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Leave Reykjavik for a 3.5-hour Icelandic horse trek across lava fields and glacial plains. Helmets and rain gear are provided; guides match horses to riders so beginners and experienced equestrians alike can enjoy the tölt across stark, volcanic scenery.
Leave Reykjavik for a 3.5-hour Icelandic horse trek across lava fields and glacial plains. Helmets and rain gear are provided; guides match horses to riders so beginners and experienced equestrians alike can enjoy the tölt across stark, volcanic scenery.
A cold wind rolls off a nearby lava field as your minivan curves out of Reykjavik and toward open ground. Within 15 minutes the city’s flat roofs and church spire fall away and you stand beside compact, sure-footed Icelandic horses — eyes bright, breath steaming — ready to move across black-rimmed ridges and mossy lava. The animals seem to read the land: the gait known as the tölt makes long horizons feel close and the rhythm steadies even nervous riders.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Laxnes Horse Farm · Reykjavik, Capital Region
A cold wind rolls off a nearby lava field as your minivan curves out of Reykjavik and toward open ground. Within 15 minutes the city’s flat roofs and church spire fall away and you stand beside compact, sure-footed Icelandic horses — eyes bright, breath steaming — ready to move across black-rimmed ridges and mossy lava. The animals seem to read the land: the gait known as the tölt makes long horizons feel close and the rhythm steadies even nervous riders.
These horses trace their lineage to the Norse settlers of the 9th century; import bans since medieval times mean the breed is uniquely Icelandic and integral to local culture and sagas. Geologically the ride crosses young volcanic fields and glacial outwash plains — sharp basalt, soft moss, and occasional rivers that dare you to look down and hurry on. Rural farms nearby still use turf-roofed buildings and follow traditions of horse husbandry passed through generations.
Expect a practical, guided experience: guides match horses to ability, helmets and rain gear are provided, and the operator picks up from Reykjavik hotels. The ride suits beginners and experienced riders; terrain is mostly packed trail and open field with short undulations rather than steep climbs. Bring warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and a sense of patience for Icelandic weather. Note health limitations (not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious spine or heart issues). The tour balances cultural context and geology with straightforward logistics — an accessible way to feel the country under hoof.
easy.
3–4 hours.
Suitable for most people with basic mobility — you should be able to mount/dismount and sit in a horse saddle for a couple of hours.
No — guides match horses to your experience and the tour accommodates beginners through experienced riders; basic instruction is given before departure.
Yes — pickup from hotels and guesthouses within Reykjavik is included and the ride location is about 15 minutes away.
Minimum age is 7; not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or serious heart conditions — disclose issues when booking.
The operator may cancel for bad weather; their policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours before departure or if the tour is canceled due to weather.
Icelandic horses descend from Norse stock brought by early settlers in the 9th century; strict import bans since medieval times kept the breed genetically distinct.
Riders are asked to stay on established tracks to protect fragile moss and soil; supporting local farms helps finance sustainable land stewardship and biosecurity measures.
Laxnes Horse Farm operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
A cold wind rolls off a nearby lava field as your minivan curves out of Reykjavik and toward open ground. Within 15 minutes the city’s flat roofs and church spire fall away and you stand beside compact, sure-footed Icelandic horses — eyes bright, breath steaming — ready to move across black-rimmed ridges and mossy lava. The animals seem to read the land: the gait known as the tölt makes long horizons feel close and the rhythm steadies even nervous riders.
A cold wind rolls off a nearby lava field as your minivan curves out of Reykjavik and toward open ground. Within 15 minutes the city’s flat roofs and church spire fall away and you stand beside compact, sure-footed Icelandic horses — eyes bright, breath steaming — ready to move across black-rimmed ridges and mossy lava. The animals seem to read the land: the gait known as the tölt makes long horizons feel close and the rhythm steadies even nervous riders.
These horses trace their lineage to the Norse settlers of the 9th century; import bans since medieval times mean the breed is uniquely Icelandic and integral to local culture and sagas. Geologically the ride crosses young volcanic fields and glacial outwash plains — sharp basalt, soft moss, and occasional rivers that dare you to look down and hurry on. Rural farms nearby still use turf-roofed buildings and follow traditions of horse husbandry passed through generations.
Expect a practical, guided experience: guides match horses to ability, helmets and rain gear are provided, and the operator picks up from Reykjavik hotels. The ride suits beginners and experienced riders; terrain is mostly packed trail and open field with short undulations rather than steep climbs. Bring warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and a sense of patience for Icelandic weather. Note health limitations (not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious spine or heart issues). The tour balances cultural context and geology with straightforward logistics — an accessible way to feel the country under hoof.