Short Riding Tour with Eye-Catching Photos at Waterfall

A Handy Guide to the Short Riding Tour with Eye-Catching Photos at Reykjafoss Waterfall

If you’re looking to spend a little time in Iceland but want to make it memorable, this short riding tour might just be what you need. From scenic views to adorable horses, it’s a quick hit of Icelandic nature that’s accessible even if your schedule is tight. We’ve come across this experience through reviews and descriptions, and it sounds like a lovely mix of adventure and photo opportunity.

What immediately catches the eye about this tour is its focus on beautiful photography and up-close interaction with Icelandic horses. We love that it’s suitable for all seasons — meaning winter snow or summer green pastures — and that it’s a manageable 30-minute ride. It’s perfect if you’re after a snapshot of Icelandic countryside without committing to a full-day tour. Of course, it’s not perfect for everyone; the short duration means it’s more of a taste than a deep dive, so if you’re craving a longer or more immersive experience, this might not fully satisfy. Still, for a quick adventure, it’s quite promising.

This tour seems particularly suited to travelers who want a simple, guided horseback experience with a focus on stunning scenery and photography. It’s also great for those who appreciate friendly guides and a small group setting, making it feel personalized. If you’re into nature and horses but aren’t looking for a strenuous or lengthy outing, this could be just right.

Key Points

• Ideal for a quick, scenic ride that offers plenty of photo opportunities.
• Small group size (max 8 travelers), ensuring a more personal experience.
• All-season activity that is reliable whether it’s snow or sun.
• Great value for the price, especially considering the lovely scenery and friendly guides.
• Perfect for travelers short on time but wanting a taste of Icelandic nature.
• Professional guides who are friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable.

What to Expect from the Reykjafoss Waterfall Horseback Tour

This experience revolves around a roughly 30-minute ride that takes you from the meeting point at Hestasport to the spectacular Reykjafoss Waterfall. While the ride is brief, it’s well-structured to maximize your time at the waterfall and the surrounding scenery.

Meeting Point and Starting Details

You’ll begin your adventure at the Hestasport Reception in Varmahlíð. The location is quite convenient for travelers in Akureyri or nearby, and since it’s a small operation, the check-in process should be straightforward. The activity wraps up back at the same spot, so no transportation worries there.

The Ride and Scenic Highlights

Once mounted on a sturdy Icelandic horse — a breed known for its strength and calm temperament — you’ll head toward Reykjafoss Waterfall. Our sources mention that the horses are reliable and capable of handling different terrains, including winter snow or summer grass. So, no matter the time of year, you can be assured of a smooth ride.

During the ride, you’ll enjoy views of Skagafjörður’s mountain panorama, which adds a dramatic backdrop to your photos. One of the main sights is the water rushing down into the canyon of Brandgil, a sight that’s both powerful and photogenic. You’ll get the chance to snap photos from close to the edge of the canyon, often between the ears of your horse, making for some striking shots.

Photo Opportunities

Photographers — amateur or seasoned — will love this part of the tour. Reviews highlight that you’ll take home impressive photos of the waterfall and canyon, often with your horse in the foreground. The guides seem to encourage capturing these moments, making this a good choice for those who want visual memories of their Iceland trip.

The Experience on the Ground

While the ride itself is short, it’s described as a relaxing and easygoing experience. Guides are mentioned as being friendly and attentive, which enhances the feeling of safety and enjoyment. As one reviewer said, “the guides make it really easy,” which is reassuring if you’re new to horseback riding.

Considerations and Drawbacks

The main consideration is the brief duration — about half an hour. If you’re looking for an expansive horseback adventure, this might feel like a quick snapshot rather than a full experience. Also, since there’s a maximum of 8 travelers, it’s quite intimate, but that also means spots can fill up fast — most guests book about 20 days in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity is well-suited for travelers who appreciate scenic views and photography over lengthy rides. It’s especially good for those with limited time but still want a taste of Iceland’s natural beauty and the charm of Icelandic horses. The small group setting makes it feel personalized, and the friendly guides ensure you’re comfortable and safe.

It’s not necessarily aimed at thrill-seekers or those wanting a full-day riding experience, but for a quick, picturesque outing, it hits the mark. Plus, if you’re traveling solo or with a small group, this experience offers a cozy, manageable adventure.

Deep Dive: The Experience in Detail

Let’s explore the nitty-gritty of what you can expect. At just 30 minutes, the ride’s tight schedule means every moment counts. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by welcoming staff who will outfit you with helmets and give a quick briefing. The horses are described as dependable, and guides are praised for their friendliness and assistance, making it accessible even if you’re a beginner.

The actual ride starts from the Hestasport venue, heading towards Reykjafoss Waterfall. As you traverse the soft grassy trails, you’ll be able to enjoy the tranquility of Icelandic nature. The horses carry you comfortably, allowing you to focus on the views and your camera. The scenery here is stunning — mountain backdrops, rushing water, and the canyon’s steep edges.

When you reach Reykjafoss, you’re encouraged to take photos from different angles. The guides seem to be experienced in helping guests capture great shots, often between the horse’s ears, which adds a fun and personal touch to your photos. One review highlights that you get to see the waterfall up close, with some even calling it “an incredible experience” with “amazing views.”

The Value of the Tour

At just under $80 per person, this experience offers good value for a memorable snapshot of Iceland. It’s not just about the ride but about the scenery, the photo opportunities, and the friendly guides. Many reviews emphasize how the staff went above and beyond to ensure a positive experience, which adds to the feeling that you’re in caring hands.

Weather and Cancellation

Since the activity is weather-dependent, it’s worth noting that if poor weather cancels the ride, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. This flexibility is helpful, especially when planning in Iceland’s unpredictable climate.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

In essence, this is ideal for those wanting a brief, scenic horseback experience with a focus on photography. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want a genuine Icelandic landscape experience. It’s also suitable for beginners or anyone wanting to enjoy Icelandic horses in a small, friendly group.

If you’re a seasoned rider or seeking a longer adventure, you might find this too brief — but for a quick highlight, it ticks all the boxes. And for families or travelers who don’t mind a short ride, this can be a sweet addition to your Iceland itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The ride is described as easy-going, and guides make it simple to enjoy even if you have little riding experience.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the guided horseback ride, helmets, and the chance to take photos near the waterfall.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the ride, and you’ll get a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera or phone for photos, and dress according to the season. The ground can be snow-covered or grassy, so wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 8 travelers ensures a small group for a more personal experience.

Does the tour operate in winter?
Yes. It’s an all-seasons tour, and guides are experienced in navigating cold or snowy terrain.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions make riding unsafe or impossible, the activity will be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This short riding tour offers a neat way to squeeze in a touch of Icelandic wilderness without much fuss. It’s particularly attractive for travelers craving beautiful photos, friendly guides, and a gentle introduction to Icelandic horses. The landscape around Reykjafoss Waterfall is undeniably impressive, and the guides’ helpful attitude makes the experience even more enjoyable.

While it’s not a full-on horseback adventure, it’s a well-priced, straightforward option if you’re after a quick snapshot of Iceland’s natural charm. If you value friendly service, scenic views, and a manageable duration, this tour is a solid choice.

On the flip side, if you’re after a deeper or more comprehensive riding experience, you might want to look elsewhere. But for a brief, scenic, and photo-worthy outing, this ticks most boxes and leaves you with some lovely memories and pictures to take home.

Additional Resources

• Link to similar experiences for full-day adventures around Akureyri.
• Other water-related excursions that complement this ride.

If you’re planning a quick stop in Akureyri and want a taste of Icelandic horses and waterfalls, this tour covers the essentials with a friendly touch. It’s easy to book in advance, and it’s likely to leave you with photos and memories that stand out from your trip.

Happy travels, and I hope you find the perfect balance between adventure, scenery, and downtime on your Iceland journey.