Reykjavik: Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour with Pickup

Summary

Ride Icelandic horses across lava fields near Reykjavik with coffee break and pickup

You’ll ride gentle Icelandic horses across wild lava fields just outside Reykjavik—with all gear provided and a warming cup of coffee or cocoa along the way. Expect friendly guides who help you find your pace, small group vibes, and moments where Iceland feels close enough to touch.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the soft snort of my horse—her breath making little clouds in the chilly air just outside Reykjavik. The stables were only about 20 minutes from the city, but it already felt like another world. Our guide, Sigrún, handed me a helmet and some rain gear (which I was grateful for, since the sky kept threatening to spit). She asked if anyone had ridden before—half of us raised our hands, half laughed nervously. I ended up in the slower group, which honestly suited me fine.

The Icelandic horses are smaller than I expected—stocky but proud, with these thick manes that look like they’d keep out any storm. Mine was called Freyja. Sigrún said her name means “lady,” which made me smile every time she flicked her ears back at me. We set off in single file through black lava fields—honestly, it looked like something from another planet—and there was this weirdly peaceful silence except for hooves crunching over old moss and someone’s muffled giggle when their horse stopped to scratch an itch. The main keyword here is Icelandic horseback riding tour, but it barely crossed my mind while I tried not to bounce too much in the saddle.

About halfway through, we stopped for coffee (or tea or hot chocolate if you wanted), and everyone shuffled around blowing on their cups to warm their fingers. Someone tried to say “takk fyrir” (thank you) and Sigrún laughed—her accent is way nicer than ours. There’s something about drinking hot chocolate outdoors in that cold air that makes it taste better than usual. Honestly, I still think about that view: dark rocks stretching out under low clouds, with Reykjavik just a faint smudge behind us.

I didn’t expect how attached I’d feel to Freyja after just two hours. When we got back to the stables and handed back our boots and helmets, she gave this little huff like she knew it was over. It’s funny what sticks with you—sometimes just a horse’s breath or the way your hands smell faintly of leather even after you leave.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Icelandic horseback riding experience

• Drive 20 minutes from Reykjavik
• Group riders by ability level
• Ride Icelandic horses in lava landscape
• Enjoy views of lava, lakes, mountains
• Take a 1.5 to 2 hour horseback ride
• Relax with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate
• Use provided helmets, boots, and rainwear

Top questions

How long is the horseback riding tour from Reykjavik?

The ride itself lasts 1.5 to 2 hours; with transfer from Reykjavik included, total time is about 4 hours.

Are beginners welcome on this Icelandic horseback riding tour?

Yes, groups are organized by riding ability so both beginners and experienced riders feel comfortable.

Is pickup from Reykjavik included?

Yes, there’s an option for pickup from Reykjavik city center before heading to the stables.

What should I wear for horseback riding in Iceland?

All necessary gear is provided: helmets, rubber boots, rainwear or warm overalls depending on weather.

Are there age or weight limits for this tour?

The minimum age is 7 years old; maximum weight allowed is 110kg/240lbs.

Is food or drink included during the ride?

You’ll get coffee, tea or hot chocolate partway through the tour.

Can children join the faster group?

Children under 12 should stay in the slower group unless they’re experienced riders.

Where are the stables located?

The stables are about a 20-minute drive from central Reykjavik.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transfer from Reykjavik if needed; all riding equipment like helmets, boots and rainwear; plus a stop for coffee, tea or hot chocolate during your time at the stables before heading back into town.