FAQ – Riding in Iceland

Iceland FAQ

You asked and we answered!

Welcome to the land of fire and ice, where unique landscapes and untamed wilderness offer a great adventure for nature enthusiasts and equestrians.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the essentials of this unforgettable journey, from Arctic foxes to weather patterns, ensuring you are well-prepared to embrace every moment of your travels to Iceland. Whether you have been riding for years or just curious about going on a Horse-Trek in Iceland, our A to W guide covers all aspects of the experience, providing valuable insights into your riding tour.

Arctic Fox: The only native land mammal is a shy fellow but might be seen in the remote areas, so keep your eyes open!

Brennivin: Iceland’s most traditional alcohol, coming with a black label. Be careful when you try it!

Cod: Most consumed fish in Iceland and also the basis of the famous dish Plokkfiskur

Day light: From mid May it does not get really dark anymore in Iceland – until the end of August. If you are sensitive to light during the nights we recommend you bring a sleeping mask.

Flora: End of May/beginning of June marks the beginning of the Lupine blossom, so look out for fields of the purple flower. Native birch trees add bright green hues.

Wildlife: Birds such as arctic ptarmigan and wild sheep are encountered during the ride. Iceland is also a paradise for migratory birds

Horses: The Icelandic horse is a breed of horse developed in Iceland. Although the horses are small and late-developers, they are also long-lived and hardy. In their native country they have few diseases; Icelandic law prevents horses from being imported into the country and exported animals are not allowed to return. The Icelandic horse displays two gaits in addition to the typical walk, trot, and canter/gallop commonly displayed by other breeds. The only breed of horse in Iceland, they are also popular internationally, and sizable populations exist in Europe and North America. The breed is still used for traditional farm work in its native country, as well as for leisure, showing and racing.

Highlands: Inner and uninhabitable part of the country. Only open late June to mid September

Luggage: Your luggage will be transported by the support vehicle. You only carry water bottles, lunch and rain gear in your saddle bags (all provided)

Medical and safety: For the highland tours, the nearest health centre for medical attention is in Hvolsvöllur, very close to where guests stay during this ride. The nearest hospital is in Selfoss, approximately 50 km from where guests stay during this ride. The emergency phone number in Iceland is 112.

Power supplies: Wall socket for Europlug/Schuko-Plug (CEE types) with two round prongs in the rooms. Sometimes there are no power supplies in the mountain huts.

Size of the Groups: 7-13 riders

Expect the unexpected: Iceland is full of surprises and hidden gems. Who knows what is hiding in the next valley?

Inclusive: when riding with us you will be a part of a group and meet new friends whether they have two or four legs. Many of our riders travel solo.

Knowledge: You do not need to be familiar with the special gaits of the Icelandic horses beforehand. We will give you an introduction

Riding with a beer in your hand? In Iceland we compete in beer tölt. The rider has to tölt a round with a full glass of beer in their hand without spilling. Do you think you could do that? (not quite sure if this is a good one here but people seem to find the beer tölt funny)

Qualifications: In our multiday tours we ask riders to ensure that they are at the adequate level. It is way more fun for everyone if all are at more or less the same level and we offer tours for all levels.

Riding hours: 4-6 hours in the saddle per day is to be expected.

Questions are always welcome and no questions are stupid. If you have a question you can always pull the guide aside or send a message to the Multi-Day tour department.

Here you can also find common questions