Golden Circle & Viking Horse Experience

Embarking on an 11-hour adventure through Iceland’s Golden Circle combined with a horseback ride on iconic Icelandic horses promises a memorable day in the land of fire and ice. This tour, offered from Reykjavik, blends some of the country’s most famous sights with a uniquely local activity—horseback riding through Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes. It’s a solid choice for first-timers with limited time or anyone eager to see the highlights and enjoy a taste of Icelandic culture.

One thing we love about this experience is the balance of sightseeing and activity—you get to witness the natural splendors of Þingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir, then slow down with a scenic horse ride that’s suitable for all ages and experience levels. The inclusion of audio guides in ten languages and a professional, knowledgeable guide makes the day informative and engaging.

A possible drawback to consider is that some reviews mention issues with logistics—like arriving early at the wrong bus stop or being driven to the wrong part of Reykjavík at the end of the day. While these are isolated incidents, they highlight the importance of punctuality and clear communication.

All in all, this tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic Iceland experience packed into one day, especially if horseback riding and iconic sights are high on your list. Just remember to dress warmly and arrive prepared for the weather, which can change suddenly.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines the Golden Circle’s top sights with a scenic horseback ride in one seamless day.
• Expert Guides & Audio Guides: Guides provide interesting facts, local stories, and help make the experience more enriching, especially with multilingual options.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Pickup is available for those staying outside Reykjavik, and Wi-Fi on the bus means you can stay connected.
• Authentic Horseback Riding: Suitable for all levels, with equipment provided, and the horses are described as gentle, suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
• Value for Money: At around $191, the tour offers a lot of what Iceland has to offer, from natural wonders to cultural insights.
• Logistics & Timing: Starts early at 8:00 am from Reykjavik terminal; remember to arrive 15 minutes early or coordinate pickup if booked.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour kicks off at the Reykjavik Terminal on Skógarhlíð 10 promptly at 8:00 am. We appreciated the free Wi-Fi and the USB charging ports on the comfortable bus, which made waiting more pleasant. You can choose to meet here or opt for hotel pickup—though this comes at an extra cost, so it’s worth factoring into your budget.

Reviews mention the importance of arriving 15 minutes early to avoid missing the start or logistical hiccups, a good tip for any organized tour. The small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience, and the guide’s attentiveness is often praised.

The Golden Circle – Highlights & Insights

The main part of the tour is focused on the Golden Circle’s three main stops:

• Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. It’s a place of both geological wonder and historical significance. Guests frequently mention the lava canyon and the chance to walk in the footsteps of Vikings. One reviewer appreciated the way the guide shared interesting facts, making the visit more meaningful.

• Gullfoss Waterfall: Known for its dramatic, two-tiered cascade, Gullfoss is often described as breathtaking. Travelers loved the sheer power and beauty of the falls, with some saying the pictures don’t do it justice.

• Geysir Geothermal Area: Home to the famous erupting geyser, Strokkur, which shoots boiling water every few minutes. The geothermal activity is visible everywhere, with bubbling hot springs and steaming vents adding to the sensory experience.

The tour’s audio guides provide commentary in 10 languages, enriching the sightseeing with facts about Icelandic geology, history, and folklore. Several reviews highlight that the guides are very knowledgeable, often sharing stories and local insights that bring the stops to life.

The Horseback Riding Adventure

After the sightseeing, the tour transitions to a scenic horseback ride on Icelandic horses. The horses’ gentle disposition and the equipment supplied make it approachable for beginners—an aspect travelers appreciated, especially those with limited riding experience. One reviewer described the horses as “very gentle and suitable for riders of all types,” making the ride accessible for families and novices.

The ride takes place through meadow and lava fields, offering a chance to slow down and enjoy Iceland’s rugged beauty from a different perspective. Travelers often mention the gaiting—a smooth, unique Icelandic gait—that makes the experience comfortable even for beginners. Some reviews highlight the opportunity to learn about the Icelandic horse’s history and significance, adding cultural depth to the activity.

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention that the horseback experience is the highlight, with some feeling it exceeded their expectations. Others advise that it’s better to schedule separate visits to the Golden Circle and horseback riding for better value, as the combined tour offers a full, packed day.

End of the Day & Logistics

The tour concludes back at the Reykjavik meeting point, with some reviewers noting logistical hiccups such as being driven to the wrong part of Reykjavík or confusion about the exact end location. It’s advisable to confirm final details beforehand and be punctual.

Practical Details & Value Analysis

At around $191, this tour provides a comprehensive day out that includes transportation, expert guides, and horseback riding equipment. For travelers with limited time, this combo delivers a rich snapshot of Iceland’s natural beauty and culture. The inclusion of Wi-Fi and multilingual guides adds convenience, making it easier to share your experience or learn more along the way.

The timing is well-planned, with departure early in the morning to maximize daylight, especially vital in winter when daylight hours are short. The tour’s small group size creates an intimate atmosphere, and the personalized attention from guides is often highlighted.

What Reviewers Say

Many guests mention the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, with Harolyn calling the guide “knowledgeable and very interesting,” and Mila praising the insight into Icelandic life. The horseback riding is frequently described as “smooth” and “great for beginners,” with some reviewers noting that the horses used are the same as those used in “Game of Thrones,” adding a fun pop-culture angle.

However, a few reviews point out issues like poor communication or logistical delays. For example, Sheri mentioned the challenge of parking at the meeting point, and Jonathan noted being driven to the wrong part of Reykjavík at the end of the day. These are small but worth noting, emphasizing the importance of punctuality and verifying logistics.

The Bottom Line

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking an immersive, full-day Iceland experience that balances sightseeing with an authentic horseback riding adventure. It offers good value for the price, especially considering the transportation, guides, and equipment included. The combination of natural wonders and cultural activity makes it perfect for those wanting a well-rounded glimpse of Iceland in a single day.

If you’re a first-time visitor or short on time but want to see key sights and try Icelandic horses, this tour generally delivers. The expert guides and small group size mean you’ll get personalized attention and insightful commentary that enriches your understanding of Iceland.

Just keep in mind the potential for logistical hiccups and dress accordingly—weather in Iceland can change rapidly. Arrive early or confirm pickup details, and prepare for a day filled with stunning views, fascinating geology, and a memorable horseback ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup isn’t included in the base price but is available at an extra cost. You can also meet at the Reykjavik Terminal, which is the starting point.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress in warm, waterproof clothes. Iceland’s weather can change unexpectedly, so bring a waterproof jacket, pants, headwear, gloves, and good outdoor shoes.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
The entire tour lasts about 11 hours, including approximately a 1-hour horseback ride. The ride is gentle and suitable for beginners, with all necessary equipment provided.

Can children participate?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult. The horses are described as suitable for all ages and experience levels.

What are the main sights visited during the Golden Circle?
You’ll visit Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area, each offering unique geological and scenic features.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small group size ensures a more intimate experience, and solo travelers often find it a friendly way to meet others.

What languages are available for the audio guide?
The in-bus audio guide offers 10 languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Finnish, and Dutch.

How does the logistics work if I stay outside Reykjavik?
You can opt for hotel pickup, but check with the supplier for specific pickup points if you’re staying in private accommodation or outside the city.

What makes this tour stand out?
The blend of iconic sights with a scenic horseback ride on Icelandic horses, expert guides, small groups, and added conveniences like Wi-Fi and multilingual commentary.

In summary, the Golden Circle & Viking Horse Experience offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Iceland’s natural beauty and cultural charm. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see the highlights and enjoy a memorable, hands-on activity—just be prepared for the weather and logistics, and you’ll have a day to remember.