From Reykjavík: Horseback Ride Below the Majestic Mountains

If you’re dreaming of a day spent exploring Iceland’s rugged beauty on horseback, this tour from Reykjavík promises just that. It’s a full six-hour adventure through some of the most scenic landscapes in the southern part of the country, guided by friendly experts who know these trails inside out. While it’s not a tour for beginners or those who prefer a more relaxed pace, it offers an authentic taste of Icelandic nature that’s hard to beat.

What caught our eye about this experience? First, the opportunity to ride an Icelandic horse—a breed renowned for its unique gait called the tölt, which makes the ride surprisingly smooth and fun. Second, the breathtaking views of volcanoes, river deltas, and farmlands—the kind that stay with you long after you’ve returned home. A small caveat? The tour involves a fair amount of riding, so it’s best suited for those with a basic level of fitness and comfort on horseback.

This tour seems perfect for travelers who want to combine adventure with stunning scenery, especially those interested in experiencing Iceland’s landscapes from a different perspective. If you’re comfortable on a horse and eager to see the countryside beyond the usual tourist spots, you’ll probably love this ride.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic horse riding experience in a scenic setting
• Opportunity to try the unique tölt gait, making for a comfortable ride
• Unbeatable views of volcanoes, river deltas, and farmlands
• Pass through diverse landscapes: lava sands, rivers, islands, and ancient paths
• Small group setting (limited to 8), ensuring personalized attention
• Weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes are essential

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This horseback adventure offers much more than just a ride. It’s an immersive experience through South Iceland’s impressive landscapes, guided by professionals who share insights along the way. The six-hour duration allows enough time to really soak in the scenery without feeling rushed, while the small group size means you won’t be lost in a crowd.

The highlight for many is the chance to ride through meadows and across lava sands—imagine the feel of the soft, black volcanic soil beneath your horse’s hooves. The tour’s route includes crossing shallow waters and passing by a lush island called Lambey, known for its diverse birdlife. It’s a genuinely scenic route where you’ll see a different side of Iceland’s volcanic terrain, far from the more popular Golden Circle spots.

The Riding Experience: What to Expect

The day begins in Reykjavík, where after a brief introduction, you’ll head out toward the scenic south. The ride itself is designed to showcase the landscape’s diversity—riding along riverbeds, through farmlands, and over ancient Viking paths. The tölt gait is a major draw for many riders; it’s a smooth, ambling gait unique to Icelandic horses that makes the ride easier, especially over longer stretches.

You will pass through areas like the Gljúfurá river, with its gentle currents, and the Ölfusá river, one of the country’s largest. The views of volcanoes like Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull depend heavily on the weather but can be truly spectacular. The route also includes passing near Mount Ingólfsfjall and the old cemetery by the Ölfusá—a spot that offers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere.

Many reviewers talk about the scenery as “breathtaking,” emphasizing the panoramic views of the rivers and distant volcanoes. One noted, “The views of Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull, weather permitting, really add a sense of adventure.” Keep in mind, weather conditions can change quickly in Iceland, so layers and weather-appropriate clothing are a must.

The Horses and the Guides

The Icelandic horse is an extraordinary breed, known for its friendly temperament and unique gait. Riders praise the well-trained horses and the guides’ expertise, which make the experience accessible even if you’re new to riding. The guides are fluent in English and provide helpful instructions, making sure everyone feels secure.

Some reviews mentioned how much they appreciated the personalized attention in small groups—limit of 8 participants helps keep the experience intimate and safe. The horses are well cared for, and the guides are keen to share insights about the landscape and the breed’s history.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour’s duration of six hours includes riding and stops, so be prepared for a full, but rewarding, day. The price covers the guided experience, but you should bring your own comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, gloves, and a camera. A horse-riding background isn’t necessary, but a basic level of fitness is recommended, given the length of the ride.

The tour is not suitable for children under six, those with mobility issues, or people with animal allergies. It’s a small-group experience, so booking early is smart if you want to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

The flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) offers some peace of mind if your plans change. Since the tour is paid after booking, you can reserve your place without immediate commitment, which is handy when planning an Iceland trip.

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The Verdict: Who Should Sign Up?

If you’re comfortable riding and want to mix adventure with sightseeing, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s especially appealing for travelers interested in Iceland’s natural beauty and willing to spend a good chunk of time in the saddle. The breathtaking views and the opportunity to ride an Icelandic horse are worth the moderate effort.

However, it’s not ideal if you’re new to riding, have mobility issues, or prefer a more relaxed, less active outing. The weather can also be a factor—if rain or wind are forecasted, the experience might be less enjoyable, so plan accordingly.

This horseback ride delivers a genuine sense of Iceland’s wilderness, with plenty of opportunities for photos, quiet reflection, and connection with nature. It’s a memorable way to experience the country’s stunning landscapes—something you’ll likely remember long after your trip ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It requires a basic level of physical fitness, but since the Icelandic horse is known for its smooth tölt gait, it’s generally manageable for most riders with some experience.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate layers, including gloves. Comfortable shoes are a must since you’ll be riding for several hours and walking around.

Can I see volcanoes during the ride?
Yes, weather permitting, you can enjoy views of volcanoes like Hekla and Eyjafjallajökull from certain points along the route.

Is transportation included?
The tour starts in Reykjavík, but from the details provided, it’s implied that you meet at a designated starting point in the city; transportation options are not specified.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience and plenty of guidance.

What is the total duration?
The full experience lasts about 6 hours, including riding time and stops.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for children under 6 and may not be ideal for those with mobility impairments or animal allergies.

Are there any specific health requirements?
A basic level of fitness is recommended, and riding on horseback is involved, so those with health concerns should consider their comfort level.

What if the weather is bad?
Since weather can change rapidly in Iceland, it’s advisable to dress accordingly. The tour can be canceled with a full refund if conditions are unsuitable.

Do I need to book in advance?
Booking early is recommended because the tour is limited in size, and you can reserve with pay later, providing flexibility.

Choosing this horseback tour means stepping into Iceland’s wild landscape in a uniquely immersive way. With stunning views, friendly horses, and expert guides, it’s an experience that will likely stand out in your travel memories. Just keep in mind your comfort level with riding and weather conditions, and you’ll be set for an unforgettable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: