Horses change how you see Iceland. This horseback tour takes you from Reykjavík to the area around Þorlákshöfn, where you can ride across lava fields, grassy banks, and beach views while experiencing the Icelandic horse’s tölt gait. I also like that it runs as a small-group ride (up to 12), so the guides can actually match your pace.

The one thing to watch is comfort: the tour includes equipment and helmets, but you still need good shoes and warm, weather-ready layers.

Key things that make this ride worth your time

• Tölt gait experience: you’ll be riding an Icelandic horse built for this unique way of moving.
• Max 12 riders: small enough for hands-on teaching and group control at slower speeds.
• Þorlákshöfn scenery: beaches, lava fields, tall grass, and mountain views in one outing.
• Beginners welcome: guides adjust the route and speed to the whole group.
• Gear + snacks handled: helmets, riding equipment, and snacks are included so you can travel light.

Riding Icelandic horses around Þorlákshöfn: what makes it different

This is a countryside ride in southern Iceland, with the base area around the small fishing village of Þorlákshöfn. From central Reykjavík, you’re roughly 30 km away, so the drive is about 45 minutes. That matters because you spend more of your time on the horse and less sitting in a vehicle.

What you’re really paying for is the setting. The Þorlákshöfn area is a mix of seaside air and Iceland’s volcanic look: beach views, stretches of lava, and open land backed by mountains. You’re not just riding in a fenced arena.

Tölt gait 101: why Icelandic horses feel different

The big star here is the Icelandic horse’s tölt gait. In plain terms: it’s a distinctive way of moving that’s part of why Icelandic horses are famous for being enjoyable to ride. If you’ve only ever ridden bigger horse breeds, you’ll likely notice the difference right away.

The other thing you’ll appreciate is pacing. The guides make sure the group never goes faster than the slowest rider. That’s not just kind—it also keeps the ride comfortable. If you’re new, you get time to learn controls and rhythm without the group pulling away. If you’re experienced, you still get guided support instead of being thrown into a full sprint.

The small-group teaching style: everyone rides, no one gets left behind

This tour caps at 12 travelers, and that size shows. With a smaller group, the guides can adjust how they teach and how they position riders. You’ll also feel it in the safety rhythm: helmets are provided, and the guide team can keep eyes on everyone.

The tone from the guides comes through in multiple ways. The owner figure—often referred to as Maggi/Magnus in rider notes—comes across as calm and careful with beginners. Another guide named Sigrún is also mentioned as friendly and welcoming. Even when English isn’t the first language, the teaching is described as practical and focused on getting you safe and comfortable.

There’s a practical upside for you: if you’re anxious, this format is built to reduce surprises. The tour is designed so you can learn while moving through real countryside, not just learn then move later.

Getting to the farm: Reykjavík pickup vs. meeting in Þorlákshöfn

You have two ways to start, depending on what you book. The summary includes round-trip transfers from central Reykjavík hotels, and the meeting point is given at a specific address in Þorlákshöfn: AlhestarFaxabraut 6, 815 Þorlákshöfn. So if pickup isn’t used for your booking, you’ll head to the meeting point area yourself.

Either way, the timing is simple. The activity is about 3 hours total, and the drive from Reykjavík is short enough that it doesn’t eat your whole day. Plan on dressing for the weather during both parts of the day—especially if you’re going in shoulder season when conditions shift quickly.

One small tip: bring your patience for weather-based changes. Iceland isn’t predictable, and the guides route the ride based on conditions.

What you’ll see on the ride: beach views, lava fields, and mountain backdrops

Your exact route depends on the season and weather, but the area around Þorlákshöfn is the core of the experience. Expect a mix that can include:

• Beach views and open coastal air
• Lava fields and rougher ground
• Tall green grass banks and wide open sections
• Mountains in the background on clearer days

The best part is that the scenery isn’t one-note. A beach look gives you a different mood than black lava ground. And riding across open country helps you feel Iceland’s scale.

Could you miss one of the features, like a specific beach stop? Because the route changes with conditions, you should stay flexible. If you’re booking hoping for one exact photo spot, you’ll likely enjoy it more if you treat this as a ride-first experience and let the weather decide the highlight mix.

Off-road riding reality: fun, but go in prepared

The ride isn’t limited to smooth paths. The countryside can mean off-road sections, and that’s part of the point—you get a more authentic feel for the area than you do on a groomed track.

Safety is built around the guide team keeping everyone together and matching pace. Helmets and riding equipment are included, which is a big deal on a windy or cold day. Still, you should come ready for the physical feel of riding outdoors for a few hours. Even with a gentle pace, you’ll be using core muscles you might not expect.

A balanced note from the overall experience picture: most riders talk about careful handling and a calm teaching approach. But because equipment condition and timing can vary with any real-world operation, keep expectations grounded. If something feels off that day, speak up early—don’t wait.

What’s included, what’s not, and how to pack like a local

Included in your price:

• Helmets & riding equipment
• Snacks
• All fees and taxes
• Pickup may be offered, plus transfers depending on your option
• A mobile ticket

Not included:

• Good shoes
• Warm and comfortable clothes

This is where people win or lose comfort. You’ll be outside, and Iceland weather can turn fast. Wear layers you can adjust, and make sure your shoes have grip. The “good shoes” line is not a suggestion for style; it’s about control on stirrups and stability if you need to walk briefly.

Also plan for wind. Even when the sun shows up, the air near the coast can still be brisk.

Value for $207: does this feel like a bargain or a splurge?

At about $207 for roughly 3 hours, the value comes from what’s bundled. You’re not just paying for horse time—you’re getting:

• A small group format
• Riding equipment and helmets
• Snacks
• And potentially round-trip transfer from Reykjavík

That combination can make it feel more fair than a cheaper-looking tour that charges extra for gear or doesn’t include transport. You also get the “real countryside” factor: beaches, lava, and open land around Þorlákshöfn, not just a nearby riding ring.

Where the value can wobble is if you’re expecting a highly polished, luxury setting. This is a working horse environment, not a hotel experience. If you want glamour, you might be disappointed. If you want time on a horse in authentic Iceland scenery, it’s easier to see why this works.

Who this tour is for (and who may want a different option)

This tour is designed for beginners and experienced riders. The guides adjust speed so nobody is left behind, which makes it a good choice if you’re nervous but curious. It’s also a solid pick if you’ve ridden before and want a change of scenery: beaches and lava fields add variety fast.

You should have a moderate physical fitness level. That doesn’t mean you need to be an athlete, but you should be comfortable being active outside and handling the basic demands of getting on and riding.

If you’re traveling with a service animal, service animals are allowed.

A quick check before you book

I’d book this if you want:

• Real countryside riding around Þorlákshöfn
• The chance to feel the tölt gait
• A small-group ride where pace control matters
• Gear and helmets handled for you

I’d hesitate if you:

• Want a guaranteed, fixed route no matter the weather
• Are very sensitive about punctuality or equipment details (as with any outdoor tour, things can go wrong)
• Expect a luxury setup rather than a practical horse experience

FAQ

FAQ

What’s the duration of the Countryside of Iceland by Horseback Riding tour?

It runs for about 3 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at AlhestarFaxabraut 6, 815 Þorlákshöfn, Iceland, and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is pickup from Reykjavík included?

Pickup is offered from central Reykjavík hotels, and round-trip transfers are included in the tour summary.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Yes. It’s described as suitable for beginners and also for experienced riders, with guides adjusting the journey to the group’s abilities.

What’s special about the Icelandic horse on this tour?

You’ll be able to experience the Icelandic horse’s tölt gait during the ride.

What should I wear or bring if it’s cold or windy?

Helmets and riding equipment are provided, and snacks are included, but you should bring good shoes and warm, comfortable clothes.

What happens if the weather is poor?

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Should you book this Icelandic horseback ride?

If you want an Iceland experience that’s active, scenic, and genuinely different from the usual bus-and-walk day, this is a strong choice. The small group, the pace-matching teaching, and the chance to ride an Icelandic horse’s tölt gait make it feel practical, not just scenic.

Book it when you can stay flexible on route details and weather. Then show up with warm layers and grippy shoes, and you’ll get the best version of what Þorlákshöfn’s countryside can offer.