Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour Including Pick Up from Reykjavik

Iceland’s famous horses are the real stars here. Within about 15 minutes of Reykjavik, you trade city streets for a family-run farm, saddle up on a calm Icelandic horse, and ride through open countryside with mountains, streams, lava fields, and the occasional river crossing.

I like the easy transport and the thoughtful gear: pickup and return are included, while helmets, boots, gloves, and weatherproof coveralls help take the edge off Iceland’s cold and mud. I also like the careful horse matching, which makes this a sensible choice for first-time riders and mixed-ability groups.

The main drawback is that this is a guided trail ride, not a riding lesson or a fast-paced horseback adventure. Horses generally follow a line, and the pace can be gentle. You should also take cold weather seriously, especially in winter.

Key points to know before booking

• A short ride from Reykjavik: The farm is only about 15 minutes from the city, so this fits neatly into a half-day plan.
• Good for beginners: Riders as young as 7 can join, and horses are matched to each person’s experience.
• Weather gear is supplied: Expect helmets, boots, gloves, rainwear, and winter snowsuits or coveralls.
• Icelandic horses offer a special gait: Some rides may include the smooth tölt, along with normal walking and possible trotting.
• The scenery is the main event: Expect countryside, lava fields, streams, mountain views, and some river crossings.
• Small-group feel: The maximum group size is 15, with guides riding along to help.

Leaving Reykjavik for Laxnes Horse Farm

The appeal of this outing is its low travel cost in both time and effort. Pickup begins about an hour before the scheduled departure, since the vehicle may spend up to 20 minutes collecting people around Reykjavik. Once everyone is aboard, the drive to the farm takes roughly 15 minutes.

That short transfer matters. You do not need to give up an entire day or commit to a long coach ride to get a taste of rural Iceland. This works well on a day when you have other plans in Reykjavik, or when you want an outdoor activity that does not require renting a car.

Hotel pickup is offered, but Reykjavik has several no-pickup zones in the center. If your accommodation is in one of them, the operator sends instructions for a nearby meeting place. Cruise passengers can be collected at the main port terminal, which is useful if you are fitting the ride around a ship schedule.

The pickup window deserves attention. Do not walk outside at the exact departure time and expect the vehicle to appear. You need to be ready up to an hour beforehand, and the collection process can take up to 20 minutes.

Getting fitted for an Icelandic horse

At the farm, you receive the basic riding kit before meeting your horse. Helmets and boots are included, along with rain clothes. In winter, the farm provides snowsuits or warm coveralls, and several accounts describe gloves and extra weather protection as part of the setup.

That equipment is more than a nice extra. Icelandic weather can change quickly, and a wet, cold rider will enjoy the countryside much less. One useful tip is to wear warm layers beneath the supplied gear and bring hand and foot warmers in winter. The provided coveralls help, but they cannot replace warm socks and sensible base layers.

You are asked about your riding background so the staff can match you with a suitable horse. That is particularly helpful if your group includes both experienced riders and people who have never sat on a horse. The horses are described as calm and gentle, while more spirited animals may be available on request.

The horses are also short compared with many riding horses. That makes mounting less intimidating for children and shorter adults, and staff can give you a boost if needed. Riders with bad knees or backs should think carefully before booking, since mounting, sitting in the saddle, and riding for an extended period can be demanding.

A gentle introduction for beginners

You receive basic instructions before heading out. This is not a classroom-style lesson with a long session in the arena. The orientation is brief, then the group sets off on a guided trail.

For a complete beginner, that arrangement has clear benefits. You can concentrate on sitting comfortably, steering, and getting used to the horse without being expected to perform advanced skills. The horses know the route and generally follow one another, which removes much of the pressure from a first ride.

The tradeoff is just as clear. If you want detailed instruction, private coaching, jumping, or extended free riding, this is probably not the right outing. It is best understood as a scenic trail ride with support, not a formal riding course.

That format also suits families. The minimum age is 7, and an 8-year-old with no previous riding experience was able to manage the outing according to the supplied details. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and adults should remain realistic about the length of the ride and the weather.

Riding through streams, lava fields, and mountain country

Once the group leaves the farm, the ride moves through the countryside outside Reykjavik. The exact route can vary with conditions, but the setting may include lava fields, streams, open country, and views toward snow-covered mountains.

River and creek crossings are among the most memorable details. They give the ride more character than a simple loop around a paddock, though they also mean muddy boots and a need for weatherproof clothing. The horses are used to the terrain, so you can focus on the surroundings rather than worrying about every step.

The scenery is especially striking in winter, when snow can cover the mountains and the open country feels stark and quiet. Sunrise rides have also been offered, giving early risers a chance to see the countryside in soft morning light. The tradeoff is temperature. A cold day can make the ride feel longer, particularly if your hands and feet are not well protected.

The ride is generally described as peaceful rather than thrilling. You may have opportunities to trot, and some outings include the Icelandic horse’s distinctive tölt, a smooth four-beat gait that can feel different from a standard walk or trot. The chance to experience the tölt is a special reason for riders with some previous experience to choose this farm.

Do not assume you will spend the whole outing at speed. One account wished for more opportunity to run the horses, while another found the ride a little long. That contrast tells you something useful: the pace is designed to keep a mixed group together and comfortable.

Why Icelandic horses make this ride different

Icelandic horses are not simply smaller versions of ordinary riding horses. They are known for their sure footing, sturdy build, and additional gaits, including the tölt. On this ride, you get the chance to experience that character in the setting where these horses are part of daily Icelandic culture.

The horses are selected for each rider, and the staff pays attention to ability. A beginner might receive a particularly steady mount, while an experienced amateur may be placed on a horse with a little more energy. You should explain your ability honestly. That helps the staff create a safer and more pleasant group for everyone.

The farm has been family run since 1968, and the family connection is part of the experience. The stable is described as clean, welcoming, and well cared for. That does not turn the outing into a behind-the-scenes farm visit, but it gives the ride a more personal feel than a large commercial operation.

You will also spend time around the horses before and after riding. For many people, that contact is as important as the trail itself. If your main goal is to get close to Icelandic horses, this experience gives you both stable time and a ride in the countryside.

Warm drinks after the saddle

After returning to the stable, you can warm up indoors with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and a pastry or cake. This is a small touch, but it matters after a ride in cold or wet weather.

It also gives you a chance to settle down before the return trip. The outing does not end the instant you dismount. You have a few minutes to warm your hands, talk with the staff, and enjoy the farm atmosphere.

That pause is particularly useful for families and winter visitors. Children may be ready for a drink and snack, while adults can appreciate a warm room after riding in snow or wind. The refreshment should not be treated as a full meal, so eat beforehand if you tend to get hungry outdoors.

What the $152.37 price includes

At $152.37 per person, this is not a budget activity, but the price covers several costly and practical pieces: return transport from Reykjavik, the farm visit, horse assignment, guides, riding equipment, and the trail ride itself.

The transport adds real value. You do not need to arrange a taxi or rental car, find the farm, or work out parking. For a short outing outside the city, that convenience can make the difference between booking and skipping it.

The supplied gear also improves the value. Packing riding boots, a helmet, and waterproof clothing for one activity is awkward, especially if you are visiting Iceland with limited luggage. The farm provides what you need for the ride, though your own warm base layers remain important.

I would consider the price fair for a first Icelandic horseback experience, especially if you value convenience and scenery. It is harder to justify if you already have riding gear, want a long fast ride, or are comparing it with a simple city attraction. The strongest value comes from combining transport, equipment, a family farm setting, and a guided ride in one half-day package.

Group size, timing, and practical limits

The maximum group size is 15. That is large enough to create a shared outing, but still small enough for guides to help with mounting, horse selection, and basic riding needs. The experience may feel even smaller on quieter departures.

The total duration is about three and a half hours, including pickup, travel, preparation, riding, refreshments, and return to Reykjavik. Because pickup begins up to an hour before departure, leave room in your schedule before the official start time.

The tour is offered in English and uses a mobile ticket. Confirmation is provided at booking. Most people can take part, but the operator can refuse service to anyone who appears intoxicated. In that case, the tour fee is not refunded.

Weather can also change the plan. The experience requires suitable conditions, and poor weather may lead to a different date or a full refund. If you are building a tightly packed Iceland itinerary, keep that possibility in mind.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations or changes made inside that window are not refunded or accepted.

Who will enjoy this ride most

I would recommend this experience to:

• First-time riders who want a calm introduction to horseback riding.
• Families with children age 7 and up.
• Mixed groups where one person rides often and another is a beginner.
• Visitors who want to meet Icelandic horses without traveling far from Reykjavik.
• Riders interested in the Icelandic horse’s tölt.
• Cruise passengers who need a prearranged activity with port pickup.
• Winter visitors who are prepared to dress warmly and accept changing conditions.

I would be more cautious if you have serious knee or back problems, dislike cold outdoor activities, or expect a riding lesson with detailed instruction. Experienced riders looking for speed may also find the pace restrained.

Is the Laxnes Horse Farm ride worth booking?

For most people, yes. This is a practical way to add a real rural experience to a Reykjavik stay without renting a car or spending a full day on the road. You get gentle Icelandic horses, a scenic trail, supplied riding gear, and a warm drink afterward.

Book it for the horses, the countryside, and the ease of the plan. Go in expecting a guided ride at a steady pace, not a gallop or a private lesson. If you dress for the weather and tell the staff your true riding level, this should be one of the more memorable short outings near the capital.

FAQ

How far is the horse farm from Reykjavik?

The riding destination is about 15 minutes from Reykjavik by vehicle.

Is pickup from Reykjavik included?

Yes. Pickup and return are offered from hotels or guesthouses in Reykjavik. Some central accommodations are in no-pickup zones, so you may receive instructions for a nearby meeting point.

Can cruise ship passengers join the tour?

Yes. Cruise passengers can be picked up at the main port terminal.

What is the minimum age?

The minimum age is 7. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Do beginners need horseback riding experience?

No. Beginners are welcome, and the staff asks about your riding background so a suitable horse can be assigned.

What riding equipment is provided?

The farm provides basic gear including helmets, boots, rain clothes, and winter snowsuits or warm coveralls. Gloves are also described as available during some outings.

Can the tour be canceled because of weather?

Yes. The experience requires suitable weather. If the operator cancels because of poor conditions, you can choose another date or receive a full refund.