Horseback Riding Tour in Iceland

Horseback Riding Tour in Iceland: A Down-to-Earth Look

If you’re considering a way to experience Iceland’s breathtaking scenery beyond the usual sightseeing stops, a horseback riding tour might just be what you need. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture. It’s a small-group experience, which usually means more personalized attention and a better chance to relax and really connect with the landscape—and the horses.

What really catches our eye are the stunning vistas—riding through mossy lava fields and getting panoramic views of the Bajo’ll Mountains sounds like a postcard come to life. Plus, the guides seem to know their stuff and genuinely care about making sure everyone has a good time. That said, it’s not a lengthy expedition—just about 50 minutes—so it’s perfect for those wanting a taste of Icelandic riding without a big time commitment.

One thing to keep in mind: if you’re not comfortable on a horse or have mobility concerns, this might not be the tour for you. It’s designed as an easy experience, even for beginners, but some balance and comfort with riding are helpful. This experience looks best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic quiet moments, are curious about the Icelandic horse, and want a gentle, memorable adventure.

Key Points

• Intimate small-group setting enhances comfort and personal attention.
• Expert guidance ensures safe riding, perfect for beginners.
• Stunning landscape views include lava fields and mountain panoramas.
• All necessary gear—helmets, rainwear, boots—is provided at no extra cost.
• Price point offers good value considering the personalized experience.
• Duration of about 50 minutes is ideal for a quick yet immersive experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Horseback Riding Experience

The Overview: What’s This Tour All About?

This tour in Reykjavik offers travelers a chance to see some of Iceland’s most beautiful natural sights from a very different perspective—mounted on horseback. Run by Ishestar, it’s tailored especially for those interested in a relaxed, scenic ride. The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, making it a manageable outing for most, even if you’re short on time or traveling with kids or less experienced riders.

The tour’s small size—capped at six travelers—means you’ll receive more personalized guidance. The meeting point is at Sörlaskeið 26 in Hafnarfjörður, and the departure time is generally at 9:00 am, which is perfect for starting your day with a peaceful adventure.

What’s Included — No Hidden Surprises

When you book this ride, everything you need is taken care of. That includes riding helmets, rubber boots, rainwear, or warm overalls, so you won’t have to worry about bringing special gear. Guidance from experienced guides is also part of the package, which is crucial for beginners or anyone unsure about horseback riding.

Food and beverages are not included, so plan for that if you want to grab a coffee or snack before or after your ride. It’s a straightforward experience — what you see is what you get, and that simplicity works well for many travelers.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

Starting at the Ishestar Horse Riding Centre, your adventure begins with a brief safety introduction and a chance to meet your Icelandic horse. The ride takes you across moss-covered lava fields—an iconic Icelandic landscape that looks almost otherworldly. The guides lead the way along well-maintained riding paths, revealing views of the nearby Bláfjöll mountains, which are truly a sight to behold.

The focus here is on comfort and enjoyment. Guides are experienced and attentive, helping even novice riders feel at ease. One reviewer mentioned she was lucky to ride one-on-one with her guide, which allowed her to learn about the unique Tölt gait and the origins of the Icelandic horse. Others appreciated how friendly and accommodating the staff were, making the experience feel more like a fun outing than a formal lesson.

The Landscape: Why It’s Special

The scenery is what makes this tour stand out. Iceland’s volcanic landscape, with its mossy lava fields, often feels like stepping onto another planet. The views of the Bajo’ll Mountains add a majestic backdrop to your ride, making it easy to see why so many people fall in love with Iceland’s raw, unspoiled beauty.

Reviews consistently highlight how stunning the vistas are, with one rider noting it as a “trip highlight” and another describing the ride as “very relaxing.” Whether you’re snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery, this tour will leave you with plenty of memories.

The Horses: Icelandic Charisma

One of the most intriguing parts of the tour is the chance to learn about the Icelandic horse. These sturdy, friendly animals are unique, with a special gait called the Tölt, which offers a smooth ride even over rough terrain. Guides seem to take pride in sharing their knowledge, and many reviews praise their ability to teach riders how to ride Tölt correctly.

If you’re curious about local traditions or enjoy getting up close with animals, this part of the experience will definitely resonate with you. It’s not just a riding tour; it’s also an educational peek into Icelandic equestrian culture.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $122.66 per person, this ride might seem like a splurge for a 50-minute activity. But when you weigh the personalized attention, included gear, and stunning scenery, it’s quite reasonable. For many travelers, it’s a chance to connect with Iceland’s nature in a meaningful way, without that long, exhausting ride that some horseback tours entail.

Plus, reviews show that most find it to be excellent value. A common theme is how the guides make everyone feel comfortable and that the experience exceeds expectations—important factors when considering the cost.

Who Would Love This Tour?

• Beginner riders or those interested in trying out horseback riding for the first time.
• Travelers who seek scenic, peaceful outings that aren’t overly strenuous.
• Those wanting a small, intimate setting with personalized service.
• Visitors eager to learn about the Icelandic horse and its unique gait.
• People looking for a quick, memorable excursion that can fit into a packed day.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

All in all, this horseback riding tour offers a gentle, scenic break from more hectic sightseeing. Its personalized approach and stunning landscape make it especially appealing for those who enjoy quiet, nature-focused experiences. The guides’ expertise and the well-maintained horses help ensure safety and comfort, making it suitable even for beginners.

If you’re after an authentic Icelandic experience that combines mild adventure with incredible views, this ride hits the spot. It’s perfect if you want to dip your toes into horseback riding without committing to a full-day tour or if you simply want a peaceful way to see Iceland’s volcanic terrain.

However, for those with mobility issues or looking for a longer, more adrenaline-packed ride, this might feel a bit limited. Still, for most, it’s a charming and memorable way to see some of the country’s iconic landscapes.

FAQs About the Iceland Horseback Riding Tour

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed especially for beginners. Guides are experienced and will help you feel at ease, making this a great first horseback riding experience.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary gear—helmets, rubber boots, rainwear, or warm overalls—is provided along with guided instruction.

How long is the ride?
The experience lasts approximately 50 minutes, offering a comfortable duration to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
You’ll be provided with rainwear or warm overalls if needed, but it’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and possibly layers depending on the weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is handy if weather or other plans change unexpectedly.

What about weather considerations?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, a different date or a full refund will be offered.

Is this activity child-friendly?
While not explicitly stated, the experience is suitable for most travelers, and the small group size suggests it’s manageable for older children with some riding experience.

What is the maximum weight limit?
Participants should not exceed 110 kg / 240 lbs.

Whether you’re after a peaceful ride with spectacular views or just want to try horseback riding in Iceland, this tour seems to hit a sweet spot. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in those mountain vistas, and connect with Icelandic nature in a way that’s both relaxing and memorable.