Short Riding Tour with Eye-Catching Photos at Waterfall

If you only have a small window for Icelandic horses, this works. You’ll start at Hestasport and ride out toward the waterfall Reykjafoss, with mountain scenery of Skagafjörður and water tumbling down the steps into the canyon Brandgil. The photos are a big part of the fun, including a very practical shot opportunity for pictures while you’re mounted.

I especially like two things: first, this is a short riding experience with a waterfall payoff, so you do not have to give up your whole day. Second, the guidance felt hands-on and confidence-building, with guides such as Ellen who walked riders through the basics and helped you trot in a safe area.

One consideration: you need decent weather for the ride, so if conditions are rough you may be asked to switch dates or get a refund depending on how the operator handles weather.

Key Highlights at a Glance

• Real Reykjafoss payoff: you ride out specifically to see the waterfall up close
• Skagafjörður mountain panorama: wide views that make the ride feel bigger than it is
• Small group size: a maximum of 8 travelers means less waiting and more time moving
• Guides coach you quickly: even riders with limited experience get the essentials fast
• Photo-friendly moment on horseback: you can grab memorable pictures in a very iconic way

Why This Short Waterfall Ride Works So Well

This is the kind of Iceland activity that respects your time. Instead of turning your day into a logistics puzzle, you go to Hestasport, get set up, and head out for a quick stretch that pays off at a real waterfall. You still get that classic horseback feeling, plus a scenic destination that feels made for the camera.

It also fits Iceland travel style. You are often hopping between weather, crowds, and changing light. A 30-minute riding window (with more time for the full experience) makes it easier to align with your day, whether you are doing other tours or just want something outdoors without committing to hours of travel.

The group size matters, too. With a maximum of 8 travelers, the pace does not feel like a slow conveyor belt. You spend more time with your horse and your guide, and less time standing around while others catch up.

Getting Started at Hestasport: Where Your Ride Begins

Your day begins at the Hestasport Reception at the Cottages and Riding Tours, Vegamót, 560 Varmahlíð. That matters because it is not one of those vague meeting points that makes you play guess-and-check. If you are already in the Akureyri area, you can plan your timing around a straightforward start and end back at the same location.

When you arrive, you should expect the normal rhythm of horse tours: check-in, getting matched (or assigned) to your horse, and a quick rundown of what your guide wants you to do. The reviews strongly point to this part being smooth. People talk about friendly, helpful staff, and that your guide makes sure you know the basics before heading out.

Small details here make a difference. Horses need calm handling, and a good start sets the tone. You will likely notice that the grounds are kept clean and organized, which can lower the anxiety for first-time riders. If you have ever been nervous around animals, this is the kind of setup that helps you settle in quickly.

The Ride to Reykjafoss: Skagafjörður Views Without the Long Haul

Once you’re mounted, the tour heads toward Reykjafoss. Along the way, you get what you came for: mountain scenery of Skagafjörður and open views that make the ride feel more substantial than its short timing.

This is not a marathon trek. The goal is to get you close enough to feel the environment, but not so far that you are exhausted before the waterfall. You can think of it as a “stroll with horsepower,” where the focus stays on scenery and photos, not endurance.

What I like about this format is that it helps you ride on your best energy level. Iceland weather can be brisk, and you do not want to be cold, tired, and frustrated when the moment for photos arrives. A ride that stays short and structured means you show up to Reykjafjörður views sharp and ready, not dragging.

Reykjafoss and Brandgil: The Waterfall Stop That Speaks for Itself

The main moment is at Reykjafoss. This waterfall sits within a dramatic setting, and you’re getting the “up close” angle by being on horseback near the action rather than watching from far away.

You’ll also get a sense of how the water moves through the terrain. The description highlights water rushing down the steps into the canyon Brandgil. Even if you do not memorize the geology, you can feel what that means visually. The stepped drop creates a layered look, and the canyon shape gives the water a channel to race through.

This is also where the photo opportunity shines. The tour includes a suggestion for taking pictures between the ears of your furry companion. That is the kind of practical advice you appreciate on a guided ride, because it gets you framed correctly without turning the session into a long photo shoot.

If you care about getting a clear, recognizable souvenir photo, this is the stop. In Iceland, that matters. Rain, fog, and low sun can ruin photos fast, so having a guided, photo-friendly moment built into a short ride helps you come away with something you actually want to show people.

Your Guide Makes or Breaks a Horse Tour

A horseback ride can be anywhere from magical to stressful, depending on how the guide handles the group. Here, the tone from the experience is very positive.

One name that pops up is Ellen, described as knowledgeable and focused on getting riders comfortable with the basics. Another guide mentioned is Amrei, with the review emphasizing organization and a reassuring experience even for a rider who was a bit nervous.

So what does that mean for you? It means the guide likely does not just hand you reins and hope for the best. You should expect coaching on how to sit, how to hold steady, and how to follow instructions while your horse moves around uneven ground. If you are new, this is exactly what you want.

And if you are more experienced, you still get value. The reviews mention a safe trot in an area designed for that. Translation: you get at least one bump up in pace, but in a controlled way. It’s the best of both worlds, a little excitement without the chaos.

Timing: How Long You Should Plan for This Experience

The tour is listed at about 30 minutes of riding time, and that matches the idea behind a quick, focused stop at Reykjafoss. One review also mentions around one hour total time for the experience.

Plan for the longer end of that range. The extra time typically covers check-in, getting oriented, mounting, and settling back in at the end. If you are pairing this with other Akureyri plans, build in a buffer so you do not feel rushed.

The nice part is that even with buffer time, you are not losing half a day. This is a “do it today” kind of activity, especially if you are balancing multiple interests and want a horse experience without a long commitment.

Value for $90.12: When Short Horse Tours Feel Worth It

Let’s talk money. At $90.12 per person for this short ride, it is not the cheapest thing on your list. But it does not try to compete with low-cost sightseeing. It is paying for horses, staff, safety management, and guided time with a specific destination.

Here’s why I think it’s good value for the right person:

• You get a targeted nature highlight, Reykjafoss, instead of generic riding.
• You get a structured experience, so you are not figuring out how to ride on your own.
• The group is small, up to 8, which helps reduce downtime.
• You get photo opportunities that would be harder on your own.

If you are a first-time rider, you are paying for the guide to help you avoid common mistakes. If you are an experienced rider, you’re paying for a curated ride with a scenic objective. Either way, you’re not just buying time on a horse, you’re buying a route with a payoff.

What to Do for Photos (and Not Hate Your Gloves)

The tour explicitly sets you up for photos between the ears of your horse. That tells me the operator understands what riders want: a clear, iconic shot that looks like Iceland, not just a blur of motion.

To make the most of that, show up thinking like a photographer:

• Keep your camera ready before you need it.
• Expect the horse to move, so stabilize your hands as best you can.
• Wear gloves you can still use with, especially if you are shooting on a phone.

Also, remember that Iceland weather loves to change. Even when the forecast looks okay, bring layers you can adjust quickly. You want to stay comfortable so you can enjoy the waterfall stop instead of thinking only about cold fingers.

And because the ride is short, you should not worry about “spending time perfecting shots.” The best approach is simple, get a few solid images at the photo moment, then enjoy the scenery without constantly chasing the lens.

Who Should Book This Horse Ride

This is a great fit if you want Iceland horses but do not want a long tour day. The experience is also listed as suitable for most travelers, which lines up with the review pattern of families and mixed experience levels.

I’d especially recommend it if you:

• Have limited time in the Akureyri area
• Want a guided introduction to horseback riding
• Care about nature photos but need a schedule that stays manageable
• Travel with someone who prefers a shorter outdoor activity

If you are looking for a full-day adventure, this is not that. But if you want the feeling of Iceland outdoors plus a real waterfall moment, it fits.

Quick Planning Tips That Keep the Day Smooth

A few small points can make your day easier:

• Use your mobile ticket at the start so check-in is fast.
• Arrive early enough to settle in before mounting.
• Dress for good visibility and stable footing, since you’ll be on uneven natural terrain.
• If weather is changing, be ready to adapt. This experience requires good weather for the ride.

Because it starts and ends at the same place, it also works well for people who hate complicated end-of-tour transport. You come back to where you started, which helps you keep the rest of your itinerary sane.

Should You Book This Reykjafoss Horse Ride?

Book this if you want a short, guided horseback experience with a clear destination and strong photo moments. The combination of Reykjafoss, Skagafjörður mountain views, and coaching that helps riders feel comfortable adds up to a tour that feels efficient and genuinely enjoyable.

Skip it only if you have your heart set on a long multi-hour ride, or if you know you will be miserable in cool, changeable conditions. In Iceland, weather shapes the day, and this one runs best when conditions cooperate.

If your goal is to check the Icelandic horse box while still seeing something iconic, this is a solid choice.

FAQ

How long is the horseback tour?

The ride is listed at about 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at the Hestasport Reception at the Cottages and Riding Tours, Vegamót, 560 Varmahlíð, Iceland, and ends back at the same meeting point.

How much does it cost per person?

It costs $90.12 per person.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it is offered in English.

Do I need a printed ticket?

No, the tour uses a mobile ticket.

How large is the group?

The tour has a maximum of 8 travelers.

What does the ride include?

You’ll make a quick stop at Hestasport, then ride toward Reykjafoss and enjoy the scenery on the way, with a photo opportunity during the ride.

What happens if weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, you will not receive a refund.