Experience Horseback Riding in Iceland

You won’t find a ton of wildlife in Iceland — you can thank the horribly cold winters and unpredictable weather patterns for that — but you will find a ton of horses. They’re downright adorable, with shorter legs than other breeds of horses and wonderfully curious personalities. Moreover, Icelandic horses offer two special gaits unique to their breed.

The Unique Gaits of Icelandic Horses

Aside from their good looks, they also have two special gaits unique to Icelandic horses. The first one is called a tölt, achieved when the horse consistently has one foot touching the ground at any given time. The speed of the horse is fast, not dissimilar to a gallop. This gait is their natural choice, easily picked up by foals.

The second is known as the flying pace, which can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. This particular gait has two of the horse’s feet on the ground at any given time. Consequently, while it’s difficult to master, riding at this pace is considered one of the most exhilarating experiences when engaging with these majestic animals.

Top Horseback Riding Tours in Iceland

There are numerous places to ride a horse in Iceland, making it a hugely popular pastime for locals. Although there are many options, some tour groups are more reputable than others. Let’s explore five of the most renowned horseback riding tour operators across Iceland.

1. South Iceland: Eldhestar

Address: 816 Sveitarfélagið Ölfus, Iceland

Phone: +354 480 4800

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Southern Iceland is rich in natural wonders, from black sand beaches to breathtaking waterfalls. Riding in this region offers a surreal experience. Eldhestar provides various tours, including half-day, full-day, and multi-day experiences, incorporating local history and geology lessons along the way.

2. North Iceland: Hestasport

Address: Vegamót, 560 Varmahlíð, Iceland

Phone: +354 453 8383

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Hestasport specializes in tours in the northern regions of Iceland, including the challenging Highlands. With cottages available for rent, this operator is perfect for groups wanting to experience both horseback riding and indoor relaxation.

3. Westfjords: Fosshestar

Address: Seljalandsdalsvegur, 400 Ísafjörður, Iceland

Phone: +354 842 6969

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Riding with Fosshestar allows for relaxed private tours tailored to any rider level. Your guide films your adventure, letting you focus entirely on the ride. Additionally, options for interacting with the horses during their mealtime are available.

4. East Iceland: Skorrahestar

Address: 92, 741 Neskaupstadur, Iceland

Phone: +354 477 1736

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Skorrahestar offers fantastic horseback rides throughout eastern Iceland with options for both short and long tours, which can last several days and include farm stays. The scenic Neskaupstaður fjord region is a perfect backdrop for your adventure.

5. Central Highlands: Equitours

The Central Highlands pose a challenging terrain, typically requiring a proper 4×4 vehicle for access. However, Equitours offers horseback riding tours to explore this stunning area.

The Hekla Tour guides you along the famed Landmannalaugar Trail, showcasing extraordinary landscapes, including colorful mountains and stunning lakes, while offering a memorable multi-day experience.

To explore the remarkable Torfajökull volcano, consider the option to ride through Fjallabak Nature Reserve.