The Valley of Horses – Marardalur Riding Tour
Ride through a hidden valley of volcanic cliffs, open grasslands, and untouched Icelandic wilderness.
The Marardalur Valley horseback riding tour takes experienced riders into one of Iceland's most secluded and visually striking landscapes, tucked within the geothermal Hengill Volcano area. Over nine hours in the saddle, riders discover a place that few visitors ever reach.
Marardalur, known locally as the Valley of Horses, sits at the heart of the Hengill area, framed by dramatically shaped cliff walls that rise sharply above a wide, flat, grassy valley floor. The contrast between the rugged volcanic rock and the lush meadow below gives this location a character that is unlike almost anywhere else in Iceland.
Historically, this valley served as a holding site for cattle, a practical use of its naturally enclosed terrain. Today, it is celebrated for its riding trails and the sense of discovery that comes with entering a landscape that feels genuinely off the beaten track.
This tour is designed for riders with real experience and confidence on horseback. The terrain, the duration, and the physical demands of the route make it unsuitable for beginners, but for those with the right background, it represents one of the most rewarding rides available in southwest Iceland.
Tour Highlights
Ride through the hidden Marardalur valley, enclosed by dramatic volcanic cliff formations unique to the Hengill geothermal region.
Explore trails that wind through a flat, grassy valley floor with sweeping views of Iceland's interior landscape in every direction.
Ride through an active geothermal zone where volcanic energy shapes the terrain, the vegetation, and the atmosphere underfoot.
Access a visually exceptional valley that remains largely unknown to mainstream tourism, offering genuine photographic opportunities.
Ride Icelandic horses, a breed known for their calm temperament, sure-footedness on volcanic terrain, and the distinctive tolt gait.
Witness the historical landscape once used as cattle storage, now preserved as a quiet and unspoiled riding destination.
Experience a full-day, challenging ride across varied Icelandic terrain suitable for riders with solid equestrian experience.
Tour Itinerary
The tour begins at the base stables in the Hengill Volcano area. Riders are matched with their horses, briefed on the route, and equipped before heading out onto the trail.
The group moves out through the characteristic terrain of the Hengill geothermal zone. The trail traverses open ground with views of steam vents, lava fields, and volcanic ridgelines.
Riders arrive at the entrance to the Valley of Horses, where the cliff walls begin to close in and the valley floor opens up below. This section of the ride is one of the most visually striking of the entire route.
The group rides along the flat, grassy base of Marardalur, taking in the scale of the surrounding cliffs and the quietude of this enclosed natural space. A rest stop is taken here to allow riders and horses to recover.
The return journey follows a varied route back through the Hengill area, covering different trails and terrain to the outward leg and offering fresh perspectives on the volcanic landscape.
The tour concludes at the stables. Riders assist with unsaddling and settling the horses before departing.
What Is Included
Included
- Guided horseback riding tour with an experienced local guide
- Icelandic horse for the full duration of the tour
- Riding helmet provided on request
- Route planning and safety briefing
- Access to the Marardalur valley trail system
Not Included
- Personal riding gear and riding boots
- Food and drinks during the tour
- Transport to and from the stables
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide
Important Information
Ready to Ride into the Valley?
Secure your place on one of Iceland's most acclaimed full-day riding experiences and discover the Valley of Horses for yourself.
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