Hveragerdi: The Siggi Horse Riding Tour

Hveragerdi: The Siggi Horse Riding Tour – A Genuine Icelandic Adventure

If you’re seeking a taste of Iceland’s wild beauty with a touch of authentic equestrian charm, the Siggi Horse Riding Tour is a solid choice. Offered by Eldhestar Volcano Horses, this 2-hour guided ride takes you through landscapes that look like they’re straight out of a postcard—lava fields, meadows, a small river, and distant volcanic mountains. It’s a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and the unique Icelandic horse, renowned for its smooth gait called the tölt.

What I really appreciate about this tour is the professional guides who clearly know their horses and the local landscape well. They make sure everyone feels comfortable, whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer. The tour also offers excellent value—full safety gear, transportation from Reykjavík, and plenty of scenic riding—delivered in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

The only thing to consider is that this experience isn’t suitable for very young children under 7, or for those with mobility restrictions, or over 264 lbs (120 kg). If you’re looking for a quick, scenic, and well-organized ride that combines comfort with adventure, this tour hits the right notes. Plus, it’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about the Icelandic horse and enjoy Iceland’s beautiful landscapes without straying too far from Reykjavík.

Key points / Takeaways

• Scenic landscapes: Ride across lava fields, meadows, and river crossings, with views of volcanic mountains.
• Authentic Icelandic horses: The tour features well-trained horses, and the guides emphasize safety and comfort.
• Expert guides: Guides like Siggi are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
• Flexible routes: Depending on weather and wind, the ride adapts to give the best possible experience daily.
• Convenient pickup: Multiple pickup locations around Reykjavík make logistics straightforward.
• Great for beginners and experienced riders: The comfortable trails and professional guidance suit all levels, especially those keen to try the tölt.

Entering The World of Icelandic Horses

One of the most charming aspects of this ride is the chance to experience the unique gait of the Icelandic horse, the tölt. Unlike other horses, the Icelandic breed is famous for this smooth and comfortable gait, which makes even a two-hour ride feel effortless and fun. From reviews, it’s clear that many riders, like Natalie, appreciated how well-trained the horses were—”we learnt a lot about the horses and even managed to get used to the Icelandic tölt.” This isn’t just a ride; it’s a chance to connect with a horse that’s been a part of Iceland’s culture for centuries.

The guides are knowledgeable, with some reviews specifically mentioning guides who “taught a lot about the horses” and provided a gentle, informative experience. That adds a lot of value if you’re curious about local traditions and the special qualities of these animals.

Logistics and Transportation: Making It Easy

The tour starts with a pickup from 15 locations in Reykjavík, including popular hotels and bus stops, around 8:00 or 13:00. The transport itself is comfortable, marked with the Eldhestar logo, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding it. The pickup process is timed well, and the entire experience, including transfer, fits neatly into a morning or afternoon schedule.

For those concerned about planning, the “reserve now & pay later” option gives flexibility, and free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand makes it less stressful to book. The tour lasts about 2 hours, which is perfect for fitting into a day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

The Scenic Ride: From the Farm to the Lava Fields

The actual ride begins with a gentle introduction at the farm, where guides like Siggi explain riding techniques and safety. As you leave the farm, the landscape opens up to reveal meadows dotted with farms, offering glimpses into Icelandic agricultural life. Passing through lava fields, you’ll notice the stark contrast between black volcanic rocks and lush green patches, a reminder of Iceland’s fiery origins.

Crossing the river Varmá adds a touch of adventure, and these natural elements make the ride feel truly connected to the Icelandic countryside. The meadows south of the farm provide well-maintained riding paths, making it comfortable even for those new to riding.

Authentic Icelandic Views and Cultural Insights

What really stands out is the combination of natural beauty and local life. Many reviews mention how passing farms gives insight into Icelandic agriculture’s development over the decades, adding cultural depth to your scenic ride.

The views of volcanic mountains are spectacular, and many guests comment on how the landscape feels both ancient and alive. Alison loved the horses and the company, saying, “The horses were lovely, and I had a great time,” which emphasizes the friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is especially suited for beginners or those with limited riding experience, thanks to the professional guidance and manageable trails. It’s also perfect for travelers who want an authentic countryside experience, combined with the comfort of a well-organized tour.

Note that it’s not suitable for children under 7, wheelchair users, or travelers over 264 lbs. The tour is about enjoying nature and horses at a relaxed pace, not a heart-pumping adventure—so it’s best for those who want a scenic and educational ride rather than an adrenaline rush.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $132 per person, this tour offers a fair balance of cost and experience. It includes about 2 hours of riding, all safety gear, and transfers, which makes it a convenient package. When you consider that you’re riding with experienced guides, passing through stunning landscapes, and learning about the Icelandic horse, the price feels justified.

Compared to other Icelandic excursions, this ride is on the affordable side for the quality of scenery, safety, and cultural insight you get. Plus, the small group size helps ensure personalized attention, making it a good value for riders of all levels.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re looking for an accessible, scenic introduction to Iceland’s countryside and a chance to ride a unique breed of horse, this tour offers a rewarding experience. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time riders, nature lovers, and anyone interested in Icelandic culture and landscapes. The knowledgeable guides enhance the journey, and the picturesque setting makes it a memorable outing just outside Reykjavík.

While it may not satisfy thrill-seekers or those with specific mobility needs, it delivers genuine Icelandic charm in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. For a manageable, beautiful ride that combines natural beauty and cultural insight, the Siggi Horse Riding Tour is a great choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off from 15 locations around Reykjavík, making it easy to coordinate with your plans.

How long is the ride?
The ride lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and hiking shoes are recommended. The tour provides rain gear and winter overalls if needed.

Can children participate?
Children under 7 aren’t suitable for this ride. It’s more appropriate for older children and adults comfortable on horseback.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 120 kg (264 lbs).

What is the experience level required?
The tour is suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, thanks to the professional guides and good trails.

Do I need to bring my camera?
Professional cameras aren’t allowed, but small waist bags are permitted for your essentials.

This Siggi Horse Riding Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Iceland’s natural and equestrian worlds, making it a memorable addition to your Icelandic adventure. It balances scenic beauty, local culture, and comfort, making it an experience worth considering if you want to see Iceland from a horse’s perspective.