Review of the Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching Cruise from Reykjavík
If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Iceland’s wild side—on land and at sea—this combination tour offers a compelling way to do just that. It takes you across rugged moors on an authentic Icelandic horse and then out onto Faxaflói Bay for a whale-watching cruise. The experience is about more than just ticking boxes; it’s a chance to connect with Iceland’s natural beauty, guided by knowledgeable locals who are eager to share their love for the land and sea.
What I find particularly appealing is how this tour balances adventure and education. You’ll get to practice Iceland’s unique tölt gait—an exciting, smooth four-beat gait that’s unlike any other horse ride—while learning about the breed’s nearly thousand-year history. Later, the boat ride offers a good chance to spot minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and white-beaked dolphins, with onboard guides providing insightful commentary about marine life.
A consideration for some travelers is the 8-hour duration—it’s a full day, so packing some warm layers and patience for weather variability is wise. Also, keep in mind that if the weather turns foul, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered. The value here lies in the combination of land and sea wildlife encounters, which makes this tour stand out from typical single-activity options.
Key points / Takeaways
– Authentic Icelandic horse riding through scenic moorlands offers a taste of traditional Icelandic culture.
– The horse guides excel at making beginners feel comfortable, with some reviewers noting they felt safe even with little riding experience.
– Whale watching in Faxaflói Bay offers the chance to see multiple species, including humpbacks, minke whales, and playful dolphins—though sightings depend on season and luck.
– Weather can impact the experience; dressing warmly is essential, and tours may be canceled in poor weather.
– Knowledgeable guides and crew enhance both the riding and boat parts, making the full-day journey informative and enjoyable.
– This tour suits those seeking a full immersion into Iceland’s natural environment—ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
The Full Experience: From Land to Sea
The adventure begins at Hótel Eldhestar, about 45 minutes outside Reykjavík, in the town of Hveragerði, famous for its hot springs. Here, for about 1.5 hours, you’ll ride an Icelandic horse across lava fields and heathland. If you’re new to riding, don’t worry—the guides are praised for their friendly, clear instructions and focus on everyone’s safety. As one reviewer (Stephen_B) pointed out, the staff “did a great job keeping everyone safe and comfortable,” even those with no experience.
What makes riding here special is the tölt gait, a smooth, ambling gait unique to Icelandic horses. Watching the landscape whiz by while staying comfortably in the saddle is surprisingly exhilarating. The scenery is often described as surreal—volcano-lava formations, mossy fields, and distant mountains create a backdrop that feels otherworldly.
After the horse riding, you’ll head back to Reykjavík for the second part of the day: a 3-hour whale-watching cruise with Elding. This company is well-regarded, and the boat itself provides a comfortable vantage point with WiFi on board. The crew, including guides like the ones praised in reviews, share insights about the marine species you might see, making the trip more engaging. While sightings depend on the day’s conditions, many travelers report seeing humpbacks, minke whales, and dolphins—sometimes multiple species in a single trip.
One review from Robert O highlights the excitement of seeing whales, with “humpbacks and minke whales” spotted and the guide being “very informative.” Even if luck isn’t on your side with sightings, the crew’s entertainment and commentary keep the cruise lively.
Logistics: What to Expect
The tour meets at Hótel Eldhestar at 9:00 am, with transportation arranged for most travelers. The first part involves 1.5 hours of horse riding on lava fields, which is moderate in length but plenty of time to get a feel for the Icelandic horse’s gait and personality. The ride includes necessary safety equipment and warm clothing, as weather can be unpredictable.
Following the ride, you’ll return to Reykjavík, where the whale-watching begins around mid-morning or early afternoon. The Elding boat departs from Ægisgarður 5c, near the Old Harbour. This part of the trip is 3 hours long, and you should prepare for cooler conditions at sea. Pack warm clothing, and you might want to bring a hat, gloves, and layers—even if the weather looks mild when you start.
The entire day clocks in at around 8 hours, so bringing snacks or purchasing refreshments on board is advisable, as lunch isn’t included in the price. The tour is capped at 20 travelers, keeping it relatively intimate, which enhances the experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in South Iceland.
Value for Money
At $225 per person, this experience offers solid value. You’re paying for a full day of activity, combining two iconic Icelandic pursuits—horse riding and whale watching—with expert guides. Many reviews, like Jiselle W’s, mention the good value for money, emphasizing how guides ensured comfort despite rain and weather challenges.
The included features—warm clothing, safety gear, WiFi, and entry to a wildlife exhibition**—all add to the overall value. If you’re looking for an authentic, scenic, and educational Icelandic adventure, this tour delivers a lot for the price.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for adventure-minded travelers looking to maximize a single day in Iceland. It’s particularly suited for beginners or those with limited riding experience who want to try horse riding in a safe and friendly environment. Whale watching is fantastic for wildlife enthusiasts, though it’s worth noting sightings aren’t guaranteed.
Travelers who appreciate guided insights and comfortable group sizes generally find this tour rewarding. It’s also a good choice if you want a well-rounded look at Iceland’s natural environment—from volcanic landscapes on land to whales in the ocean.
If you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family with older kids (minimum age 12), this full-day trip can be both fun and educational. Keep in mind that weather conditions heavily influence the experience, so flexibility and patience are key.
Final Thoughts
In essence, this Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavík offers an engaging way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic natural features. You’ll enjoy stunning scenery, learn about the unique Icelandic horse breed, and get to see marine wildlife in its natural habitat—all in one day.
While the full-day format requires a bit of stamina, the guides’ professionalism and the varied landscape keep the experience lively and memorable. It’s especially good for those wanting a taste of Icelandic culture and nature without multiple separate bookings.
The tour balances value, authenticity, and adventure—making it a worthwhile choice for travelers eager to experience Iceland beyond just the city. If you’re prepared for the weather and eager to learn about Iceland’s land and sea, this tour will give you some wonderful stories to tell back home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes guided horse riding, whale watching, warm clothing, safety equipment, WiFi onboard the boat, and entry to a wildlife exhibition. Lunch isn’t included, so consider packing some snacks.
How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and covering both the horse riding and whale watching activities.
Is prior riding experience necessary?
No, many reviewers mention that even beginners felt comfortable, thanks to the guides’ careful instructions. The guides are praised for making everyone feel safe and at ease.
What species of whales might I see?
Expect to see minke whales, humpbacks, and white-beaked dolphins. However, sightings depend on the weather and seasonal conditions, so they’re not guaranteed.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly—layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes are recommended. The boat has warm clothing provided, but bringing your own extra layers is smart.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to bad weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled. The tour will only run in good weather conditions.
Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12 years, making it suitable for older kids and teens who can handle a full day outdoors.
Where do I meet for the tour?
The horse riding starts at Hótel Eldhestar in Hveragerði, and the whale watching departs from Ægisgarður 5c in Reykjavík’s Old Harbour district.
In summary, if you’re after a well-organized, authentic experience that combines Iceland’s land and sea wildlife, this tour strikes a good balance. It’s especially fitting for those looking for a full day of adventure with expert guides, beautiful scenery, and the chance (weather permitting) to see Iceland’s iconic whales.