North Iceland: Horseback Riding Tour

A ride on Icelandic horses in North Iceland.

You get tölt practice and real variety, not just a loop around the farm. In about two hours, you’ll move through birch forest, a black sand plain, and volcanic rock country, with time to settle in and feel the horse under you.

I especially like the way the route mixes farm life with wild terrain. You follow a river, cross a small lake, and then crisscross mossy volcanic rocks before hitting the big stretch of black sand. I also like that the guiding style is built for mixed skill levels, so beginners can feel safe while experienced riders still get to enjoy proper Icelandic riding.

One thing to consider: this isn’t a hotel pickup situation. You’ll need your own way to get to the ranch area and be there early, since the ride starts on schedule.

Key highlights to look for

• Tölt on Icelandic horses: your chance to try the signature Icelandic gait with an encouraging guide
• River follow plus a lake crossing: more action than a simple trail ride
• Big contrast in terrain: birch forest, black sand plain, and volcanic rocks all in one route
• Seasonal farm animals: cows in summer, sheep in autumn along the fields you pass
• Small group of 7: easier for the guide to coach you where you need it
• Two hours, not all day: a good length when weather or energy is limited

North Iceland horseback riding on Lava Horses: what makes it memorable

This ride earns its spot on a North Iceland itinerary because it feels like Iceland, not a theme park. You’re on horseback in real country, with different ground underhoof the whole time.

The headline is the Icelandic horse and the chance to try the tölt. Even if you’ve never ridden, the setup is friendly and structured, and you’re not expected to magically know what to do. If you do have experience, you’ll appreciate that the guide isn’t just leading at walk speed the whole time.

The second reason it works is the route. You start near the farm, then you’re down by water, across wet edges, onto volcanic rock, and finally through a black sand plain. It keeps your attention. You don’t spend the ride wishing it would change faster.

Price and logistics: what you’re paying for, and what you must handle

At $141 per person for a 2-hour ride, this is priced like a premium activity, but the value is pretty clear. You’re getting an experienced English guide, helmet, and riding equipment included, plus a small group capped at 7.

Where it can catch people off guard is the transportation piece. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll want to plan your route to the ranch area in advance. If you’re arriving by cruise, bus, or rental car, build in buffer time for getting there and walking in ready to ride.

Also keep expectations aligned: food and drinks are not included. That’s normal for a 2-hour outing, but it does mean you should eat beforehand and bring water plans if your schedule calls for it.

Your mount: how the Icelandic horse and the guide help you find your rhythm

The horses are a major part of why this tour gets high marks. The rides are typically described as calm and well cared for, which matters when your job is simply to stay balanced and communicate with your horse.

Then there’s coaching. Several rides highlight guides who are patient with beginners. Audrey is named in multiple accounts for taking time with the group and staying encouraging, especially when riders are new. Another guide, Anna, is also mentioned as informative and supportive, with good explanations and a focus on comfort.

Practically, what you’ll notice is that the guide is not just watching from a distance. You’ll get help with basic riding posture and handling, and when the moment comes, you’ll get a real try at tölt. The tölt is not a random stunt. It’s a key skill of Icelandic riding, and learning it with guidance is part of the fun.

One more small reality check: after any two-hour ride, you might feel it the next morning. One rider specifically noted being a bit sore after the trip, which is a good reminder to keep your body loose and steady during the ride.

The two-hour route, step by step: from farm fields to river crossing

You’ll begin at the farm. From there, the ride heads down toward the river, and you pass fields where livestock are grazing depending on the season. In summertime, cows show up along the way. In autumn, sheep replace them. It’s a simple detail, but it makes the trail feel tied to actual life here.

Next comes the river section. Following the river by horseback is one of those quietly special parts of North Iceland riding because the sound and motion of water change the feel of the trail. You’re also moving through an area that lets you settle into the rhythm of your horse.

Then you cross a small lake. That’s the kind of moment that instantly makes the ride feel like a real outing instead of just a scenic stroll. The crossing also forces focus, so it’s great for beginners who want structured challenges without going off-grid.

If you’re worried about nerves, this is usually where confidence clicks. With an experienced guide in front and horses that are chosen to match riders, it becomes manageable fast.

Volcanic rocks and moss, then black sand: the route’s best variety

After the water crossing, the trail turns into classic Icelandic textures: volcanic rocks and moss. You’ll crisscross between the rockier patches, and that change in ground affects your balance and how you sit.

The guide’s coaching matters here. Even if you’re comfortable at a walk, volcanic rock means you’re paying attention to foot placement, your seat position, and how your horse steps through. It’s active in a subtle way, the kind of terrain that keeps you engaged without becoming technical climbing.

Then comes the big plain of black sand. You cross it as part of the ride, and it’s a visual hit. The dark ground contrasts sharply with moss, grass patches, and the colors of the horse and rider clothing. It’s also a good moment to feel the overall pace of the group, because your body settles into the repetitive step rhythm.

If weather is rough, don’t assume it will be a gentle ride the whole time. One account even mentions snow in some spots during the experience. Iceland does that. Your best move is wearing the right layers so you can stay focused on riding instead of shivering.

Birch forest return: the calm after the dramatic ground

After the black sand, the route turns back toward the farm through your own natural birch forest. This is your decompression segment. The footing typically feels more forgiving than the rock and sand areas, and the trees give a more enclosed feeling.

It’s also a nice contrast because the ride has been visually intense. The birch forest gives you a calmer view and a smoother mental landing before you finish. You’ll notice your body relax a little, especially if you’ve been paying extra attention on the volcanic pieces and lake crossing.

This return part is also where beginner riders often feel proud. You’ve practiced balance through varied ground, you’ve stayed safe through crossings, and you can now enjoy the scenery without worrying about every step.

What “beginner-friendly” really means here

This tour is described as perfect for both advanced riders and beginners, but it’s important to translate that into reality. You don’t need prior experience to join, but you should have a basic physical shape. Think of it as comfortable walking and staying seated for two hours.

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothes. Iceland riding is not about fashion. It’s about staying warm, dry, and flexible enough to move with your horse.

Guides also tend to coach beginners in a way that reduces anxiety. Audrey is repeatedly mentioned as patient and encouraging, and another ride notes a guide making a beginner feel safe and comfortable on the horse. That kind of support turns a potentially stressful first ride into a normal, enjoyable activity.

If you’re more advanced, you’ll still enjoy the Icelandic horse and the tölt opportunity. Just know the pace and terrain are chosen to keep the whole group together, not to race.

When to arrive, what to wear, and how to stay comfortable

Arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour starts. That early buffer gives you time to get set up with your helmet and riding equipment without rushing.

Wear layers. The experience is outdoors, and the weather can shift fast. Comfortable clothes matter because you’ll be moving in the saddle, and you want enough mobility to stay balanced.

For footwear, go with comfortable shoes that handle uneven ground. You’ll be on mixed terrain, including rocky and sandy sections, so you want secure footing from the start.

One ride description also mentions foul-weather gear provided when conditions were cold, windy, and rainy. I would not count on it as a guarantee, but it’s a good sign the operator can respond if the weather turns.

Who should book, and who should skip it

This is a solid choice if:

• You want a true horseback experience in North Iceland, not just a short pasture ride
• You’re interested in the Icelandic horse and want a chance to try tölt
• You want a small group experience with an English-speaking guide
• You can manage basic physical riding demands for two hours

It’s not suitable for:

• Pregnant women
• People with back problems
• People with animal allergies

If any of those apply, it’s worth choosing a different activity. Horses are central here, and the ride includes lake and uneven terrain.

Is it good value for $141?

For $141, you’re paying for three things that often cost extra elsewhere: a capable guide, small-group attention, and quality included gear like helmets and riding equipment.

You also get route variety that justifies a two-hour time block. This isn’t only river and trees. You get birch forest, black sand, volcanic rocks, and seasonal livestock fields. That blend helps you feel like you used your time well in North Iceland.

If you’re comparing options, think about what you value most:

• If you want tölt instruction and authentic Iceland riding, this checks the boxes.
• If you want a very cushioned, low-focus ride with minimal uneven ground, you might prefer something simpler.

Based on the consistently strong ratings and the repeated praise for guides like Audrey and Anna, the coaching and horse comfort are a big reason people rate it highly.

Should you book this North Iceland horseback riding tour?

Book it if you want an outdoors ride with real Iceland variety in just two hours, and if you’re excited about Icelandic horses and the chance to try tölt. The small group size and patient guide style make it especially appealing for first-timers who still want a meaningful experience.

Skip it if you can’t do uneven terrain or if you’re in one of the “not suitable” categories listed for pregnancy, back problems, or animal allergies. And if you hate logistics, be sure you’re comfortable arranging your own way to the ranch, since there’s no hotel pickup.

If your timing works and the weather is decent, this is a memorable, practical choice for experiencing North Iceland from the saddle.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding tour?

The ride lasts about 2 hours.

How many people are in the group?

The group is limited to 7 participants.

Do I need riding experience to join?

It’s suitable for both beginners and advanced riders, with a note that participants should have a basic physical shape.

Can I try tölt during the ride?

Yes. The experience includes an opportunity to try the tölt with Icelandic horses.

Are helmets and riding equipment included?

Yes. Helmets and riding equipment are included.

Is hotel pickup or drop-off provided?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What landscapes will we ride through?

You’ll ride through a birch forest, a black sand plain, and volcanic rocks, and you’ll follow a river and cross a small lake.

What should I bring or wear?

Wear comfortable clothes and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather, and arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour starts.

Is food and drinks included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

Is free cancellation and pay later available?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there is a reserve now and pay later option.