A horse ride outside Reykjavik feels oddly close to magic. This half-day trip puts you in the saddle with Icelandic horses, with pickup from your place in Reykjavik, warm gear supplied, and a guided route that can include creek or river crossings. It is short enough to fit a busy Iceland itinerary, yet long enough to feel like you actually went somewhere.

I love how they match you to a horse based on your riding experience, so total beginners are not left floundering. I also like the practical setup: the farm provides helmets, coveralls or snowsuits in winter, boots, and rain gear, plus a warm stop after the ride for coffee, hot chocolate, and pastry.

One thing to plan for: it is cold out there, and in winter it can be brutally cold if you are not prepared. Even with the supplied gear, you may want extra warmth for fingers and toes.

Key things to know before you go

• Pickup from Reykjavik saves time, plus cruise ship and city logistics are handled with clear pickup notes.
• Gear is included, including helmets and warm outerwear (snowsuits in winter).
• Horse selection is thoughtful, with horses matched to your comfort level.
• It is a guided trail ride, not a riding lesson, and horses move as a group.
• Small group size (up to 15) keeps the experience friendly and manageable.
• Warm drinks and pastry after the ride help you thaw out fast.

Reykjavik horseback riding, the no-fuss way with Icelandic horses

If you want the real Iceland horse experience, this kind of ride hits a sweet spot. You get up close with Iceland’s favorite land animal, and you ride through the countryside outside Reykjavik without needing to drive, park, or wrangle a tour bus.

Most of the route is about steady trail time, not fancy tricks. Reviews describe gentle, chill horses, plus staff who help you get settled quickly. That matters, because in Iceland the weather can turn fast, and you want your experience to feel solid once you are mounted.

The big appeal here is that Icelandic horses are built for this. They tend to be sure-footed and easy to handle, and you can often experience their unique feel at different gaits. If you are curious about the tölt, the ride offers moments where it shows up, and it is a standout.

Pickup in Reykjavik: how to keep your morning stress low

This is a pickup tour, and it is designed to start from your hotel or guesthouse. Plan for a little buffer: pickups begin about 1 hour before departure and can take up to 20 minutes to collect everyone.

That timing detail is worth respecting. Reykjavik hotels in the center can sit inside a no-pickup zone, so the operator may send you to a nearby updated meeting point. You will get instructions, but you should still check your message and be ready when pickup starts.

If you are arriving by cruise ship, pickup happens at the main port terminal. In practice, that is a big help because it reduces the “where do we meet” scramble, especially when cruise schedules shift.

My practical advice: set a reminder for the pickup window and dress like you are heading out immediately. Even if you show up early, you are not really gaining much time, since the crew waits for everyone to be collected.

Gear setup at the stables: helmets, coveralls, and staying warm

One reason this ride works for visitors is that you do not need to pack a whole riding wardrobe. At the stables, you get basic equipment such as a helmet and warm outerwear, plus boots and rain clothes. In wintertime, riders are typically given snowsuits or very warm coveralls.

That matters more than you might think. Reviews mention people getting muddy out there, and Icelandic cold can seep in even when the sky looks calm. The supplied layers and rain protection help you stay comfortable enough to enjoy the ride instead of counting minutes until you can warm up.

You also get tack and gear appropriate for English riding, and guides handle the practical bits like getting you ready and making sure you are comfortable. If you are traveling with limited luggage, this setup is a real value.

Quick tip: even with the gear provided, I would still bring your best winter gloves or hand warmers if you run cold. Reviews highlight that winter temps can surprise people, even when the day starts fine.

Matching you to your horse: how beginners get a calmer ride

The farm gathers information about how much you have been riding, then matches you to the right horse for your experience. That is the difference between a ride that feels like a fun adventure and one that feels like you are just holding on.

Beginners are welcome, and multiple reviews mention kids and adults with little to no experience managing the ride successfully. The staff often gives clear instructions at the start, then you ride as part of a guided group.

A detail I really like is the way the horses are described as well taken care of and generally gentle and calm. Several reviews point out that horses are docile, and that the staff will help you get on safely. Some riders note that there is no step for mounting, but the horses tend to be short, and staff can give a boost if needed.

If you are an experienced rider who wants more spice, the farm may be able to provide a more spirited horse on request, depending on availability. Do this through the operator before the ride, not once you are already in the saddle.

The ride itself: countryside time, crossings, and tölt moments

After setup, you head out on a trail ride through the countryside outside Reykjavik. The ride is long enough to feel like you left the city, and it is short enough that younger kids and first-timers are usually comfortable.

From the reviews, you can expect scenery that feels Icelandic in a direct way, with views of rivers and mountains in clear weather. Many riders mention creek or river crossings, and at least a few describe lava fields and streams along the route. You should not assume every element will show up on your exact day, but those are real possibilities.

As for how the ride feels, expect a smooth trail pace more than constant action. Horses tend to follow a line, so it is not a free-roaming experience. One review specifically points out that this is not a riding lesson, meaning you will not be practicing new skills every minute.

Still, the ride can include moments that feel special. Reviews mention opportunities for trotting and tölt, and some riders describe the tölt gait as a memorable experience. If you are chasing the Iceland horse signature movement, this is where you try to pay attention.

Also, remember you are outside in Iceland weather. Even if you are comfortable on the first few minutes, the cold can build on wet gloves or bare spots. Keep your hands covered and stay aware of how wind feels against your face.

Back at Laxnes Horse Farm: the warm stop after the ride

The farm experience does not end when you dismount. After the ride, you head back to the stables where warm drinks are served, often including hot cocoa and coffee, plus pastry or cake. Reviews consistently call out that warm tea room stop as a highlight, especially after cold weather.

This is also where the farm’s family-run vibe shows up. Multiple reviews describe a welcoming, friendly staff, and an owner or family member who helps with outfitting or pickup. One rider notes the business has been around since 1968, which gives the place a lived-in feel rather than a short-lived seasonal setup.

The stables themselves are described as clean and well cared for. That kind of small detail matters when you are trusting someone with your comfort and safety.

If you are traveling with kids, this post-ride moment often becomes the reward. It also gives you time to thaw out, ask questions, and compare notes with your group.

Price and value: what you are paying for at $152.37

At about $152.37 per person for roughly 3 hours 30 minutes, this is not a budget activity. But it does include several things that add real value in Iceland: pickup from Reykjavik, guided horseback riding, and the gear you need to stay warm.

The value gets clearer when you think about what you would otherwise pay for or manage yourself. Without a pickup, you would need to figure out transport to a horse farm outside Reykjavik. Without provided gear, you would be hunting for cold-weather riding clothes and paying to rent what you do not own.

Also, the group size is limited, with a maximum of 15 travelers. That tends to make the ride feel less chaotic, and staff can spend more time making sure riders are okay.

If you have a tight schedule, the short drive from Reykjavik is another plus. The transfer is typically described as about 15 minutes, which keeps the day from turning into long waiting.

My practical take: if horseback riding is a top priority for your Iceland trip, this is a straightforward way to do it with less hassle. If you want a deep, multi-hour riding adventure far from town, you might look at longer tours. But for many visitors, a half-day Icelandic horse ride is the perfect first taste.

Who should book this ride, and who might want to reconsider

This tour suits people who want beginner-friendly Icelandic horseback riding with support built in. If you are traveling as a couple, a family, or a small group, the setup works because staff handle gear, mounting help, and guidance.

Minimum age is 7 years, and children must ride with an adult. Reviews also mention kids as young as 8 having a good time on calm horses, which is encouraging if you have a kid who is curious but not experienced.

Health and comfort are the only real caution I would flag. One review says this might not be ideal if you have bad knees or a bad back, which makes sense because even a smooth ride can jostle. If you have joint issues, you might still go, but you should think carefully and talk to the operator before booking.

Finally, there is a clear safety policy around intoxication. If a rider shows signs of intoxication, the operator can refuse service, and there is no refund if the tour is canceled as a result.

Weather reality: what to wear so the ride stays fun

This ride depends on good weather, so if conditions are poor, the operator can offer a different date or a refund. In the real world, Iceland can change quickly, so I treat every outdoor activity like it might be cold and wet.

The good news is that you get warm gear options, and many riders specifically mention being provided outfits like snowsuits and coveralls in winter. But you still need to dress like you are going to be outside for a while, not like you are popping into a cafe.

Bring what keeps you warm in wind and damp. Thick socks, gloves, and a hat help a lot. If you tend to get cold hands or feet, use extra layers or warmers. One review called out being cold enough that hand and foot warmers would have helped.

Even in less-than-ideal weather, people describe still having a great time. That tells me the experience is designed to keep riders comfortable, not just look good in perfect sunshine.

Should you book the Icelandic horseback tour with Reykjavik pickup?

I think you should book this if you want a friendly, guided Iceland horse ride that is easy to plan. The pickup saves time, the gear package makes it low stress, and the farm’s horse matching helps beginners feel like they belong in the saddle.

I would pause before booking if you have back or knee problems and you know horseback riding can be hard for you. I would also think twice if you hate cold weather and run hot or you cannot bring warm gloves and layers.

For most travelers, this is a solid value for a half-day activity that feels distinctly Iceland, not just another tour bus moment. If you want one of the most classic things to do around Reykjavik, this is a smart way to do it.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding tour from Reykjavik?

The tour lasts about 3 hours 30 minutes.

Is pickup included from Reykjavik?

Yes. Pickup is offered from your hotel or guesthouse in Reykjavik.

How far do you travel from Reykjavik to the riding destination?

The drive is described as about 15 minutes to the horse riding destination.

What gear is provided?

The operator provides basic gear such as helmets, boots, and rain clothes. In wintertime, snowsuits are provided.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?

Yes. The tour is listed as beginner-friendly, and the operator matches you to a horse based on your riding experience.

What is the minimum age?

The minimum age is 7 years, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

How big is the group?

This activity has a maximum of 15 travelers.

Do I need to bring a printed ticket?

No. A mobile ticket is offered.

What happens if weather is poor?

This experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount you paid is not refunded.