Horseback Riding in Iceland: Matched to Your Skill Level

50 minutes on Icelandic horses: lava fields, hillsides, and a guide who adjusts the pace to you

A private horseback riding tour near Reykjavik matched to your skill level, from total beginners to experienced riders. Your guide chooses calm, reliable horses for a relaxed ride or spirited ones for a more adventurous outing, and tailors the route to what you want. Helmets, boots, rain gear and hot drinks are included; children from age 5 are welcome. You arrive 30 minutes before departure to meet the horses and your guide.

Step-by-step itinerary

Private Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour

• Meet 30 minutes before tour
• Ride Icelandic horse near Reykjavík
• Enjoy lava fields and green hills
• Experience tailored ride by skill level

The Experience

Fifty minutes on horseback through lava fields and green hillsides outside Reykjavik—the guide meets you beforehand and watches how you move around the horse, then picks one matched to what you're after. Calm and reliable if you want a steady pace, or powerful and spirited if you're ready to push. The riding paths are excellent and the Icelandic horse is built for this terrain, so even first-time riders find their balance quickly.

You get helmets, rubber boots and rain gear or warm overalls before you mount, so the weather doesn't stop you. The guide leads the whole way and adjusts the route on the spot—if someone needs to walk a section or wants to stay longer in one place, that's how the day goes. Coffee, tea and hot chocolate wait for you after you dismount.

Children from age 5 can ride their own horse; younger ones can come along in a pram or stroller. The weight limit is 110 kg (240 lbs), and you'll need to be able to mount and dismount from the ground on your own. Meeting time is 30 minutes before the ride starts, so plan to arrive early enough to get fitted and meet your horse.

What’s included

• Riding helmet, rubber boots, rain gear or warm overalls.
• coffee, tea and hot chocolate after the ride.
• private guide in English who tailors the route to your skill level and preferences.
• Icelandic horse matched to your experience.

Good to know

Easy physical levelStroller friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelers

Operated by Ishestar

Is this one for you?Book this if you want a guide who adjusts pace and horse choice to your skill level rather than fitting into a group schedule.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

15 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Can I ride if I've never been on a horse before?

Yes—the guide matches the horse and the route to total beginners, choosing a calm, reliable horse and keeping the pace steady. You'll have 30 minutes before the ride to get comfortable around the horse and ask questions.

What's the Icelandic horse like compared to other breeds?

Icelandic horses are smaller and stockier than many European breeds, with calm temperaments and sure footing on rough terrain. They're bred for the lava fields and hillsides you'll be riding through, so they handle the landscape naturally.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Rain gear and warm overalls are included, so you ride in most conditions. The guide will decide on the day whether the weather is safe for riding; if it's not, you can reschedule or get a refund.

Do I need to bring anything, or is everything provided?

Helmets, rubber boots, rain gear and warm overalls are all included. Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and closed-toe shoes underneath the boots. Hot drinks are served after the ride.

How does pickup work if I don't have a car?

Public transportation options are available nearby. If you've selected a pickup option at checkout, contact the tour provider to confirm your pickup location, as they may not offer service at every spot in the area.