Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and looking for a well-rounded day that balances authentic Icelandic experiences with iconic sights, this Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle Tour from Gray Line Iceland offers just that. Starting with a two-hour horseback ride on the unique Icelandic horse, you’ll get a taste of the land as early settlers did, followed by a whirlwind tour of the Golden Circle’s top attractions: Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir hot springs, Thingvellir National Park, and the charming village of Hveragerdi. For around $214 per person, this tour packs in a lot, making it a great value for travelers craving both rural charm and iconic Icelandic scenery.

One aspect I particularly appreciate is the horse riding experience. The Icelandic horse breed is famously gentle, steady, and known for its adorable fifth gait, tölt. Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned rider, you’ll find the horses well-behaved and the guides careful to match your comfort level. The reviews rave about the friendliness of the staff and the quality of the horses, with several mentioning how the ride was the highlight of their trip. Plus, the scenic countryside near Reykjavik offers a quiet, peaceful setting to enjoy nature away from the crowds.

Another positive is the expert guidance and detailed itinerary. The tour’s stops at Thingvellir, Gullfoss, and Geysir are not only visually stunning but also educational, with guides sharing interesting tidbits that deepen your appreciation of each site. Travelers like Stephanie and Elizabeth praise the guides for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the experience entertaining and informative. The timing is efficient, with enough time at each location to explore, take photos, and soak in the scenery.

The only real consideration is the schedule—a long day of about 9 hours. If you’re after a more relaxed pace or plan to spend extra time at each site, this may feel rushed. Also, bear in mind that some reviews mention the initial horse ride requires no prior experience, but a good warm layer is advised, as it can be chilly, especially if snow is on the ground. And, since the tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions could lead to cancellations or alterations, but full refunds are available if that happens.

Key Points

Authentic Icelandic horse riding suits all experience levels and offers a peaceful way to connect with Iceland’s countryside.
Efficient golden circle highlights mean you’ll see the geysers, waterfalls, and rift valley in a single day—ideal for time-conscious travelers.
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with fun facts and personal touches, making the tour both educational and lively.
Great value for the price considering the combination of horse riding, entry fees, transportation, and expert guiding.
Comfortable transportation with pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik hotels and cruise ports simplifies logistics.
Reviews consistently praise the friendly farm owner, well-cared-for horses, and scenic stops, ensuring a memorable day.

The Complete Experience: What to Expect

Starting with the Horseback Ride

The day begins with a pickup around 9:30 a.m. at your Reykjavik hotel or nearby meeting point. Your transport takes you to Laxnes Horse Farm, a family-run hotel famed for their minor but mighty Icelandic horses. The horses are described as gentle, friendly, and well cared for—a strong point for first-timers or nervous riders. Plus, if you’re an experienced rider, you’ll be happy to know they offer opportunities to canter and trot, and even let advanced riders borrow jackets if the weather is chilly (which it often is).

The two-hour ride takes you into the countryside, crossing streams and traversing grassy trails. Travelers often mention how calming and scenic riding through the quiet landscape is, with a few noting that the unique tölt gait adds a special thrill. The small group size (usually around six riders) ensures personal attention, and the owner and staff are praised for their warmth and professionalism.

Transitioning to the Golden Circle

After dismounting and a quick warm-up, you’ll hop back into the coach for the next leg: the Golden Circle sights. Your first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll walk through a landscape where the continental plates are drifting apart, creating rugged cliffs and broad valleys. Reviewers often mention the spectacular views and the opportunity to walk around the historic site—home to Iceland’s first parliament over 1,000 years ago. Forty-five minutes is enough to get a feel for the place, but those who want to linger might wish for more time.

Next, the Geysir geothermal area bursts to life with bubbling mud pits, steaming vents, and, of course, the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts regularly, shooting hot water up to 40 feet in the air. The reviews love watching Strokkur and note that the sulfuric waters create a milky blue appearance, reminiscent of the Blue Lagoon, adding to the scene’s otherworldly feel.

Afterward, you’ll visit Gullfoss, often called the “Golden Falls.” The roaring cascade plunges in a wide, two-tiered drop into a deep canyon, giving you ample opportunities for photos—rainbows are common on sunny days. Several travelers say Gullfoss is “the most impressive waterfall in Iceland,” with many praising the paths that let you get close and appreciate the power of nature.

Finally, the Geysir area is home to Strokkur again, erupting every 5-10 minutes. The children and adults alike find the regular eruptions exciting, and guides are happy to share details about the geothermal activity.

End of the Day

The tour concludes with a drop-off back at your hotel or cruise port in Reykjavik, typically around 6:30 p.m. It’s a full day, but the seamless transport, combined with the variety of experiences, makes it feel like a well-paced adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who craves authentic experiences—like riding a breed unchanged since Viking times—this tour delivers. The horse ride is a highlight, especially for those interested in cultural connections and interacting with Icelandic farming traditions. The scenic stops provide stunning visuals and photo opportunities, ideal for travelers wanting a snapshot of Iceland’s diverse landscapes in one day.

Price-wise, at around $214, the tour offers good value, considering it includes horse riding, national park entry fees, transportation, and guides. It’s a balanced mix of adventure and sightseeing, suited for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy a combination of outdoor activity and cultural heritage.

Keep in mind the long day—it’s perfect for those who don’t mind a schedule packed with highlights. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or plan to linger longer at each site, this might feel a bit hurried. Also, weather conditions can affect the experience, so be prepared for everything from rain to cold.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides an approachable yet comprehensive glimpse into Iceland’s rural charm and breathtaking scenery. The combination of horseback riding and the Golden Circle highlights makes it especially attractive for first-timers or those eager to tick off major sights with a memorable twist. The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor stand out, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Travelers report thrilling, relaxing, and picturesque moments, all wrapped into a single day. The owning family’s warmth at the horse farm adds a genuine, personal touch, which is sometimes lacking in larger bus tours. On top of that, the post-ride stops at Gullfoss and Geysir are undeniably iconic and worth every moment.

This tour is best suited for those wanting a taste of Icelandic tradition, whether it’s your first visit or your tenth. If you’re excited about horseback riding—especially on a breed that’s been unchanged since the Vikings—and want to see some of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders, this is a solid, well-rounded option.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, no previous horse riding experience is required. The guides at Laxnes Horse Farm carefully match the horses to your comfort level, making it accessible for all.

What should I wear for the horseback ride?
Dress warmly, as the ride can be chilly, especially if snow is on the ground. The farm provides necessary gear, but bringing layers and a windproof jacket is wise.

How long is the total tour?
Expect the full experience to last approximately 9 hours, from pickup to drop-off, including riding and sightseeing at each stop.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, but stops are made where you can purchase snacks or meals at local restaurants or shops.

What is the group size?
Most groups are small, around six riders for the horseback portion, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed environment.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. If the weather causes cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is pickup from cruise ports available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided at cruise ports, hotels, and designated meeting points in Reykjavik.

Is this tour a good value for the price?
Considering the inclusion of horse riding, entrance fees, transportation, and guides, many travelers find the price justified for a full day of memorable experiences in Iceland.

This Viking Horse Riding and Golden Circle Tour strikes a thoughtful balance between culture and iconic scenery—perfect for travelers eager to experience Iceland authentically without breaking the bank.