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Reykjavík Red Lava Horse Riding Tour

2.5 hoursGroup: Small groupEasyMeet on locationAge 10+All year
5.0(1 review)

A relaxed Reykjavik horse riding tour through the Red Lava Hills, just 15 minutes from downtown. Suitable for all riding levels, this ride takes you along moss-covered lava trails on an Icelandic horse with an English-speaking guide.

Stables near ReykjavíkRed Lava Hills trailReturn to the stables
  • Riding through moss-covered lava fields close to the city
  • Easy pace suitable for first-time riders
  • Chance to try the Icelandic horse's tölt gait
  • Optional hotel pick-up in Reykjavík
  • Runs all year with hot drinks after the ride

Your day, stop by stop

Click a stop for photos and practical tips.
1Arrival at the stablesMeet your guide and horse about 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavík.

You meet your guide and horse at the stables, about 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavík. Parking is free, and hot drinks are available.

2Saddles ready at the stablesSaddle up and briefingA short introduction to riding an Icelandic horse.
Saddles ready at the stables

Guides match riders to horses by experience and give a simple safety briefing before setting off. Helmets and riding gear are provided, plus rain wear and winter overalls if needed. The pace is mostly a walk, so first-time riders are welcome.

Facilities · free parking, hot drinks available
3Riders below the red lava formationsRed Lava Hills rideRiding along moss-covered lava field trails.
Riders below the red lava formationsRider's view of the red hillsRiders crossing the green lava field from the air

A relaxed ride of about 1.5 hours and 5 to 7 km through the Red Lava Hills, a stretch of moss-covered lava field on the edge of the city, with open skies and quiet ground underfoot. You can try the Icelandic horse's tölt gait.

Time here · about 1.5 hours of riding, 5-7 km
4Return to the stablesRide back for a hot drink before heading off.

About the Reykjavik horse riding tour

This is one of the easiest ways to ride an Icelandic horse without leaving the Reykjavík area. The stables are about 15 minutes from downtown, and the ride runs through the Red Lava Hills, a stretch of moss-covered lava field with open skies and quiet trails.

The pace is mostly a walk, so it suits beginners and families, though guides let more confident riders try the tölt where the ground is even. It's a gentle ride rather than a long trek, so it works well as a half-day activity alongside other sightseeing in the city.

The tour runs all year. In winter you get insulated overalls to stay warm, and in summer the lava fields are green with moss. You can drive yourself and park for free, or add hotel pick-up.

Included

  • English-speaking guide
  • Helmet and riding gear
  • Rain wear and winter overalls if needed
  • Hot drinks
  • Free parking

Not included

  • Hotel pick-up (available as an add-on)
  • Food

What to bring

  • Warm layers
  • Closed shoes
  • Camera

Good to know

  • Suitable for all experience levels, mostly at walking pace
  • About 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavík
  • Runs all year
  • Optional hotel pick-up available
  • Duration about 2.5 hours including saddling up
  • Minimum age is 10
  • Weight limit is 110 kg
  • About 1.5 hours of riding (5-7 km) within the 2.5 hours; rides start at 9:30 and 13:30
  • If you drive yourself, arrive 15 minutes before the ride; with pick-up, you're collected 30 minutes before

Questions people ask

Do I need riding experience?

No, this is a gentle ride at walking pace, suitable for beginners.

Is hotel pick-up included?

Pick-up from Reykjavík city centre is available as an add-on; you can also drive yourself and park for free.

Does it run in winter?

Yes, it runs all year, with warm overalls provided in colder months.

Is there a minimum age?

Yes, riders must be at least 10 years old. Children aged 10-15 have a kid price.

Reviews

Reviews from travellers who took this tour. A local reads every review before it is shown.
5.0Based on 1 review
5 stars1
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1 star0
Fantastic tour if you are staying in Reykjavik

We had an fantastic time on this horse riding tour. We were staying in Reykjavik over the weekend and looking for something fun to do for half day. This was exactly what we were looking for and it was simply said - so much fun! The horses were so friendly and cute. Got so many great photos from the tour!

Eliza · May 2026
From16,200 ISKPer person

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