Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re considering a day trip that combines the charm of Icelandic horses with some of Iceland’s most famous natural sights, this Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik could be just what you’re after. It’s a well-rounded way to see the country’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, especially if you’re short on time but eager for authentic experiences.

What we love about this tour is the chance to ride on the unique Icelandic horse, a breed unchanged since the Viking Age, and then follow that with visits to UNESCO-listed Thingvellir, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area. Plus, the included guided horse ride is suitable for all levels, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete newbie. A minor consideration is the pace—some may find the tour a bit packed, especially the Golden Circle part—so it’s best for travelers eager to tick off many sights in a single day.

This tour suits travelers who want an authentic horse riding experience combined with Iceland’s top natural attractions. It’s particularly appealing if you appreciate a blend of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of history all wrapped into one cost-effective package.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic horses: Known for their gentle nature and unique gait, perfect for all experience levels.
• Comprehensive sightseeing: Combines a scenic horse ride with major Golden Circle highlights—Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with interesting facts and local insights.
• Good value: Includes transportation, national park fees, and riding gear, all in one package.
• Flexible and convenient: Pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik hotels and guesthouses streamline the day.
• Authentic experience: The farm visit offers a genuine connection to Icelandic equestrian traditions, praised by many travelers.

The Itinerary: A Day in Iceland’s Natural and Cultural Heart

Horseback Riding at Laxnes Horse Farm

Your day begins with a pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation, where a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle whisks you out to Laxnes Horse Farm. This is no ordinary farm—it’s a family-run operation highly praised for its warm hospitality and professional management. The highlight here? Riding on a Viking horse—a breed that has remained unchanged since the Viking Age.

The horses are described as calm, friendly, and robust, with some reviews mentioning that even first-timers felt safe and well cared for. Many travelers rave about how the horses seem to enjoy their work, often walking or even cantering, crossing streams, or trotting along scenic trails. According to feedback, “the horses were so gentle… the ride was well managed and great fun,” and “they even let advanced riders use their skills,” which indicates a flexible approach suited a broad range of riders.

The ride typically lasts around two hours, providing enough time to enjoy the landscape without feeling hurried. The scenery is picturesque—rolling hills, lush pastures, and rugged Icelandic terrain—giving you a taste of what early settlers experienced.

Visiting Thingvellir National Park

After the horse ride, you’ll hop back onto your coach for a 45-minute drive to Thingvellir National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site holds special significance for Icelanders as the birthplace of their parliament over a thousand years ago. It’s also a geological wonder, where continental tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart, creating dramatic cliffs and expansive rift valleys.

Visitors often comment on the breathtaking views and the interesting geological features. You’ll have about 45 minutes here to walk around and soak in the scenery. Reviewers mention “the view in Thingvellir is amazing,” and appreciate the opportunity to stand on a site of such historical importance while marveling at the natural landscape.

Exploring Geysir and Strokkur

Next, your tour continues to the Geysir geothermal area, about a 45-minute drive away. This is the geyser that gave all others their name, although the original Geysir is now quite dormant. Still, nearby Strokkur erupts reliably every few minutes, shooting hot water as high as 40 feet into the air—a spectacle that delights visitors.

Expect to spend around 30 to 45 minutes exploring boiling mud pits, steaming vents, and the bubbling landscape. Many reviews highlight how impressive the geysers are: “The water has sulfur in it and is as milky blue as the Blue Lagoon,” one traveler notes, capturing the otherworldly feel of the area.

Gullfoss Waterfall: The Crown Jewel

From Geysir, it’s roughly a 20-minute drive to Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic sights. This powerful two-tiered waterfall plunges into a deep canyon, producing a thunderous roar that’s hard to forget. On sunny days, rainbows often arch over the falls, creating postcard-perfect photo opportunities.

An hour is allocated here, giving you plenty of time to walk along different viewpoints and snap photos from various angles. Many reviews recommend bringing a raincoat and camera, especially if the mist is heavy—“Rainbows upon rainbows on sunny days,” as one enthusiast says.

Witnessing Strokkur Erupt

The tour ends with a short stop at Strokkur Geyser again, allowing you to catch its regular eruptions. It’s a fitting finale, showcasing Iceland’s geothermal power in a dramatic way. Expect about 30 minutes here.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What to Know

This tour, priced at $213.97 per person, offers solid value considering the scope. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guides, national park fees, riding gear, and WiFi on board—all essentials for a smooth experience. The group size caps at 50 travelers, which helps keep things manageable, but some reviews suggest that a smaller group might make the experience even more intimate.

The horse riding segment is suitable for ages 8 and up, with no prior experience necessary. The provided gear ensures comfort and safety, and the guides are praised for their professionalism and knowledge.

While the entire day lasts approximately 9 hours, it’s designed to balance sightseeing with riding, making it an active but not exhaustive experience. Meals are not included, but stops at local restaurants or shops are scheduled, giving you the chance to try Icelandic cuisine or grab a snack.

Transportation and Timing

The tour departs at 9:30 am, with pickup from Reykjavik hotels and guesthouses—convenient for travelers staying in the city. The coach is air-conditioned and equipped with WiFi, making the long drives more comfortable. The stops are timed to give enough time to explore, but keep in mind that some reviewers felt they would have liked more time at certain spots like Thingvellir.

Flexibility and Authenticity

Many reviews emphasize how the farm staff go above and beyond, especially for first-time riders or children. “They took the time with my granddaughter,” one reviewer notes. The farm’s family-run atmosphere and genuine love for the horses shine through, making it more than just a tourist attraction.

The Authentic Experience That Shines

The real charm of this tour is the blend of active and scenic experiences. The horseback ride on the Viking horses offers a uniquely Icelandic perspective, connecting travelers with the country’s history and landscape. The subsequent visits to Gullfoss, Geysir, and Thingvellir showcase Iceland’s natural power and geological wonder, making it a well-rounded snapshot of the island.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, who bring the places alive with interesting facts and stories. Many mention how the horses were the highlight—their temperament and the chance to see these breeds in action made a lasting impression. The views and natural wonder of the Golden Circle are universally appreciated, with many describing the waterfalls and geysers as breathtaking.

The value for money is notable, considering the inclusions: transportation, park fees, gear, and the farm visit all in one package. While the schedule is packed, it maximizes your day without sacrificing quality or authenticity.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences and stunning landscapes. It suits families with children aged 8 and up, as well as first-time riders who want a gentle introduction to Icelandic horses. If you’re someone who values guides with local knowledge and enjoys a mix of outdoor adventure and sightseeing, you’ll find this tour well worth the cost.

Those interested in geology, history, or geothermal activity will also enjoy the stops at Thingvellir and Geysir. Conversely, if you prefer a more relaxed, less structured day, or want to spend more time at each site, this might feel a bit rushed. But for a full, diverse experience in a single day, it’s hard to beat.

The Sum Up

This Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle tour offers a great way to see Iceland’s most famous sights while connecting with the country’s historic and natural roots through a gentle horseback ride. The guides’ knowledge, friendly horses, and spectacular scenery make it a memorable day that balances excitement with authenticity.

While the schedule is full, many travelers find that the value justifies the pace. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, fun, and authentic Iceland experience without sacrificing comfort or quality. For lovers of animals, scenic landscapes, and Icelandic culture, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

Is the horseback riding suitable for beginners?
Yes, no previous experience is required. The Icelandic horse is gentle, and gear is provided to ensure comfort and safety.

What should I wear for the horseback ride?
Bring warm, layered clothing, especially if riding in winter or colder months. The farm staff will provide gear, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
The ride lasts approximately two hours, providing a good taste of Icelandic countryside without becoming tiring.

Are there breaks during the day?
Yes, there are scheduled stops at each site, including time for photos and walking around.

What is included in the price?
Pickup and drop-off, guides, park entrance fees, riding gear, and WiFi on the coach are included. Food and drinks are not, but stops are made for meals.

Can I photograph everything easily?
Absolutely. The sites like Gullfoss and Geysir are very photogenic, especially with the waterfalls’ rainbows and erupting geysers.

What’s the group size?
The tour caps at 50 travelers, making it comfortable but still lively. Some reviews suggest a smaller group could enhance intimacy.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 57 days ahead, indicating this is a popular option.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Whether you’re after an authentic introduction to Icelandic horses or eager to see the Golden Circle’s natural wonders with the convenience of guided transport, this tour offers a memorable, value-packed day out. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a taste of everything—history, natural beauty, and a bit of Icelandic heritage—all in one accessible package.