Reykjavik: Red Lava Horse Riding Tour

Red lava under your boots. This Reykjavik horse riding tour takes you across dramatic volcanic terrain on friendly Icelandic horses, with options for different riding levels. I love how you get matched to your experience, so first-timers and return riders don’t feel lost. One thing to plan for: you’ll be outside on uneven ground, so dress for serious cold and wind.

What really makes it special is the mix of smooth riding and volcano views that feel like a real slice of Iceland. I especially like the two trail options, with routes through the Redhills area and a faster-feeling line (Rauðarvatn) for more confident riders. The main catch is practical: this is not a lounge activity. You need to be in good physical condition to stay comfortable on the saddle and handle the pace changes.

Quick Hits: What You’ll Notice Right Away

• Beginner and advanced groups so you get a pace that fits your level
• Redhills vs Rauðarvatn routing, with the more experienced path offering more action
• Helmets and wet-weather clothing provided, plus winter jumpsuits in cold months
• Tölt and optional speed-up when conditions and your group allow it
• A red lava photo stop, with the guide often helping with phone photos
• Tea and coffee after to warm back up before heading toward Reykjavik

Where Red Lava Horse Riding Fits in Reykjavik (and Why It Works)

If you’re basing yourself in Reykjavik, it’s tempting to spend every day chasing the big-ticket sights. This tour gives you something different: you’re out in volcanic country, but you’re traveling on horseback instead of in a bus line.

The value here is not just the scenery. It’s the format. A short transfer, a real block of time in the saddle (about 1.5–2 hours), and gear handled for you means you actually get the experience without Iceland logistics eating your day.

And the horses matter. Icelandic horses are built for varied surfaces and they’re known for their calm, cooperative temperament. On this ride, you’re not just “passively watching lava.” You’re moving through it.

Getting There: Pickup vs. Driving to Sólhestar Stables

The tour starts with an easy choice: hotel pickup in Reykjavik, or driving yourself to the stables.

Hotel pickup option

If you select pickup, you’re collected from your hotel (or a selected pickup point) about 30 minutes before the tour start time. A small bus or jeep shows up with the provider name on the side, and the transport quality is highly rated, with 92% of reviewers scoring it perfect.

Drive yourself option

If you have a car, you’ll want to head to the stables and park for free in front of the property. It’s about a 15-minute drive from downtown, and you just meet on time and keep it simple.

Either way, the meeting rule is the same: be 15 minutes early. The stables are described as a big white stable with a big orange sign, which is a rare win in a world of “meet by the same entrance” instructions.

First Step on the Ground: Helmets, Rain Gear, and Winter Jumpsuits

Before you touch the saddle, you’ll get set up properly. Everyone rides with a helmet (provided at the stable). This isn’t a “nice-to-have” situation. It’s part of the tour’s safety basics.

On cold or wet days, you’ll also be given wet-weather clothing. During winter, that includes winter jumpsuits. In other words, you don’t need to overpack with layers you might never wear again.

Practical note: you still need to bring warm clothing and wear comfortable clothes that fit under the provided layers. Gloves and wool socks can make the difference between thrilled and just tolerable, especially if there’s wind.

Meet Your Horse and Get Matched to Your Level

A big part of why this tour scores so high is how the ride is structured once you arrive.

You’ll be introduced to friendly Icelandic horses, and you’ll be paired with a horse that fits your riding experience. That matters for comfort, confidence, and control, especially if you’re new.

You also get a rider grouping approach. Many rides split into beginner and more advanced groups so you aren’t stuck behind slow steps if you want more movement, and you aren’t asked to keep up if you’re still learning balance.

If you want a sense of the guide style, you may meet instructors with names like Claudia, Patri, Nina, or Claira. The common thread is clear instructions plus calm attention during the ride.

The Route: Redhills for Smooth Riding, Rauðarvatn for More Pace

Here’s where the tour feels like more than a generic horseback outing.

Redhills route

You’ll ride along a beautiful and smooth path through the Redhills area. This is the route that works well when you want the ride to feel steady and scenic without constant pressure to “keep up.”

Expect about 5–7 kilometers total, depending on the experience of the riders. The focus is on enjoying the terrain, not racing it.

Rauðarvatn route

More experienced riders may go by Rauðarvatn. It’s still natural riding paths, but the vibe tends to be more lively. This is where you’re more likely to get chances for faster riding moments.

If you’re aiming for a bit more excitement, this split is one reason I’d choose this tour over a generic “just ride around a field” option.

What 1.5–2 Hours in the Saddle Feels Like

The ride time is the sweet spot. You’re not out there all day, but it’s long enough that you stop thinking about logistics and start thinking about the views and the motion.

In the saddle, you’ll ride at a pace that fits your group, and you’ll be guided throughout. Many riders experience mostly walking along paths with volcanic features around you. The ground can be rocky and textured, so staying balanced is part of the learning.

The tour also includes comfort touches:

• complimentary coffee and tea
• rain gear if needed
• winter jumpsuits in colder months

This is the kind of activity where you’ll feel the cold at first, then forget it once you’re moving.

The Moments That Make the Tour Worth the Money

If you’re comparing options, look past the headline like lava fields. The real “why” is in the small ride moments.

Tölt and speed-up opportunities

I like that the tour isn’t forcing a single speed for everyone. More advanced groups may get tölt sessions, and riders can sometimes be offered the option to speed up if they feel ready.

That’s a practical win: you can have fun without turning it into a stressful test of skill.

A red lava photo stop

You’ll have a photo moment built into the ride. The guide leads the group to a spot with red lava rocks, often for a mini photoshoot.

In some cases, the guide helps take photos using your phone, which saves you from the classic problem: one-handed selfies while your horse stands politely with you.

Time to settle and say goodbye

After the ride, you head back to the stables or your Reykjavik accommodation. There’s often a quiet window to gather your thoughts and, if you’re into that, spend a minute with the horses again before you move on.

Price: Does $142 Feel Reasonable for a 2.5-Hour Horse Ride?

At $142 per person for about 2.5 hours total, you’re paying for a lot more than “someone gives you a horse and wishes you luck.”

Here’s what’s included that adds real value:

• instructor guidance throughout
• helmet for every rider
• wet-weather clothing and winter jumpsuits
• coffee and tea
• parking at the stable
• optional hotel pickup and drop-off

And most important: you get 1.5–2 hours in the saddle, plus a real experience riding across volcanic terrain rather than a short loop.

For first-timers, that safety and support package can be worth it alone. For experienced riders, the split routes and tölt/speed options give you more control over how “active” your ride feels.

What to Wear and Bring (So You Don’t Lose the Fun)

This is Iceland. Weather changes fast, and wind loves to find gaps in your outfit.

You should bring:

• warm clothing
• comfortable clothes that work with provided layers
• weather-appropriate footwear and socks

You should not bring:

• shorts
• open-toed shoes
• backpacks
• professional cameras

Also, plan to wear what you’d wear for outdoor winter walking. If you’re tempted to show up in something cute and light, don’t. Your horse won’t care, but the wind will.

Who This Tour Suits Best (And Who Should Rethink It)

This ride is built for a wide range of abilities, but it’s not for everyone.

It’s a strong fit if you want:

• a memorable Reykjavik activity that’s not a museum stop
• an outdoor experience with real volcanic scenery
• beginner-friendly instruction (with you matched to a suitable horse)
• an optional “faster” feel for more confident riders

It’s not suitable for:

• pregnant women
• people with back problems
• those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users
• people with recent surgeries
• people over the weight limit of 110 kg / 242 lb
• people with low level of fitness

If you’re unsure, treat the “not suitable” list as a safety signal. Iceland rides can look simple, but you still need to handle balance and steady riding.

Small Logistics That Save You Stress

A few timing rules make the day run smoother:

• If you’re using pickup, be ready 30 minutes before the tour start time.
• If you’re driving yourself, meet 15 minutes before the set riding time.
• Aim to arrive early at the stable. Getting helmets and gear on calmly is part of the experience.

If you hate rushing, build in that cushion.

Also: the tour is in English, and the ride is led by an instructor who keeps the group moving and helps you settle onto your horse safely.

Should You Book the Reykjavik Red Lava Horse Riding Tour?

Book it if you want a short, high-impact day in Iceland: riding Icelandic horses across red lava fields with enough structure for beginners and enough options for experienced riders.

Skip it if you know you’re uncomfortable with outdoor cold, uneven ground, or you fall into one of the clear non-suitable categories. A horse ride is fun, but it still asks something of your body and balance.

If you’re on the fence, here’s the decision rule I’d use: if you’d be happy spending 2.5 hours outside in Iceland weather to get 1.5–2 hours in the saddle, this is a solid pick.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding portion?

You’ll ride for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The total tour duration is listed as 2.5 hours.

Is pickup from Reykjavik included?

Pickup is optional. If you choose it, you’re picked up from selected hotels or pickup points in Reykjavik about 30 minutes before the tour start time. If you don’t want pickup, you can meet at the stable.

Where do I meet, and is there parking?

If you’re driving yourself, meet at the stable 15 minutes before set riding time. There’s free parking in front of the stable, and the meeting point is described as a big white stable with a big orange sign.

What gear is provided for cold or wet weather?

The tour provides wet-weather clothing if required, and winter jumpsuits in cold conditions. You’ll also receive a helmet to wear while riding.

Do I need riding experience?

No. The ride is suitable for beginners and more experienced riders, and the route length and riding options depend on the riders’ experience level.

What are the rules on cameras and bags?

You should not bring professional cameras, backpacks, or open-toed shoes. Shorts are also not allowed.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes. The weight limit is 110 kg / 242 lb.

What’s the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.