Horseback Riding and River Rafting Full-Day Tour Iceland4.5(2,251 Reviews)12 hours
From€255.00per person
Listing ID : 57588
4.5(2,251 Reviews)
Horseback Riding and River Rafting Full-Day Tour Iceland
12hDuration
EnglishSpeaking Guide
Mobile ticketAccepted
About this experience
Duration12 Hours
Group SizeSmall Group
Starts AtReykjavik
LanguagesEnglish
Iceland Adventure Combo
Horseback Riding and River Rafting in Iceland
Two iconic Icelandic experiences, one unforgettable day
This full-day tour combines Iceland horseback riding and river rafting into a single adventure designed for families and groups with mixed interests and abilities. Starting at the Vellir farm and finishing on the glacial waters of the Hvítá river, the day moves from gentle countryside exploration to thrilling white-water action.
The morning begins at Hótel Eldhestar, where guests mount Icelandic horses for a 1.5 to 2-hour ride across the farm's scenic landscape. Riders of all experience levels are welcome, and guides assign horses based on each participant's background to keep the ride comfortable and safe for everyone.
After a light lunch at the hotel, guests transfer to the Hvítá river for an afternoon of river rafting. The Hvítá is fed by glacial meltwater and offers a dynamic rafting experience suited to those new to the sport and returning paddlers alike.
The day closes with a BBQ following the rafting, giving the group time to reflect on two distinct Icelandic adventures over a warm meal before the return journey.
Tour Highlights
Ride Icelandic horses across the Vellir farm landscape on a guided 1.5 to 2-hour tour
Raft the glacial Hvítá river in an afternoon of white-water adventure
Open to all riding levels, from first-time riders to experienced equestrians
BBQ meal included after rafting, rounding out the day with a relaxed shared meal
Guides match every rider to the right horse, keeping safety and comfort central throughout
Light lunch provided at Hótel Eldhestar between the riding and rafting segments
How the Day Unfolds
1
Arrival and Horse Assignment at Vellir Farm
Guests meet at Hótel Eldhestar, share their riding experience with guides, and are paired with a suitable Icelandic horse ahead of the morning ride.
2
Guided Horseback Ride
A 1.5 to 2-hour guided ride takes the group across Vellir farm, with guides aiming to incorporate the smooth Icelandic tölt gait where suitable. Beginners and experienced riders travel together throughout.
3
Light Lunch at Hótel Eldhestar
After returning from the ride, guests enjoy a light lunch at the hotel before boarding transport to the river.
4
River Rafting on the Hvítá
Guests are equipped and briefed before taking to the glacial Hvítá river for an afternoon rafting session. The activity is accessible to beginners and enjoyable for those with prior experience.
5
BBQ and Return
The day concludes with a BBQ meal following the rafting, giving guests a chance to unwind before the return transfer.
What Is Included
Included
1.5 to 2-hour guided horseback riding tour at Vellir farm
Light lunch at Hótel Eldhestar
Transfer to the Hvítá river
River rafting session on the Hvítá
BBQ meal after rafting
Horse assignment based on riding experience
Not Included
Personal travel insurance
Gratuities for guides
Additional drinks or snacks beyond those specified
Personal spending
Important Information
Participants are asked to provide their riding experience level during the booking process so guides can assign the most appropriate horse. Galloping is not offered on this tour for safety reasons.
Duration
Approximately 12 hours including riding, lunch, transfer, rafting, and BBQ.
What to Bring
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for both riding and outdoor activity. A change of clothes for after rafting is advisable.
Cancellation
Cancellation terms are provided at the time of booking. Please review the policy before confirming your reservation.
Accessibility
This tour involves physical activity including horse riding and river rafting. Guests with limited mobility or health concerns should consult with the operator before booking.
Age Range
The tour is suitable for a wide age range. Please contact the operator directly for specific minimum age requirements for the rafting segment.
Ready to Book Your Iceland Riding and Rafting Day?
Secure your place on this full-day combination tour and experience two of Iceland's most distinctive outdoor activities back to back. Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended.
No prior riding experience is required. The tour is open to complete beginners as well as experienced riders, and guides assign horses based on each guest's stated experience level during booking.
Is the rafting segment suitable for first-timers?▼
Yes. The rafting on the Hvítá river is accessible to participants who have not rafted before. Guides provide briefings and all necessary equipment prior to the activity.
Will there be galloping during the horse ride?▼
No. For safety reasons, galloping is not included in this tour. Guides aim to incorporate the smooth Icelandic tölt gait where possible during the ride.
What meals are provided during the day?▼
A light lunch is served at Hótel Eldhestar between the riding and rafting segments. A BBQ meal is included following the rafting session at the end of the day.
How do I inform the operator about my riding experience?▼
Riding experience details are collected during the booking process. Guests are asked to provide this information so guides can select the most appropriate horse for each participant.
Is transport provided between the riding farm and the river?▼
Yes. Transfer from Hótel Eldhestar to the Hvítá river for the rafting segment is included as part of the tour itinerary.
Iceland Horseback RidingRiver Rafting IcelandHvítá RiverIcelandic HorseFamily Adventure IcelandCombo Tour IcelandVellir FarmHótel EldhestarWhite Water RaftingOutdoor IcelandEasy Adventure TourIceland Day Tour
This tour operates from Hótel Eldhestar at Vellir farm in South Iceland, a region renowned for its volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and access to glacial rivers. The Hvítá river, fed by the Langjökull glacier, flows through the Borgarfjörður area and is one of Iceland's most popular rafting destinations. The riding farm sits within easy reach of Reykjavik, making this a practical full-day excursion for visitors based in the capital. South Iceland's variable subarctic climate means outdoor conditions can change rapidly, and the region is best explored with experienced local guides who are familiar with seasonal conditions.
Adventure Combo Tour | South Iceland | Horseback Riding | River Rafting | Family-Friendly | All Skill Levels | Glacial River | Icelandic Horse | Full Day | Outdoor Activity
Gift more than a trip
Extraordinary experiences, beautifully gifted
Give the joy of travel with a ToursXplorer Gift Card. Perfect for every occasion.