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.

Options for this experience

2 options

From US$ 165 per person, depending on the option and date you choose.See dates & book

Laxnes Special Morning 10:00 Guide in English Morning departure, pickup is included

Laxnes Special Afternoon 14:00 Guide in English Afternoon departure, includes pickup

None of these options right for you? See 10 alternatives ›

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.

Times

• Every day 10:00 14:00

Another time? ›

Before you book

Group Up to 15 3 private ›

Live guide English Another language? ›

Meeting point and pickup Hotel pickup included.

Book up to 3h before

Ages Adult (12 to 85 years) · Child (7 to 11 years) · Under 7: can't be booked

Cancellation and refunds Free 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.

Good to know

Low physical effort Not recommended during pregnancy Not recommended with heart problems Not recommended with back problems

Operated by Laxnes Horse Farm

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

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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.

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (7 to 11 years). Children under 7 can't be included in the booking.

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.

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.

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.