Reykjadalur: Horseback Riding Tour for Families & Beginners

If you’re looking for a gentle, scenic way to explore Iceland’s Reykjadalur Valley, this horseback riding tour is a fantastic choice. Designed especially for beginners and families, it offers a chance to enjoy Icelandic nature from the back of a friendly horse without the need for prior riding experience. The tour lasts about an hour, making it perfect for those with limited time but craving a truly authentic Icelandic adventure.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines stunning scenery with the chance to learn about Icelandic horses from knowledgeable guides. The small group setting ensures a personal touch, making it ideal for families or first-time riders. On the flip side, some might find the scenery in this part of Iceland less dramatic than other regions, which could be a consideration if you’re hoping for awe-inspiring landscapes. This tour suits those who want a relaxed, family-oriented outing that’s accessible yet memorable.

Key Points

• Family-friendly and beginner-focused making it accessible for all ages and riding abilities.
• Beautiful views of Reykjadalur Valley paired with engaging commentary from guides.
• Small group sizes for a more personalized, friendly experience.
• Includes essential safety gear like helmets and rain clothing.
• Flexible scheduling options with morning or afternoon tours.
• Cost-effective at $84 per person, offering good value for a quick, scenic adventure.

Discover the Magic of Reykjadalur on Horseback

This horseback riding tour isn’t about rushing through a scenic landscape; it’s about savoring the moment, bonding with your family, and gaining a fresh perspective on Iceland’s natural beauty. The 1-hour journey is designed for ease and enjoyment, especially suited for those new to riding or traveling with children.

The experience begins as you meet your guide and the team at the stable, conveniently located with free parking right at the meeting point. Arriving 15 minutes early helps you get fitted with the provided helmet and rain gear, and allows time for a quick briefing. The guides are known for their friendly, attentive approach—reviews highlight Claire, in particular, as a warm, caring presence who takes time to ensure everyone feels comfortable.

What Makes This Tour Special?

One of the biggest advantages here is the focus on personalized service. Since the group size is small, guides can give individual attention, answer questions about the horses, and tailor the experience to suit beginner riders or families with children. The horses are described as gentle and charming, which is essential for first-timers or nervous riders. Multiple reviews mention how attentive and caring guides like Claire help make everyone feel at ease, even those who might be a little apprehensive.

The scenery in Reykjadalur Valley is lush and inviting, with rolling hills, bubbling hot springs, and volcanic terrain. While some reviews note that the scenery isn’t the most dramatic in Iceland, the charm lies in the tranquility and the chance to see the landscape from a different angle. You’ll cross small rivers, trot along forested paths, and enjoy the fresh mountain air—all on a well-trained Icelandic horse.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour lasts approximately one hour, which is enough time to enjoy the surroundings without it feeling rushed. Once mounted, you’ll be guided through the valley, with the guide sharing insights about the local landscape and the unique qualities of Icelandic horses. These horses are famous for their smooth, tölt gait, which makes the ride incredibly comfortable—especially for beginners.

The route includes riding through forests and crossing small rivers, adding a touch of adventure for the kids and adults alike. As one reviewer noted, the guide was very attentive to their kids, making sure they felt safe during river crossings and trot sections. The tour is quite flexible—if you’re lucky, you might get a glimpse of geothermal features or the steaming vents that Reykjadalur is known for.

The experience also includes a short break where you can take photos, pet the horses, and enjoy the scenic views. After the ride, you’ll be offered coffee or tea to relax and chat about your experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $84 per person covers the horse riding experience, helmet, riding equipment, rain clothing, winter suits, and guided commentary. It’s a package that packs a lot of value considering the safety gear and expert guiding included.

Please note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the stable. Food and drinks are also extra, so if you’re planning to continue exploring, bring some water and snacks. Gloves aren’t provided, so bringing your own is recommended if you tend to get cold hands.

The Actual Experience: From Booking to Riding

The booking process is straightforward, and the flexible cancellation policy (full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance) offers peace of mind. Once there, the atmosphere is welcoming. The guides, like Claire, are praised for their friendly demeanor and knowledge. One traveler mentioned how Claire took great care of their children, making the experience enjoyable and safe.

The horses themselves garner high praise—they’re described as beautiful, gentle, and well-trained, perfect for beginners. Reviews mention that even those with minimal riding experience found the instructions thorough and helpful. We loved the way the guides explained the specifics of Icelandic horses—what makes them unique, how they’re trained, and their importance in Icelandic culture.

The Ride Itself

The ride is smooth and relaxed, with a mix of walking, trotting, and perhaps even a quick cross-river or two. The pace is controlled, making it ideal for young children or first-timers. The scenery isn’t towering mountains or waterfalls, but the peaceful landscape and the quality of the horses more than compensate for that.

Authentic Touches

Several reviews highlight how guides shared interesting facts about the horses and the landscape, turning a simple ride into an educational outing. The small group setting allows for personal interaction, and guides often help take photos, so you can focus on enjoying the moment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This horseback riding tour is perfect for families with children over 6, complete beginners, or anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic ride in Iceland. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, and the weight limit of 243 lbs (110 kg) helps ensure safety and comfort.

If you’re seeking adrenaline or dramatic mountain views, this experience may not satisfy that craving. However, if you want a gentle, friendly introduction to Icelandic horses and the peaceful beauty of Reykjadalur, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour offers a delightful blend of gentle adventure, expert guiding, and scenic views. Its value lies in accessibility—whether you’re traveling with children, new to riding, or simply want a relaxed way to see the landscape, it ticks those boxes well.

The focus on safety, small group sizes, and attentive guides make it a trustworthy choice for families and beginners. While the scenery might not be the most dramatic Iceland has to offer, the calm pace, charming horses, and knowledgeable guides create a memorable, authentic experience.

In essence, this tour provides a wonderful way to connect with Iceland’s nature from a different perspective—on horseback, making it a standout activity for those seeking a gentle, friendly, and scenic adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed for families and children over 6 years old. The horses are gentle, and guides like Claire are attentive to kids’ safety and comfort.

Do I need riding experience to join?
No, this tour is specifically aimed at beginners and those with little or no riding experience. The guide provides thorough instructions to help everyone feel at ease.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for riding are recommended. The tour includes rain clothing and winter suits, so prepare for Iceland’s weather, but bringing your own gloves is advised if you tend to get cold.

How long is the tour?
The ride lasts about one hour, making it a manageable and enjoyable experience without taking up your whole day.

Are transportation arrangements included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to make your own way to the stable, which offers free parking.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers the ride, helmet, riding equipment, rain clothing, winter suits, and a guided commentary. Coffee or tea is also offered afterward.

Is there a lot of walking involved before or after the ride?
No, the focus is on the horseback ride itself. You’re encouraged to arrive 15 minutes early for gear fitting and briefing.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Is this suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems?
No, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with back issues, as riding could be uncomfortable or unsafe.

This horseback riding tour in Reykjadalur is a charming, accessible way to experience Icelandic nature. With friendly guides, gentle horses, and scenic surroundings, it promises a memorable outing that’s perfect for families or first-time riders seeking a relaxed adventure.