Two riders on horseback crossing a shallow river in North Iceland with rolling hills and mountains behind
Group of four riders on Icelandic horses trotting through golden grasslands in North Iceland
Group of riders on Icelandic horses trekking along a river valley trail in North Iceland
Two riders on horseback crossing a snowy trail with snow-covered mountains in North Iceland
Two riders on Icelandic horses trotting through North Iceland's winter landscape
Four riders on Icelandic horses at sunset in North Iceland's frost-covered highland landscape
Two riders on Icelandic horses posing in front of Reykjafoss waterfall in North Iceland
Rider on Icelandic horse beside snowy river in North Iceland winter landscape
Group of riders on Icelandic horses trekking through snowy landscape with snow-covered mountains in North Iceland
Group of riders on Icelandic horses lined up in snowy landscape with snow-capped mountains in North Iceland
Icelandic horses grazing by icy river with snow-capped flat-topped mountain in North Iceland winter landscape
Aurora borealis arching over snow-covered mountains in North Iceland with people watching in foreground

Varmahlid, Iceland

North Iceland Horse Riding Tour to Reykjafoss Waterfall

1 hour and 30 minutesMin 1 guests
Listing ID : 38718
Duration1 hour 30 minutes
Group SizeSmall Group
Starts AtNorth Iceland
LanguagesEnglish
Horseback Riding in North Iceland

The Viking Ride: All in One Icelandic Horse Tour

Discover waterfalls, river trails, and fjord panoramas on the back of an Icelandic horse.


This Icelandic horse riding tour brings together the defining landscapes of North Iceland into a single 90-minute journey, combining river crossings, hillside trails, a hidden waterfall, and the distinctive four-beat gait known as the Tölt.

The route follows the river Svartá through terrain that shifts from open grassland to a rugged hillside adventure track, rewarding riders with a view of the waterfall Reykjafoss at the journey's end. Throughout the ride, the mountain panorama of the surrounding fjord frames every step.

The Icelandic horse is a compact and sure-footed breed developed over a thousand years in the North Atlantic climate. Its fifth gait, the Tölt, delivers a smooth and comfortable ride even for those with limited riding experience, making this tour accessible to a wide range of participants.

Soft grassy paths along the route create natural stretches where guides invite riders to experience the Tölt at a comfortable pace, offering a genuine connection with a breed that has been central to Icelandic culture since the age of settlement.

Tour Highlights

Ride a purebred Icelandic horse, one of the oldest and most distinctive horse breeds in the world.

Follow the river Svartá along a scenic trail that winds through the heart of the North Icelandic landscape.

Arrive at the waterfall Reykjafoss, a rewarding natural landmark reached only on horseback via this trail.

Ride beneath a sweeping fjord mountain panorama that surrounds the entire route from start to finish.

Experience the Tölt on soft grassy paths, the smooth four-beat gait unique to the Icelandic horse breed.

Rated easy in difficulty, this tour welcomes riders of most experience levels, including beginners.

An adventure hillside track adds variety and terrain challenge midway through the 90-minute ride.

Tour Itinerary

1
Welcome and Horse Introduction

Upon arrival at the stable, participants are matched with their Icelandic horse and receive a safety briefing from the guide. Riders are introduced to the basics of handling and communication with the horse before setting off.

2
Departure Along the River Svartá

The ride begins alongside the river Svartá, following a path that offers immediate views of the surrounding fjord mountains. The gentle terrain here allows riders to settle into their horse and find their rhythm.

3
Tölt on the Grassy Paths

Soft grassy stretches along the trail provide the ideal surface for experiencing the Tölt. The guide leads the group through this smooth gait, giving every rider a chance to feel the unique motion the Icelandic horse is known for.

4
Hillside Adventure Track

The route transitions onto a hillside track that adds a sense of adventure and varied terrain. This section rewards riders with elevated views of the valley and river below.

5
Arrival at Reykjafoss Waterfall

The trail culminates at the waterfall Reykjafoss, a natural highlight accessible primarily by this riding route. Riders pause to take in the waterfall before beginning the return journey to the stable.

6
Return and Farewell

The group rides back to the stable along the return path, concluding the 90-minute experience. Guides are available for questions about the horses and the surrounding landscape.

What Is Included

Included

  • Guided 90-minute horseback riding tour
  • Icelandic horse for the duration of the ride
  • Safety briefing and riding instruction
  • Helmet provided at the stable
  • Small group experience in North Iceland

Not Included

  • Hotel or accommodation pickup and drop-off
  • Gratuities for guides
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Meals or refreshments

Important Information

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled start time to allow for horse matching and safety preparation. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and dress in warm, wind-resistant layers suitable for North Iceland weather conditions.
Duration
1 hour and 30 minutes total, including horse introduction and safety briefing at the stable.
Meeting Point
The tour departs from the stable in North Iceland. Exact location details are provided upon booking confirmation.
What to Bring
Wear warm, layered clothing and sturdy closed-toe shoes. A waterproof outer layer is strongly recommended given the variable North Iceland weather.
Cancellation
Cancellation policies vary. Please review the cancellation terms provided at the time of booking before confirming your reservation.
Accessibility
This tour is rated easy and is suitable for riders with little or no previous experience. Participants must be physically able to mount and ride a horse independently.
Age Range
Minimum age requirements apply. Please confirm age and weight restrictions directly with the operator at the time of booking.

Ready to Ride in North Iceland?

Secure your place on this scenic Icelandic horse tour and experience the river trails, hillside tracks, and the waterfall Reykjafoss from the saddle of one of the world's most distinctive horse breeds.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need previous riding experience to join this tour?
No prior riding experience is required. The tour is rated easy and the guide provides instruction before departure, making it suitable for beginners as well as more experienced riders.
What is the Tölt and will I get to try it?
The Tölt is a smooth, four-beat lateral gait unique to the Icelandic horse breed, known for its comfortable motion even at speed. The trail includes soft grassy paths specifically suited to this gait, and guides invite all riders to experience it during the tour.
What should I wear for the ride?
Wear warm, layered clothing and sturdy closed-toe shoes. A wind and waterproof outer layer is recommended given the unpredictable weather conditions common in North Iceland.
Is a helmet provided or do I need to bring my own?
Helmets are provided at the stable for all participants. You do not need to bring your own riding equipment.
Where does the tour start and how do I get there?
The tour departs from a stable in North Iceland. The exact meeting point address and directions are provided in your booking confirmation.
What is the landscape like along the trail?
The route follows the river Svartá across grassy paths and a hillside adventure track, with the fjord mountain panorama visible throughout. The trail ends at the waterfall Reykjafoss, which is the main natural highlight of the ride.
Icelandic Horse RidingNorth Iceland ToursHorseback Riding IcelandTölt ExperienceReykjafoss WaterfallRiver Svartá TrailViking Ride IcelandEasy Horse TourFjord Panorama RideBeginner Horseback TourIceland Nature ExperienceOutdoor Activity Iceland
Last updated: 2025-07-14 | Product ID: viking-ride-all-in-one

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

1 hour and 30 minutes

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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