Family Horseback Riding in Thorlakshofn: Icelandic Horses

Let your kids lead the way on calm, friendly Icelandic horses through open fields.

Family horseback riding in Thorlakshofn, Iceland takes you west across lava fields toward geothermal steam vents and the 12th-century Strandakirkja church, with a live English-speaking guide, snacks and all riding equipment included. The ride is four hours and suited to experienced riders; children are welcome from age 12. Pickup is available on one option.

The Experience

The ride starts from Þorlákshöfn and heads west into the Krýsuvík lava fields, where you'll see white steam rising from geothermal vents in the distance and views across mountains toward the sea. Icelandic horses are smaller and sturdier than most breeds, bred for rough terrain and known for being calm even with less experienced riders in the group, though this particular ride is rated medium difficulty and intended for people who have ridden before.

You'll stop at Strandakirkja, a Protestant church from the 12th century perched above the ocean with views of waves crashing on the cliffs nearby—especially dramatic on windy days. There's a small café nearby where you and the horses rest and have snacks before heading back to base. The whole outing runs four hours, and your operator provides all the equipment you need.

Pickup is included if you choose the option with it; otherwise you'll meet at the base in Thorlakshofn. Bring warm, comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes or boots—the operator supplies helmets and riding gear. This ride is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or during pregnancy.

What’s included

• Four hours of horseback riding through lava fields and geothermal areas.
• snacks and beverages.
• all riding equipment including helmets.
• a live English-speaking guide.
• pickup from your accommodation on the option that includes it.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Alhestar Horse Rental and Tours

Is this one for you?Book this if you've ridden before and want to spend a full morning or afternoon in the saddle across real Icelandic landscape—the four-hour commitment and medium difficulty mean it's built for riders who are comfortable on a horse, not beginners or families with younger children.

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Top questions

Can my 10-year-old ride, or is there a minimum age?

Children are welcome from age 12 and up on this ride. Younger children cannot participate, though they're allowed to sit on an adult's lap if an adult is riding.

What's the difference between the two booking options?

Both options are the same four-hour family ride through the lava fields with the same guide, snacks and equipment. The second option includes pickup from your accommodation; the first option means you meet at the base in Thorlakshofn.

How difficult is this ride, and what experience do I need?

This is a medium-difficulty ride intended for experienced riders—people who have ridden before and are comfortable in the saddle for four hours. Icelandic horses are forgiving and friendly, but the terrain and duration require some riding background.

What exactly is Strandakirkja, and why do we stop there?

Strandakirkja is a small Protestant church built in the 12th century and is well known in Iceland for its dramatic location above the ocean. It's a natural rest point on the ride where you and the horses can take a break at the nearby café, and the views of the cliffs and waves make it worth the stop.

What does the geothermal activity look like from the ride?

You'll see white strokes of steam rising from the ground in the distance across the Krýsuvík lava fields. The geothermal vents are part of Iceland's volcanic landscape, and the steam is visible from the riding route but you won't be riding directly into the vents themselves.

Is this ride suitable if I have back problems?

This ride is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries. Four hours in the saddle on uneven terrain puts strain on the back, so if you have back issues, this activity may not be the right fit.