Iceland on Horseback: Waterfalls, Lava Landscapes and Travel Tips from Equitrekking
Traveling through Iceland on horseback gives you a different perspective on the land of fire and ice. You feel the rhythm of the horse beneath you, follow trails through lava landscapes and hear stories from people whose lives are closely connected to these animals.
In our Equitrekking Iceland episode, I learn the tölt with Íshestar, join local farmers on a horse drive to Gullfoss, ride with Diddi the Golden Rider through the Red Hills and swap the saddle for a snowmobile on Langjökull glacier. Along the way, there’s time for Reykjavík’s hot pots, nightlife and a hot dog stop. If the episode inspires your own adventure, here are ways to turn that inspiration into a trip.
Iceland Horseback Riding Equitrekking TV show
Start with an Icelandic horse ride
At the Íshestar Riding Center outside Reykjavík, my instructor Einar introduces me to the tölt. This smooth gait is one of the pleasures of riding an Icelandic horse, and learning it adds another dimension to exploring the landscape.
For your own visit, choose a ride that matches your experience. Íshestar currently offers options for beginners as well as more experienced riders. Tell the operator how often you ride and what you feel comfortable doing so they can suggest a suitable outing. Ask about the terrain, time in the saddle and whether transfers are included. Íshestar
Pack layers and a waterproof outer layer. Before packing equipment you have used around horses, read Iceland’s riding-equipment import rules. Used riding gloves and equipment such as saddles and bridles are prohibited, while permitted used clothing, boots and helmets require cleaning or disinfection. Ask your operator what gear they provide so you can pack appropriately. Matvælastofnun
Experience the tradition of traveling with a herd
One of the most memorable parts of filming was riding with Asa, a local farmer, and a herd of 50 horses. With ten riders guiding the group, we traveled toward Gullfoss and learned why Icelanders bring spare horses on longer journeys. Changing mounts allows the horses to rest while the riders continue.
The experience was exhilarating, especially when I helped lead the herd. It also showed me how much knowledge goes into traveling this way.
If you want a similar experience, ask operators specifically about riding with a loose herd and the experience level required. A short introductory ride and a longer journey with a herd can have very different demands. The horse drive in the episode was arranged with local farmers; confirm current opportunities rather than assuming that exact outing is available to book.
Give Gullfoss time beyond a photo stop
After the horse drive, we stopped for lunch and visited Gullfoss. Standing beside the falls, I could appreciate the power of the water after experiencing the surrounding countryside at the pace of a horse.
Allow time to enjoy the views on foot. Bring a waterproof layer for spray and follow the marked paths and barriers. If you’re also planning a glacier excursion, check the tour’s meeting point and schedule before deciding how much to fit into the day.
Explore the Red Hills near Reykjavík
At Rauðhólar, I ride with Sigurbjörn “Diddi” Bárðarson, known as the Golden Rider. The red pseudocraters create an extraordinary setting for seeing his horsemanship in action.
Rauðhólar is on the southeastern outskirts of Reykjavík, making it an option to investigate if you want to explore nature near the capital. Ask a local guide about suitable walking or riding routes, follow designated trails and give yourself time to take in the colors and textures of the landscape.
Make room for Reykjavík’s everyday pleasures
Between rides, I soak in geothermal hot pots, sample the city’s nightlife and stop for a hot dog. These moments offer another way to get to know Iceland through conversation, food and daily routines.
Pack a swimsuit, follow the bathing facility’s shower instructions and leave room in your itinerary for an unhurried meal or stroll. The episode includes Oliver as part of the nightlife scene at the time of filming; check current venues when planning your evening.
Finish with a glacier adventure
Snowmobiling on Langjökull brings a completely different kind of horsepower to the journey. After riding through lava terrain and visiting Gullfoss, seeing the glacier adds another perspective on Iceland’s landscapes.
Book a guided excursion and confirm clothing, transport and participation requirements. Current Mountaineers of Iceland snowmobile tours require a valid driver’s license to drive, and departures can be affected by weather and road conditions. Dress warmly, even if your day begins in milder conditions in Reykjavík.
What stays with me most is the way local people helped me experience each place. Whether you’re planning your first ride or watching from home, join me in this Equitrekking episode to discover Iceland through its horses, landscapes and the people who know them best.