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Best Horse Riding Tours in Iceland

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Excellent 2.5-Hour Horse Riding Tour in Raudholar Volcanic Countryside with Transfer from Reykjavik

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

Easy 2-Hour Horse Riding Tour through Lava Fields with Optional Transfer from Reykjavik

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

Excellent 10-Hour Golden Circle & Horse Riding Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Exciting 5-Hour Horse Riding & 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 Horseback Riding during Winter in the Countryside of North Iceland

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

Family-Friendly 1-Hour Horse Riding Tour through Iceland's Countryside

Scenic 9-Hour Horse Riding Tour in the South Coast of Iceland with Transfer 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

Adventurous 6-Hour Horse Riding & Northern Lights Boat Combo Tour 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

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Vacation Packages in Iceland

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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

I really wish I would have done this trip sooner, this is truly a life changing experience and one you can´t describe until you try it your self! The horses, nature, hosts, and helpers were amazing. I 100% recommend all riders to ride with them! L.E. Germany.

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

Excellent trip in Iceland, the best way to discover the country and its traditions! Fantastic and very professional team! D.C. France.

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.

Family friendly

Two daily departures.

Short Rides

Embark on an unforgettable horse riding adventure surrounded by beautiful nature. Our friendly horses and trained guides will take you through excellent riding paths.

Viking Tour

Departure on fridays and mondays, experienced riders.

This tour for experienced riders is a unique way to feel the power of the Icelandic horse. Explore lava fields and visit the ancient volcano, Mt Helgafell. Dynamic routes suited to weather and season.

Comfort Ride

Experience an unforgettable day horseback riding in Iceland's lava fields with expert guides and friendly horses in our personalized small group tours.

LONGER TRAIL RIDES

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

Beach & Lava Ride

4 riding days.

Jul&Aug Departures

From € 1.690

On this ride you experience the extensive lava fields and volcanoes of the Reykjanes peninsula and also the legendary beauty and dramatic landscapes of the South on horse back.

Löngufjörur Beach Ride

2 riding days.

You get the chance to experience the smooth gait tölt over long distances on wide-open, light-colored sand at Löngufjörur beach, where only the tide sets a boundary to the freedom of horse and man. Witness the striking beauty of the distinctive Eldborg crater as you venture further into its lava field.

Landmannalaugar Adventure

6 riding days.

The tour leads along Thjorsá river and the lava fields of Hekla into Iceland's Southern Highlands. The landscape is fascinating with rhyolite mountains while we ride paths of sand dunes and river crossings.

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!

10/10 Everything in the smallest detail exceeded my expectations. First of all, from the very beginning you can feel that the horses are loved and cared for in this stable. The staff - both reception and guides - are very friendly, calm but also professional. It was my first time and I was taught the basics well and felt safe on horseback with the guides. The trail is amazing, you go through lava fields and there are mountains all around. It was great and after this experience I am even thinking of starting a new hobby!

mateuszp948

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Sörlaskeið 26 220 Hafnarfjörður Iceland

+354 555 7000 [email protected]

www.ishestar.is

Íshestar | allur réttur áskilinn | 2021.

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 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 19 – Sprengisandur / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 days on horseback Tour 20 – Kjölur / 7 days – 6 nights and 6 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

VIKING HORSES

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 excellent reviews for Icelandic horse riding tours in Reykjavik!

Videos and photos of our Iceland horse riding tours in Reykjavik are 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.

Book Horse Riding Tours in Reykjavik

Meet our team.

Svava Viggósdóttir

Verena Wellenhofer

Viggó Sigurðsson

Anna Zielińska

Contact us for reykjavik horse riding tours.

Message us with any questions about our Reykjavik horse riding tours or to modify your booking.

Email Address

[email protected]

+354 537 9590 / +354 660 9590

Almannadalur (Almannadalsgata), Reykjavik

Your true Icelandic winter adventure awaits. Book your tour now!

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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.

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

• 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.

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

Please note

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

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).

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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

HORSEBACK RIDING HOLIDAYS IN WESTERN ICELAND

We trail from Gröf through a magical, ever-changing landscape, from rough lava, over sparkling streams and rivers, to white sandy beaches until we reach Löngufjörur, one of the longest beaches in Iceland, at spring tide. At the time of spring tide, even more of the sand is exposed and the ground is softer. There we can ride for hours on the famous smooth gait tolt, unique to Icelandic horses, and the horses can really show their worth running free without any obstacles to slow them down.

Even though the tour is a roundtrip, and the horses stay on a field where we have stopped for the day, you’ll return each day back to the farm where you can enjoy a bit of luxury in our Lodge The Holy Ram. We have double & singlerooms with private bathrooms, a great hall with a cozy livingroom feeling, where you’ll have magnificient view of the glacier Snaefellsjökull and the beach.

Non-riders are more then welcome to join their partners, our farm Gröf is very close by the Snaefellsjökull national park, which is a great area to hike and explore. In the neighbourhood there’s a beautiful 9 hole golfcourse for golflovers, plenty of fish in the lakes and rivers for fishlovers, or just enjoy the peacefull surroundings of our farm with a wide variety of birds. Both around our guest house and further away, various species nest. Also on our fields we have wildflowers and herbs for naturelovers, take a walk to our beach or go up to our mountains to see the waterfalls and meet our horses along the way or just relax in the hottub and sauna.

For more information, the tour dates and booking a tour.

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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

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.

Thingvellir National Park

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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 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!

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Pólarhestar

Where Horses meet the Elves

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The surroundings of our farm, located between the stony slopes of impressive mountains and the clear water of the North Atlantic, are, according to legend, the home to many elves. This fairyland with its lonely fjords, lush valleys, rushing rivers and imposing mountains is a paradise for horses and riders, too. Whether you already have some riding experience or not, this magical landscape promises unforgettable experiences on the back of one of our Icelandic horses.

Pólar Hestar has been offering riding tours in Northern Iceland since 1985. In 2025 our family business will celebrate its 40th anniversary! It all began with a small herd of just about 15 horses. By now our herd comprises around 160 horses and we offer multiple different riding tours.

Are you interested in one of our riding tours in the elfland? Then do not hesitate to stop by. We are looking forward to your visit!

Stefán, Juliane and Símon

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• Tel. +354 896 1879
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Vík Horse Adventure

Welcome to vík horse adventure.

We offer scenic riding tours on the beautiful black sand beach of Vík, South Iceland. Our Black Beach Riding Tour is approximately one-hour duration and we welcome riders of all abilities who are looking for a gentle ride in our stunning surroundings!

The tours are mostly walking speed with the opportunity to try some tölt, the special gait of the Icelandic horse. We will be happy to welcome you to our stable and give you an opportunity to meet the Icelandic horse!

Our Riding tours

Book your riding tour today.

Black Beach Riding Tour

An easygoing one-hour ride, suitable for beginners and people that don’t go riding often, from ten years and up. This is a scenic ride in the beautiful environment of Vík and the famous black sand beach Víkurfjara.

Black Beach Family Tour

A gentle 30-minute ride, suitable for families with children from the age of six. Children are on lead reins, and the guides can give extra support for anyone particularly nervous. Keep your eyes open for trolls and birds!

Small groups - Max 12 riders per group

An international team of knowledgeable guides, the chance to experience the black sand beach from horseback, horses that are well taken care of, not coming to iceland but know someone who is, watch our video, frequently asked questions, do you offer gift vouchers.

Please click here for more details .

Do I need to wear a helmet?

We take safety very seriously and therefore require everyone to wear a helmet for the entire duration of the tour.

Do I need to make a booking, or can I just show up?

It’s always best to book if you are planning to ride with us. We get busy in the summer season so there may not be spots for walk-ins. Even in the quieter times of the year, it is better to have a booking because then we can have suitable horses ready for you – we might otherwise be out training horses for example.

If you want to keep your plans flexible and just drop in when you’re passing, it’s best if come at least 1 hour before a scheduled ride is due to depart. This means that if there is space for you to join the ride, we have time to prepare a horse for you.

Do you offer pick up?

Unfortunately, we do not offer a pick-up service. We are around 3 hours drive from Reykjavík, most people come in a rental car.

What time do we need to be at the stable?

Please be at the stable, dressed and ready to ride, 15 minutes before your departure time (e.g. 08:45 for the 09:00 ride). This allows time for you to be signed in, get a helmet fitted, and a run-through of a quick demo/safety briefing so that everyone is on the horses and ready to leave on time. Please be aware that if you come late (e.g. 09:00 for the 09:00 am ride), we may not be able to hold the group for you.

We’re running late - can we still join the tour we booked?

We aim to be on the horses and heading out the door at the time of your tour. Therefore, if you come at 9.00 for the 9.00 tour, it’s unfortunately not possible to hold the tour for you. Before you get on the horse, we have to sign you in and fit a helmet, and run through a 5-minute safety/instructional demo - so if the rest of the group is mounted and ready to go, it’s not fair to make them wait.

We have a busy daily schedule with several tours departing, as well as stable chores, feeding, and breaks for our horses and staff - so to keep things running smoothly, we ask that you are at the stable and dressed ready to ride 15 minutes before departure.

The weather is bad! Is the tour still running?

Icelandic horses are used to rain and wind, so unless the conditions are very stormy and unsafe, we normally do still operate tours in the rain. Please come dressed appropriately!

If you are unsure whether the tour is still running because of bad weather, please get in touch with us via phone or e-mail. The weather can change very quickly, so sometimes it’s not possible to say whether the tour will run or not until very close to the departure time. If you are making a special trip just to visit us (e.g. from Reykjavík) then please get in touch in good time to see what your options are. It is also a good idea to check safetravel.is and road.is before you start a journey in Iceland.

What should I wear?

Practical clothing similar to what you might wear on a hike, according to the weather on the day. Hiking boots or trainers are ideal footwear. You can wear a hat or headband under the helmet if it is cold, but bulky hats with big bobbles or pompoms may not fit (a tube scarf/neckwarmer like a Buff is ideal). It rains a lot in Iceland so it is good to be prepared with raingear, but please avoid ponchos or big, flappy coats that may scare the horses!

Is there a weight limit?

With the welfare and longevity of our horses in mind, we have a weight limit of 100 kg (220 lbs). This is the absolute limit for our largest and strongest horses; the majority of our horses can comfortably carry 70-90kg. There is only one breed of horse in Iceland and they are a bit smaller than other horses, so unfortunately we cannot accommodate riders larger than this.

Am I physically capable of joining the tours?

Our tour is an easygoing one-hour ride, but we require all participants to be physically fit enough to mount independently, sit up and balance while riding along, hold the reins, and follow the guides’ instructions to control their horses. We get on the horses from the ground as this is how they are trained in Iceland (not to stand with a stool/mounting block).

Horseback riding mainly causes pressure on hips and knees. If you have medical conditions in these areas, or for example have had a recent knee/hip replacement, mounting will be difficult and riding may feel uncomfortable. If you need special assistance such as somebody leading you on your horse, please get in touch before booking. On our 30-minute family tour we are able to provide extra assistance more easily.

Please note that horseback riding during pregnancy is very risky and that we, therefore, reserve the right to exclude riders from our tours in case of pregnancy or severe physical impairment.

Is the Family Tour also on the beach or just round the stable?

This tour also goes to the black sand beach; our stable is only 100m from the beach so even on the shorter tour we can still go there! It is just a shorter route, and children are on lead reins so that guides can give extra support. Of course, just like with our 1-hour tour there is sometimes a chance with weather/tides we cannot get on the beach, but we will be in touch with anyone who has pre-booked about this if necessary. 

What is your policy for rescheduling bookings?

We are happy to try and reschedule you until 48 hours before your original departure time, subject to availability and to our  Terms and Conditions .

Can I choose which horse I ride?

Just like people, all horses are different. We know our horses well and whether they are suitable for beginner or experienced riders, so it is best for the guides to choose a horse for you. It’s great if when booking you can let us know the experience levels of everyone in your group so that we can prepare suitable horses.

Can I bring my Backpack / GoPro / Drone / Camera on the ride?

We advise against bringing too much with you on the ride. Backpacks can get uncomfortable or affect your balance, as can large DSLR-type cameras. It´s fine to bring a GoPro if you have a suitable mount (helmet or chest) but as you need both hands on the reins, we advise against the stick type mounts. Drones are also not allowed, as they can scare the horses, and also you need full attention on your horse rather than flying your drone!

It's a good idea though to bring a small camera or phone in a zipped pocket, as we make sure to stop on the beach for the guides to take some photos of you. We have some lockers at the stable where you can leave your bags and cameras if you do not have a car to lock them in.

My child is under your age limit. Can they still join the tour?

Please be aware that we never let children/babies ride on the same horse as an adult.

We may sometimes allow 9-year-olds to join the 1-hour tour if they have a good level of riding experience (e.g. regular riding lessons, not just a few trail rides) and are confident riding in a group. Please  email us  before booking to discuss this.

From experience, we find that children under 10 can be a bit more easily distracted or less focused, and more easily overwhelmed by a new activity. Even for children who have a lot of riding experience, being on a new horse in a new environment - and with instructions in a language they maybe do not understand - can be a lot of pressure. 

For the 1 hour Black Beach Riding Tour, we ride in groups of up to 10 people and everyone is in control of their own horse (no lead reins and guides are also mounted). We ride on an open public beach and need to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the group as a whole. For groups with children younger than 10 years, in the summer months, we offer a 30-minute Family Tour daily at 16:00 - on this ride, guides are walking with the children on a lead rein to be able to provide closer assistance for our youngest guests. 

Do you do tours for longer than one hour?

At the moment, we only offer the regular 50-60 minute tour and the 30-minute family tour.

Can you take bigger groups?

If you have a larger group and the booking calendar does not have enough spaces, please get in touch with your requirements and we will try to accommodate you. It is best if you can let us know well in advance so that we can make sure we have enough horses and guides ready for you.

Can we do a private tour?

Yes! Private tours enable you to have a tour tailored to your wishes and abilities and are ideal for more experienced riders. We will ride according to the abilities of the least experienced rider of the private group. Please note though that even if riders are experienced we can't guarantee canter/gallop on the beach, as the beach conditions change daily, and it is often too soft or too rocky to go fast. We do have a slightly different route to the normal tour that we can possibly use to try more tölt, it is still 1 hour long though. Please get in touch with the weight/riding experience of everyone in your group to arrange a time for a private tour and find out prices.

I am an experienced rider. Will I get to go fast?

Experienced riders are very welcome to join our tours. However, please note that our groups are normally mixed ability and we adjust to the speed of the least experienced rider for safety reasons - this means the speed is normally walking for the majority of the tour. We always do our best to make sure that everyone can try some tölt on the tour and to accommodate more experienced riders, but this will be at the discretion of your guides on the day. Please note that the 30-minute family tour is only ever walking.

I would like to gallop on the beach! Can I do this on your tour?

It is very unlikely that you will be able to gallop on a tour with us. The beach conditions change with the tides and storms, but it is normally very rocky and soft so unsuitable for going fast. Our guides are experienced at assessing riding ability and the potential risks of speeding up. They are best qualified to make this decision on our tours, with the safety and enjoyment of the group as a whole and the welfare of our horses in mind. Please respect our guides’ instructions during the tour and accept that it is unlikely they will offer you a chance to go faster than trot/tölt.

Can we visit the plane wreck?

The plane wreck on Sólheimasandur is around 30 km away on a different beach, so we do not visit it on our tours. It is around a 30-minute drive from Vik, and then a 4 km walk each way from the car park.

Can we see the basalt columns and the Hálsanefshellir cave on Reynisfjara?

We operate our tours from Víkurfjara, the black sand beach located directly in Vík. Reynisfjara, the basalt columns and Hálsanefshellir cave are on the other side of Mt. Reynisfjall, so we cannot reach them on the tour. Reynisfjara is just a 10 minutes’ drive from Vík, which makes it the perfect destination to visit before or after your ride.

Can children/minors join a ride without an adult?

Children or teenagers are welcome to join the rides without an adult (subject to our minimum age restrictions) as long as they are confident controlling a horse independently and are able to understand our instructions in English. Our guides speak a variety of languages but we cannot guarantee which guides are working on which tour.

Can I bring my own riding equipment?

Due to the isolation of the Icelandic horse for the last thousand years, many common equine diseases are not present in Iceland. To protect the horses here, visitors are asked to not bring riding equipment, clothes, and boots into Iceland unless it is either new or has been cleaned and disinfected  according to MAST's requirements .  We provide helmets for everyone, and for a short 1 hour ride we find that hiking clothes and walking boots or trainers work just fine. 

How to get there

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 us.

[email protected]

+354 787 9605, smiðjuvegur 6, vík 870, get in touch.

Please take a moment to see if your question is answered in our FAQ - otherwise, feel free to ask us!

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Horseback riding

The icelandic horse, horse training.

We have great training facilities, a indoor arena, a round pen, a 17×34 m outside 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, openings until middle of november , we are open again, glaciers, horses & volcanos, i look forward to seeing you.

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ICELAND HORSE RIDING TOURS

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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
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Iceland Horse Riding Tour

What's included:.

• Option 1: 4 days and 3 nights with 3 days on horseback
• Option 2: 5 days and 4 nights with 4 days on horseback
• Eco Friendly Hotel accommodation
• Breakfast buffet: picnic lunch: afternoon tea: 3-course dinner
• English speaking guide
• Riding clothing and safety equipment
• Transfer from/to Reykjavik.

Price: frm £1240

Sample Itinerary and prices – scroll down for more details

"This is really a professionaly run riding centre out in the countryside - so many cute Icelandic horses - all living as a happy herd. Everyone was so friendly and the hotel modern and fresh. The riding is unique and there is something for everyone with the ever changing scenery."

This is a Summer tour available every Wednesday and Sunday between 1 May 2025 - 30 September 2025

Riding with  Northern Lights and Hot Springs & Whale Watching Winter Tours Available up until 30 April 2025 and from 1 October 2025

Option 1: 3 days Riding approx 55 km

Day 1: arrival.

After arriving at Keflavík Airport, participants take the Flybus to BSÍ bus station in Reykjavik. There you will be greeted around 17:30–18:00 by one of our team and be driven (under one hour) to the farm, close to the village Hveragerði. Your accommodation is onsite at our award winning eco friendly and sustainable hotel. The day ends with dinner at the farm hotel.

Day 2: Ölfusá River Delta

Your guide will meet you after breakfast for a short introduction before you get to know the horses. The day starts with a practical riding demonstration, followed by a few rounds in the indoor arena or paddock.  We then start riding out into nature, discovering the beautiful landscape opening up between the volcanic mountains and the Atlantic ocean in southern Iceland. We begin the tour on nice riding trails along our green meadows which are ideal for trying the special gait of the Icelandic horse, tölt. The trail continues along the river Gljúfurá to an old cemetery close to the mighty glacial river Ölusá, where we stop for a lunch break and enjoy the panoramic view of the river delta and the famous volcanos Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull, weather permitting. We then follow a grassy path further down to the soft, black lava sand on the river banks and through shallow water to the green islands in the river delta. We enjoy riding on soft ground on the islands, across sand and water, with good chances of seeing various kinds of birds living in the wetlands of the nearby bird sanctuary Ölfusforir. We end the ride on trails along meadows and relax with coffee and home-baked cake in our Cafeteria. Before dinner you may want to relax in the warm hot tubs at the hotel.

Day 3: The Hot Spring Tour Reykjadalur Valley

This day offers spectacular views and a surprising variety of magnificent Icelandic nature. We first ride along the slopes of Reykjafjall mountain and continue on nice riding trails surrounding the small village Hveragerði. The path then takes us through a green forest to a colourful geothermal valley with hot springs, an area which expanded dramatically during an earthquake in 2008. On our way towards the green hills surrounding the volcano Hengill, we have good opportunity to try the “tölt”, the special gait of the Icelandic horse. The horses then take us on a leisurely pace following narrow trails up into the valley Reykjadalur. We pass the beautiful waterfall Djúpagilsfoss and some hot springs before we reach Reykjadalur valley and will have the opportunity to take a relaxing bath in a warm stream. During the ride down the valley, we enjoy fascinating panoramas over the surroundings, the village Hveragerði, picturesque farmland and all the way down to the coastline, where we might see the Westman Islands, weather permitting. We continue along the mountain slopes again back to the farm, where coffee and home-baked cake are waiting for us. This tour includes about 30 minutes of hiking (four short walks),

Day 4: Ingólfstrail

After breakfast and check-out we start the day tour following the route of the “Heritage Tour”. The trail takes us through a small river,  a lava field and along meadows, passing by several horse farms that give us an idea of how agriculture has developed in the last decades in Iceland. On our way we enjoy the fascinating scenery of volcanic mountains towering over green hills and pastures, riding between large fields with grazing horses on excellent paths that are ideal for a brisk tölt.  After the lunch break we head towards the table mountain Ingólfsfjall, named after the first settler of Iceland, Ingólfur Arnarson The landscape is changing drastically at the foot of the mountain, and we take a break between huge rocks, soft pillows of green moss and perhaps some grazing sheep. We then follow a scenic, narrow old Viking trail along the slopes of the mountain, riding in the footsteps of the first settler Ingólfur Arnarsson. On the way back to our farm Vellir we ride along the mountain Reykjafjall, where both sheep and horses graze in the summer, with nice views over the surrounding area and the village of Hveragerði. After the ride, we enjoy some refreshments before the bus takes you back to Reykjavik at about 16:15. If you are booked on for the 4 day ride you will enjoy dinner at the Hotel and can look forward to a trip to the beach tomorrow.

Availability

Tours start every Wednesday and Sunday, from 01 May - 30 September 2024

Pick up in Reykjavik 17.30 - 18.00 every Wednesday and Sunday

3 nights full board hotel accommodation, transfer based on two people sharing £1240 pp

Double room for single occupancy additional £65 per night

Option 2: 4 days Riding 75km

As above with the extra day 

Day 5: The Beach Ride

After breakfast and check-out we take the horses in the trailer to the small fishing town Thorlákshöfn, where we start the tour with a ride on the long, black beach. We follow the scenic beach along the surf of the North Atlantic for a few kilometres, riding on soft black lava sand until we reach the beautiful area where the mighty glacial river Ölfusá meets the sea in a large delta. We then continue through shallow water at the edge of the river delta and ride on grassy river banks and along wetlands and meadows towards the farmland in the Ölfús area, where our farm Vellir is located. On our way we have plenty of opportunities to try the smooth gait of the Icelandic horse “tölt” on nice trails in beautiful scenery which seems to be far from civilization and enjoy spectacular views of mountains and the volcanos Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull, weather permitting. We also have good chances to see the sea- and wetland birds of various kinds living in the Flói Bird Reserve between the ocean shore and the river. After we have reached the old cemetery at Arnarbæli we ride along the river Gljúfurá and pastures with grazing horses back to our farm. The bus takes you back to Reykjavik at about 16:15.

The start point of the final days tour can vary depending on tides.

Availability & Price

Tours start every Wednesday and Sunday between 01 May 2025 and 30 September 2025

4 nights full board hotel accommodation, transfer based on two people sharing £1625pp

If you want to travel outside of these months have a look at our Northern Lights Riding Tour and Hot Springs and Whales Tour.

Double room for single occupancy from additional £65 per night

Note:  The riding tours can be combined differently in the most enjoyable way for the participants, according to both weather conditions and group riding skills. You can choose to ride for three or four days.

Helpful Information

What to bring.

We can provide you with hats, riding boots and rain/ outerwear but please have good shoes, comfortable leggings or tracksuit bottoms (riding jodphurs not necessary), gloves and a buff is recommended and if you want to bring a camera, please bring a small waist bag as backpacks cannot be taken on horseback. Bring your swimsuit and towel!

Riding wear / gear – Caution: Disinfect!

Used boots, riding wear, helmets, saddlebags etc. must be disinfected before arrival in Iceland.  Chaps, bridles and other used leather gear must not be brought to Iceland. That is because infectious, contagious diseases can easily be brought into the country, which poses a great threat for the horses as they are not vaccinated. Riding wear is normally washed and shoes and are washed and cleaned with VirkonS, Iodine or some other fluid disinfectant.

Hotel Accommodation

Award winning for being ecological and sustainable! The onsite hotel features comfortable rooms with private facilities, some of them fully accessible. Our rooms have double or twin beds and some of them are available as triple rooms. Additionally, we have a spacious room for the whole family, accommodating 5 people. All rooms are outfitted with the luxurious Hästens beds, unrivaled sleep comfort handcrafted from sustainable, natural materials, such as genuine hypoallergenic horsehair, cotton, wool, flax, and Swedish pinewood. Each room has a door to the garden, allowing you to step outside and observe the northern lights, weather and season permitting.

Our hotel was built with ecological technology and is the first lodging in Iceland to receive the Nordic Swan. The Swan certification ensures the highest standards in terms of quality, environment, and health. Among other regulations, certified operations are subject to certain guidelines regarding energy and water consumption, waste management and use of chemicals. 

The daily changing menu is comprised of the finest selection of Icelandic produce with a vegan or vegetarian option.

Every day from 16:00 to 22:00 you can enjoy our hot tubs or just relax in the hotel.

At peak travel times we sometimes use our hotel in the local village - they are the same standard and we take care your trips to and from the stables.

Riding Ability

The riding style in Iceland is similar to English riding. We use simple snaffle bits, bridles with detachable nose-bands and clips on the end of the reins so they can be easily removed when grazing. Our saddles are comfortable with soft, rather flat seat, it is not necessary to bring saddle seat pads.

These tours are suited for all experience levels. We select horses according to riding skills and participants on our tours always get to try “tölt”, the special, smooth gait of the Icelandic horse.

Children from Age 10 years.

Weight limit

Icelandic horses are capable of carrying adults without difficulty. The maximum weight is 120 kg/18 stone . Riders must be able to mount a horse with little assistance. 

Climate and weather

Thanks to the Gulf Stream, temperatures are usually moderate all year round. Average temperatures in Reykjavík are about  12°C in July and 1°C in January. Icelandic weather is known to be unpredictable and changing several times a day. A beautiful day can suddenly turn windy and rainy (and vice versa). Travellers to Iceland should be prepared for anything and dress in layers.

Daylight hours

From mid-May to mid-August the sun only sets for only a few hours per day, and it is effectively light for the whole 24-hour period. In contrast, there are around 4-5 hours of effective daylight during mid-winter. But Iceland’s inexpensive geothermal energy means that streets and buildings are well-lit during winter darkness. 

We can offer other longer riding tours and include stays in the Icelandic wilderness, please get in contact with us in Equestrian Escapes to discuss your riding holiday adventure.

For tips regarding your holiday such as what to wear and riding ability, please visit the Travel Tips page.

We work hard to ensure that each customer has a great time on their holiday. Please see some riding holiday reviews here .

We have a large range of holidays to suit a range of riding abilities. Please see here for more information.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us .

How To Book

• Flexible start/finish date
• 3 -4 night stay
• 30% deposit to book
• Final balance 8 weeks out
• Book On-line by filling in the booking form below and pay deposit via WorldPay
• or Book by phone on 01829 781123.

Optional Extras

• Double room for single occupancy £65pn.

• Sale Horses
• Trail Rides
• Treks, Tours, Retreats, and Workshops
• Sightseeing Tours
• Farm Visits
• Accommodations

Visit us at Hestaland!

Let us take you on an unforgettable adventure in iceland.

WHY CHOOSE HESTALAND

We believe one of the best ways to experience the Icelandic horse is to ride through Iceland’s idyllic countryside, their natural environment for over 1,000 years. The feeling of riding through the highlands with a herd of 50 loose horses is difficult to describe. All we know is that it’s where we feel free, and by the end of a long winter, we’re longing to be out there again. Our goal is to share that feeling and experience with you —whether you ride with us for an hour, a week, or visit us without riding at all.

So come join us in Iceland, feel the natural high for yourself and see what keeps people returning to the Icelandic countryside summer after summer.

TRAIL RIDES

Treks & tours, our guesthouse.

Set on an Icelandic horse farm, 17 km from Borgarnes town centre. It features free Wi-Fi and use of an outdoor hot tub with views over the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Hestaland Guesthouse

Rooms & Amenities