Reykjavík Sea Horse: Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching
Ride the lava fields of Hveragerði in the morning, then sail Faxaflói Bay in search of whales in the afternoon.
The Reykjavík Sea Horse combo tour brings together two of Iceland's most iconic wildlife experiences into a single, well-organized full day. You start in the geothermal town of Hveragerði with Eldhestar's Icelandic horse riding program, then return to Reykjavík for a whale watching voyage with Elding out of the Old Harbour.
Eldhestar collects guests by minibus from their Reykjavík accommodation and drives them roughly 35 minutes south to the horse farm. The route passes through the volcanic lowlands of the capital region, offering an early glimpse of the landscape before the riding even begins. A light lunch at the farm bridges the two halves of the day.
The afternoon whale watching departure heads into Faxaflói Bay or nearby waters, adjusting course based on where whale activity is concentrated that day. Minke whales and harbour porpoises are common summer sightings, while Humpback whales and Orcas become realistic targets during winter months. The vessel carries indoor saloons, toilets, and an on-board café, so comfort is maintained regardless of weather.
This tour operates year-round, making it accessible across seasons with different wildlife expectations at each time of year. Both operators are established names in Iceland's tourism sector, and the logistics between the two activities are coordinated so that transition time is minimal. Guests who want a hotel drop-off after the whale watching can arrange a transfer directly with Elding for an additional fee.
Tour Highlights
Ride a genuine Icelandic horse through lava fields and meadows around the Hveragerði area with Eldhestar.
Sail Faxaflói Bay with Elding's experienced crew in search of Minke whales, Humpbacks, Orcas, and dolphins.
Hotel pickup from Reykjavík is included, removing the need to arrange independent transport to the horse farm.
A light lunch at Eldhestar's farm is included between the riding session and the return drive to the capital.
Available every day of the year, with seasonal wildlife variation making winter and summer departures both rewarding.
Safety gear and warm clothing are provided at the horse farm, so riders do not need to bring specialist equestrian equipment.
The whale watching vessel offers indoor shelter, toilet facilities, and an on-board café serving light refreshments throughout the voyage.
How the Day Unfolds
An Eldhestar minibus collects guests from their Reykjavík accommodation in the early morning. The drive south to Hveragerði takes approximately 35 minutes through the volcanic landscape of the capital region.
Upon arrival, guides introduce guests to Icelandic horse riding, fitting everyone with safety helmets and warm outerwear where needed. Riders of all experience levels are catered for before the group heads out.
The 1.5 to 2-hour ride follows routes selected for conditions on the day, which may include crossing the river Varmá, traversing a hardened lava field, and finishing on meadow paths south of the stables. The surrounding landscape of volcanic rock and open farmland frames the experience throughout.
After returning the horses, guests sit down for a light lunch at the farm before boarding the minibus back to Reykjavík. This break also allows time to return borrowed gear and warm up before the drive.
The Elding whale watching tour departs from the ticket office at Reykjavík's Old Harbour. The vessel heads into Faxaflói Bay or nearby waters, with the captain navigating toward areas of active whale and dolphin sightings.
After the whale watching tour concludes at the Old Harbour, guests can walk back into the city centre independently. A hotel transfer can be arranged separately with Elding at an extra cost for those who prefer it.
What Is Included and Excluded
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off to the horse farm by Eldhestar minibus
- Icelandic horse riding session of 1.5 to 2 hours
- Safety helmet and warm clothing loan at the farm
- Light lunch at Eldhestar farm
- Whale watching voyage with Elding from the Old Harbour
- Warm overalls, rain jackets, and blankets available on board the vessel
Not Included
- Hotel drop-off after the whale watching tour (available for extra fee)
- On-board café purchases during the whale watching
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
Important Information
Reserve Your Place on This Full-Day Iceland Experience
This combination of Icelandic horse riding and whale watching is one of the most complete ways to experience Iceland's natural environment in a single day. Both operators are well-established and the logistics are coordinated for a smooth transition between activities.
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