Iceland: Volcanic Landscape Horse Riding Tour

Exploring Iceland’s dramatic volcanic scenery on horseback offers a truly unique way to experience the country’s rugged beauty. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews from travelers highlight how memorable and authentic this experience can be. It blends scenic wonder, cultural insight, and the distinctive charm of Icelandic horses into one seamless adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to ride through Iceland’s volcanic terrain with a knowledgeable local guide. Second, the opportunity to learn about the tölt, that smooth, almost floating gait unique to Icelandic horses. Lastly, the intimate size of the group—limited to just 8 participants—ensures a personalized feel and plenty of time with your guide. One potential consideration is the exclusion of transportation, so you’ll need to plan your arrival.

This experience is ideal for those craving a hands-on, authentic Icelandic adventure, especially if you appreciate horses, scenic landscapes, and small-group settings. However, it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or travelers with certain allergies or weight restrictions. Overall, if you’re looking for a genuine, scenic, and educational ride in Iceland, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Good To Know

• Personalized experience with small group sizes ensures individual attention.
• Learn about the tölt, Iceland’s special smooth gait, from knowledgeable guides.
• Experience Iceland’s volcanic landscape on horseback, with breathtaking views.
• Ideal for horse lovers and nature enthusiasts seeking an authentic Icelandic outing.
• Flexible scheduling available with morning or afternoon options, plus full cancellation policy.
• No included transport, so plan your arrival at the meeting point accordingly.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Volcanic Landscape on Horseback

The Icelandic horse is famous for its tölt, a gait that offers a smooth ride even over rugged terrain. As one reviewer noted, “The guide teaching patiently. The trip was very great,” highlighting how the guides are skilled at making beginners comfortable, sharing their expertise in both riding and local culture.

The tour begins with a brief introduction to horseback riding — perfect if you’re new or just need a refresher. From there, you’ll set off into Iceland’s volcanic terrain, which can range from black lava fields to otherworldly craters. The landscape’s raw, untouched beauty makes every mile feel like a step into another world.

Travelers rave about the views, often mentioning how the scenery “takes your breath away” and how the guides add depth to the experience. They share insights about the landscape, volcanic activity, and the horses themselves, making this a more enriching ride than just a scenic tour.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The meeting point is straightforward but requires some planning. Guests are instructed to arrive 15 minutes early at a location marked by a boom barrier gate where the horse trailers are parked. Guides will open the gate shortly after you arrive, and if not, a quick phone call will do the trick.

While the tour lasts only 2 hours, the impact lasts much longer. The short duration makes it a great addition to a busy sightseeing schedule, offering a taste of Icelandic countryside without taking up too much time. You’ll finish back at the starting point, with plenty of photo opportunities and memories.

Because transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own way there, whether by rental car, bus (line 2), or guided transfer if available. This gives you flexibility but also means planning ahead is essential.

The Experience: What to Expect

The 2-hour ride is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 8 people, ensuring plenty of personal attention. The experience starts with a short introduction on horseback riding — ideal for beginners or those unfamiliar with Icelandic horses.

Guides such as Kristján, known for his patient teaching style, make sure everyone feels comfortable before setting off into the volcanic surroundings. The guides are well-versed in Icelandic culture, horses, and geology, adding layers of interest to your adventure.

During the ride, you’ll traverse lava fields, perhaps crossing streams or navigating uneven terrain. The landscape is raw and striking; black lava rocks contrast with the vibrant moss and patches of green, a scenery that feels both ancient and alive.

Particularly noteworthy is the chance to witness the tölt gait, which offers a level of comfort no matter how rugged the terrain. Many riders comment that the tölt feels like gliding, transforming what could be a bumpy ride into a smooth, floating experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price, you get a 2-hour horseback riding tour, led by a local guide who is passionate about horses and the Icelandic landscape. The tour also includes a brief introduction to horseback riding, making it accessible for beginners.

However, the package does not include transportation to the meeting point or food and drinks, so plan accordingly. Travelers often appreciate the clarity, knowing exactly what they’re paying for without hidden extras.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for horse enthusiasts and those interested in local culture. It appeals to travelers who enjoy small-group experiences, as the limited size fosters a more relaxed and personal atmosphere.

If you’re keen to see Iceland’s volcanic terrain from a different perspective and enjoy riding horses, this tour offers an authentic and scenic experience. It’s especially suitable for those who want a manageable, half-day activity without long hours or complex logistics.

On the flip side, this isn’t suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with allergies to animals. The weight limit (110 kg or 243 lbs) is also an important consideration for comfort and safety.

Final Thoughts

This horse riding tour in Iceland delivers a perfect blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, while the expert guides make sure you learn about the tölt and the volcanic landscape in an engaging way.

The scenery, with its stark volcanic terrain and dramatic vistas, is a highlight that will stay with you long after the ride ends. The opportunity to ride Icelandic horses and experience their unique gait adds an extra layer of authenticity and fun to the adventure.

While it’s a relatively short tour, its focus on quality over quantity makes it a valuable addition to any Iceland itinerary. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned equestrian, this experience offers something special — a true taste of Iceland’s wild, volcanic spirit.

The Sum Up

If you’re seeking a memorable, scenic adventure that combines riding with cultural and geological insights, this tour hits the mark. The knowledgeable guides and stunning landscapes make it a worthwhile choice for those who love nature, animals, and small-group experiences.

It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a short ride and eager to explore Iceland’s volcanic terrain from a different perspective. The focus on personalized attention and authentic scenery makes this tour stand out among Icelandic outdoor activities.

For anyone wanting to connect with Iceland’s raw beauty on horseback, this experience offers excellent value and unforgettable moments.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point, which is accessible by public bus (bus number 2) or personal vehicle.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, outdoor clothing, and weather-appropriate attire are recommended to stay comfortable during the ride.

Can beginners participate?
Yes, the tour includes a short introduction to horseback riding, making it suitable for beginners. Guides are patient and helpful.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 years old.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate for safety reasons.

What is the maximum weight limit?
Participants should not weigh more than 243 lbs (110 kg).

How long does the tour last?
The ride itself lasts about 2 hours, including the introduction and riding time.

What is included in the tour?
A 2-hour horseback riding experience, a local guide, and an introduction to riding.

Are the horses well-trained?
Yes, the Icelandic horses used are known for their calm nature and smooth gait, ideal for scenic rides.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Icelandic horseback riding tour balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and personalized attention, making it an excellent choice for anyone eager to experience Iceland’s volcanic wilderness on horseback.

You can check if your dates are available here: