Reykjavik: Red Lava Horse Riding Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Iceland’s extraordinary volcanic scenery on horseback, you’ve probably come across the Red Lava Horse Riding Tour. From what we’ve seen and heard, this experience offers a truly special way to get close to Iceland’s natural beauty, all while enjoying the company of friendly Icelandic horses. The tour is popular, with nearly 2,000 reviews, and holds an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5. That alone suggests it’s a solid pick for travelers wanting a memorable, scenic adventure near Reykjavik.

What really makes this ride stand out? First, the trained, approachable Icelandic horses are known for their unique gaits, including the tölt, which many riders find fun and smooth — even if challenging at first. Second, the scenic volcanic terrains—especially the vivid red lava fields—offer a striking backdrop that’s hard to match. But it’s good to note, the tour is about 2.5 hours with a focus on safety and comfort, which means it’s suitable for a range of skill levels. For some, the main consideration might be the weather — Iceland’s unpredictable climate can make the experience more variable than a typical trail ride, so dressing appropriately is key.

If you’re comfortable with horses or even just curious about trying, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially appealing for those who want to combine gentle adventure with incredible scenery, and who appreciate knowledgeable guides and well-cared-for horses. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for pregnant women, people with back or mobility issues, or those exceeding 110 kg (242 lbs). But if you meet the criteria, you’re in for a treat.

Key Points

• Suitable for all levels: From beginners to experienced riders, the tour can be tailored to your comfort.
• Beautiful volcanic scenery: Ride through lava fields and along natural paths that showcase Iceland’s iconic landscapes.
• Friendly Icelandic horses: Known for their calm demeanor and unique gait, the horses are well cared for and truly lovely.
• Flexible options: Includes hotel pickup in Reykjavik, with the choice to meet directly at the stables.
• Comfort provided: Rain gear, winter jumpsuits, and tea/coffee are available, making for a cozy experience even in unpredictable weather.
• Clear safety protocols: Helmets are mandatory, and guides are attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring a safe ride for all.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What To Expect on the Ride

The process begins with convenient hotel pickup (if you’ve chosen that option), which takes you from central Reykjavik to the stable location, roughly a 15-minute drive. If you prefer, you can also meet directly at the stable, which is easy to find thanks to a big white building with an orange sign and free parking.

Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and introduced to your horse. The guides are praised repeatedly for their caring attitude and patience, especially helpful for first-timers. You’ll be fitted with a helmet, and rainy-weather gear or winter jumpsuits are provided if needed, so don’t worry about the weather dampening your experience.

The riding itself covers about 5-7 kilometers, depending on your experience level. For beginners, the pace is gentle, with plenty of room to get comfortable. More experienced riders might explore routes by Rauðarvatn, a scenic area that includes natural volcanic terrain. The ride along the “smooth path along the Redhills” offers spectacular views of dark volcanic rocks and red lava fields—an environment that’s both dramatic and surreal.

Riders will enjoy about 1.5 to 2 hours on horseback — plenty of time to soak in the scenery and get a good feel for the Icelandic horse’s gait, particularly the tölt, which many reviews say is a fun and unique experience. For those who like a bit of adrenaline, the guides sometimes incorporate faster trots or tölt, but the overall pace remains accessible, even for newer riders.

The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness. “They made us feel so comfortable,” one review states, highlighting the importance of attentive leadership, especially for those new to riding. Many reviews also mention the opportunity to stop and take pictures, with guides sometimes helping to capture these moments.

At the end of the ride, you’re driven back to Reykjavik or the stable, where a warm drink awaits — a nice touch that makes the experience feel more complete. The tour concludes with a sense of accomplishment and a new appreciation for Iceland’s volcanic landscapes.

The Value of This Tour

Priced at $137 per person, this experience offers a lot of bang for your buck. Considering the 2 to 2.5 hours of riding, guided instruction, safety gear, and the scenic, off-the-beaten-path locations, it’s a solid value. The inclusion of hotel pickup adds convenience, especially in a city where public transport might not always align with tour times.

Many reviewers mention that the horses are well-treated and that the guides take good care of the animals, which adds to the overall sense of integrity and quality. The opportunity to see lava fields up close while riding Icelandic horses is pretty unique and not something you’ll get from a typical sightseeing tour. Plus, for those new to horse riding, the guides’ patience and clear instructions help make the experience less intimidating.

What’s Not Included and What You Should Know

Food and drinks aren’t included, so plan to have a snack before or after. Wear weather-appropriate clothing — Iceland’s climate can be unpredictable, so bring warm layers, even if the forecast looks mild. Rain gear and winter jumpsuits are provided, but it’s wise to dress in comfortable, quick-drying clothes underneath.

There are some restrictions to keep in mind: the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems or mobility impairments, or anyone over 110 kg (242 lbs). Plus, the activity requires participants to be in good physical condition. The maximum weight limit and the need for good health are primarily for safety and animal welfare reasons.

The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, with a flexible start time depending on availability. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re looking for a gentle, scenic adventure that combines Iceland’s iconic volcanic landscapes with the chance to ride some of the friendliest horses around, this tour hits the mark. It’s well suited for beginners — many reviews highlight how approachable and caring the guides are, making even first-time riders feel at ease.

Travelers who enjoy nature, outdoor activities, and a touch of history through the landscape will find plenty to love. It’s also great for those who want a hassle-free experience, with hotel pickup and warm clothing provided. But if you’re an experienced rider craving a faster, tougher ride, or have mobility restrictions, this might not be the best fit.

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FAQs

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all levels, including beginners. The guides are experienced and patient, and the route can be tailored to your comfort.

What should I wear?
Bring warm, comfortable clothes suitable for weather changes. Rain gear and winter jumpsuits are provided if needed, so dressing in layers is a good idea.

How long does the ride last?
You’ll be on horseback for roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, with the total experience lasting around 2.5 hours including transportation.

Can I meet at the stable instead of hotel pickup?
Absolutely. The stable is easy to find with free parking available, and meeting there 15 minutes before your scheduled start works just fine.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are mandatory and provided for all riders to ensure safety.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
The activity is suitable for those weighing up to 110 kg (242 lbs) for safety reasons.

Is it suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it’s generally accessible for competent older children and teens. Always check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour provides wet-weather gear and jumpsuits, so even in rain or wind, you should stay comfortable. Icelandic weather can be unpredictable, so dress accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The Reykjavik: Red Lava Horse Riding Tour offers a memorable way to experience Iceland’s volcanic scenery from the back of a friendly Icelandic horse. It’s a well-organized, scenic ride suited for a wide range of riders, especially those new to horseback riding or looking for a gentle, nature-filled adventure.

The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning landscapes, and the chance to try the unique tölt gait makes this a standout experience near Reykjavik. While not suitable for everyone — particularly those with mobility issues or exceeding weight limits — it’s a fantastic choice for travelers craving an authentic, scenic, and safe horseback outing.

If you’re after an activity that blends Iceland’s rugged beauty with a touch of equestrian charm, this tour is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: