Horseback Riding Tour in Iceland

Few things feel more Iceland than riding an Icelandic horse right outside Reykjavík and passing moss-covered lava fields. I like that this is set up for beginners with real guide time and coaching, so you can get comfortable fast, even with tölt. I also love the panoramic Bláfjöll mountains views you get along the ride.

The main thing to know before you book is that it is a short 50-minute experience. It is perfect for a taste of horse riding, not a full day out on the trail.

Quick highlights

• Beginner-focused ride with experienced guidance and safety support
• Moss-covered lava fields plus riding paths in Icelandic scenery
• Tölt coaching and learning how the Icelandic horse moves
• Panoramic Bláfjöll views that make the short ride feel big
• Small group size (max 15) so attention stays personal
• Gear included: helmet, rubber boots, and rain wear or warm overalls

Horseback in Iceland, right by Reykjavík

If you want Iceland scenery without committing to a long, complicated day plan, this is a strong option. You base yourself around Reykjavík and head to the Ishestar Horse Riding Centre in Hafnarfjörður, where the experience is built around comfort and control from the start.

What makes this tour especially interesting is the setting. The ride takes you through areas with moss-covered lava fields, which is a very specific Iceland look. It is not just “pretty countryside” either. You get texture underfoot, an otherworldly rock-and-green mix, and wide open sightlines as you move between paths and viewpoints.

And yes, you’re on horseback, but the tour is not about chaos or letting the horse “do whatever.” The guides focus on helping you understand the Icelandic horse and how to ride safely. You should feel supported, not pushed.

One more practical plus: the tour is offered in English, and it is capped at 15 people. In Iceland, where weather can be changeable, a small group also helps the schedule stay smooth.

What makes Icelandic horses different (and why you’ll notice it)

Most people come in thinking a horse is a horse. Then you meet an Icelandic horse and you immediately understand why this breed is famous back home and abroad.

The Icelandic horse has its own rhythm and motion, including the tölt, a distinctive gait. You do not need to be a horse person to learn what you’re doing. What matters is that the guides coach you on the basics and help you ride in a way that suits the horse. If you are nervous, the instruction style matters, and the vibe here comes across as patient and hands-on.

In one case, a guest had a 1-2-1 guide and was coached on tölt technique. That kind of personalized attention is exactly why short tours can feel so rewarding. In a 50-minute ride, small improvements in how you sit, hold steady, and move with the horse can change the whole experience.

You also learn practical background, like origins of the Icelandic horse and details such as shoeing style. Even if you do not care about the technical side, it helps you understand why the riding feels the way it feels. The “why” makes the motion less mysterious and more enjoyable.

Bottom line: this is not just a scenic ride. You come away with a basic understanding of the Icelandic horse and how to ride it comfortably.

The 50-minute ride: mossy lava, Bláfjöll views, and open paths

Your time on horseback is about 50 minutes, which is long enough to settle in and actually see the terrain, but short enough that you can enjoy it even if you’re not sure how you’ll feel on a saddle.

The ride runs through moss-covered lava fields and along riding paths, with guides keeping you on safe routes. Iceland is known for dramatic geology, and this is one of the easier ways to experience it up close. The moss changes the look completely. Instead of bare black rock, you get a softer, green layer that makes the lava feel alive and “weathered,” even though it is geologically young in some areas.

As you ride, you should expect panoramic views, including the Bláfjöll mountains area. These are the kinds of scenes you would normally only see from higher ground. Here, you get them at eye level while moving, so the views come in moments rather than as one static postcard.

Is the pace fast? It depends on the horse and your comfort level. The important thing is that guides adjust so you can enjoy the ride without feeling overwhelmed. Beginners often get the best results when they tell the guide they’re new and ask for what they should focus on. Even simple advice, like how to hold position and follow the horse’s motion, helps a lot.

Entering Ishestar: safety, gear, and a guide who stays with you

Before you ride, you’ll start at the Ishestar Horse Riding Centre. Plan to arrive about 30 minutes before departure so you have time to get geared up and check in without stress.

What you get included matters here. You receive riding helmets, rubber boots, and rain wear or warm overalls, plus guidance. That is a big value for Iceland, where the weather can swing from calm to misty fast. Instead of worrying whether you packed the “right” jacket, you can focus on riding.

You should also expect some structured safety support before you get on. In at least one case, guests mentioned a safety video and then getting into the stable. That is smart. Riding is fun, but Iceland weather, uneven ground, and horse movement all add up. A short pre-ride routine helps everyone start on the same footing.

One of the most praised parts of the experience is the staff’s attentiveness. A guest rode with a guide named Barbora and described her as great, with extra time for the group and clear explanations. In another case, someone had a private 1-2-1 setup and received guidance on tölt technique and the Icelandic horse’s background. That combination of clear coaching and friendly confidence is what turns a “try something new” outing into a highlight.

And if you’re the type who likes to observe before you ride, you may enjoy that the facility setup supports both riders and spectators. You can take in what’s happening around you instead of feeling like you’re rushing in blind.

Price and value for a short Iceland experience

At $135.16 per person, this is not a budget activity. But it is also not priced like a full-day tour with a long transportation chain. You’re paying for three things that matter a lot in Iceland:

First, you’re paying for guided horseback time. Horse care and guiding take real labor, and that matters when you’re on uneven terrain and learning horse basics.

Second, you get meaningful gear included. Helmets, rubber boots, and rain wear or warm overalls are part of the package. If you were to rent similar equipment on your own, it would quickly add up, especially if you’re visiting in shoulder season.

Third, you’re paying for a high-quality “first ride.” This tour is designed for beginners. When a beginner is supported well, the experience feels safer and more fun, and you’re more likely to enjoy the horse instead of just enduring it.

One caution on value: because it is about 50 minutes, you may wish it were longer if you’re the type who loves travel time and wants to spend hours outdoors. Think of it like a focused scenic experience that fits well between other Reykjavík plans.

Also, no food or beverages are included. That affects value if you’re hungry right away. If you’re doing this earlier in the day, plan a meal before or after so the ride stays the main event rather than a snack hunt.

Who this horseback ride is perfect for

This is built for people who want an Iceland horse experience without complicated setup. That usually means you fit one of these categories:

• You are a beginner or low-experience rider and want guidance, not guesswork
• You want a scenic outing that stays close to Reykjavík
• You want small group attention with a max of 15 travelers
• You’re curious about the Icelandic horse and want basic coaching on how it moves

There are also clear limits. The weight limit is 110 kg / 240 lbs, so if you’re near or above that, you’ll need another plan. Also, the tour requires good weather. If conditions are poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, so keep an eye on forecasts and be flexible.

If you’re looking for a multi-hour ride through remote areas, this one may feel too short. But if you want a comfortable entry point, it does what it promises: a guided ride through Iceland scenery with a beginner-friendly pace.

Quick practical tips before you go

A few details will help your experience run smoothly.

Arrive early. The tour asks you to be at the riding centre 30 minutes prior to departure. That time is your buffer for check-in, gear, and settling in.

Bring your plans for wet weather. Even with rain wear included, Iceland can be cold. Layering is usually the smart move, and warm socks under the provided footwear can help you stay comfortable. You’ll also appreciate the rubber boots if the ground is damp.

Use the mobile ticket. This tour works with a mobile ticket system, and you’ll receive confirmation at booking.

Language is English. If English support is your preference, this is set up for it.

Keep expectations realistic. You’re riding for about 50 minutes, and the activity ends back at the meeting point. It’s a clean, compact plan that works well if you have dinner reservations or other Reykjavík sightseeing.

Should you book this Iceland horseback tour?

I think you should book if you want a beginner-friendly horseback ride that feels truly Iceland, with moss-covered lava scenery and big views toward the Bláfjöll mountains. The included gear reduces friction, the group size stays small, and the guiding style seems to focus on comfort and clear instruction. If you care about learning how the Icelandic horse moves, this is one of the best ways to get that knowledge in a short time.

Skip it if you specifically want a long trail day or you’re worried about riding in colder, wetter conditions. Also, if you need food included, you’ll want to eat before or after since food and beverages are not part of the tour.

If you’re planning your first Iceland trip and want one activity that turns the landscape into something you can feel under you, this ride is a very sensible choice.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding tour?

The ride time is about 50 minutes (approximately).

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Yes. The tour is designed especially for beginners, with experienced guides focused on helping you feel safe and comfortable.

What riding gear is included?

Helmets, rubber boots, and rain wear or warm overalls are included, along with guidance.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, the tour is offered in English.

What is the maximum group size?

The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes. The weight limit is 110 kg / 240 lbs.

Is food or drinks included?

No. Food or beverages are not included.

Where is the meeting point?

The meeting point is Sörlaskeið 26, 220 Hafnarfjörður, Iceland, and the activity ends back at the same meeting point.

What if the weather is poor or I need to cancel?

The tour requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. You can also cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time.