Strokkur geyser erupting in the Geysir area on Iceland Golden Circle tour, with steam and mountains
Gullfoss waterfall on Iceland Golden Circle tour, cascading into canyon with rainbow and dramatic skies
Group riding Icelandic horses on a countryside trail, part of Riding and Gullfoss Geysir Þingvellir tour
Listing ID : 57583

Activity

Duration10 Hours
Group SizeSmall Group
Starts AtFarm Vellir, Iceland
LanguagesEnglish
Iceland Horse Riding & Golden Circle

Riding Tour with Gullfoss, Geysir & Thingvellir Day Trip

Saddle up through volcanic countryside, then explore Iceland's most iconic natural landmarks in a single remarkable day.


This full-day experience combines an authentic Iceland horse riding tour across scenic rural trails with a guided visit to the legendary Golden Circle, covering Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir National Park. The day balances physical activity with breathtaking sightseeing, making it one of Iceland's most well-rounded outdoor adventures.

The riding portion begins at Farm Vellir, where guests mount Icelandic horses and set out along well-maintained trails framed by volcanic mountain ridges and wide open meadows. The Icelandic horse is a breed known for its unique five-gaited movement, including the smooth and distinctive tolt, which the guides incorporate as much as safely possible throughout the ride.

After a sit-down lunch at Hotel Eldhestar, guests are transported to the Golden Circle route. The Geysir geothermal area, home to the reliably active Strokkur geyser, provides a front-row view of superheated water erupting skyward every few minutes. Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park round out the afternoon with geology, history, and raw natural spectacle.

Tour Highlights

Ride Icelandic horses on scenic countryside trails surrounding Farm Vellir, with views of volcanic mountains and open meadows.

Stand beside Gullfoss waterfall and watch massive volumes of glacial river water plunge into a dramatic rocky gorge.

Witness Strokkur geyser erupt at the Geysir geothermal area, one of Iceland's most active and accessible hydrothermal sites.

Explore Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates visibly diverge.

Suitable for all riding levels, from complete beginners to experienced riders, with horses matched to individual ability.

Enjoy a proper sit-down lunch at Hotel Eldhestar between the riding tour and the afternoon sightseeing journey.

Itinerary

1
Morning Ride at Farm Vellir

The day begins at Farm Vellir with a 1.5 to 2-hour guided ride through countryside trails. Riders take in views of volcanic mountains and broad meadows on well-suited Icelandic horses matched to their experience level.

2
Lunch at Hotel Eldhestar

Following the ride, guests are invited to relax over a sit-down lunch at Hotel Eldhestar, conveniently located near the farm. This break provides time to recover before the afternoon sightseeing portion of the day.

3
Geysir Geothermal Area

The afternoon begins with a stop at the Geysir geothermal area, where bubbling hot springs and steaming vents surround the famous Strokkur geyser. Strokkur erupts approximately every five to ten minutes, sending a column of boiling water high into the air.

4
Gullfoss Waterfall

At Gullfoss, guests walk to viewing platforms beside the two-tiered waterfall on the Hvita river. The sheer volume and force of the water cascading into the canyon below creates a memorable and often misty encounter.

5
Thingvellir National Park

The final stop is Thingvellir National Park, where Iceland's geological and historical significance converges. The site marks both the location of the world's oldest parliament and the visible rift between two tectonic plates.

What's Included

Included

  • 1.5 to 2-hour guided horse riding tour at Farm Vellir
  • Lunch at Hotel Eldhestar
  • Transport to Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir
  • Guided visit to the Golden Circle landmarks
  • Horse selection matched to rider experience

Not Included

  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities for guides
  • Personal purchases and souvenirs
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off beyond the farm

Important Information

Riders of all experience levels are welcome. Please disclose your riding background when booking so the team can assign the most appropriate horse for your safety and comfort.
Duration
Approximately 10 hours in total, including the riding session, lunch, and the Golden Circle afternoon visits.
Meeting Point
The tour starts at Farm Vellir. Guests should arrive at the farm at the designated time provided upon booking confirmation.
What to Bring
Wear warm, windproof layers and sturdy footwear with a small heel suitable for stirrups. A waterproof outer layer is recommended given Iceland's variable weather.
Cancellation
Cancellation terms are provided at the time of booking. Guests are advised to review the policy before confirming their reservation.
Accessibility
The tour involves horse riding and walking on uneven natural terrain. It may not be suitable for guests with significant mobility limitations.
Age Range
The tour is designed for a broad age range. Younger participants and specific age restrictions should be confirmed with the operator at the time of booking.

Reserve Your Spot

This combination of horse riding and Golden Circle sightseeing fills quickly, especially during peak travel months. Secure your place in advance to avoid disappointment.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior horse riding experience to join this tour?
No prior experience is required. The tour is suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced riders, and horses are chosen based on each guest's disclosed experience level.
Will there be galloping during the ride?
Galloping is not part of the ride for safety reasons. Guides aim to incorporate the tolt, a smooth five-beat gait unique to Icelandic horses, as much as conditions allow.
What is included in the lunch at Hotel Eldhestar?
Lunch at Hotel Eldhestar is included in the tour. Specific menu details should be confirmed with the operator, as offerings may vary by season.
How long is the horse riding portion of the day?
The riding session lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, taking place on countryside trails around Farm Vellir before the Golden Circle sightseeing begins.
What should I wear for the riding and outdoor sightseeing?
Guests are advised to wear warm, windproof, and waterproof clothing along with footwear that has a small heel suitable for riding stirrups. Iceland's weather can change rapidly, so layering is recommended.
Are beginners and experienced riders separated during the tour?
Beginners and experienced riders ride together in the same group. The guides select appropriate horses for each participant to ensure the ride is comfortable and safe for everyone.
Iceland Horse RidingGolden Circle TourGullfoss WaterfallGeysir GeothermalThingvellir National ParkIcelandic HorseFarm VellirStrokkur GeyserEasy DifficultyFull Day IcelandNature Tour Iceland
Last updated: 2025-07-14 | Product ID: 04D-RIDING-GULLFOSS-GEYSIR-THINGVELLIR

Activity

Availability

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Additional Information

Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible

Duration

10 hours

Languages

English - Speaking Guide

Additional Information

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Cancellation Policy

Select Date

Meeting Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

Activity Site

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

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