Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour Including Pick Up from Reykjavik

Icelandic horses are the star here, and you get much closer to them than you would on a quick farm visit. You ride through the countryside outside Reykjavik, often past lava fields, streams, and mountain views, on calm horses that know the trail well. I like the gentle horse matching for mixed-ability groups, and I like that helmets, boots, and warm outer gear are supplied.

The farm is only about 15 minutes from the city, so this gives you a proper taste of rural Iceland without consuming a full day. The main consideration is that this is a guided trail ride, not a riding lesson. The horses generally follow one another, and the ride can feel slow if you are hoping to gallop or practice advanced skills.

Key points to know before you book

• Icelandic horses and the tolt: You may experience the breed’s famous smooth gait, with trotting and faster movement offered when conditions and ability allow.
• Beginners are welcome: Children as young as seven and first-time riders can take part, with horses chosen to match each rider.
• A short trip from Reykjavik: The stable is roughly 15 minutes from the city, making this an easy half-day addition to a city stay.
• Weather gear is provided: Helmets, boots, rain clothing, gloves, and winter snowsuits are available, though warm layers are still wise.
• Family-run farm setting: The experience includes time around the horses, a countryside ride, and often coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and pastry afterward.
• Small-group format: The maximum group size is 15 people, which helps the guides manage different riding levels.

Why Icelandic horses make this ride special

Icelandic horses are compact, sturdy, and especially well suited to the country’s rough ground and changeable weather. For you, their smaller size can make mounting less intimidating, especially if you are new to riding or helping a child onto a horse.

The horses used here are described as calm and docile, but not dull. Some have enough spirit for riders who want more energy, while many are happy to follow the line at a steady pace. That balance matters. A nervous beginner needs a dependable horse, while an experienced amateur may appreciate a mount with a bit more personality.

The breed is also known for the tolt, a smooth four-beat gait that can feel remarkably comfortable. You may get a chance to try it, along with some trotting, but this depends on the group, the guide, the weather, and the conditions underfoot. Do not book this expecting a private lesson or a guaranteed fast ride.

The horses are a major part of the appeal even before you climb aboard. You get time near the stable, see the animals being prepared, and ride horses that appear accustomed to different ages and abilities. For children, that contact can be just as memorable as the countryside itself.

From Reykjavik to a working family farm

Pickup is offered from hotels and guesthouses in Reykjavik, with cruise ship pickup available at the main port terminal. The collection process begins about an hour before the scheduled departure and may take up to 20 minutes as the vehicle gathers the group.

This is worth planning around. The ride to the farm itself is short, but the total outing is about three and a half hours, and the pickup window is not the same as your exact departure time. Hotels in central Reykjavik often sit in areas where tour vehicles cannot stop. If that applies to you, the operator sends instructions for a nearby pickup point, often a bus stop or another approved location.

The brief drive is one of the tour’s practical strengths. You do not need to commit to a long transfer across Iceland, and you can fit the ride around other Reykjavik plans. At the same time, do not schedule a tight appointment immediately afterward. Pickup, fitting, mounting, the ride, refreshments, and the return trip all need room.

The farm has been operated by the same family since 1968, according to the information shared by the owner during pickup. That family connection gives the visit a more personal feel than a large commercial riding center. Staff members handle the gear, help match horses, and assist riders who need help mounting or dismounting.

Getting fitted for Icelandic weather

At the farm, you receive basic riding equipment before meeting your horse. Helmets, boots, and rain clothing are included, while winter riders can be given warm snowsuits or coveralls. Gloves and other cold-weather items have also been supplied during winter outings.

This gear is not a minor extra in Iceland. A ride that feels comfortable at the stable can become very cold once you are sitting still on an exposed trail. Wear warm layers underneath the provided clothing, and bring hand or foot warmers if you tend to feel the cold. One rider found the supplied coverall especially useful, while another wished for warmer hands and feet.

Your own footwear may work if it has a suitable heel, but the farm can provide boots when needed. You do not need to pack a full set of riding equipment, and you will not have to worry about mud on your personal outer layers.

The staff asks about your riding background before assigning horses. Tell them honestly if you are a complete beginner, an occasional rider, or someone comfortable with trotting. Mixed groups are common, and the horse selection is designed to make the ride manageable for each person.

The trail ride through countryside and streams

Once everyone is mounted, the group heads into the countryside. The ride offers open views, mountain backdrops, lava fields, and streams. Depending on conditions, you may cross a creek or shallow river, which adds a distinctly Icelandic touch to what might otherwise be a straightforward trail ride.

The setting changes with the season. Winter can bring snow-topped mountains and crisp, bright scenery, but it also brings more cold and less forgiving weather. In warmer months, you may find easier riding conditions, though Iceland’s weather can still change quickly. The operator reserves the right to cancel for poor weather and offers another date or a full refund in that case.

The horses generally travel in a line. That makes the outing suitable for beginners and children, because you are not expected to control every movement on your own. The guides remain available to help riders on and off the horses and to give instructions along the way.

For experienced riders, the guided format has limits. You may have chances to trot or try the tolt, and spirited horses may be available on request, but the exact pace depends on the group. If your ideal ride means extended cantering, jumping, or a private training session, this is probably not the right choice.

For most people, the steady pace is a benefit. You can look up at the mountains, watch the horses move under you, and enjoy the countryside without spending the entire ride concentrating on technical commands. The ride is especially appealing if you want an approachable introduction to Icelandic horses rather than a serious equestrian workout.

What the ride feels like for beginners and children

The minimum age is seven, and children must be accompanied by an adult. The horses are short enough that mounting is less daunting than it can be on larger breeds, and staff can give riders a boost when needed.

A first-time rider should still understand the physical demands. You sit in the saddle for a substantial part of the outing, and one rider with bad knees or a bad back might find that uncomfortable. If you have limited mobility or ongoing joint pain, ask yourself whether mounting, dismounting, and a long trail ride will be suitable before booking.

The instructions are concise. You learn the basic controls, then head out with a group. That is enough for many beginners because the horses know the route and follow the line, but it is not the same as receiving a detailed riding lesson.

I would recommend this most strongly for families and couples with different experience levels. One person can be an adult amateur and another a complete novice, yet both can usually enjoy the same ride. Children who are comfortable around animals often get a great deal from the chance to see, touch, and ride the horses.

A warm drink after the saddle

The ride ends back at the farm, where you return the gear and warm up indoors. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and pastry have been served after the ride, a small touch that matters in cold or wet weather.

This closing break also gives you time to enjoy the stable without being rushed straight back into the vehicle. It is a chance to talk with the family and staff, look at the horses, and let children settle after the ride.

The refreshments are simple, not a meal. If you need lunch, plan it separately. Still, hot chocolate or coffee and a pastry can be exactly what you want after crossing a stream in winter clothing.

The return transfer takes you back to your Reykjavik hotel, guesthouse, approved pickup point, or, when arranged, the cruise terminal. The operator has adjusted pickup and drop-off plans for changing hotel arrangements, but you should provide accurate accommodation and ship details when booking.

Price, timing, and the real value

The listed price is $152.37 per person. That is not a bargain-priced short pony ride, but it includes hotel or guesthouse pickup in Reykjavik, transportation, equipment, horse matching, the guided ride, and the return transfer.

I think the price makes better sense if you value convenience. You do not need to rent a car, find a rural stable, bring riding gear, or arrange transport. The stable is close to Reykjavik, yet the outing gets you into open countryside and gives you a genuine period around Icelandic horses.

The roughly three-and-a-half-hour duration is also useful. You get enough time for preparation and a meaningful ride without giving up an entire day that could be used for museums, pools, or other Iceland outings. The tradeoff is that the riding portion is not specified as an exact number of minutes, so the total duration should not be confused with saddle time.

A group maximum of 15 people keeps the outing from becoming an enormous riding procession. Your actual group may be smaller, but that is not guaranteed. If you are traveling with a large party, ask how your group will be organized.

The tour is booked, on average, 43 days ahead, so popular dates may fill well before arrival. That is particularly important if you have only a short Reykjavik stay or need a specific pickup time.

The small drawbacks to weigh

The biggest limitation is pace. The horses often follow one another, which is reassuring for beginners but less exciting for experienced riders. You may get to trot or try the tolt, but you should not assume you will be allowed to run freely.

Weather is the other real factor. Icelandic scenery can look magical under snow or dramatic skies, but cold wind and wet clothing can turn a pleasant ride into a hard one. The farm supplies protective clothing, yet your own base layers, socks, and gloves still matter.

Pickup can also take patience. Collection starts an hour before departure and may take up to 20 minutes, especially when several hotels are involved. Central hotels may require a walk to a designated bus stop.

Finally, riding is physical. If you have a bad back, bad knees, or trouble mounting a horse, this may not suit you. Children and adults who are comfortable following basic instructions should be fine, but nobody should book it expecting a passive sightseeing trip.

Who should book the Laxnes Horse Farm ride?

I would choose this tour if you want to meet Icelandic horses, prefer a gentle countryside outing, and have limited time in Reykjavik. It works especially well for families, first-time riders, mixed-ability couples, and cruise passengers who need organized transport.

You should also book it if the idea of a family-run farm appeals to you. The owner and staff are involved in the day, the horses are central to the visit, and the experience includes practical touches such as warm clothing and post-ride drinks.

I would look elsewhere if you want an advanced riding lesson, long periods of fast riding, or a private trail session. This is a calm, guided introduction to Icelandic horses, not an athletic equestrian adventure.

The combination of close access from Reykjavik, friendly horse handling, useful equipment, and striking countryside makes the $152.37 fare reasonable for the right rider. Book early, dress warmly, allow extra time for pickup, and be honest about your riding level. If that sounds like your kind of Iceland afternoon, this is an easy tour to recommend.

FAQ

How long does the Icelandic horseback riding tour last?

The full experience lasts approximately three hours and 30 minutes, including pickup, transportation, preparation, riding, and the return to Reykjavik.

Is pickup available from Reykjavik hotels?

Yes. Pickup is offered from hotels and guesthouses in Reykjavik. Many central hotels are in no-pickup zones, so you may receive instructions to meet at a nearby approved location.

Can cruise ship passengers join the tour?

Yes. Passengers arriving by cruise ship can be picked up at the main port terminal. The operator can arrange drop-off at the ship when details are provided and the schedule allows.

Is the tour suitable for beginners and children?

Beginners are welcome, and the minimum age is seven. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The staff asks about your riding ability and matches you with a suitable horse.

What riding equipment is provided?

The farm provides basic equipment including helmets, boots, and rain clothing. Snowsuits or warm coveralls are available in winter, and gloves may also be supplied.

Can I cancel the booking for a full refund?

You can cancel at least 24 hours before the local start time for a full refund. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not accepted for a refund. If poor weather causes the operator to cancel, you can choose another date or receive a full refund.