Hveragerdi: The Siggi Horse Riding Tour

Traveling in Iceland often means chasing waterfalls, volcanoes, or glaciers, but sometimes the best moments happen on horseback. The Siggi Horse Riding Tour offers a relaxed yet scenic way to see the Icelandic countryside. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, this tour aims to give you a taste of Icelandic equine charm amidst stunning natural surroundings.

What we really like about this experience is how professional guides make the ride enjoyable and safe, and how beautiful the landscape is — from meadows to lava fields. One thing to keep in mind: the ride depends heavily on weather conditions, which can affect the route and your experience. If you’re comfortable on a horse or even just curious to try, this tour could be a lovely addition to your Iceland trip.

It’s best suited for those who want a leisurely, scenic adventure rather than an adrenaline-pumping ride. Families with kids over 7, adults wanting a peaceful outing, and animal lovers will find plenty to enjoy here. If you’re seeking an authentic Icelandic horse experience without the fuss, this tour might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Scenic Ride: Enjoy views across meadows, lava fields, and volcanic mountains.
• Horse Experience: Ride Icelandic horses and experience their unique gait, the tölt.
• Guided Tour: Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides who share regional insights.
• Duration & Price: About 2 hours, priced at $137 per person.
• Transport Included: Pickup and drop-off from Reykjavík make logistics easier.
• Weather-Dependent: Routes may vary; riding depends on weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Siggi Horse Riding Tour

If you’re curious about how this tour plays out, let’s walk through what you can expect. Starting from the farm in Vellir, the adventure begins with a quick meet-and-greet with your guide and horses. The entire experience lasts around two hours, making it manageable for most travelers looking for a shorter, fulfilling activity.

The tour is flexible, with routes tailored to current weather and wind. Generally, you’ll be riding through lovely meadows and across a small river, with occasional views of volcanic mountains and farmland. One of the highlights often mentioned is crossing the river Varmá — a fun, slightly adventurous moment that adds to the charm. The route might also include traversing lava fields, which lends a raw, rugged backdrop to your ride.

The guides excel at providing insights into the landscape and regional farming history, making the ride educational as well as scenic. As one reviewer put it, the guide was “really friendly” and shared “interesting stories,” adding depth to the experience. Plus, you get to see Iceland’s famous horses at work and at play, including a glimpse of the horses in a pen with other free-roaming horses.

What Makes the Horses Special

The Icelandic horse is a real star here. Known for their smooth tölt, a gait that feels like gliding rather than bouncing, these horses are comfortable even for those new to riding. For experienced riders, the opportunity to gallop or trot is available, and some reviews praise the fast tölt, which is distinctively Icelandic.

Horses are described as “super relaxed,” healthy, and well-cared-for, contributing to a calm, pleasant ride. Several reviewers mentioned how much they enjoyed experiencing the tölt and fast tölt, which are uniquely Icelandic and make the ride memorable.

The Ride Itself: Pacing and Experience

The 2-hour ride is designed to be relaxing but engaging. For first-timers, the pace is adjusted to suit their comfort level, and guides are attentive to rider experience. The ride is not overly strenuous but offers enough variety — trot, tölt, maybe a quick gallop if conditions permit.

Some reviews mention the ride being “really fun” even for more experienced riders, with one traveler noting they got to gallop a lot because they were the only participants. Another pointed out that the ride was “super relaxed,” with plenty of time to take in the landscape.

A couple of reviews mention the ride being a little quiet or slow, mainly when the group includes beginners or when passing slower riders. If you’re eager for a faster, more spirited ride, you might find it a bit subdued, but overall, most find the pace appropriate and enjoyable.

The Scenic Surroundings

The landscape is a highlight here. Expect sweeping meadows, lava fields, and views of volcanic mountains that define Iceland’s dramatic terrain. The nature is raw but tranquil, perfect for those who love wide-open spaces.

One reviewer described the experience as crossing a river and riding amid “the most beautiful landscape,” emphasizing how peaceful and beautiful the setting is. The routes are chosen to maximize scenic views, making every moment feel like a mini adventure.

The tour also offers a chance to see how agriculture has evolved in Iceland, passing several farms and getting a glimpse of local farming life — a subtle but interesting cultural layer.

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Practical Details: Logistics and Comfort

The tour costs $137 per person, which is reasonable considering the inclusion of guides, equipment, and transportation. The transfer from Reykjavík is convenient, saving you the hassle of driving yourself. Arriving about 10-15 minutes early ensures you’re ready to start on time.

What to bring: Wear comfortable clothes and hiking shoes, as you’ll be on uneven terrain. Rain gear or winter overalls are provided if needed. Small waist bags are allowed, but professional cameras and backpacks aren’t permitted, mainly for safety and convenience.

Not suitable for children under 7, wheelchair users, or those over 243 lbs (110 kg). Keep these in mind to avoid any disappointment or complications.

Weighing the Value

At $137 for a 2-hour guided ride, this experience offers good value, especially considering the quality of the horses and scenery. Several reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere — a big plus for those who want a straightforward, enjoyable ride without surprises.

The inclusion of transfer makes it extra convenient, and the flexibility of routes based on weather means you’ll get the best possible experience on the day. The reviews show a mix of first-timers and experienced riders, with most praising the opportunity to enjoy Iceland’s landscape at a gentle, comfortable pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trail ride is perfect for riders of many levels, including those new to horseback riding or those looking for a peaceful ride through Icelandic nature. It’s also well-suited for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with a laid-back, guided experience.

If you love animals and enjoy nature, you’ll appreciate seeing the Icelandic horses in their natural environment, with plenty of opportunities to learn about the local landscape and farming history. However, if you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a very fast-paced ride, this might feel too gentle.

Families with children over 7 will find it suitable, especially since the guide is attentive and the horses are calm. Just keep in mind the physical requirements — the ride isn’t designed for wheelchair users or those over 110 kg.

Final Thoughts

The Siggi Horse Riding Tour offers an authentic, scenic Icelandic experience that combines the joy of riding with breathtaking views of lava fields, mountains, and farmland. The professional guides and well-cared-for horses make it a safe and enjoyable activity, ideal for those looking to explore Iceland’s natural beauty more intimately.

While the ride’s dependence on weather can sometimes mean route changes or a quieter pace, most reviewers find it more than worth the cost. It’s a relaxed, engaging way to see the countryside and experience the unique gait of Icelandic horses.

Overall, if you’re after a gentle, scenic ride with excellent guidance and a chance to enjoy Iceland’s landscape from horseback, this tour is worth considering. It appeals especially to those wanting a calm, informative, and picturesque experience — a peaceful break from more intense adventures.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Reykjavík, making it easier to join without worrying about driving.

How long is the ride?
The ride lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and hiking shoes are recommended. The tour provides rain gear and winter overalls if needed.

Can I bring a camera?
Professional cameras aren’t allowed for safety reasons, but small waist bags are fine for essentials.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the route and pace are tailored to different experience levels, making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced riders.

Are children allowed?
Children over 7 years old can participate, but younger children or those with mobility issues should consider other options.

What if the weather is bad?
Routes depend on weather conditions, so the experience might vary. The guides adjust accordingly to keep everyone safe and comfortable.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic ride through Iceland’s stunning landscapes with friendly guides and gentle horses, the Siggi Horse Riding Tour could be just the thing. It’s a lovely way to slow down, connect with nature, and enjoy a unique cultural experience—perfect for adding a touch of equine magic to your Iceland trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: