Horse Riding in Iceland
Icelandic horses have a fifth gait, the tölt, that no other breed performs naturally. We sell 6 riding tours from 5 operators, from about ISK 18,000, suitable for complete beginners upwards.
Horse Riding tours
6 tours
Horse RidingFive Gaits: Advanced Riding in Skagafjörður
From $224
Horse RidingHorse Riding and Spa: Sky Lagoon
From $230
Horse RidingHorse Riding Through Lava and Black Sand near Húsavík
From $130
Horse RidingInto the Hot Spring Valley: Horse Riding and Bathing in Reykjadalur
From $281
Horse RidingPrivate Horse Riding Tour in Reykjavik
From $531
Horse RidingRed Lava Horse Riding Tour - Reykjavik
From $130
About horse riding in Iceland
What makes the Icelandic horse different?
The Icelandic horse has five gaits rather than the usual three. Alongside walk, trot and canter it performs the tölt, a four-beat running walk so smooth that riders traditionally demonstrate it holding a full glass, and the flying pace, a high-speed racing gait. The breed has been isolated since Viking settlers brought it in the 9th–10th centuries.
Why can't Icelandic horses return once they leave?
Icelandic law prohibits importing any horse into the country, and once an Icelandic horse leaves it may never return. The isolation has kept the breed free of many equine diseases, but it also means the population has no immunity — a single imported infection could be devastating. Visitors are often asked to disinfect or avoid bringing their own riding gear for the same reason.
Can beginners ride in Iceland?
Yes. Most tours here are built for people who have never ridden, with a short lesson before setting off and horses matched to experience. Icelandic horses are small — 132 to 145 cm at the withers — sure-footed and famously even-tempered, which makes them forgiving mounts. Never call one a pony; Icelanders are firm that it is a horse.
What do riding tours cost and how long are they?
Prices on this page start around ISK 18,000 and reach roughly ISK 73,000. A 1–2 hour ride is the standard introduction; longer half-day tours cross lava fields or black sand, and multi-day treks exist for experienced riders. Helmets and usually waterproof overalls are provided.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need riding experience?
No. Most tours are designed for beginners, include a short lesson, and match horses to rider experience. Say honestly at booking that you have never ridden.
What is the tölt?
A smooth four-beat gait unique to the Icelandic horse, faster than a walk but without the bounce of a trot. It is comfortable enough that riders traditionally demonstrate it carrying a full glass without spilling.
Is there a weight limit for riding?
Yes. Most operators set a limit around 110 kg, because the horses are small and their welfare comes first. Limits are stated on each tour.
What should I wear horse riding in Iceland?
Long trousers and sturdy closed shoes with a small heel. Helmets are provided and compulsory, and most operators lend waterproof overalls. Do not bring used riding gear from abroad unless it has been disinfected.
Can children ride?
Usually from about age 6–8 depending on the operator, and the small size of Icelandic horses makes them well suited to children. Check each tour for its minimum age.
Why are Icelandic horses so small?
Centuries of isolation and a harsh climate produced a compact, hardy animal of 132–145 cm. They are strong for their size and carry adults comfortably — and despite the height they are always called horses, never ponies.
Can you ride in winter?
Yes. Riding runs year-round, and Icelandic horses grow a thick winter coat. Winter rides across snow are popular; dress considerably warmer than you would in summer.
How long are the rides?
Most are 1–2 hours in the saddle plus preparation, making a 2–3 hour outing. Longer half-day and multi-day treks are available for riders with experience.
Are the horses well treated?
Icelandic horse welfare standards are strict, weight limits are enforced and horses are rotated rather than worked continuously. Many spend the winter free-grazing in herds.
Do tours include pickup from Reykjavík?
Many stables are 20–40 minutes from the city and include transfers; others expect you to drive. Each tour page states which.