Reykjavík: Horse Riding Tours

Two hours on an Icelandic horse changes your pace. This Reykjavik-area tour sends you into volcanic country for a relaxed ride, with bright mountain colors and glacier-and-volcano drama out there in every direction. I love how the hosts match Icelandic horses to your skill level, and I really like how they teach you fast so you feel in control. One thing to consider: the total time on horseback is about 1 to 1.5 hours, so this is not a long, scenic all-day trek.

What makes this one feel special is the setup. You meet the team a short drive from Reykjavik, get a proper briefing at the stables, and head out with the right gear for Iceland’s quick weather swings. The vibe stays friendly and small, with groups capped at 8 people, so you’re not lost in a crowd.

It also helps that you’re riding a breed built for Iceland. The Icelandic horse’s special gait, the tölt, is a big part of the fun here, and the guides work to make sure you can enjoy it safely.

Key things to know before you book

• Small group of up to 8 means more time with your guide and less waiting around at the stables
• Beginner-friendly coaching: you get a briefing on handling your horse before you head out
• Gear for real weather: rain clothes, overalls, gloves, and shoes are provided
• Tölt is the main event: expect to experience this smooth, distinctive gait
• Owners and guides focus on horse comfort and rider safety, not just checking a box

Near Reykjavik, yet feels wildly Icelandic

Reykjavík is close enough that you can fit this into a busy day, but the ride itself feels far from city life. The stables are about a 10-minute drive from Reykjavik, and you’ll trade street noise for open ground once you arrive. From the saddle, the tour area around Redhill (the Iceland Redhill area) delivers that classic Iceland mix: volcanic texture underfoot, mountains rolling into the distance, and that big empty feeling you only get when you’re out in the elements.

The best part is the ride pacing. This isn’t a forced workout. It’s relaxed, with a guide who keeps an eye on everyone’s comfort and control. That matters because Icelandic horses aren’t just a novelty here; they’re a real skill. When the pacing works, you get to notice details, not just hang on.

You’ll also see why this company’s approach stands out in the details: guides like Begga and Sveinn (the owners, who show up often in the experience) are big on making the first steps feel natural. Other guides have been reported in recent tours too, including names like Christian and Inga, and the common theme is the same: instruction first, fun second, and safety always in the middle.

The stables briefing: how they get you riding without stress

Your tour starts at the stables, not on a random field. Plan on arriving early enough to settle in and listen. At the stables you’ll get a briefing that focuses on handling your horse so you don’t feel like you’re just guessing.

This is one of the highest-value parts of the experience, because it changes what the ride feels like. If you know how to hold the reins, how to stay balanced, and what to do when your horse moves differently than you expect, you stop thinking about your body and start noticing the world. Multiple riders have highlighted that the coaching is thorough and explained in plain language, even for first-timers.

You’ll also be assigned a horse based on the participant’s level. That’s not a small detail. Icelandic horses can be sweet and easy, but they still have their own personality. Matching you to the right mount helps prevent that anxious feeling that can happen when you’re unsure what your horse will do.

And yes, the hosts are funny and upbeat in the way they teach. That matters in cold, wet weather. If you’re tense, you’ll feel more of the effort. A calmer mind helps you ride smoother.

Gear you’ll actually use in Iceland weather

Included gear is one reason this tour is such good value. You’ll get rain clothes, overalls, gloves, and shoes, which is a big deal in Iceland because conditions can shift fast. Even on days that look okay at first, you can get wind, mist, or full-on rain.

The practical benefit is this: you can show up without gambling on what to wear. You’ll still want layers under the provided outer gear, but you won’t be stuck trying to find the right rain setup at the last minute.

One more safety note you’ll want to take seriously: tour staff emphasize that you should use a riding helmet and avoid anything that affects your ability to ride safely. The rules are clear about no intoxication while on horseback, and staff will evaluate conditions on the day.

On the saddle: what the ride feels like (and why tölt is a big deal)

Once you’re matched to your horse and briefed, you head out into volcanic terrain. The ride portion typically lasts between 1 and 1.5 hours, while the overall tour runs about 2 hours. Expect the full experience to feel efficient: quick transition from instruction to riding, then a steady ride where your guide keeps the group together.

Now for the reason people book Icelandic horse tours in the first place: the tölt. This is a special gait of Icelandic horses, often described as smooth and distinctive. If you’ve ridden other breeds, you’ll notice right away that the footfall rhythm is different. Done well, it feels steady rather than bouncy.

Your guide’s job is to help you get into the rhythm without forcing it. When riders are paired correctly and the group moves calmly, the tölt becomes the highlight instead of the confusing moment.

Many riders also mention how easy the horses are to manage, and how well trained they are. That translates directly into rider confidence. If your horse is cooperative and your guide gives clear cues, you stop treating the ride like a test.

Volcanic country and Redhill views from horseback

The scenery is the main reason you’re here, and the tour doesn’t disappoint on variety. From the saddle you’ll take in views around Redhill, with mountains rising around you and wide open country ahead. The area is shaped by glaciers and volcanoes, and you can feel that geology in the terrain itself—hard edges, rough ground textures, and that dramatic Iceland character that looks different at every turn.

The ride is intentionally paced at a relaxed level, so you can actually look. That’s key for value: a good tour isn’t just moving you through scenery; it gives you time to see it from a truly Iceland way to see it—by being low to the ground, moving slowly, and feeling the weather on your face.

There’s also a satisfying contrast. You’re near Reykjavik in logistics, but far enough out that the scenery starts feeling like it belongs to a different planet.

Timing, group size, and why it matters more than you think

This tour keeps the group small, limited to 8 participants. That’s not marketing fluff. In a small group, you get closer attention with your horse and with your comfort. It also makes it easier for guides to manage safety—especially when riders have different experience levels in the same group.

Some rides are scheduled at different start times, and the total tour runs around 2 hours. Because the horseback time is about 1 to 1.5 hours, you’ll want to treat this as a “taste” of Iceland riding rather than a huge day-long outing.

In practice, that can be a great fit. On a tight itinerary, it gives you a memorable activity without stealing your whole day. If you’re the type who wants hours of long trail riding, you might wish it ran longer. That’s the most common reason some riders rate it a “great experience” but still think it could be more scenic or longer.

The human side: photos, videos, and a guide who watches you

One of the quiet advantages here is that the guides help with the experience beyond just leading horses. Many riders say the hosts take lots of photos and videos, so you don’t have to fight with your camera while trying to keep your balance.

This also adds to the comfort level. If you know someone is documenting the ride, you can focus on riding. And when your horse suddenly does something different (as horses sometimes do), you’ll be glad you weren’t trying to film at the same time.

The warmth in the instruction is also part of why the reviews are so high. Owners and guides like Begga and Sveinn have been praised for making people feel comfortable, answering questions, and offering tips that improve safety and comfort right away. In other words: you’re not just handed a helmet and pointed at the trail.

How to find the meeting point without guesswork

When you arrive, you’re looking for a parking area with many horse trailers. At the entrance there’s a boom barrier gate. You’ll just wait there until they open it.

This is worth noting because Iceland can confuse timing and signage, and it’s easy to arrive a little early and worry you’re in the wrong spot. Here, the instructions are simple: park, wait at the gate, and follow their opening procedure.

Safety rules you should read before you go

Horseback riding is never zero-risk, and the operator is upfront about that. You’re expected to follow staff directions closely. You also need to be mindful about how you behave on horseback—no sudden noises, screaming, or big hand waves. The goal is to keep your horse calm and keep the whole group safe.

Also, the tour staff can adjust plans if conditions are unsafe. The operator reserves the right to cancel orders if necessary, for example due to weather. That’s not a red flag; it’s good practice in Iceland.

Price and value for a Reykjavik-area horseback tour

At about $200 per person for a 2-hour experience, this isn’t the cheapest thing you can do near Reykjavik. But it’s also not just a casual petting-zoo ride. You’re paying for a guided outing with professional horse handling, riding instruction, and provided gear for Iceland weather.

The value equation improves fast when you consider what’s included:

• A live English-speaking guide
• Small group size (up to 8)
• Riding gear and weather protection (rain clothes, overalls, gloves, shoes)
• Horse selection based on rider level

On top of that, the hosts often take photos and videos so you can walk away with real memories, not just blurry shots. For many people, that combination of safety coaching plus the tölt-gait thrill plus Iceland scenery is exactly what makes the price feel fair.

Who this tour fits best

This is a strong pick if you:

• Want an Icelandic horse experience near Reykjavik without a long drive
• Are a first-time rider and want solid instruction before you go out
• Want a small group setting where your guide can help you stay comfortable
• Care about the smooth Icelandic gait experience, especially the tölt

It may be less ideal if you:

• Want a long trail ride (you’ll get about 1 to 1.5 hours on horseback)
• Are looking for a wild, independent ride without much guidance (this is guided, instruction-heavy, and safety-first)

There’s also a 12 years age limit, so it’s not a family “any age” activity.

Should you book this Reykjavik horseback ride?

If your goal is one unforgettable Iceland activity that mixes real instruction with genuinely fun horse movement, I’d book it. The best reason is simple: they set you up so you can enjoy the ride rather than worry through it—horse matching, gear for weather, and a tölt-focused experience are a great combo.

I’d especially consider booking if you want a “yes, I did it” Iceland memory without burning half your day. The timing works, the group stays small, and the hosts clearly care about getting you comfortable on the saddle.

If you’re the type who wants hours of rugged trail riding, you might find the time short. But for most people doing Reykjavik and the Golden Circle-style rhythm, this hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding portion?

The overall tour is about 2 hours, and the ride itself typically lasts between 1 and 1.5 hours.

Is there an age limit?

Yes. The tour has a 12 years age limit.

Where do I meet the group?

You’ll meet at the stables parking place with many horse trailers. There’s a boom barrier gate—wait there until they open it.

What gear is included?

The tour provides riding gear including rain clothes, overalls, gloves, and shoes.

What language is the guide?

The live tour guide is available in English.

Are intoxicated guests allowed to ride?

No. Intoxication is not allowed while on horseback.

What if the weather turns bad?

The operator reserves the right to cancel orders if necessary, for example due to weather conditions. They may also change product or service types being sold.