Horseback riding to Írafoss Waterfall: South Iceland

Follow the Írá River on horseback to a waterfall most visitors never reach

Horseback riding in South Iceland follows the Írá River through rural farmland to Írafoss Waterfall, a scenic two-hour guided ride on Icelandic native horses matched to your skill level. You'll cross open fields, pass traditional sheep and cattle farms, and ride through mountain views before reaching the waterfall's dramatic cliff frame. The route feels like a real journey through quieter countryside, not a loop around a farm.

The experience

The ride starts at a countryside farm where you meet your horse and get a short introduction before setting off with your guide. Horses are selected to match your experience level, so the route works for beginners and confident riders alike. You'll spend roughly two hours in the saddle, moving at a pace that lets you take in the landscape rather than rush through it.

The route follows the Írá River through open fields and rural terrain, passing traditional sheep and cattle farms along the way. Mountains and glaciers frame the wider views across the Icelandic countryside. The waterfall itself sits framed by dramatic cliffs (a quieter stop than the busier tourist routes), where you pause with your horse before heading back to the farm.

What’s included

• Horseback ride on an Icelandic native horse matched to your experience level.
• live English-speaking guide for the full two-hour route.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00 and 14:00

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Child (under 18)

GroupUp to 16

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 13 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Sunday Stories

Is this one for you?If you're staying in Vik or elsewhere in South Iceland without a car, confirm that pickup is included in your booking. The farm's countryside location means you'll need transport to reach the start. The two-hour ride suits most fitness levels, though the minimum age is seven and there's a weight limit of 220 lbs.

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 18).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Do I need riding experience to book this?

No. Horses are matched to each rider's experience level, so beginners ride horses suited to them while more confident riders get horses that match their skill. The guide works with whatever level you bring.

What's the Írá River like on this route?

The Írá River runs through open countryside and rural farmland, and the ride follows it as part of the journey toward Írafoss Waterfall. You'll see it as part of the wider landscape of fields, farms and mountains rather than as a dramatic feature itself.

How do I get to the farm where the ride starts?

The farm is in South Iceland's countryside. If you're staying in Vik or elsewhere without a car, confirm pickup arrangements when you book, as the farm's location means you'll need transport to reach it.

What are Icelandic horses like to ride?

Iceland's native horses are smaller and stockier than many other breeds, built for the country's terrain and weather. They're known for being sure-footed and calm, which is why they're matched to riders of different experience levels on this route.