Description
Summary
Description
Discover the captivating beauty of Southwest Iceland through this scenic horse riding tour from Reykjavik. This five-hour adventure is ideal for experienced riders eager to explore the beautiful countryside while riding a sturdy Icelandic horse.
The action begins when your designated driver conveniently picks you up from Reykjavik city in the morning. Together, you will head towards Hveragerdi, a charming town often called the "Hot Spring Town" or the "Earthquake Town" for its active geothermal area.
In Hveragerdi, you will arrive at the horse stables and meet your friendly and experienced guide for the day. Here, you will receive a short orientation about the tour, learn about the beautiful locations you will visit during the ride, and hear fascinating facts about the Icelandic horse.
Icelandic horses are a unique breed known for their resilience, friendly nature, and distinctive characteristics. They have been purebred in Iceland for over 1000 years, which has resulted in their pure lineage and exceptional traits.
One of the standout features of Icelandic horses is their five gaits or types of pace. Physically, they are compact yet robust, standing between 52 and 56 inches (132 and 142 cm). Their sturdy build and thick double coats make them well-suited to Iceland's harsh climates and rugged landscapes.
Though the tour is for experienced riders, the guide will still orient you with the basics of safe riding. They will also provide you with all the necessary riding gear to keep you secure and comfortable during the tour.
Your horse riding adventure starts along the river bank of the Gljufura river. Though relatively small, the Gljufura river has its unique charm.
The river is a favorite destination among anglers looking for salmon in the area. You'll then pass an old cemetery with stones that will give you a glimpse into the past.
As you guide the horse's reins, you'll follow the path leading toward the Olfusa river. This river is interesting because it begins where the Hvita and Sog rivers come together. As you explore the area on your horse, you'll ride over soft black sand, leading to stunning panoramic views.
If you take the tour in clear weather, you'll see the majestic silhouettes of the volcanoes Hekla and Eyjafjallajokull. Often referred to as the "Gateway to Hell" in medieval times, Hekla volcano has a storied and dramatic history of eruptions.
On the other hand, Eyjafjallajokull volcano built a notorious reputation when it erupted in 2010. This glacier volcano spewed vast amounts of ash into the atmosphere, closing the airspace over much of Europe and affecting millions of travelers.
After experiencing South Iceland's beauty while riding your horse, you'll head back to Hveragerdi and return to Reykjavik city for an afternoon at leisure.
Please note that this tour is designed for experienced riders who are strong intermediates or advanced. If you’re still building your skills, we recommend exploring one of our other tours that better suits your level.
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to witness Iceland's natural beauty on a thrilling five-hour horse riding adventure for experienced riders. Check availability now by choosing a date.
