Group riding Icelandic horses through scenic Icelandic countryside on a guided tour
  • 10 hours
  • Small Group
  • From Reykjavík

Golden Circle & Horseback Riding

A guided ride on gentle Icelandic horses through scenic countryside, followed by the classic Golden Circle sightseeing route.

Duration10 hours
PickupReykjavik
Travel StyleSmall Group
DifficultyEasy

Overview

This small group Golden Circle & Horseback Riding tour combines Iceland’s most iconic sights with a guided horse riding experience through the Icelandic countryside. Depending on weather and trail conditions, your ride will follow one of three scenic routes. You may explore a lush valley surrounding the stables, ride along a peaceful riverbank crossing clear blue streams, or head up a hillside trail passing the picturesque Tröllafoss waterfall, a spot local folklore says is where trolls bathe under a full moon.

During the ride, you will get to know the sturdy and sure-footed Icelandic horse — a unique breed that has remained pure for centuries and is known for its gentle temperament and smooth gait. The experience is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders, with guidance provided throughout.

Next it’s time to visit the Golden Circle, Iceland’s most famous sightseeing route, showcasing three of the country’s most iconic natural attractions. First stop is Þingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet and Iceland’s historic parliament was founded. We then continue to the Geysir geothermal area, where Strokkur erupts regularly, sending hot water high into the air. The tour concludes at Gullfoss, a powerful and breathtaking waterfall that cascades into a dramatic canyon.

Highlights

  • Horseback Riding in Countryside
  • Þingvellir National Park
  • Geysir Geothermal Area
  • Gullfoss Waterfall

Itinerary

Pickup is made from a designated location in Reykjavík to begin your day of adventure and sightseeing.

The day begins with a guided horse riding tour through the Icelandic countryside. Upon arrival at the stables, guests are introduced to the Icelandic horse and receive a short safety briefing. The Icelandic horse is known for its calm temperament and smooth gait, making the ride suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Depending on weather and trail conditions, the ride follows one of several scenic routes. You may explore a lush valley near the stables, follow a riverbank crossing clear streams, or ride along a hillside trail with views over surrounding mountains and lava formations. The pace is adapted to the group, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
After returning to the stables, guests can relax with a warm drink before continuing the journey.

From the stables, the tour continues to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and learn about the site’s historical significance as the location of Iceland’s first parliament, established in 930 AD.

Next stop is the Geysir geothermal area. The active Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes, sending hot water up to 20–30 meters into the air. The area also features bubbling hot springs and steaming vents, offering insight into Iceland’s geothermal activity.

The final highlight of the Golden Circle is Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls. The powerful cascade drops in two stages into a dramatic canyon carved by glacial waters. Visitors can walk along viewing paths to experience the waterfall from different angles.

Drop-off is back at your pickup location in Reykjavík, concluding a full day of horseback riding and sightseeing around the Golden Circle.

  • Pick-up & drop-off in Reykjavik
  • English Speaking Guide
  • Transportation in a minibus
  • Horseback riding gear
  • Warm, layered clothing
  • Waterproof outerwear
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Camera or smartphone

Route map

Frequently Asked Questions

Pick-up starts at 9:00 AM and can take up to 30 minutes. Pickup and drop-off are included from selected locations in Reykjavík. Due to city center restrictions, some pickups take place at nearby designated bus stops.

No. Food and drinks are not included. Stops are made along the route where guests can purchase refreshments.

Yes. For safety reasons and to ensure the wellbeing of our horses, the weight limit for this tour is 120 kg (265 lbs).

Children aged 8 and older may join the tour. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian booked on the same tour.

This tour is currently operated in English only.

More than 24 hours’ notice: full refund.
Less than 24 hours’ notice: no refund.

Yes. The itinerary and timings shown are estimates and may vary depending on weather, road conditions, traffic, pickup times, and the pace of the group.

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