Iceland Northern Lights Tours [2024 Reviews]

The 7 Best Iceland Glacier Hiking Tours [2024 Reviews]

The 7 Best Iceland Snowmobile Tours [2024 Reviews]

The Icelandic Horse

Íslenski Reiðhesturinn

Harry Potter stars riding horses – Fantastic Friends on HBO Max

Our Horse Stars In a Music Video

The magic of riding horses in Iceland

Small groups

Our riding tours

Adventurous riding tours in Iceland

Multi-day riding tours

Dream Tour 2024

After the Dreamtour 2023 was sold out quickly, we have decided to follow the exact same tourplan for the Dreamtour project 2024.

• 35 days in 4 different parts
• From 2590 EUR

Diamond Circle

Voted as one of top ten trails in the world by the Sunday Times! This tour introduces you to the wonders of the north. Following great riding trails through various landscapes of the northern countryside and highlands!

• 5 riding days

Saltvík Comfort

Combine horseriding and sightseeing in the north just as you like. Go riding over the black beach and on the cliffs and/or visit Goðafoss waterfall, Ásbyrgi canyon and go whale watching!

• 3 riding days

Diamond Comfort tour

• 5 days/4 nights/5 ridingdays

Towards the Midnight Sun

This ride takes us along the shore, visiting isolated areas “enjoying the edge of the Arctic”  where the midnight sun hovers at the horizon all night long!

• 6 riding days

Autumn Colours

Enjoy the autumn colours and the thrill of experiencing wild horses coming home from the mountains in a herd of 500 horses!

• 4-5 riding days
• From 2090 EUR

“the hidden valley” - Flateyjardalur

Flateyjardalur has become one of our most beloved destinations through the years.  The valley is sheltered by high mountains on both sides but opens up when getting closer to the shore of the arctic ocean.

• 4 riding days

Northern Lights Tour

In the late autumn and end of winter there is a very good chance of seeing the northern lights in the north of Iceland as the days are short and the nights dark and often cold. 

Horses on Ice – Winterride & Northern Lights Special Edition

A special edition of our popular winterride tour. During this tour we‘ll ride on the ice of lake Mývatn and watch the annual competition at the lake.

• 5 days/4 riding days

Winter riding & knitting

This is a special edition of our winter tour for those who love Icelandic woolen sweaters. We will spend our days riding and knitting!

• 3 nights/3 riding days

Chasing Waterfalls

Waterfalls, mountains, caves, lava fields, lupins and lush green grass: There is nothing you don’t see on this tour into the southern highlands.

Landmannalaugar adventure

Ride into the southern highlands through ash and sand dunes, rivers and multi-colored landscapes to reach the fascinating area of Landmannalaugar.

Hekla adventure

On this exciting 5 day tour, you traverse trails through lava fields and lush lands and ride together with a herd of horses – always with Hekla in sight!

We offer day tours from Saltvík farm for riders of all experience levels. These daytours vary from 1 to 5 hours and are suitable for those who have never ridden a horse before, as well as for very experienced riders. 

Trails follow the coastline of Skjálfandi Bay, with beautiful views over the ocean.  If you’re in the north of Iceland for a short visit and would like to take a short riding tour, please check out Saltvík website.

Suprise yourself

Our tour selection for 2022 includes new and exciting challenges aside from our solid bestsellers! Although our priority is riding, we might reserve some time to visit interesting sites in case they are reachable from our camp like geysirs, waterfalls or hot water pools.

The Experience

Riding Iceland tours are designed to follow the ancient riding trails that have served people to travel across the country ever since the first settlement of Iceland. We will come across perfect riding tracks that allow you to enjoy your horse tölting at full speed – a cheering and overwhelming feeling on its own.

Your new friends

It is almost impossible to participate in a Riding Iceland tour without knitting very close and lasting friendships both with men and horses. Together you will face the different challenges of the day and together you will solve them.

Email address

[email protected]

Phone number

+354 892 4645

Saltvík, 641 Húsavík

Sign up for our newsletter

Saltvík ehf. Kt: 5006050220

[email protected] +354 892 4645 Saltvík, 641 Húsavík

You are using an outdated browser. Please, upgrade to a different browser or install Google Chrome Frame to experience this site.

• Horses For Sale
• Riding Tours

Horseback riding

The icelandic horse, horse training.

We have great training facilities, a round pen, a 17×34 m riding pen, a pace track and of course the most beautiful and diverse riding paths in Iceland! We are mostly training our own horses but are also happy to take horses in training from others.

Located at the foot of Europe’s largest glacier!

“we are so happy to have waited to go horse riding in iceland until we found glacier horses in our last day of the trip. it was totally worth the wait” – a happy glacier horses customer 🙂, recent news, glaciers, horses & volcanos, the horse rental & iceland as a travel destination, lupines and midnight sun, i look forward to seeing you.

Contact me!

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

6 Best Horse Riding Tours in Iceland You Will Love

September 7, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Are you searching for the best horse riding tours in Iceland? Let us help! We have found the best horse farms in Iceland so you can spend your vacation roaming the land of fire and ice on horseback.

If you have started planning a trip to Iceland, then you probably have already seen an Icelandic horse. These small, long-haired horses are one of the few animals that live in Iceland. In fact, their long coats help them to survive the cold, harsh winters of the arctic island.

Icelandic horse tours are a perfect way to experience Iceland as a viking. On the best horse riding tours in Iceland, you can ride your noble steed gallantly across the lupine meadows of the countryside, or catch the wind in your hair riding by the sea.

We have so many great Icelandic horse riding tours to share with you, each one a little different. We’ll review the Icelandic horse riding weight limit, whether or not the Icelandic horses tour is a good idea for beginners, and all the places that you can go for the most memorable ride of your life. And if your dream is to see the highlands of Iceland from horseback, we have some options for multi-day tours too.

So let us get down to it. Here are the best horseback riding in Iceland.

Can You Ride Icelandic Horses?

Yes, and you should. These small and adorable horses have a long history in Iceland and are part of the Icelandic culture. Their origins date back to 1,000 years ago when the Vikings first came to Iceland. Today, you can see many horse farms in Iceland, especially throughout the countryside.

You can see these friendly horses as you travel Iceland, especially as you travel to see the best sights along the Ring Road, or Route 1 . Feel free to stop and take photos with them, or give their fluffy manes a pet, but do not feed them. Feeding horses can cause them to get sick, so it is best to let their owners stick to regulating their diets.

So don’t miss out on getting to know these incredible horses. A good tip for when you go on a Icelandic horse tour is to bring a rain jacket since the weather can be unpredictable in Iceland! Don’t forget to pack the camera too for awesome Iceland horse riding tour pictures.

How Much Weight Can Icelandic Horses Carry?

While the Icelandic horse looks more like the size of a pony, this incredible breed should not be underestimated.

Horseback riding tours in Iceland have become increasingly popular due to the amazing ability these little horses have. Built short, stocky, and hardy enough to thrive in the arctic climate, the Icelandic horses are extremely capable.

You would think that due to their small frame, the Icelandic horse riding weight limit would be a concern. However, rider weight is generally not a problem for the Icelandic horse as they can carry max 35% of their own weight. In fact, Icelandic horses are the strongest breed of horse in the world, pound for pound.

So then, what are the load limits for these mighty horses? Well, most Icelandic horse tours have a weight limit of 110 kg, or around 242 pounds, in order to accommodate the horses’ carrying capacity. Although, there are a few Icelandic horse riding tours that breed a bit stockier horses than can carry about 10 kg (20 lbs.) more weight.

Are Icelandic Horse Riding Tours Good for Beginners?

Yes, Icelandic horse riding tours are great for beginners! In fact, Icelandic horses are generally easier to ride for beginners than most other types of horses. These docile horses seem to have a willingness to be patient with their riders, even beginners. Also, the warm nature of the horse’s temperament makes Iceland horse tours great for beginners to go on.

Another reason Iceland horse riding tours are great for beginners is their natural stocky build. As silly as that may sound, the build of Icelandic horses helps to stabilize their rider. Even more, the Iceland horse actually has a special gait, or stride, that makes riding them smooth and easy. This special gait is called a tölt. The tölt also helps the horses to easily navigate the rocky and uneven volcanic landscapes with ease.

We love horse riding tours in Iceland for this reason. It is the smoothest horseback ride you will ever go on.

Best Horse Riding Tours in Iceland

So then, what are the best horseback riding tours in Iceland? Horse riding tours in Iceland are usually chosen according to rider experience, or the time you want to commit to the tour.

There are many to choose from and we will help you choose the right one for your Iceland itinerary. We will show you options for horseback riding near Vik, some Icelandic horse tours near Reykjavik, as well as some multi-day tours through the Iceland highlands.

Whether you are looking for a half-day tour so you can leave more time to explore the local area, or you are an advanced rider looking for the experience of a lifetime, we will help you find your best tour.

Solhestar Horse Rental

Solhestar Horse Rental is one of the great Icelandic horse tours near Reykjavik. In fact, Solhestar Horse Rental makes it easy for you and offers free pickup from Reykjavik hotels. And if you are traveling to Iceland with kids , you’ll love to know that this is a family-friendly Iceland horse riding tour.

Solhestar Horse Rental is a great horseback riding tour for those of varying levels of experience, and they can adapt the tour to the rider. Beginner riders will get the chance to ride along the smooth-riding path of the Redhills of South Iceland, whereas more advanced riders can choose between routes within the area.

From start to stop, the Solhestar horse tour will last 2.5 hours. This Iceland horse tour offers between 1.5- 2 hours of riding through beautiful Icelandic scenery. This tour won’t take the whole day either, allowing plenty of time to check out all the things to do in Reykjavik Iceland , including relaxing in one of the Reykjavik hot springs .

To Book, Click here: Solhestar Horse Rental

Gray Line Iceland

Gray Line Iceland gives one of the best Iceland horse riding tours as it comes with an exploration of the Golden Circle. Get the most out of booking an Iceland horse tour by getting to visit Iceland’s incredible sightseeing too.

Spend a day playing amongst the idyllic Icelandic countryside. To begin the day, you’ll set off on an hour-long Icelandic horse riding tour in Laxnes, which lies just outside of Reykjavik. Next, the tour takes you to Iceland’s gorgeous Thingvellir National Park. Then, you’ll witness one of Iceland’s best waterfalls , Gullfoss glacial falls. Finishing the tour with a bang, you’ll get to see the spouting geysers of Strokkur.

This all day tour lasts a total of 9 hours and is perfect for those who are staying in Reykjavik. We also highly recommend this tour for anyone who does not intend to rent a car in Iceland, as this tour offers pickup from Reykjavik hotels.

Click here to Book: Gray Line Iceland

Polar Hestar’s Akureyri Horseback Riding Tours

For North Iceland tours, the best Akureyri horseback riding is Polar Hestar is tours. With impressive mountains and the clear waters of the Atlantic at your side, this is bound to be one of the most beautiful tours in Iceland.

This tour is a lush paradise for riders. With towering green moss-covered mountains and lupine-filled meadows, the Akureyri horseback riding tours will make you feel the magic of Iceland. Experience the legendary elves found amongst the Northern fjords on this tour. Your tour guide will even take you to their homes on the hills, telling stories of their magic along the way.

While there are one-hour tour options, you can also choose to experience a long Akureyri horseback riding on a multi-day tour through the charming hills and rivers of Akureyri. With a multi-day tour, you’ll see some of the best parts of North Iceland , including lake Myvatn, Godafoss, and the Laufas turf houses. Some of Polar Hestar’s long horse riding tours in Iceland even include a whale watching tour on Eyjafjordur!

Vik Horse Adventure

If you are looking for horse riding near Vik, Iceland, book a tour with Vik Horse adventure. They offer one of the most scenic and romantic Iceland horse riding tours of all time along the beaches of Vik.

Experience from horseback, the gleaming black sand beaches of Vik with the sea stacks of Reynisdragnar on the horizon, and the sound of roaring waves from the Atlantic at your side. This one-hour-long horseback riding tour in Vik Iceland is one you won’t want to miss. After all, this horse riding tour is literally at one of the best photography locations in Iceland .

If you plan to do an epic road trip along Ring Road, then check our other blog post for other awesome things to do near Vik . We can also help with campgrounds for anyone camping in Iceland too.

Nups Hestar Riding Tours

Another one of the best horse riding tours in Iceland has to be Nups Hestar Riding Tours. Although you will have to veer off the Ring Road, this tour will be sure to allow you to experience real countryside from the saddle.

Nups Hester Riding Tours are tucked away in Selfoss and because most people stick to convenience, this high-quality tour has the advantage of being less touristy. This means smaller groups and more intimate experiences. Another thing Nups Hester Riding Tours has that other tours don’t offer is the option for custom rides.

Short rides are offered between 1-3 hours. You can also choose to do a 6-hour day tour if you wish. If you are looking for an even bigger experience, you can also choose one of their multi-day horse tours like the 5-day ride through to geothermal areas of Landmannalaugar.

If you are traveling to Iceland in September, you can even book a one-of-a-kind Iceland horseback riding tour with Nups Hester. They invite you to participate in the annual lamb round-up traditions of Rettir to close out the summer, as the real Icelandic Vikings do, returning the roaming lambs to their homes before the incoming winter.

Mr. Iceland Horseback Riding Tours

Mr. Iceland hands down has one of the best horseback riding tours in South Iceland. With awesome hosts leading the way, you’ll experience these horse riding tours in Iceland the same way as the Vikings did.

Following a 1,000-year-old path of Vikings from millennials past, you’ll ride past idyllic Icelandic waterfalls and black sand beaches. In fact, Mr. Iceland’s horse tours trace a path that his ancestors rode, traced all the way back to 37 generations! This is truly my favorite activity in Iceland!

We love that with Mr.Iceland’s Icelandic horse riding tours, you actually have time to get to know the friendly horses before you ride. The Icelandic horses at Mr. Iceland’s farm are kind and gentle, taking easily to instruction. And, because Mr. Iceland’s horses are some of the strongest in all of Iceland, they can handle a heavier horseback riding weight limit than other horse farms in Iceland. Some of his horses can actually handle up to 128 kg (282 lbs).

One of my favorite parts of Mr. Iceland’s tour is the closing of the tour because the tour goes out with a delicious finale. At the end of the ride, you get the chance to have a wonderfully tasty and locally sourced meal prepared for you back on the homestead, one of the oldest horse farms in Iceland.

Mr. Iceland’s horseback riding tours in South Iceland are unique, well-planned, and remarkably authentic. We highly recommend giving them a try if you seek to experience horseback riding near Vik, Iceland.

You can also book them for one of the most romantic honeymoon getaways. Mr. Iceland’s horse farms have gorgeous overnight lodging accommodations, yoga, morning breakfast, and access to their onsite natural hot spring.

To Book: Mr. Iceland’s Horseback Riding Tours

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

[email protected]

Sprengisandur - 7 days tour, your icelandic adventure begins here, our short tours, horse rental.

Núpshestar offer horseback riding in a beautiful area of Þjórsá and Stóra Laxá rivers where you can discover a real Icelandic country side from the saddle. We offer very personal horseback riding experience, high quality riding tours and good service also amazing Icelandic horses. We can accommodate all kind of riders from beginners and little children to very experience and adventures riders.

In our offer alre also customized tours for all kinds of groups and riders.

Available 1 May – 30 September

Easily make booking by e-mail: [email protected] or you can give us a call: 00354 8525930

Our Long Tours

Fjallabak 7 Day Tour

Landmannalaugar 5 Day Tour

Custom Riding Tour

Sprengisandur 7 day tour

SHEEP ROUNDUP

Horseback Riding Tours in Iceland

Only in the Horse Tours Club

Can`t decide? Our travel expert will be happy to help

Leave a request and get a consultation, and a selection of the most thrilling tours from one of our experts for free!

About Iceland

Having the opportunity to visit Iceland is something you can’t pass up. The island is jampacked with otherworldly geographical features that are guaranteed to take your breath away. Simply traveling to the country is enough for an unforgettable experience, but if you want to really ramp up your trip, there’s no better way than signing up for horseback riding tours in Iceland.

Horseback riding in Iceland?

That’s right! Throughout the entire year, Icelandic horse trekking tours bring visitors to the country’s most incredible destinations that would otherwise be inaccessible. For multiple nights and dozens of kilometers, you’ll be far away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and submerged in the vast, peaceful wilderness.

What Makes Iceland So Special?

When it comes to choosing a destination for horseback riding, the options are limitless. So why should you choose Iceland? Well, it’s no secret that major films and TV shows have shot some of the most visually stunning scenes on the island–ever heard of Game of Thrones? The landscape is riddled with fiery volcanoes, icy waterfalls, and massive glaciers. When the snow melts in the spring, Iceland comes alive and erupts with colors. If nature is your calling, it doesn’t get much more special than what this country has to offer.

The other big draw is that Iceland is easy to get to. Whether you’re coming from the United States, Canada, or the United Kingdom, the total flight time is far less than what you’d expect. Hop on a plane in New York, and you’ll be touching down in no more than 5.5 hours–not bad, right?

Meet the Incredible Icelandic Horses

Horses might not be the first thing you think of when someone mentions Iceland, but they have actually been a crucial resource for the island’s inhabitants for more than a thousand years. Horses were first introduced around the 10th century, coming from Norway, and today there are more than 80,000 of them roaming the land.

But Icelandic horses aren’t your typical breed–no, no, no! These are some of the oldest purebred horses in the world. Different breeds were mixed on the island only until the 11th century when the importation of horses stopped. Icelandic law now prohibits other breeds from being brought into the country.

The horses on the island are known for their elegant gaits, smaller size, variety of colors, sturdiness, and all-around beauty. They make for an incredibly comfortable riding experience and have wonderful personalities. The most difficult part about Icelandic horse trekking tours is saying goodbye to your steed after the trip.

Horse Riding Holidays in Iceland

No matter if this is your first riding experience or if you’re a long-time veteran, our horseback riding tours in Iceland are unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Each tour will take you on a multiday trip to unique and fascinating parts of the country. The experiences we offer range from three-day to eight-day trips, and you’ll be accompanied by a trusted guide and sleep soundly in comfortable beds or cozy sleeping bags.

The most popular time to ride through Iceland is, undoubtedly, the summer, and it’s a great choice. But if you want to try something a bit different, there are a few winter programs to choose from and experiences that will put you face-to-face with the northern lights.

Whichever time of the year you decide to go, Iceland’s landscape, thermal pools, and homey sleeping arrangements won’t be something you soon forget. So, let’s take a look at some of the destination you may see on your horse riding holidays in Iceland.

Experience Remarkable Destinations

Iceland horseback riding vacations give you options. Whether you want to see volcanoes, glaciers, or hot springs, there’s a tour that will meet your desires. Here are some of the top places to look forward to, but keep in mind that the possible destinations go far beyond this list–have a look at our catalog to get an idea of all the options.

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is considered to be one of the top destinations in Iceland, and it is home to the only UNESCO site on the mainland. Although the park is a major destination for tourists, your guide will take you to some of the most remote areas, in addition to places outside the park, where it will be just you and the stunning wilderness.

Borgarfjörður District

Down in southwestern Iceland, riding through the Borgarfjörður district will bring you to lush, green valleys, raging rivers, endless hot springs, and gorgeous glaciers. Choosing a horseback riding tour in this district gives you an incredible experience outdoors while also staying at a comfortable community center throughout the trip. At the end of each day, you’ll have the chance to take a refreshing dip at one of the many excellent swimming pools.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Waterfall lovers will want to check out tours that go through the   Stakkholtsgjá Canyon and stop at Seljalandsfoss, one of the country’s most impressive waterfalls. The water flows in front of a large cave, and walking behind the waterfall makes for an epic photo, so have your camera ready!

Thórsmörk Valley

The valley of Thórsmörk was named after none other than the Norse god Thor, so you can expect to witness some serious scenery. Some of the best horse riding Iceland offers can be found here. There are volcanic mountains, glacial rivers, and gorgeous forests. Check out the tour that combines Thórsmörk with a riding experience along an Icelandic beach.

Book Your Horseback Riding Tours in Iceland

These trips are once-in-a-lifetime adventures that will introduce you to pieces of nature you never knew could exist. Scroll through our multi day horse riding Iceland tours and find the experience that’s perfect for you. Horse Tours Club is here to make sure you link up with the best programs in the country at no additional cost. Each one of the organizers we work with has been verified and is able to match the needs of riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Don’t wait to book your tour to avoid missing out on the opportunity!

Iceland has a characteristic oceanic climate, which is due to its location in the North Atlantic. Summers are relatively cool, and winters are mild due to the fact that the Gulf Stream brings warmth to the region. 

Winters are long and cold due to the influence of the Atlantic Current. The average winter temperature is -1°C, but can reach up to +10°C due to heat flow. Due to the warm currents, Iceland also receives a lot of precipitation, which most often falls in the form of snow.

Summers in Iceland are relatively cool, with average summer temperatures around 10°C on the coast and 0°C in the mountains. During this period, intermittent rains and moderate winds are also possible. However, during the summer months, you can observe white nights, when the sun does not set below the horizon and shines around the clock.

• Plan your trip in advance. Iceland is an incredible country with a lot of amazing places to visit, and in order not to miss anything important, it is best to plan ahead.
• Study the weather and dress accordingly. The climate in Iceland can be very changeable, so it's important to choose the right clothes. You will need a warm jacket, hat and gloves, and waterproof shoes.
• Be sure to visit the hot springs. Iceland is famous for its natural hot springs, which are definitely worth a visit. Some of them are the Blue Lagoon and Moisefiskaldur.
• Look around, not just downtown. Areas outside of Reykjavik's city center have many interesting things to see. For example, on the south coast you can find many waterfalls and black beaches.
• Use public transport or rent a car. Depending on your budget, you may want to consider a variety of options for getting around the country. Renting a car is a convenient way to get around Iceland, but you can also use buses or taxis.

Read articles

18 October, 2023

18 July, 2023

17 July, 2023

16 April, 2024

Useful articles about horseback riding tours

We tell beginners and experienced travelers about the best places in the world for horseback riding and trekking

Let us find a perfect tour for you

Just leave your number and we’ll offer you the best tour options tailored to your preference in messenger.

Discover the ultimate horseback riding experiences with us!

We are the premier marketplace for searching and booking remarkable horseback holidays from the best providers around the world.

• Tour Collections

BEST HORSE RIDING TOUR IN ICELAND

Tour highlights.

• Meet, learn about and ride the beautiful Icelandic horses
• Experience scenic lava landscapes, pseudo craters and mountain views
• Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea and hot chocolate after the tour
• Trained guides who speak multiple languages (English, Scandinavian and German).
• The stables/meeting location is a short 20-minute drive from Reykjavik’s city center. Possible to add pick up and drop off

Tour Details

• Duration : 1,5-2 hours on horseback. With transfer, introduction, preparation total time is 4 hours.
• Availability : Daily at 10:00 and 14:00
• Pick up : From hotels within Reykjavik. Pick up arrives 60 minutes before tour departure, see more info in FAQ below!
• Riding skill : Easy. This tour is perfect for both beginners as well as more experienced riders.
• Age limit : 8 years age limit. Children 14 years or older need written parental permission to ride alone.

Tour description

Are you ready to make new furry friends? Meet the beautiful Icelandic horses and enjoy a scenic horseback riding tour in the breathtaking Icelandic nature. The best part? It’s located only 20 minutes away from downtown Reykjavik!

We took the lava field trail ride with pick up in Reykjavik. Pick up was easy (as it was for all tours we did- Reykjavik and the tour companies have it down to a science!). Helmets were provided. Winter gear was available if you weren't dressed warmly enough. We were divided into 'beginner' and 'advanced' to put us on the right level of (cooperative) pony. The ponies were very easy to handle and we were given a choice whether we wanted to go fast (tolt pace) or slow (we went fast). Icelandic ponies and saddles are a heck of a lot more comfortable than US Western or English riding and horses! Beautiful scenery and a nice opportunity to experience the Icelandic pony!

Only me and my partner attended, we had a lovely chat with the guide, both our horses Ást and Stármur were incredible friendly, while Stármur liked to veer left a bit he was very cooperative at getting back in line, it was incredibly cold but we were well wrapped up and we’re offered more layers, the walk was nice and long and the staff were kind enough to let us say bye to the horses during their feeding time after we finished

Highly recommend ! No matter the time of year! We went in the winter so it was cold but we wore heated vests and snow suits and we were fine! Molly was our guide on this amazing horse back riding adventure! She was knowledgeable and taught us all the things we needed to know to have a fun ride! Our horses were well mannered and sweet. We loved everything about it!

Frequently Asked Questions

• What do I need to bring with me on this tour? We recommend that you bring warm gloves and a thin hat that can fit under the riding helmet. Included in the price is that you can borrow a helmet, warm overall or rain coat and rain pants as well as rubber boots.
• What's included in this horse riding tour? *Riding helmets, rubber boots, and rain-wear/warm outfit during the ride. *Trained guides who speak multiple languages (English, Scandinavian and German). *1.5-2 hour horse riding tour *Possible to arrive in your own car or add transfers to your booking
• I'm arriving by my own transport. When/where should I go? Please be at the Íshestar stables at least 30 minutes before tour departure if you are arriving by your own transport. Sörlaskeið 26, 220 Hafnarfjörður GPS coordinates: 64°02'35.8"N 21°54'51.2"W (ISN93: 357665.7101, 396626.1977) Íshestar 26 Sörlaskeið, Hafnarfjörður, Iceland If you have any trouble call +354 555 7000.
• When does my pick up arrive? Pick up for departure at 10:00 is at 09:00, Pick up for departure 14:00 is at 13:00, Pick up for departure 16:00 is at 15:00. Pick up from all pick up points in Reykjavik.
• Duration of tour 1,5-2 hours on horseback. With transfer, introduction, preparation total time is 4 hours. Tours can take shorter or longer time depending on group size and how much preparations is needed, for example it can take slightly more time to prepare in the winter time than summer etc.
• Weather We ride in sun, rain, snow and other regular weathers here in Iceland. We cancel rarely, but when we do it’s usually because of high winds, which can be unsafe for riding. In case of weather cancellation on our behalf, we would let you know as early as possible (sometimes it can be in the last minute, as the weather can be unpredictable here in Iceland) and we would try to find a solution for a reschedule or refund.
• Weight limit The weight limit for one person is about 110 kg (approx. 240 lbs).
• Age limit 8 years age limit. Children 14 years or older need written parental permission to ride alone.
• Clothes and shoes We have overalls and rain clothes if that should be necessary. We also have some gloves and boots which can be borrowed. But over all, visitors should dress according to weather. Most of our visitors have sneakers or boots on, and that’s in most cases just all right, but especially in the wintertime it can in some cases be good to have something more appropriate on.

Is your question not listed above?

Book your tour

Price: 16,900 ISK

• Best Price Guarantee
• Small Group Experience
• Flexible Cancellation

Check availability

• Klapparstígur 25, 101 Reykjavík
• [email protected]
• +354 45 40 222
• Our Awesome Blog
• Privacy Policy

Most popular

• Reykjavík Food Tour
• Northern Lights Tour
• South Coast Adventure Tour
• Golden Circle and Hot Springs
• Golden Circle and Snowmobiling Tour

We're socially active

• Accommodation
• Short Riding Tours
• Multi-Day Riding Tours

ICELAND HORSE RIDING TOURS

Enjoy riding the great icelandic horse in its natural surroundings.

Our season has started !

WE RECOMMEND:

Discover the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Snæfellsnes on horseback with our “Búðir Beach and Lava” tour. Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure and explore the stunning Búðir black church and the unique Búðir Lava Field, over 3.5-4 hours, led by experienced guides. This tour is perfect for riders with experience.

Don’t miss your chance to explore the hidden gems of Snæfellsnes on horseback. Book your “Búðir Beach and Lava” tour now and create memories that will last a lifetime. Contact us for pricing and availability.

Enjoy the beauty of Iceland’s coastline on horseback with our popular “Short Beach Ride” at Lýsuhóll. This 1.5-2 hour ride is perfect for beginners and offers stunning views of the beach and surrounding landscape.

Our friendly horses and experienced riders will ensure your safety and enjoyment as you explore the scenic beauty of Iceland. Book now and embark on a unique adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories!

Experience the beauty of Iceland’s countryside on our “Lava and to the Beach” tour. This beginner-friendly tour offers an unforgettable 2-2.5 hour adventure through stunning mountain ranges, a lava field, and several lakes. As you ride, take in picturesque views of the landscape, all while riding in the shadow of the iconic Snæfellsjökull glacier. Then, ride to a nearby beach and capture photos of the stunning scenery.

Saddle up and ride to the beach with us for an unforgettable experience. Our guided ride takes you through breathtaking landscapes before arriving at the beach. Enjoy stunning views of the coastline and take in the fresh sea air. This 1-1.5 hour excursion is perfect for beginner riders who want to experience the joys of horseback riding in a beautiful environment. Our expert guides will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable ride. Don’t miss out on this memorable adventure!

Looking for a fun and easy horse ride suitable for the whole family? Join us for a short walk on horseback. This excursion is perfect for beginners and families with young kids. Our experienced guides will lead you and your family on a gentle walk, taking in the beautiful scenery and fresh air. This is a great way to introduce your family to the joys of horseback riding in a safe and relaxed environment. Don’t miss this unforgettable experience!

Experience the stunning Snæfellsnes peninsula on horseback with our popular beach ride on Löngufjörur, one of the most popular riding beaches in Iceland. Our horses’ favorite thing is riding on the wide golden beach with breathtaking views of the coastline, and you may even spot some seals along the way.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Iceland on our “Day Tour All Around Atlas” horse riding tour at Lýsuhóll. This 5-6 hour tour offers an unforgettable experience of Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, with a friendly horse to carry you through the stunning scenery.

Our experienced guides will lead you on a journey through the area, sharing fascinating stories about the history, culture, and local legends. You’ll learn all about the Icelandic horse, a unique breed that’s been an essential part of Icelandic life for centuries.

As you explore, you’ll enjoy a light lunch and take in the incredible views of majestic mountains and rolling hills. Our guides will make sure you have an enjoyable and memorable experience, with their knowledge and passion for the area.

• Icelandic horse riding tours & accommadation
• Long Riding Tours
• Login / Register

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Lost your password? Remember me

No account yet?

Small Groups - Big Adventures

Volcano morning tour, mjölnir afternoon tour, sleipnir evening tour, private tours, riding club, combo tours, small groups – big adventures.

Viking Horses is a family-run company offering unique horse riding adventures in small and private groups. Mountains, beautiful green nature and the spectacular volcanic landscape of Rauðhólar surround our stables just 15 minutes from Reykjavik. Enjoy a warm, personal and professional service, well trained, happy horses and high-quality riding equipment – for an unforgettable horse riding experience in Iceland!

SMALL GROUPS - BIG ADVENTURES!

We prefer small groups. Riding in smaller groups means we are able to guide and instruct each rider on a personal level.

WE CARE FOR OUR HORSES

Our horses are the stars of our team. We will make sure they are healthy and happy. All our horses are well-trained and therefore easy to ride.

HIGH-QUALITY EQUIPMENT

We want to ensure your safety and make sure you have an unforgettable experience with our horses. This is why we use high-quality riding equipment on our tours.

EXCELLENT REVIEWS

Our customers are happy customers. We have excellent reviews on TripAdvisor where hundreds of our guests have rated us as Excellent.

Small Groups - Big Adventures!

How are we different? We enjoy travelling and horse riding in smaller groups. We think it´s more personal and more fun – you spend less time to wait for a big group and more time enjoying the Icelandic horse and the unspoiled Icelandic nature. In our opinion, the optimal group size is between 2-10 people. Our horses mean everything to us and we are very proud of our four-legged team. They are well trained and cared for, easy to ride and with good “Tölt” so you can enjoy the Icelandic way of riding to the fullest. We provide you with high-quality riding equipment and personal service. After every ride, we invite you for  coffee, tea, hot chocolate and snack in our stables . We speak English, German, French, Icelandic and Swedish.

Useful information

All of our horseback riding tours include a light meal, tea and coffee. We provide rain gear, riding gloves and certified safety helmets. Please dress according to weather. Sneakers are usually fine if it’s dry and warm but should bring more appropriate shoe wear if it’s wet or cold. Our staff takes pride in choosing the right horse for every rider, beginners, as well as more experienced riders, are welcome. IMPORTANT : It is not allowed to bring used riding gear to Iceland! There is a high risk of infecting our horses if you bring riding gear such as boots, chaps, gloves.You can bring clothes that have been washed with a disinfectant

Disinfection instructions from the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority

The age minimum on our regular tours is 8 years. Children between 8 and 16 have to be accompanied by an adult. If you have younger children with you and you want to come for a ride we recommend our very popular private family tours. Pregnant women should not go on our tours because of possible health risks to mother and/or baby. People under the influence of alcohol or other drugs are not allowed on the tour. Please inform us before the tour of any underlying health problems that could affect your ability to participate in riding tours. The weight limit is 110 kg. But most important is that you are in a good physical shape for the riding. Guests cannot carry suitcases, backpacks or big cameras on tours. Valuables can be stored in a safe place at our facilities.

Guest can book tours through the booking calendar on the website, through email  Viking Horses or by phone (+354) 5379590 and (+354) 660 9590. For further information please use the contact area below. We will answer all emails in less than 24 hours. We accept cash, Master Card, Maestro, Visa, Visa Electron, JCB or China UnionPay. Cancellation fee may be charged when tours are cancelled, please read our terms and conditions. We are open in the summer season from 1st of May to 30th of September.

Viking Horses has great reviews!

Videos and photos of our tours get posted on Facebook and Instagram!

We know how important it is to catch these very special moments and make them unforgettable! Therefore we take photos of you with your horses during the ride.

PRIZED POSSESIONS

Swords were considered the “heroes weapon” and thought to be very valuable, they were passed down from father to son and were sometimes given names like “Leg-Biter” and “Kings gift”.

ULLR, GOD OF SKIING

To conform to their culture’s beauty ideals, brunette Vikings—usually men—would use a strong soap with a high lye content to bleach their hair. In some regions, beards were lightened as well.

Unbearable Scandinavian winters and frost-bound fjords didn’t stop the Vikings from tucking into their favourite food – fish! During warmer months they would hang up and dry fish to eat later.

MEET OUR TEAM

Svava Viggósdóttir

Verena Wellenhofer

Viggó Sigurðsson

Anna Zielińska

Get in touch.

Send us a message if you have any questions in regards to our tours or if you’d like to make changes to your booking.

Email Address

[email protected]

+354 537 9590 / +354 660 9590

Almannadalur (Almannadalsgata), Reykjavik

Tel: +354 5379590 / +354 6609590

We accept all major credit cards

We have great reviews on Trip Advisor

We are licenced!

Horseback Riding Tours

Black Sand Beach Horse Riding Tour

Family friendly horse riding adventure.

Hop on an easy one-hour horse riding tour at Icelandic black sand beach! This adventure will take you on a gentle horseback ride through dramatic volcanically scarred scenery, along Iceland’s iconic South Coast. We will be exploring the award-winning Víkurfjara Beach, whose jet-black volcanic sands will inspire awe and wonder in equal measure. That combined with the opportunity to meet the famous Icelandic horse, whose isolation has meant that it has remained unchanged since the time of the Vikings, ensures that this magical tour will provide you with memories that will last you for the rest of your life.

Horseback riding tour options :

CLASSIC TOUR  - one-hour tour is suitable for beginners and people who don’t go horseback riding very often or it is their first experience. The minimum age for this tour is 10 years.

FAMILY TOUR  - half an hour slow pace ride, perfect for children from the age of six and their families.

• Small Group Experience
• Gentle Horseback Riding
• Family Friendly
• Vikurfjara Black Sand Beach
• Stunning Scenery
• Get to Know the Icelandic Horse
• English Speaking Licensed Adventure Guide
• Icelandic Horse
• All Required Safety Equipment

What to bring

• Warm layers
• Weatherproof top layer

Tour Snapshot

• Expert Guides
• No Booking Fees
• Fast & Secure Payment
• Best Price Guarantee
• Operated by our trusted partner

Please Select When Booking:

• Classic Tour
• Family Tour

Vik Village

The tour begins when we all meet up at our stables close to the picturesque village of Vik, where our friendly guide will provide us with the equipment we need and deliver a short safety talk. Then it will be time to meet the horses and our guide will ensure that everyone is matched with a horse that is appropriate for their ability. Then, once everyone is comfortable, we will head out onto the coal-black volcanic sands for a day filled with fun and excitement.

Víkurfjara Black Sand Beach

Víkurfjara is truly a one-of-a-kind place, replete with dark volcanic sands, spectacular naturally formed lava sculptures, glorious basalt sea stacks that rise in symmetrical curves and sheer cliffs that hide a multitude of different seabirds. As we make our way through this stunning landscape, you will instantly be struck by the majestic contrast of the white-crested waves against the jet-black sands. It will enamor all your senses at once – the cries of the seabirds echoing around the cliffs, the salt in the air filling your nostrils and the cool wind blowing against your face.

The Icelandic Horse

There is no better way to enjoy all the magic that Iceland has to offer than on the back of a sturdy Icelandic horse. They are smaller than most horses (around 128cm to 148cm) in the world and have a unique set of adaptations that make them perfectly suited to the extreme conditions of the land of fire and ice. They were first imported during Viking times and strict export and import laws meant that they became isolated from the rest of the equine population, meaning that they have been the same for more than a millennium. Perhaps, their most striking feature is their unique gait, known as the ‘Tolt’, which means that they always have at least one of their hooves on the ground. Our friendly guide will be with us every step of the way to tell us more about these wonderful creatures and all the spectacular sights that we will see.

Please note : keeping the   welfare of the Icelandic horses, the  participant's weight limit for this adventure is 100 kg / 220 lbs.

The Family Tour

We also offer a shorter family version of the tour for our younger riders that is 30 minutes long, taking an easier and shorter walk across the stunning Víkurfjara Beach. If you have young children with you (all riders must be over the age of 6), then please select the family version of the tour during the booking process. The tour will take place under the watchful eye of one of our riding experts, who will ensure that the little ones are safe, making it the perfect educational experience for budding young horse enthusiasts.

Want to combine this thrilling adventure with an exhilarating walk on Sólheimajökull? Take a look at our glacier hike and horseback riding tour .

Meet on location

The meeting point is directly at our stable on Smiðjuvegur 6 in Vík. Please be careful with SatNavs! The location of our stable on Google Maps is in the correct place (Vík Horse Adventure, 63.416699, -18.996465), but some SatNavs try to lead you down a steep gravel bank from the nearby roundabout where you will get stuck. Access is through the Orkan petrol station, opposite Hotel Kría - turn into the petrol station and then turn right and you will find Vik Horse Adventure.

We ask you to arrive 15 minutes prior to the departure time that you have chosen. This allows time for you to get prepared for the tour, and we will be ready to leave on time.

GPS coordinates for the stables : 63°25’01.9″N, 18°59’42.2W

Is there a weight limit to join this tour?

Yes, the weight limit for this adventure is 100 kg / 220 lbs. This is of course with the welfare of the horses in mind.

When should I arrive at the meeting point?

You can choose from various departures in the booking widget. We ask you to arrive 15 minutes prior to the departure time that you have chosen. This allows time for you to get prepared for the tour, and we will be ready to leave on time.

Do you have a waiting list for tours?

We, unfortunately, don’t have a waiting list for our tours but feel free to check the availability sheet on our website as all updates will automatically be made to the sheet listed in each tour‘s description. We also offer a lot of different adventure tours around Iceland so chances are that we will have a similar version of the tour that you were originally looking for.

How does the refund procedure work when we cancel a tour?

If we cancel a tour you have booked with us you will receive a 100% refund. The refund process is different depending on the way you booked the tour.

If you booked the tour on our website   we will start the refund as soon as we know you will not be rescheduling and you will receive a separate email with the confirmation once the refund has been processed. It can then take a few days for the amount to show back up on your bank account once the refund has been processed and we, therefore, ask you to be patient.

If you booked the tour through a booking agent   you will need to contact them to receive the refund. We will confirm with them that the tour was cancelled and the refund process will start on their end. Arctic Adventures only receives a payment when the tour has finished, this means that your payment is still with the booking agent and therefore, the refund will be processed by them.

If you pay with your card via email or phone   you will need to contact us the same way again to be refunded.

I want to book but a member of my group has not reached the minimum age, what can I do?

We can not accommodate a person that has not reached the age limit on the tour. We put great value towards the safety of our customers and the minimum age policy falls under this. The minimum age requirement is decided by our operational managers and is dependent on each activity and it‘s difficulty ratings and can, therefore, vary between tours. We ask you to try to understand that this is based on safety procedures and we can therefore unfortunately not make any exceptions to this rule.

Arctic Adventures is a part of VAKINN which is the official quality and environmental system within Icelandic tourism. VAKINN provides validation of insurance, safety and regulatory requirements which supports increased quality and safety within the tourism industry.

The tour I am trying to book has less seats available than I need, what can I do?

Our website shows the correct number of available seats left so we can unfortunately not accommodate you and your group if the number of your group extends the number of available seats left. It is not possible to squeeze additional participants onto the departure as we have really strict policy measures as to how many participants are assigned to each guide on our tour departures. This is of course done with our customers safety in mind, so we do hope that you understand.

Which payment methods does Arctic Adventures accept?

We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club for all countries.

In addition, we offer various local payment methods in many other countries such as UnionPay and JCB (Japan Credit Bureau).

Similar tours that people also viewed

Glacier Hike & Horseback Riding

Reykjavík Horse Riding Tour

South Coast & Horseback Riding

Horseback Riding Heritage Tour

Contact us for more information about this tour.

Arctic Adventures offers pick up service from selected Reykjavík pick up points. Note that you can always update your pick-up / drop-off location through our customer portal: https://my.adventures.is You can press the login button in your confirmation email for an easy login to the customer portal. If you experience an error with logging into the customer portal or can't find your booking, please contact us on Facebook Messenger, or send us a message here below. Chat with us on Facebook Messenger

“to ride on a horse is to fly without wings”

Riding tours, join us on a riding tour and enjoy the fresh sea air on horseback at the seashore on iceland’s south coast..

Tours take about one hour and are conducted for small groups. We have good and reliable horses and offer personal service.

• Protective helmets

Not included

• Pickup and return to your hotel or airport

What to bring

• Warm jacket, rain jacket or overcoat
• Warm (woolen or fleece) sweater
• For the ladies – sports bra

Book your riding tour

About- 1 hour tour for 12.000 kr. Tours are suitable for all experience levels.  

Our friendly horses are great for kids. This is truly a tour the whole family can enjoy!

Bakkahestar is a small, family-run horse rental in Eyrarbakki, a village on Iceland’s south coast.

Eyrarbakki is a lovely small town right on the seaside, about 40 minutes’ drive from downtown Reykjavík.

Bakkahestar offers short riding tours in beautiful nature at the seashore both for beginners and experienced riders.

book your riding tour

• No experience/beginner
• Some experience/intermediate
• Experienced/advanced

Bakkahestar

Design and hosting by Beneath The Surface Design Eyrarbakki

Hestasport riding tours

Simply more fun.

If you are looking for a unique Icelandic riding experience or scenic and well-equipped place to stay and enjoy the best of the Skagafjörður region, you have come to the right place!

We offer a wide variety of tours to suit anyone, from first-time riders to fanatical horse enthusiasts, with the opportunity to stay in our beautiful cottages, with magnificent views overlooking the vast plains and mountains of the Skagafjörður valley.

We offer short riding tours from one hour up to day tours, and we also have long tours taking you into the Icelandic highlands. If you prefer not to ride and just wish to view the area, then you are still welcome in our cottages, of course, and we will assist you to plan a selection of tours to enjoy the vast range of activities that the area has to offer.

Short tours

Small groups – personal service.

Our short riding tours in the Skagafjörður area are ideal to get a first impression of the Icelandic horse. Meet this wonderful 5-gaited breed, try out its speciality, the tölt, and be inspired by its well-balanced character, compliance, strength and endurance!

Whether you are a first-time rider, a fanatical horse enthusiast or anything in between, we’ll either have the right tour for you in our programme or create a customised experience suited to your individual needs and wishes. We offer short riding tours from one hour up to day tours. With experienced guides at your side, you might be crossing rivers, climbing up and down steep mountains, tölting over smooth fields or visit the scenic waterfall “Reykjafoss”. There is no better way to explore the beautiful landscape of Skagafjörður than on horseback.

For bookings at short notice (departure in under one hour) please call us at (+354) 453 8383.

If you are also looking for accommodation, we’ll be happy to book you into one of our cosy cottages overlooking the magnificent plains and mountains of the Skagafjörður valley.

All Year Around!

Viking ride.

On this exceptional every-season tour, you‘ll enjoy the diversity of the Icelandic landscape. Our reliable and strong horses will carry you directly into nature’s tranquility and won’t mind frozen ground or scrunching snow as well as the soft grassy path in the summer.

Availability : All year around Duration : 1 – 1,5 hours Price: 13.000 ISK

All year around tours

Chasing Waterfalls

Our New Tour Come with us on our new 30-minutes tour to one of the natural highlights in Skagafjörður and bring home unforgettable memories. A perfect trip for a quick pit stop to enjoy riding on our beloved Icelandic horses!

Availability : All year around on request Duration : 30 minutes Price: 9.000 ISK

Date the Icelandic Horse

Our New Experience Not a candle light dinner, but a close encounter with the Stars of Iceland. Have a VIP-Meeting in this private experience with one of our horses without the rush of a riding tour. Excellent for young children.

Availability : All year around on request Duration : 45 minutes Price: 11.000 ISK

Riding Lesson

From Zero to Hero If you want to start from scratch or you want to improve your riding skills, with this experience you are spot on.

Availability : 15th May- 15th-October on request Duration : 1 1/2 hours (30- 45 minutes riding) Price: 14.000 ISK

Our summer tours

RIVER DELTA

After a short ride on countryside tracks, we will arrive at the amazing waterfall “Reykjafoss”.  You will soon understand why Icelanders describe it as “the steaming falls”! Later on, you will be having fun crossing quite a few rivers on your trusted companion, the Icelandic horse.

Availability : April – October Duration : 3 hours Price: 18.500 ISK

The Icelandic Horse is the only horse breed in the world that has these 5 different gaits. If you are an experienced rider or even a real expert, come to us and let our amazing horses cast a spell on you! This is a private tour for experienced riders.

Availability : May – October Duration : 2 – 3 hours Price: 31.000 ISK

RIDE AND RAFT

1 1/2-hour riding tour plus 3-hour rafting. Usually, the day starts with the riding tour in the morning and in the afternoon, you will go rafting. This tour does not require previous riding or rafting experience and is suitable for everyone. 

Availability : May – September Duration : Daytour Price: 31.350 ISK

Multi-DAY tours

Have you tried riding through the highlands with a herd of horses? Have you ever climbed mountains with a hand horse? If you are a horse enthusiast, you haven’t truly experienced the full potential of the Icelandic horse, if you haven’t gone on a multi-day tour.

We can help you fulfil your dreams.

We offer a variety of long riding tours through highlands, mountains and the outback of Skagafjörður of varying difficulty and length. Our tours are 3-7 riding days long and range from suitable for intermediate riders to physically challenging tours for experienced and fit riders. In addition, we are happy to organise your own, tailor-made tour.

Our experienced local guides will take you through breathtaking nature that cannot be accessed other than on horseback or on foot.

HOME AT HESTASPORT

If you want to relax surrounded by beautiful nature, do plenty of horseback riding adjusted to your skills, and discover the diversity of the fjord Skagafjörður, Home at Hestasport is the right choice.

Availability : May to mid-October Duration : 5 days / 4 nights Daily rides:  5 – 15 km

SHEEP ROUNDUP

2Take part in the farmers’ work and enjoy this traditional festival of Icelandic culture. We’ll ride into the highlands with a hand horse in search of the sheep that have been running free in the mountains all summer. They have to be brought down safely to the farms before the harsh Icelandic winter takes hold. 

Availability : September Duration : 3 days / 2 nights Daily rides:  20 – 40 km

Visit North Iceland

• Mar 31, 2023

Cover models

• Nov 30, 2022

• Jul 20, 2022

Tours, tours, tours

• May 6, 2022

New York City girls at Trail of Hope

• Jan 29, 2022

The export journey of the icelandic horse

• Nov 3, 2021

Viðidalstungurétt at BBC Travel Show

• Sep 4, 2021

Iceland's first endurance ride

• Nov 7, 2020

Sales horses update

• Jul 24, 2020

Tour season 2020 has finally started

• Mar 11, 2020

Training season is in full swing

Recent Posts