Iceland On Horseback
Duration: 2 1/2 hours
Tour Code: rek-001
If you love horses and the great outdoors, then don't miss this scenic and memorable horseback ride in the Icelandic countryside.
Depart the pier for the transfer to the Ishestar Riding Centre in Hafnarfjörður. Upon arrival, you will receive your overalls, a riding helmet, boots and gloves. After a brief introduction of the horses and staff, your horseback riding adventure will begin. The extremely sure-footed, keen and friendly Icelandic horses are adorned with long, shaggy manes and thick coats. A purebred descendant of its Viking ancestors, the Icelandic horse is a proud product of isolation and a thousand years of breeding. Famed for its good riding qualities, gentle, friendly disposition and calm manner, they are a delight for anyone to ride.
In addition to the normal gaits of walk, trot and gallop, the Icelandic horse offers another unique gait; the tölt. The tölt is a flowing, four-beat gait where the rider stretches down in the stirrup, then sits back and feels the sensation of floating. Ideally-suited to Iceland's glacially-shaped landscape, its secure high steps allow the Icelandic horse to move easily over rough terrain that would stop other breeds in their tracks. Icelandic horses are quite small, and average around 13-14 hands.
During this tour, your guide will lead you on a ride into the lava fields surrounding the Mt. Helgafell Volcano and the Kaldársel area, or to Lake Hvaleyrarvatn. En route, you will explore rough lava fields and reforestation efforts with the beautiful Bláfjöll Mountains on the horizon. The horses are well-suited for both beginner and more advanced riders.
Following your horseback adventure, you will be transferred back to the pier.
Please note: The tour includes limited walking; however, it is not available to wheelchair guests, those with mobility concerns, pregnant women or those with recent back or neck injuries. Weather appropriate clothing is suggested and long-pants and sturdy closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Guests should be prepared for the possibility of rain. The order of the sights viewed or visited may vary. Minimum age to participate is 8 years of age and maximum weight is 220 lbs. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.