Icelandic Horseback Riding from Reykjavik: Laxnes Farm

Ride a breed built for Iceland's terrain, not a tame trail horse.

Horseback riding at Laxnes Farm near Reykjavik puts you on an Icelandic horse—a hardy, sure-footed breed—for a 3.5-hour ride in their natural surroundings. Pickup from Reykjavik is included, along with helmet and rain gear; a live English-speaking guide matches you to the right horse for your experience level. Morning and afternoon sessions are available.

The Experience

The day starts with pickup from your Reykjavik location, then a short drive to Laxnes Farm. Once there, the guide helps you into helmet and rain gear, then walks you through the horses available—each one matched to your riding ability, whether you're a beginner or someone who has ridden before. The Icelandic horse is smaller and stockier than most riding breeds, with a calm temperament and a reputation for surefooted movement over rough ground. You'll spend the next few hours riding across the landscape around the farm, moving at a pace the guide sets for the group.

Children from age 7 can ride, though they must be accompanied by an adult. The ride suits all fitness levels, though it's not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, cardiovascular concerns, or during pregnancy. Rain and cold are normal in Iceland, so the gear provided—overalls or rain jacket—matters more than the season you choose. You pick between a morning or afternoon departure when you book; both run the same length and follow the same route.

What’s included

• Pickup from Reykjavik.
• helmet and rain gear or winter overalls.
• horse selection matched to your riding level.
• a live English-speaking guide.
• local taxes.

Good to know

Easy physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Laxnes Horse Farm

Is this one for you?Morning departures leave you the afternoon free in Reykjavik; afternoon departures let you explore the city first.

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Top questions

What's the difference between an Icelandic horse and the horses I've ridden before?

Icelandic horses are a smaller, stockier breed native to Iceland, known for being sure-footed and calm. They're built for the terrain and weather here, and the breed has been isolated for over a thousand years, so they're genetically distinct from most riding horses elsewhere.

Do I need to know how to ride before I book?

No. The guide matches each rider to a horse suited to their experience level, so beginners and experienced riders both go on the same tour. The horses are described as friendly and willing, and the guide handles the pacing.

What time does pickup happen, and where do you pick up from?

Pickup happens from various locations in Reykjavik; you'll confirm your exact pickup point when you book. The morning session and afternoon session each have their own departure times, and the drive to Laxnes Farm takes a short time after pickup is complete.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Rain and cold are common in Iceland. The tour includes rain gear and winter overalls, so you'll be equipped for the conditions. The tour runs in typical Icelandic weather; severe conditions would be communicated by the operator before your booking date.

Can my child ride, and do they need experience?

Children can ride from age 7, but they must be accompanied by an adult on the tour. Like all riders, they'll be matched to a horse suited to their size and experience level.

How long is the actual riding, and what else happens during the 3.5 hours?

The full experience is 3.5 hours from start to finish. This includes pickup from Reykjavik, arrival at the farm, gearing up, horse selection, and the ride itself. The guide controls the pace and route based on the group's ability.