Short Riding Tour with Eye-Catching Photos at Waterfall

A quick but memorable Icelandic adventure — riding a sturdy Icelandic horse to Reykjafoss Waterfall

If you’re after a brief, scenic escape that combines Iceland’s iconic landscapes with the charm of local horses, this Short Riding Tour with Eye-Catching Photos at Waterfall is a solid pick. For just under $80, you get about 30 minutes of riding through lush summer grass or snow-dusted winter trails, culminating in a picture-worthy moment next to the impressive Reykjafoss Waterfall. The tour is hosted by Hestasport, a reputable outfit known for friendly guides and quality horses, and it’s perfect if time’s tight but you still want a taste of Icelandic nature.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how smoothly it balances accessible riding with spectacular scenery. The guides, like the enthusiastic team praised in reviews, make even first-timers feel comfortable. Plus, the opportunity to snap photos from your horse’s perspective — especially near the waterfall — adds a memorable touch. Another highlight is the reliable Icelandic horses, known for their gentle nature and sure-footedness, making the ride safe and enjoyable in any season.

One thing to keep in mind is the group size—with a maximum of 8 travelers, it remains intimate enough to get attention from guides and enjoy the scenery without feeling crowded. However, the weather can influence the experience, as this tour depends on good conditions; if weather turns nasty, it may be canceled, but you’ll get a full refund or a rebooked date. Despite the brevity, this tour packs a punch for those looking for a quick yet authentic Icelandic adventure.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Icelandic Horses: The sturdy, friendly horses are well-trained and make the experience accessible, even for those with limited riding experience.
• Stunning Photo Opportunities: From your horse’s perspective, you can capture incredible shots of Reykjafoss Waterfall and the surrounding mountain scenery.
• Expert Guides: Guides like those praised in reviews go above and beyond, ensuring safety and comfort while sharing their knowledge of the landscape.
• All-Season Accessibility: Whether snow or green grass, the horses handle every condition with ease, making this a flexible option year-round.
• Small Group Setting: With only up to 8 travelers, this ride offers a personalized experience and plenty of attention.
• Value for Money: For less than $80, you get a scenic horse ride, photo opportunities, and a memorable Icelandic experience without breaking the bank.

Exploring the Details of the Waterfall Ride Experience

The Meeting Point at Hestasport

Your adventure begins at the Hestasport Reception in Varmahlíð, a quaint spot that acts as a hub for horseback tours and other outdoor activities. Here, friendly staff check your booking (confirmed immediately upon reservation) and fit you with riding gear. The location is conveniently situated amidst the Icelandic countryside, giving you an immediate sense of stepping into a landscape that’s both wild and welcoming.

The Short Ride to Reykjafoss Waterfall

The actual ride lasts about 30 minutes, but don’t let the short duration fool you. The trail takes you through mountainous terrain of Skagafjörður, offering sweeping views that are worth a thousand photos. Guides steer the horses along grassy paths in summer or icy trails in winter, demonstrating the versatility of these Icelandic horses.

The highlight is reaching the edge of the steep canyon where Reykjafoss crashes into the river below. As one reviewer, Daniel, put it, “The guides make it really easy,” so even if you’re new to horseback riding, you’ll find this manageable. Plus, riding next to the waterfall allows for some one-of-a-kind photos, especially if you keep your camera handy.

Picture-Perfect Moments

From the horse’s ears, you’ll see the water rushing down into the canyon, creating a dramatic backdrop for photos. Many travelers have exclaimed how “incredible the views” are, and guides usually encourage taking photos during the ride — a chance to bring home some tangible memories of Iceland’s wild beauty. Albert described it as “fantastic for those wanting to get up close with horses but short on time,” emphasizing how this tour offers a quick but meaningful encounter with nature.

End of the Tour and Return

After the ride, you return to the original meeting point, with plenty of time to share photos and discuss the experience. The small group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere, and guides are eager to answer questions about Icelandic horses and local landscapes.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour suits travelers with limited time who still want to experience Icelandic nature from a unique perspective. It’s particularly appealing to horse lovers or those curious about trying riding for the first time. The experience is accessible for most travelers, thanks to the friendly guides and gentle horses. If you’re interested in photography, this short ride offers incredible photo ops that you won’t want to miss.

It also works well in any season: winter snow or summer greenery, as the horses are capable of handling different terrains. Keep in mind, if weather conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled, but you’re entitled to a full refund, making it a risk-free option.

Price and Value

At just $79.82 per person, this tour presents excellent value given the quality of the experience. For that price, you get personalized attention, stunning scenery, and a chance to interact with Iceland’s famous horses. Compared to larger, more commercial tours, this smaller, more intimate outing offers a richer, more personal feel.

While it’s a quick trip, the consistency of reviews praising the friendly guides and spectacular views suggests that it’s well worth the cost for a memorable snapshot of Iceland’s wilderness. If you’re a photography enthusiast or a horse lover, it’s a no-brainer.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participating

• Book in advance: On average, this tour is booked 20 days ahead, so plan early if you want a spot, especially in high season.
• Dress appropriately: Whether it’s snow or shine, wear layers and sturdy shoes — the terrain can be uneven.
• Bring your camera: The views are stunning from the horse’s eye level, perfect for photos.
• Arrive on time at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start.
• Weather-dependent: If the forecast looks poor, consider rescheduling or confirming cancellation policies for peace of mind.

Summary: Should You Ride to Reykjafoss?

If you’re looking for a short, scenic horseback adventure with friendly guides and stunning photo opportunities, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for beginners or those short on time but eager to experience Iceland’s landscapes from a different angle. The relatively small group size enhances the feeling of a personalized experience, and the chance to get photos of the powerful Reykjafoss Waterfall from horseback makes it stand out.

The cost is reasonable considering the experience’s quality, and the all-season accessibility means you can do it almost anytime. The main caveat is weather dependence — but that’s true for all outdoor activities in Iceland — and the small group size might fill quickly during peak times.

This short riding tour offers an authentic, enjoyable glimpse into Iceland’s natural beauty, with enough flexibility and charm to make it a memorable part of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are experienced and make the ride easy to manage, even for those with little or no riding experience.

How long does the ride last?
The horseback riding itself lasts about 30 minutes, making it an accessible option for a quick but scenic outing.

Can I take photos during the ride?
Absolutely. You’ll have the chance to take photos from your horse’s perspective, especially near Reykjafoss Waterfall.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers suitable for the weather, and wear sturdy shoes. The terrain can be uneven, and weather varies depending on the season.

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

How many people are in each group?
Groups are small, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed experience.

How do I book?
Booking can be done online, and confirmation is immediate. It’s best to reserve at least 20 days in advance, especially during peak season.

In the end, this horseback ride to Reykjafoss Waterfall is a delightful way to add a touch of Icelandic charm and scenery to your trip — quick, rewarding, and full of photo-worthy moments.