Golden Circle & Viking Horse Experience

Experience the Golden Circle & Viking Horse Adventure: A Practical Review

If you’re heading to Reykjavik and looking to make the most of a short trip, the Golden Circle & Viking Horse Experience offers a compact way to see some of Iceland’s top sights and enjoy a memorable equestrian outing. This tour, offered by Reykjavik Sightseeing, combines the classic highlights of Iceland’s famed route with a gentle horseback ride through the countryside.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances sightseeing with a hands-on activity — perfect if you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of Iceland’s natural beauty and unique culture. The tour’s flexible options, like free Wi-Fi on the bus and audio guides in multiple languages, add a layer of comfort especially for first-timers.

That said, a potential snag is the limited time at each location, especially if you’re hoping for a more in-depth exploration. Also, some reviews mention logistical hiccups—like miscommunications about pickup or timing—which are worth keeping in mind.

This tour tends to suit travelers who want a well-rounded, yet efficient, day out—those eager for iconic scenery, a bit of horseback riding, and good guide insights. It’s especially convenient for visitors staying in Reykjavik who prefer a hassle-free, guided experience.

Key Points

• Efficient & Well-Organized: Combines the Golden Circle sights with horseback riding in a single day, ideal for tight schedules.
• Comfortable Transportation: Bus with free Wi-Fi and USB ports makes the trip more enjoyable and productive.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Local guides and audio options enrich the experience, making the stops more meaningful.
• Horseback Riding for All Levels: The Icelandic horses are described as gentle, suitable for both beginners and seasoned riders.
• Mixed Reviews on Logistics: Some travelers experienced challenges with pickup or timing; plan to arrive early.
• Good Value for Price: At around $191, the experience offers a lot—sights, riding, and insights—making it a reasonable choice for many.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Out in Reykjavik

The tour begins at the Reykjavik Terminal, located conveniently at Skógarhlíð 10. We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early to collect your ticket and settle in. For those who’ve booked hotel pickup (additional cost), the SmartBus service picks you up from designated spots, with clear instructions to be ready 30 minutes beforehand.

The Golden Circle Stops

The first part of your day is dedicated to the landmarks that have become Iceland’s signature. You’ll visit Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where walking down the lava canyon offers a glimpse into the country’s volcanic landscape. Multiple reviews mention how guides throw in interesting facts about these sites—something you’ll appreciate if you like learning while you wander.

Next, you’ll see Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The sheer power and mist create an unforgettable scene, often described as breathtaking. Many reviewers, like Harolyn_L, rave about the views and the guides’ knowledge, which makes the experience more vivid.

Then, it’s Geysir geothermal area—home to the famous erupting geyser, Strokkur. Watching the hot springs spout every few minutes is a spectacle, especially if this is your first time witnessing such natural displays. The audio guides and tablets provided help you learn about the geothermal activity and Iceland’s volcanic activity, enriching the visit.

Post-sightseeing & Transition to Horseback

After these highlights, the tour typically moves to the horse-stable location for the riding experience. The horses used are Icelandic, known for their friendly nature and unique gait. Many reviews, such as Katherine_Y’s, mention how accommodating the guide and horses were to children and beginners.

Horseback Riding Adventure

The horseback ride is generally around an hour, and the horses are praised for being gentle and suitable for all levels. Jim_O notes that the riding was “average,” but others, like Harolyn_L and Tara_D, describe it as a “great experience” and a highlight of the tour.

The environment varies from lush meadows to lava fields—scenery that’s both rugged and peaceful. Riders often get close-up views of Icelandic rural life, with some reviews mentioning the farm’s friendliness and the guide’s storytelling. If you’ve never ridden before, you’ll find the Icelandic horse’s calm demeanor reassuring.

Ending the Day

Most tours conclude back at the Reykjavik meeting point by late afternoon or early evening. It’s worth noting that some travelers, such as Jonathan_R, experienced logistical issues with transportation post-tour, so be prepared to double-check your arrangements or be patient if delays occur.

Value and Practical Considerations

At roughly $191 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of Iceland’s natural and cultural highlights. The inclusion of all necessary riding gear, an insightful guide, Wi-Fi, and audio guides adds value, making it a well-rounded package. Comparing this to booking separate tours or activities, it’s a convenient way to see the Golden Circle and enjoy a scenic horseback ride without the hassle of planning each separately.

However, some reviews mention that the tour duration feels less than the advertised 11 hours—some say nearer 8 hours—which might affect your expectations of how much time you get at each site. Pricing is reasonable, especially considering the included amenities and the guided format, but those seeking a deep dive into each location might feel it’s a bit rushed.

Logistical Aspects

• Departure Time: 8:00 am from Reykjavik Terminal.
• Duration: Approximately 11 hours, but some reviews suggest it might end earlier.
• Group Size: Limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.
• Pickup: Available at extra cost; otherwise, plan to arrive early at the central meeting point.
• Weather Preparedness: Iceland’s weather can change fast, so dress warmly and waterproof—recommended gear includes waterproof jackets, pants, headwear, and gloves.

What People Love & What Could Be Better

Positives include the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the suitability of horses for all experience levels. Many reviewers highlight how the guides’ insights made the experience richer, and the horses’ gentle nature made the ride accessible.

Negatives revolve around logistical hiccups, like miscommunications about pickup times or locations, and the perception that some parts of the tour felt rushed or self-guided without enough guide interaction. Charlotte’s review captures this sentiment, noting the early stop at Þingvellir in darkness and the shorter-than-expected tour length.

Final Thoughts

This Golden Circle & Viking Horse Experience is ideal if you want a balanced day combining sightseeing, history, and a relaxed horseback ride, all within a manageable schedule. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors or those who prefer guided tours with added comforts like Wi-Fi and multi-language audio guides.

While it’s not perfect—logistical issues and a somewhat rushed itinerary—many travelers find it offers excellent value and memorable moments, particularly with the friendly guides and stunning scenery. The horseback riding is a standout, providing a glimpse into Icelandic rural life and the chance to connect with nature in a peaceful way.

If you’re looking for a tour that packs in Iceland’s highlights without overwhelming, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to spend a full day exploring. Just be sure to arrive early, dress warmly, and keep your expectations flexible regarding timing and logistics.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Hotel pickup is available at extra cost. If you’ve booked this, you’ll be picked up by the SmartBus service from your accommodation or nearby designated spots.

What should I wear?
Dress according to the weather. Iceland’s weather can change suddenly, so waterproof gear, warm clothes, headwear, and gloves are highly recommended.

Can I do this tour with children?
Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The horses are described as gentle and suitable for all levels, making it a good family activity if your kids are comfortable around horses.

How long are the stops at each site?
You’ll have ample time to explore each attraction, though some reviews suggest the process might feel a bit rushed. The total tour lasts around 11 hours but can feel shorter.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary equipment for horseback riding, an in-bus audio guide in 10 languages, a local guide, Wi-Fi, and USB charging ports are included. Food and drinks are not.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for first-time horseback riders?
Yes, many reviewers note that the horses are gentle and accommodating, and the experience is accessible for beginners.

How do I handle logistics if I do not have a vehicle?
If you haven’t arranged hotel pickup, plan to arrive early at the Reykjavik Terminal. The tour departs promptly at 8 am.

If you’re after a practical way to see Iceland’s top sights and enjoy a scenic horseback ride, this tour delivers a lot for the price and is worth considering. Just keep an eye on the weather and logistics, and you’re likely to have a day full of beautiful moments.