Best Horse Riding Tours in Iceland
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best horse riding tour in Iceland?
There are some fantastic horse riding tours to choose from in Iceland, and these are the best ones:
1. 2.5-Hour Horse Riding Tour in Raudholar from Reykjavik: The best Iceland horse riding tour is highly rated among travelers and includes a transfer from Reykjavik and brings you to the beautiful Raudholar red hills, formed by an ancient volcanic eruption.
2. Easy 2-Hour Horse Riding Tour through Lava Fields: This excellent beginner-friendly horse riding tour has an optional transfer from Reykjavik, ideal for those staying in the capital.
3. 1-Hour Horseback Riding Tour on a Black Sand Beach from Vik: Take in the views of the beautiful Reynisdrangar sea stacks on the black sand beach in Vik on this tour. This tour is a fantastic addition to any South Coast itinerary.
1. 2.5-Hour Horse Riding Tour in Raudholar from Reykjavik: The best Iceland horse riding tour is highly rated among travelers and includes a transfer from Reykjavik and brings you to the beautiful Raudholar red hills, formed by an ancient volcanic eruption.
2. Easy 2-Hour Horse Riding Tour through Lava Fields: This excellent beginner-friendly horse riding tour has an optional transfer from Reykjavik, ideal for those staying in the capital.
3. 1-Hour Horseback Riding Tour on a Black Sand Beach from Vik: Take in the views of the beautiful Reynisdrangar sea stacks on the black sand beach in Vik on this tour. This tour is a fantastic addition to any South Coast itinerary.
What is the cheapest horse riding tour in Iceland?
These are the most affordable ways to ride Icelandic horses:
1. Family-Friendly 1-Hour Horseback Riding Tour: This affordable South Iceland horseback riding tour is family-friendly and is simple and easy for children.
2. Scenic 1-Hour Horse Riding Tour From Saltvik Farm: This tour is close to the town of Husavik and offers beautiful views of Skjalfandi bay and surrounding mountains.
3. Small Group 1-Hour Horse Riding Tour in North Iceland:
Explore the historic Skagafjordur fjord with this tour, which is available between April and October.
1. Family-Friendly 1-Hour Horseback Riding Tour: This affordable South Iceland horseback riding tour is family-friendly and is simple and easy for children.
2. Scenic 1-Hour Horse Riding Tour From Saltvik Farm: This tour is close to the town of Husavik and offers beautiful views of Skjalfandi bay and surrounding mountains.
3. Small Group 1-Hour Horse Riding Tour in North Iceland:
Explore the historic Skagafjordur fjord with this tour, which is available between April and October.
Can I join a horse riding tour in Reykjavik?
There are multiple Reykjavik horse riding tours but most departure points are on the edge of the city. Some tours offer pickup from your accommodation, like the popular horse riding tour in the Raudholar red hills.
Do I need any riding experience to go horseback riding in Iceland?
There are many horse riding tours in Iceland that welcome beginner riders, such as this 1-hour beginner-friendly horse riding tour. Tours described as "easy" or "family-friendly" will usually be good options for beginners.
If riding experience is required, it will be clearly stated in the tour description.
If riding experience is required, it will be clearly stated in the tour description.
Can children go horse riding in Iceland?
There are many family-friendly Iceland horse tours, but the most common age limit for riding a horse is 6 or 7 years old.
This 30-minute Horseback Riding Tour from Vik is an excellent choice for children as young as 6 years old to try their hand at riding in a safe environment.
Otherwise, this indoor 1.5-hour Horse Riding Tour in South Iceland has an age limit of 4 years old and is perfect for families with young children.
This 30-minute Horseback Riding Tour from Vik is an excellent choice for children as young as 6 years old to try their hand at riding in a safe environment.
Otherwise, this indoor 1.5-hour Horse Riding Tour in South Iceland has an age limit of 4 years old and is perfect for families with young children.
Where can I go horseback riding in Iceland?
Horseback riding tours are available across Iceland, offering breathtaking landscapes to explore. Popular locations include the Golden Circle area, the South Coast, and the valleys near Akureyri in North Iceland. Some tours even combine riding with other fun activities, such as this 8-hour horse riding & whale-watching tour.
Can I visit a farm or meet the horses without riding?
You can find horse tours or experiences where you can meet and learn about the horses without riding them. This 40-minute Icelandic horse stable visit at the Skeidvellir farm is an excellent family-friendly option near the town of Hella in South Iceland. It has no age limit, and you'll get a tour around the farm and meet the horses while enjoying hot drinks.
What is the weight limit for riding Icelandic horses?
Horse tour providers have weight limits to protect the health of their horses and to prevent injuring them.
This limit is usually 198 to 220 pounds (90 to 100 kilograms) for Icelandic horses, though this will depend on the tour.
Some horses are stronger than others, and during a tour, each tour participant is paired up with a horse that is best suited to carry their weight.
You may be asked to provide your weight when booking a horse riding tour so you can be paired with the horse best suited for you.
This limit is usually 198 to 220 pounds (90 to 100 kilograms) for Icelandic horses, though this will depend on the tour.
Some horses are stronger than others, and during a tour, each tour participant is paired up with a horse that is best suited to carry their weight.
You may be asked to provide your weight when booking a horse riding tour so you can be paired with the horse best suited for you.
How old do you have to be to go on a horse riding tour in Iceland?
Age limits depend on each horse riding tour, but you usually must be at least 6 or 7 years old to go horse trekking in Iceland.
Some tours have a limit of 10 years old, and others are mostly recommended for adults.
Some tours have a limit of 10 years old, and others are mostly recommended for adults.
What should I wear on a horse riding tour in Iceland?
Warm and waterproof layers of clothing, sturdy shoes (such as riding boots or hiking shoes), gloves, and a thin hat to wear under your helmet is advisable for a horse riding tour in Iceland. All other equipment will be provided to you by the tour provider at the start of your tour.
Do I need to bring any equipment for a horse riding tour?
Helmets will be provided on-site by the tour provider, so you only need to bring warm clothes and sturdy shoes for your horse trekking tour in Iceland.
Can I take photos during my horse riding tour in Iceland?
Icelandic horse riding tours usually include stops for photos, but you likely won't be able to take photos while riding the horse for safety reasons. You'll need to keep both hands on the reins while on the horse.
It’s best to check with your guide as they may help you stop safely to capture the scenery and your experience. They can also help you capture photos of you on your horse!
It’s best to check with your guide as they may help you stop safely to capture the scenery and your experience. They can also help you capture photos of you on your horse!
How long are horse riding tours in Iceland?
It depends on the experience, but you can expect most tours to last between one and three hours. If you're a beginner, we recommend tours that last around one to two hours.
However, you can find tours that last between 5 and 9 hours or even multi-day horse riding tours, which are better suited for those who have some experience.
However, you can find tours that last between 5 and 9 hours or even multi-day horse riding tours, which are better suited for those who have some experience.
Will my horse riding tour in Iceland be canceled if there is rain?
Horse riding tours are usually not canceled due to rain unless in extreme cases. Simply bring waterproof outerwear for your tour, and you'll be sure to have a great time riding an Icelandic horse!
Is it safe to go horseback riding in Iceland?
Yes, horseback riding in Iceland is generally very safe. Tour operators provide trained guides, safety equipment, and clear instructions to ensure a secure experience. Icelandic horses are well-trained and accustomed to various terrains, making them reliable companions for riders.
What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?
If the weather in Iceland is bad and conditions are unsafe, tours may be canceled or rescheduled depending on the tour operator. If the tour is canceled, you will receive a refund.
What gaits will I experience on my horse riding tour in Iceland?
The gaits you will experience will depend on the tour operator and your comfort level during the tour. At the very least, you will experience the walk, the trot, and the Icelandic horse’s fifth gait, the unique "tölt."
How fast will I go on a horse riding tour in Iceland?
The speed of your horse will depend on you and your fellow tour participants. If you're a beginner, choose a beginner-friendly tour where you can start at a slow pace, like this easy 2-hour horse riding tour from Reykjavik.
During the tour, you can see if you feel comfortable going a bit faster, perhaps to experience the famous "tölt" gait, which is unique to the Icelandic horse.
If you already feel comfortable horseback riding and want to go at a faster pace, you may prefer to book a tour intended for experienced riders, like this 5-hour horse riding tour from Reykjavik.
During the tour, you can see if you feel comfortable going a bit faster, perhaps to experience the famous "tölt" gait, which is unique to the Icelandic horse.
If you already feel comfortable horseback riding and want to go at a faster pace, you may prefer to book a tour intended for experienced riders, like this 5-hour horse riding tour from Reykjavik.
Can I take a private horse riding tour?
Yes, you can book private horse riding tours in Iceland. These tours provide a personalized experience tailored to your riding skill level, pace, and interests.
A great option near Reykjavik is this private 1-hour horse-riding tour, which welcomes all skill levels.
For skilled riders, this private 3-hour horse riding tour in Northwest Iceland offers an exciting adventure, starting from the town of Varmahlid.
A great option near Reykjavik is this private 1-hour horse-riding tour, which welcomes all skill levels.
For skilled riders, this private 3-hour horse riding tour in Northwest Iceland offers an exciting adventure, starting from the town of Varmahlid.
Can I feed Icelandic horses during my horse riding tour?
You should not feed the horses without asking the owners or tour guides since they are well-fed and should not have their diet interrupted.
If you wish to bond with your Icelandic horse by feeding it, simply pick up some grass or hay from the ground and see if they feel like having a snack.
If you wish to bond with your Icelandic horse by feeding it, simply pick up some grass or hay from the ground and see if they feel like having a snack.
Will I ride the same horse throughout the tour?
Yes, you’ll be paired with one horse for the duration of the tour, chosen based on your weight and skill level.
Why are Icelandic horses so friendly?
Icelandic horses are naturally friendly due to their isolated breeding history and strong bond with humans. For over 1,000 years, they have been raised in a stress-free environment, free from predators, fostering trust and calm behavior. Their close relationship with Icelandic farmers, who treated them as essential partners, also contributed to their gentle and sociable nature.
Do Icelandic horses only exist in Iceland?
The Icelandic horse has been an isolated and protected breed since arriving in the country with Viking settlers in the 9th century. No other breeds of horses are allowed in Iceland, but they can be exported. This means that you can find Icelandic horses worldwide, but once they have left Iceland, they can never return.
Is the Icelandic horse a pony?
While sometimes called the Icelandic pony because of its small size, the Icelandic horse is not a pony. It is a unique breed of horse.
Are Icelandic horses hard to ride?
Horseback riding in Iceland is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. Icelandic horses are known for their gentle temperament and unique tölt gait, which provides a smooth and comfortable ride.
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