Reykjavik: Lava Field Horse Riding Tour & Hotel Pickup

Summary

Ride Icelandic horses through Reykjavik’s lava fields with local guides

You’ll ride sturdy Icelandic horses across ancient lava fields just outside Reykjavik with friendly local guides who match you to your perfect horse. Feel the weather on your face, learn about volcanoes and forestry at Rauðavatn Lake, and warm up with coffee or tea after your ride — all gear and hotel pickup included.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping out of the van was the smell — not just fresh grass but something sharper, volcanic maybe. Reykjavik was only fifteen minutes behind us, but it felt like we’d landed somewhere older. The horses were already waiting, little clouds of breath in the air. One of the guides, Sigrún, handed me a helmet and laughed when I fumbled with the chin strap (I swear those things are trickier than they look). She picked out a horse for me — “He’s called Stormur,” she said, “but don’t worry, he’s all calm today.”

I’d never ridden an Icelandic horse before. They’re smaller than I expected — sturdy and kind-eyed. The winter jumpsuit they gave me was so puffy I felt like a marshmallow, but honestly, I was grateful once we got moving. We set off along a path that wound right into these black lava hills outside Reykjavik. The ground looked rough but the horses barely seemed to notice; their hooves made this steady clop over old volcanic rock. At one point Sigrún pointed out where an eruption happened 5,000 years ago — hard to imagine that kind of time while you’re just trying not to bounce off your saddle.

We rode past Rauðavatn Lake and Sigrún told us about how people tried planting trees here over a hundred years ago. Some are still there — skinny and stubborn against the wind. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for our group and the horses breathing. It felt peaceful in a way city parks never do. Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so connected to both the place and these animals. My hands smelled faintly of leather from the reins and when we stopped for coffee after (they had tea too), my cheeks were red from cold and grinning too much.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horse riding tour in lava fields

• Get ready with rain clothing
• Find perfect horse match
• See lava hills and volcano history
• Pass by Rauðavatn forestry site
• Ride 5-7 km on riding paths

Top questions

How far is the horse riding tour from Reykjavik?

The tour starts about 15 minutes from Reykjavik city center.

Is pickup included for this horseback riding tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from hotels, guesthouses, or BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik.

How long does the Red Lava Horse Riding Tour last?

Total duration is about 2.5 hours with 1.5–2 hours spent riding.

Are beginners welcome on this Icelandic horse tour?

Yes, it’s suitable for beginners as well as experienced riders; routes are chosen based on group experience.

What should I wear for horseback riding in Iceland?

You’ll be provided with rain clothing or winter jumpsuits plus a helmet; dress warmly underneath.

Is lunch included on this day trip from Reykjavik?

No lunch is included, but coffee and tea are offered after your ride.

Are there weight or health restrictions for riders?

The maximum weight is 110 kg; not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

Will we see volcanoes during this horseback tour?

You’ll ride through lava hills formed by an eruption 5,000 years ago near Reykjavik.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, use of rain clothing or a warm winter jumpsuit plus helmet for safety, friendly guidance throughout your horseback ride across lava fields near Rauðavatn Lake, and coffee or tea afterwards before heading back to town.