Vik Black Sand Beach Horse Riding Tour for Beginners

Summary

Ride Icelandic horses along Vik’s volcanic beaches with local guides

You’ll saddle up on an Icelandic horse near Vik and ride along dramatic black sand beaches with a friendly local guide leading the way. Expect moments of quiet awe, maybe spot puffins overhead in summer, and feel what makes these horses so unique. Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to feel that wild Icelandic coast under their boots.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway into our helmets when the guide — I think her name was Sigrún — handed me the reins to a small but sturdy Icelandic horse. The stable smelled faintly of hay and something sweet, maybe from the horses’ feed. I’d never been on a horse before, not really, so my heart was thumping louder than I’d admit. Sigrún just smiled and told me these horses are born for this weather (which, by the way, kept changing every five minutes — sun, drizzle, then wind that felt like it could sweep you right up). She helped me up and patted my horse’s neck. “His name means ‘cloud’ in Icelandic,” she said. I tried repeating it but definitely got it wrong — she laughed and so did I.

The first few steps onto the black sand were slow, almost meditative. The sound was different here — not the usual crunch of gravel but more like a soft brushing noise as the horses walked along Víkurfjara beach. There was a salty tang in the air and every now and then you could hear seabirds calling out over the waves. Sometimes we’d just fall quiet together, listening to nothing but hoofbeats and wind. At one point Sigrún pointed out some puffins swooping overhead (I nearly missed them because I was too busy gripping the saddle). She asked if anyone wanted to try tölt — that special gait Icelandic horses have — but honestly, I was happy just moving at this easy pace.

I didn’t expect to feel so calm out there. Maybe it was the rhythm of the horses or just being surrounded by all that wild space with Vik’s cliffs in the distance. My hands were freezing by the end but I didn’t care much; there’s something about riding across black sand that sticks with you long after you’re back at the stable drinking hot chocolate (they had some waiting for us). If you’re thinking about doing a black sand beach horse riding tour from Vik — especially if you’re new to riding — this is probably as welcoming as it gets.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horse riding on black sand beach

• Arrive at stable 15 minutes early
• Meet friendly Icelandic horses
• Begin one-hour ride on black sand beach
• Ride mostly at walking speed
• Try tölt gait if capable
• Spot puffins in summer or enjoy winter landscape
• Return to stable to end tour

Top questions

Is this black sand beach horse riding tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed for beginners or people who don’t ride often.

How long does the horseback ride from Vik last?

The ride is about one hour long.

Are there age or weight limits for riders?

Riders must be at least 10 years old and under 100kg (220lb).

Is pickup included in this tour?

No, you need to arrive at the stable yourself; public transport is available nearby.

What’s included in the price?

You get an Icelandic horse for your ride and a helmet is provided.

Can experienced riders join this tour?

Yes, all abilities are welcome; experienced riders can try tölt if they want.

Is this tour safe for pregnant travelers?

No, pregnant travelers are not allowed to ride.

Will we see puffins on this tour?

You might see puffins flying above during summer months.

What’s included

Your experience includes an hour-long guided ride on an Icelandic horse along Vik’s black sand beach with all necessary equipment like helmets provided at the stable before departure.