Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re looking for a trip that mixes Iceland’s unique landscapes with unforgettable wildlife encounters, this Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik might just catch your attention. It’s a popular choice, with a solid 4.5-star rating from travelers who appreciate the blend of outdoor adventure and marine life. It’s a full day that promises you the chance to ride through lava fields on Iceland’s native horses and then set out on a speedy boat to spot whales and dolphins.

Two things really stand out about this tour. First, the horse riding experience is both accessible and engaging, perfect for those wanting a taste of Iceland’s famed equines without needing prior riding skills. Second, the whale watching segment offers a high chance of sightings with guides who know exactly where to look. That said, be aware that wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, and weather can sometimes affect the boat trip.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love nature, enjoy outdoor activities, and want to see Iceland beyond the typical tourist crowds. It’s especially suited for those who want a mix of land and sea adventures in one day, making it a practical yet memorable experience. However, if your schedule is tight or weather looks uncertain, it’s worth considering the flexibility offered in the cancellation policy or the possibility of rescheduling.

Key Points

• Combines two iconic Iceland experiences: horse riding and whale watching in one tour.
• Guides are experienced and help make the activities accessible for all levels.
• Weather-dependent: whale sightings cannot be guaranteed, but a free re-booking policy is in place.
• All necessary gear—helmets, rainwear, and warm clothing—are provided.
• A relaxed, small-group setting enhances personal attention and comfort.
• Value for money: at $225.25, you’re getting two different ways to explore Iceland’s stunning outdoors.

What You Can Expect from This Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup and Horseback Riding

The tour kicks off early at 10 am with a pickup from your Reykjavik hotel, whisking you out to the Ishestar Horse Riding Centre just outside the city. Here, you’ll learn about Iceland’s unique native horses—a breed dating back to the 10th century, known for their smooth tölt gait, which makes riding across Iceland’s rugged terrain easier and more comfortable.

We loved the way the guides introduce the horses; they’re clearly passionate and knowledgeable, sharing little stories about each horse’s background. The horses themselves are described as friendly and beautiful, and reviews consistently praise them. Some reviews mention that the guides are very attentive, helping inexperienced riders get comfortable, and even splitting groups into beginner and experienced riders.

The ride lasts about 2.5 hours, taking you through lava fields, remote moorlands, and fields. The landscape is stark but captivating—volcanic rocks, patches of moss, and sweeping views of the Icelandic wilderness. If you’re lucky with the weather, you’ll enjoy stunning scenery like snow-dusted peaks or lush green patches, depending on the season. Many reviews mention the opportunity to take great photos, especially with the horses and volcanic backdrop.

The Horse Experience: Comfortable, Scenic, Authentic

What makes this part special is how easy it is to participate, even if you’ve never ridden before. The guides are there to assist and ensure safety, providing helmets, rainwear, rubber boots, and warm clothing. The horses are Icelandic ponies, a breed loved for their gentle nature and smooth gait.

One reviewer described the experience as “amazing,” mentioning that their guide was personable and helped them enjoy every moment. With the Icelandic horse’s easy tölt gait, most riders find it surprisingly comfortable, even on longer rides. The scenery offers not just a chance to connect with Iceland’s natural landscape but also to learn about the horses themselves, making it more than just a horseback ride.

Midday Break: Lunch and Rest

After the riding, you’ll return to the stables for a quick refresh and coffee or hot chocolate—an appreciated touch after a chilly ride. You’ll then transfer back to Reykjavik Old Harbor for the next part of your adventure. The tour gives you some free time for lunch, which you’ll need to organize on your own, so plan accordingly.

Whale Watching: Fast, Comfortable, and Hopeful

Boarding a high-speed boat from the harbor, you’ll head into Faxaflói Bay, a known hotspot for whale sightings. The boat is well-equipped with onboard Wi-Fi, warm overalls, and a cafe offering refreshments—so comfort is a priority. The ride takes about 20-30 minutes to reach the whale feeding grounds, making it a quick but exciting journey.

Once out on the water, you’ll listen to expert commentary and scan the waves for signs of marine life. According to reviews, the most common sightings include minke whales, humpback whales, harbour porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins. Several travelers report having multiple whale encounters—some even catching humpbacks right next to the boat, leaping and splashing in the water.

One reviewer said, “Humpback whales right next to the boat. Riding Icelandic horses through a lava field. Absolutely a fabulous day.” The guides are good at pointing out activity, but wildlife can be unpredictable, so patience is key. If you don’t spot whales, the tour offers a complimentary ticket to try again, which many find reassuring.

The Experience on the Water: Practical and Enjoyable

The onboard commentary and warm clothing make the trip enjoyable even in colder weather. The boat is described as comfortable and efficient, helping you get to the whale hotspots quickly. Several reviews praise the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, noting how they make the day feel special even if wildlife sightings are missed.

End of the Day: Return and Drop-Off

After the whale watch, you’ll head back to the harbor, with the option for hotel drop-off if you’ve booked that ahead of time. The entire day is designed to maximize your Icelandic adventure without feeling rushed, though weather and wildlife sightings remain outside your control.

The Value of This Tour

At $225.25 per person, this experience offers good value when you consider it includes professional guides, all riding gear, hot drinks, onboard Wi-Fi, and the chance to see some of Iceland’s most iconic sights from land and sea. The combination of horseback riding and whale watching is not only diverse but also efficient—if you want a full day exploring Iceland’s natural beauty without multiple bookings, this is a compelling choice.

Several reviews mention the quality of guides and the friendliness of staff, which adds to the experience’s overall value. The fact that they offer a free re-booking if no whales are seen demonstrates confidence and a commitment to customer satisfaction. However, keep in mind that wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, a common challenge in marine wildlife tours.

Considerations for Travelers

• The tour operates in various weather conditions, so dress warmly and in layers. Waterproof clothing is provided for the boat segment, but consider bringing gloves and hats in colder months.
• The horse riding is suitable for ages 7 and up, with a weight limit of 110 kg (approximately 240 lbs). If you have little riding experience or are bringing kids, the guides are accommodating.
• Since the tour is limited to a maximum of 5 travelers, you’ll generally experience a more personalized approach, though this also means spots can fill up fast—most travelers book about 60 days in advance.
• Weather can impact your whale sightings, but the tour offers a full refund or reschedule if canceled due to poor conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurers and animal lovers who want to get a taste of Icelandic nature without too much fuss. It’s perfect if you enjoy outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and wildlife encounters. The tour’s small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a good choice for those who appreciate personalized attention.

Travelers who want a balanced mix of land and sea experiences, especially those interested in Iceland’s native horses or marine life, will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s also suitable for families with children over 7, provided they’re comfortable on horseback.

If you’re looking for a single tour that hits two major Icelandic experiences—horses and whales—without overextending your schedule, this offers a practical, enjoyable option. Just remember, patience is key for wildlife sightings, and dressing warmly will make all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pick-up included? You can arrange for hotel transfers by contacting the supplier directly, though it isn’t included in the base price. Most travelers meet at the designated start point.

What should I wear? Dress warmly in layers, especially in Iceland’s unpredictable weather. Waterproof rainwear and warm clothing are provided for the boat, but bring gloves, hats, and sturdy boots.

Can children participate? Yes, children as young as 7 can ride, but they need parental permission if over 14 and riding alone. The tour is suitable for families with older kids.

What if I don’t see any whales? The tour offers a complimentary rebooking if no whales are spotted. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, but guides do their best to find the animals.

How long is the horse riding segment? About 2.5 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and interact with the horses.

What is the group size? The tour caps at 5 travelers, promoting a more personalized experience.

What is the weather like? It operates in various weather conditions, so dress appropriately. If the weather cancels the tour, you’ll receive a full refund or a chance to reschedule.

Is this tour good for experienced riders? Yes, guides can split groups based on experience, and even seasoned riders will enjoy the scenic ride through lava fields.

Final Thoughts

For anyone eager to experience Iceland’s wild side—from the gentle gallop of native horses across volcanic landscapes to the thrill of spotting whales in Faxaflói Bay—this combined tour offers an engaging day out. It balances adventure, education, and wildlife viewing in a way that feels genuine and personal.

While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, the guides’ expertise and the quality of the experience make it worth booking. The inclusion of all necessary gear, small groups, and flexible re-booking options reflect thoughtful planning aimed at maximizing your comfort and enjoyment.

This tour isn’t just for hardcore nature lovers; it’s suited for anyone curious about Iceland’s natural wonders, looking to make their trip memorable without too much complexity. It’s a solid choice if you want to tick two iconic Icelandic activities off your list in one go, with the added bonus of expert guidance and local insight.