Iceland Trip

Iceland Itineraries With Horse Riding

The Icelandic horse has been bred in isolation for a thousand years and has a fifth gait, the smooth tölt, that makes even a first ride comfortable. One- to two-hour rides across lava fields and black-sand beaches leave from farms near Reykjavík, around Vík and Hella on the South Coast, and in Skagafjörður in the north, which calls itself the horse capital of Iceland.

Each plan on this page books a ride and places it on a day with little driving, usually near the overnight base. Our editors picked them from real trips for tours that suit beginners and children, and for the booking lead time in summer. Duplicate one and make it yours.

Picked and reviewed by · Iceland Lead & Content Curator· Updated

5–6 days

7 days

8–10 days

11–14 days

15+ days

Frequently asked questions

Do you need riding experience for horse riding in Iceland?

No. Most one- to two-hour tours are for beginners, on calm horses matched to your experience, with helmets provided and a guide leading. Longer rides and multi-day treks require real experience. Children are usually accepted from about 6 to 8 years, sometimes younger on a led pony.

Can I bring my own riding gear to Iceland?

Only if it has been disinfected: Iceland has no horse diseases and used riding clothes, boots, gloves and tack must be washed and disinfected before entry, and used saddles and bridles are banned. Tour operators provide helmets and rain gear, so most visitors bring nothing but warm layers and sturdy shoes.

Where is the best place to ride in Iceland?

For a road trip, Vík and Hella on the South Coast offer black-sand beach and riverbank rides that fit between waterfalls; farms 20 to 30 minutes from Reykjavík ride through lava fields and suit an arrival or departure day. Skagafjörður in the north is the heartland for longer rides and horse shows if your route passes through.

Deeper reading on iceland-trip.com

Our sister site covers every place in depth: access, parking, seasons, what to expect. Written by the same team.

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