Borgarnes: Horseback Riding Tour with Prep Lesson

If you’re dreaming of exploring Iceland’s stunning landscape on horseback, this Borgarnes horseback riding tour might just be what you’re after. It’s designed for a range of riders, from complete newcomers to those with some riding experience, offering a chance to learn, ride, and enjoy some beautiful Icelandic scenery.

What really caught our eye about this tour are two key things: the prep lesson in a spacious indoor arena that ensures everyone feels comfortable, and the small group size which keeps things intimate and personalized. Plus, the scenery looks fantastic—and you get to do it with knowledgeable guides who know their horses and the landscape well.

That said, a potential consideration is that the tour does not include transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the stables. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 6 years old or those over 243 lbs (110 kg), which is worth keeping in mind if you’re traveling with family or heavier riders.

Overall, if you’re after a relaxed, well-organized horse ride that balances instruction with scenic adventure, this experience should suit you nicely. Especially if you’re curious about horses, want a bit of Icelandic countryside without long hikes, or prefer smaller groups for a more relaxed vibe.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: The prep lesson in a large indoor arena helps all riders get comfortable, regardless of experience.
• Scenic views: The trail ride offers stunning vistas of the Icelandic landscape.
• Small groups: With a cap of 10 participants, expect personalized attention and friendly guides.
• Flexible options: Choose between a group or private tour for a more tailored experience.
• Good value: At $106, it includes all essentials like helmets and a prep lesson, plus lunch if you opt for the longer tour.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for children under 6 or heavier riders over 243 lbs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Stepping into the experience, you’ll meet your guide at the stables, which are about a 15-minute drive from Borgarnes. That’s a manageable distance, but keep in mind if you’re relying on bus or taxi, you’ll need to plan for transportation in advance. Once there, the atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed. The guide will introduce you to your horse—important, because horses are the stars of the show here—and provide a prep lesson in a large indoor arena. This is especially valuable for beginners or those who want a refresher before hitting the trail.

The indoor prep lesson is a highlight, providing a chance to familiarize yourself with your horse’s personality and learn basic riding techniques. The fact that everyone gets to try the tölt, Iceland’s famous four-beat gait, even if just once, adds a nice touch of excitement for all skill levels. One reviewer mentioned that their boyfriend, who had never ridden before, even got to try the tölt, which suggests the guides are accommodating and eager to share Iceland’s unique riding style.

After the prep, you’ll head out onto a trail through the Icelandic countryside. Expect breathtaking views—think rolling hills, open fields, and perhaps glimpses of distant mountains. The guides are knowledgeable, and reviews praise their ability to share interesting insights about the landscape and horses alike.

The ride itself is relatively relaxed, designed to let you enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The horses are described as “super sweet,” and some reviews mention the opportunity to try different gaits like the tölt, which adds a fun element for those interested in a bit of variety. For those who pick the private tour, you might find the experience even more tailored and intimate, perfect if you prefer a quieter ride or want to focus on specific interests.

The tour also includes helmets, which is reassuring, and if you sign up for the five-hour day tour, a tasty lunch is included—great for recharging after the ride.

The Value of a Horseback Ride in Iceland

At $106 per person, including the prep lesson, trail ride, guide, and helmet, this tour offers good value for a half-day adventure. When you consider the cost of similar outdoor activities, the personalized touch—small group size, private options—and the focus on safety, it’s a pretty reasonable price. The inclusion of a prep lesson helps ensure everyone starts off on the right foot, especially important for beginners or anyone feeling a bit nervous.

While transportation isn’t included, the fact that many reviews highlight the small group setting and friendly guides makes this a hassle-free experience once you’re there. Plus, the flexibility of booking and paying later adds some peace of mind in planning your trip.

What the Tour Looks Like in Practice

The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully arranged. You’ll start with the indoor prep lesson—this gives you time to get comfortable with your horse and learn the basics. The guides are praised for their friendly attitude and their ability to teach both beginners and more experienced riders.

Once ready, you transition to the trail ride, which lasts as long as your chosen tour (usually around 1-2 hours). The trail takes you through scenic landscapes with plenty of photo-worthy moments. The guides’ knowledge enhances the experience—they can tell you about local flora, fauna, or Icelandic horse characteristics, making the ride educational as well as scenic.

The reviews give us a glimpse of what to expect: “First, we checked out how we could ride in the hall. Everyone got to try the tölt once before heading out,” says one participant, emphasizing the focus on confidence-building. Another reviewer appreciated their “super sweet” horses, pointing to the well-cared-for animals and professional guides.

If you opt for the longer five-hour tour with lunch, you’ll have a chance to rest and chat with your guide while enjoying local fare—an extra treat that makes the day feel well-rounded.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for beginners or those with limited riding experience who want a friendly, guided introduction to Icelandic horses and landscapes. It’s also great for travelers who value small groups and personalized attention. If you’re traveling with someone who’s curious about riding but hesitant, the prep lesson can boost confidence before venturing out.

It’s less suited for families with very young children (under 6), heavier riders over 110 kg, or travelers looking for a full-day or more intense riding experience. If your priority is a relaxed, scenic ride with some instruction, this tour hits the mark.

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Final Thoughts

For those seeking a gentle, well-organized introduction to Icelandic riding culture amid stunning scenery, this Borgarnes horseback riding tour offers a thoughtful balance of instruction and adventure. The small group size and knowledgeable guides mean you’ll feel comfortable and well cared for, whether you’re a total novice or someone wanting to try the tölt.

While you’ll need to coordinate your transportation, once there, you’re in capable hands, enjoying Iceland’s beautiful outdoors without feeling rushed. The inclusion of helmets and optional lunch makes it a hassle-free, value-packed outing.

This experience shines brightest for travelers who appreciate personalized attention, love landscape views, and want a memorable, authentic Icelandic experience on horseback. If you’re after a friendly, scenic ride that’s accessible to beginners but still engaging for more experienced riders, this one is worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation to the stables included?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the location, which is about a 15-minute drive from Borgarnes.

Can I try the tölt during the ride?
Yes, according to reviews, everyone gets the chance to try the tölt in the indoor arena before heading out on the trail, making it a fun experience for all.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 6 years old, so check your child’s age before booking.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included in the tour, emphasizing safety.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and casual attire are recommended because you’ll be riding outdoors in Icelandic weather.

How long is the trail ride?
The duration depends on the tour option you choose—typically around 1 to 2 hours for the main trail ride.

Is there an option for a private tour?
Yes, there is a private tour option for a more personalized experience.

What is the maximum group size?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small, intimate group.

What is the price for this tour?
The standard price is $106 per person, which covers the prep lesson, trail ride, guide, helmet, and lunch if you opt for the full-day version.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance, providing some flexibility for your plans.

If you’re looking for a memorable, approachable way to see Icelandic landscapes on horseback, this tour offers a friendly, scenic, and well-organized option. It’s perfect for curious beginners, small groups, and anyone wanting a laid-back yet engaging outdoor adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: