All activities / Horse Riding / Equestrian / Reykjavik
Horse Riding / Equestrian in ReykjavikIS
Iceland's capital and the base for all highland F-road access. A compact, well-resourced city that serves as both the arrival point and the 4x4 rental hub for the interior tracks that define Icelandic overlanding.
Why here
The Icelandic horse has been isolated on the island for over a thousand years and developed independently from all other breeds. It is smaller than most riding horses, extremely surefooted on volcanic and lava terrain, and uniquely possesses a fifth gait, the tolt, which provides a smooth ride at speed that conventional horses cannot match. Multiple farms within 30-45 minutes of Reykjavik offer everything from one-hour introductory rides across lava fields to multi-day treks into the interior following ancient drove roads. No riding experience is required for introductory tours. The combination of the horse, the landscape, and the near-permanent summer daylight makes this a completely distinct experience from riding elsewhere.
Best months
June through September is the practical window for trail riding on most terrain. Summer days have extended light (near midnight sun in June and July), which allows for late-afternoon rides without concern for darkness. Some farms offer year-round riding but interior access and full day rides are a summer phenomenon. Weather in Iceland is famously changeable; come prepared for rain and wind regardless of the month. The horses are unperturbed by conditions that would stop other breeds.
Getting there & around
Fly into Keflavik International (KEF), 45 minutes from Reykjavik. Horse farms running tourist programs include Islenski Hesturinn, Laxnes Horse Farm, and Eldhestar, among others; most can be booked online with pickup from Reykjavik available. Programs range from 1-hour introductory rides to 5-7 day multi-day treks with overnight accommodation in farm guesthouses. No riding experience is required for shorter programs; multi-day treks expect competent riders. No visa required for most Western nationals (Schengen rules apply).
Skill levels: beginner, intermediate
Schools & guides (1)
Íshestar
OutfitterIceland's largest equine tourism company, operating since 1982 with stables 15 minutes from central Reykjavik in Hafnarfjordur. Specializes in the Icelandic horse, a distinct breed that performs the five-beat natural gait known as tolt. Programs range from one-hour lava field rides to multi-day trail rides across the Icelandic highlands. No prior riding experience required for introductory tours; also offers riding courses for those wanting to learn Icelandic horsemanship.