Smooth Icelandic horses beat the usual trail rides. This private ride from Reykjavík/Mosfellsbær lets you explore Mt. Úlfarsfell with a guide who matches your skills to the right horse, then shows you what makes the Icelandic horse special in the country’s culture and history.

I love the small things that make it feel personal: you’ll start by preparing the horses together, and you get hands-on coaching on mounting, dismounting, and riding gaits like the smooth tölt. One consideration: there’s a strict weight limit of 110kg, and the tour requires good weather, so plan to be flexible if conditions turn.

Key takeaways before you book

• Private group with only you and your party, so the pace can actually fit your comfort level
• Mt. Úlfarsfell views over the surrounding countryside from a trail that’s scenic but not chaotic
• Horse bonding time: you’ll groom and connect before you ride, which helps the whole session feel easier
• Tölt plus other gaits depending on your comfort, with confident horses over varied terrain
• Light refreshments included after the ride, so you’re not scrambling for snacks afterward
• Guides who tailor the ride for beginners and more experienced riders, including time to practice basics

Why a private ride on Mt. Úlfarsfell is such a good Iceland choice

Horse riding in Iceland can swing from touristy to magical. This one lands closer to magical. You’re out near Mt. Úlfarsfell, and the view factor is real—wide, open countryside with that Iceland feel where you can see far and breathe out the city noise fast.

The other reason I like this style of outing is that you’re not treated like a passenger. You’re treated like a rider-in-training for whatever level you arrive with. The guides talk you through mounting and dismounting, then adjust the ride so you can focus on balance and confidence rather than just holding on.

And because it’s private, you get a calmer rhythm. You don’t have to worry about a group moving too fast, or someone freezing up behind you. Your guide can keep the ride smooth for your body and your comfort.

The stables experience: where the ride starts (and where people relax)

The tour begins at the riding facility in Mosfellsbær (Akrar 2). You meet your guide there, then you get time to prepare both yourself and the horse before you head out. Expect that pre-ride chunk to matter—this is where nervous first-timers often settle in fast.

This isn’t a rushed walk to the saddle. The whole setup is designed to help you feel safe and in control. Even if you’ve ridden before, you’ll probably pick up a few useful habits, because Icelandic riding is its own thing.

Practical note: the total time from arrival to departure is about 2 hours, even though your actual riding time is closer to 1 to 1.5 hours. Plan on the rest of that time being for gearing up, horse prep, and getting comfortable.

How you’ll connect with the horse before you ride

One of the strongest parts of this experience is the bonding piece. You don’t just get assigned a horse and go. You’ll groom and build a connection first. It’s a simple activity, but it changes the ride. When a horse recognizes you, the whole experience feels less like work and more like cooperation.

I also like that guides aim to match horses to the rider. In real terms, that means if you’re brand new, you’re more likely to get a calm, responsive partner. If you’re more experienced, you may be able to do more varied movement and speeds—still guided, but not limited to a slow stroll.

You might see guide names like Snjoprinsessa, Lily, or instructors such as Jonina and Linnea. Names vary by date, but the theme stays the same: you’re paired, taught, and supported.

Riding basics, Icelandic gaits, and why the ride feels smoother than you expect

Your guide tailors the tour to your riding level. That covers the basics: mounting, dismounting, and learning the basic riding technique you need to stay balanced. If you’re a beginner, this is often the difference between a stressful ride and a confident one.

If you’re already comfortable, you’ll still benefit from the guidance. Icelandic horses can move in ways that feel different from what people know from other riding styles. The good news: they’re typically very sure-footed, so the experience can feel secure even on uneven ground.

What you might experience depends on your comfort, but here’s what’s come up often:

• Tölt: riders describe it as smooth and interesting, and it’s one of the standout Icelandic experiences
• Trot: sometimes included as you build comfort
• Faster movement up hills or through wet terrain: you may get moments like this if your guide thinks you’re ready

And yes, the views help. There’s something about riding at a controlled pace with clear scenery that makes you forget you’re doing an activity and start feeling like you’re just out exploring.

The actual route and scenery: what you’ll see (and what it feels like)

While you’re out, the focus stays on nature and viewpoints around Mt. Úlfarsfell. Depending on weather and conditions, you’ll ride trails and open areas. Some rides have included time on paths that run parallel to roads, plus stretches through fields, so you’re not stuck in a single narrow lane the whole time.

You may also see landmarks like lakes in the distance, and you’ll likely notice how the terrain changes under the horse’s feet. That terrain is part of the point: Icelandic horses are trained for varied footing, and guides help you feel safe as things shift.

One detail worth noting: your guide may take photos during the ride. That matters more than it sounds. When someone else is snapping pictures, you can actually pay attention to what you’re doing—safety first, then enjoying the moment.

Refreshments after the ride: the small finish that makes it feel complete

After your ride, you return back to the meeting point. The tour includes light refreshments, which I always appreciate in Iceland. When you’re outside and moving, it’s easy to work up an appetite, and it’s nice not to hunt for snacks while you’re still chilled.

This is also a good time to ask questions. Guides often have plenty to say about Icelandic horses—their role in daily life and history, and why they’re treated with real respect. The tour is explicitly set up to include that cultural context, so you’re not leaving with only a photo and a memory of movement.

Price and value: what $144.82 per person is really buying

At $144.82 per person, this isn’t the cheapest way to ride in the Reykjavik area. But it’s also not priced like a big cattle-call operation. You’re paying for a private setup, horse preparation time, tailored coaching, and an activity length that wraps into a manageable 2-hour block.

The value equation changes depending on who you’re traveling with:

• If you’re riding solo or as a couple and want flexibility, private coaching can be worth it because you avoid the pace mismatch problem.
• If you’re a family and one person needs more time while another is ready for more, private makes that easier to manage.
• If you’re a group that benefits from group discounts, the per-person value can get better.

One more practical value point: the tour includes an admission ticket and is offered in English, and it uses a mobile ticket. That removes some friction when you’re juggling Iceland logistics.

Who should do this tour (and who should skip it)

This tour is built for riders age 12 and up, with a moderate physical fitness level requirement. You don’t need to be an athlete, but you do need to be able to mount and dismount confidently. You’ll also want to feel steady on your feet because you’ll be helping with the horse prep.

It’s also not for everyone due to the 110kg weight limit. If you’re above that, don’t assume you can ask your way in—this one is explicit about limits, and those limits are there for safety.

Also consider that it may be canceled without refund if a guest isn’t following instructions or the guides feel the situation is unsafe. That’s not a scare tactic. It’s a sign they’re strict about safety, which usually means you’ll have a smoother experience when you’re actually on the horse.

Best fit:

• First-timers who want confidence-building instruction
• Experienced riders who want a real Icelandic horse experience, not just a slow walk
• People who value a calm, private session with a guide paying attention to details

Timing, weather, and how to get there from Reykjavík

This is the Reykjavik area ride that makes sense when you want nature but not a full-day commitment. You’ll ride for about 1 to 1.5 hours, with total time around 2 hours. That’s a nice fit if you’re planning other Reykjavik stops too.

Booking smart matters here. On average, people book about 70 days in advance, so earlier is better if your dates are firm.

Weather matters because this is outdoors riding. The experience requires good weather, and if it gets canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a refund.

Getting there is also fairly doable. The meeting point is in Mosfellsbær, and the area is described as near public transportation. The recommended option is to take bus number 15 from downtown Reykjavík. If you’re using navigation apps, double-check the exact address (Akrar 2, 271 Mosfellsbær) so you don’t lose time hunting on arrival.

What to wear and bring for a comfortable ride

Iceland riding gear needs to be practical and clean. The experience recommends comfortable riding shoes or walking shoes / good sneakers. You want something stable and grippy, since you’ll be handling the horse setup before you ride.

Keep in mind this Iceland-specific equipment rule: it’s forbidden by law to bring used horse/equestrian equipment into Iceland. Also, riding gear that cannot be washed cannot be taken to Iceland. That’s the kind of rule that’s easy to forget until you’re at baggage check—so plan early.

Also, pack for the reality of Iceland weather. Even when the air looks calm, conditions can be windy or chilly, especially in shoulder seasons.

My bottom line: should you book this private Icelandic horse ride?

Book it if you want a horse experience that feels guided, safe, and personal—not just a scenic sit. The combination of private attention, horse bonding, and instruction tailored to your riding level makes it a strong choice for both first-timers and people who already ride.

I’d hesitate if either of these applies:

• You’re not within the 110kg limit or you can’t comfortably mount and dismount.
• You need a guaranteed ride no matter what, because weather can affect outdoor riding schedules.

If you’re looking for a practical way to add Iceland’s horse culture to your trip—while also getting real views from the Mt. Úlfarsfell area—this is a smart use of time and money.

FAQ

How long is the tour, and how much of it is riding?

Total time from arrival to departure is about 2 hours, and the riding time is usually around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on your riding level.

Where does the tour start?

The meeting point is Icelandic Riding at Akrar 2, 271 Mosfellsbær, Iceland, and the tour ends back at the same location.

Is this tour private?

Yes. It’s a private tour/activity, and only your group participates.

What language is the tour offered in?

The tour is offered in English.

What are the minimum age and weight requirements?

The minimum age is 12 years, and it is not suitable for those weighting over 110kg.

What should I wear for the ride?

Comfortable riding shoes are recommended, or walking shoes and good sneakers.

What if the weather is bad or the experience is canceled?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.