Icelandic horses beat the city blues. This 3.5-hour Reykjavik horseback riding outing takes you just outside the city, where you’ll match with the right horse and ride across Icelandic countryside—usually with calm, friendly animals and guides who keep things simple. The pickup door-to-door vibe also matters here: you’re not trying to solve Iceland transport on your first day.

What I like most is how practical the whole thing feels. You get the full setup—helmets, boots, and rain gear/coveralls—so you can focus on the ride instead of packing for mud and wind. I also love the way they match horses to your comfort level, which is why beginners and families keep raving about how smoothly it goes.

One thing to consider: it’s an outdoor experience with real Iceland weather. If it’s cold or rainy, you need to dress for it, and winter gear matters.

Key Highlights You’ll Feel from the Start

• Short ride out of Reykjavik: you drive only about 15 minutes to the stables before you hit the trail
• Group stays small (max 15): more attention, fewer awkward waits
• Gear is included: helmets plus warm, waterproof coveralls (snowsuits in winter), so you won’t freeze
• Horse matching by experience: they assess your riding background so you’re put with a suitable mount
• Beginner-friendly trail riding: most people can manage it, even if you’ve never ridden before
• Warm drinks after: cocoa/coffee and pastries help you thaw out and recover

How the Reykjavik pickup sets the tone

The tour is built around convenience. You get picked up from your hotel or guesthouse in Reykjavik, then it’s only a quick transfer—about 15 minutes—to the horseback destination.

Timing is one of the first things to get right. Pickups begin about 1 hour before departure, and it can take up to 20 minutes to collect everyone. This is normal for Reykjavik pickup routes, especially with multiple hotels. Also pay attention if you’re staying in the city center: many hotels there sit inside a No-Pickup zone, so you’ll receive an updated meeting point and instructions.

If you’re on a cruise, the plan is straightforward too. You’re picked up at the main port terminal, which saves you from figuring out local shuttles while your ship is docking.

Why this matters: when you’re excited about Icelandic horses, the worst feeling is wasting your energy on logistics. The “show up at your lodging” setup helps you get into the right headspace fast.

Gear fitting and matching the right Icelandic horse

Right after pickup, you’re set up like you’re joining a working farm day. The team provides the basics: helmets, boots, and rain clothes. In winter, you’ll get snowsuits (coveralls keep showing up in riders’ notes too). That’s huge in Iceland, because dry warmth beats hope.

Then they do the part that makes this tour work for beginners: they gather info about your riding experience and comfort level and match you with an appropriate horse. Riders consistently describe the horses as docile and well handled, and several notes highlight that even kids and true first-timers could manage.

A few small practical details from the real-world experience are worth knowing:

• You may not get the same “mounted lesson” feel you’d get in a formal riding school. This is more about trail riding with guidance at the start.
• Some horses are short, and there’s no step. If you need a boost, the staff is ready to help.

You might also hear the horses have personalities—one review notes that more spirited options can be available on request. If you’re an experienced rider and want more energy, it’s worth asking, but don’t expect every horse to be “fast.” This is still a family-run operation focused on safe, enjoyable riding.

The countryside ride: what the trail ride feels like

Once you’re mounted, you’re out in the open air with horses that do what they’re trained to do. Riders describe the ride as smooth and well-paced—more “pleasant hack through country” than “thrill ride.” That’s a good sign for families and nervous first-timers.

What you’ll likely notice quickly:

• You’ll ride through countryside outside Reykjavik, not some fenced “petting zoo” setup.
• Routes can include river crossings. Several riders mention crossing creeks or a river as part of the experience.
• Because Icelandic horses have unique movement, you may feel the famous tölt gait show up during the ride. That shows up in riders’ favorite-moment stories, but it’s not the kind of thing you can count on in every moment of every ride—so think of it as an excellent possibility, not a promise.

Also, don’t expect a long, step-by-step lesson once you’re underway. The staff gives instructions early, then you typically follow the line and let the ride unfold. That’s why first-timers keep saying they weren’t overwhelmed.

And yes, the views matter here. Multiple riders highlight snow-topped mountains in winter conditions, plus streams and lava-like terrain features in the wider area outside the city. Even with wind and changing light, the point is simple: you’re seeing Iceland from a horse’s-eye perspective.

After the ride: warm drinks and a farm-family feel

When the ride ends, you’re not just handed a ticket and sent on your way. You head back to the stables, where the warm-up begins—hot cocoa, coffee, and pastries show up repeatedly in the notes.

This isn’t just a nice extra. In Iceland, after you’ve been outside in rain or cold, warm drinks turn the trip from “a memory” into something you actually feel in the moment. It’s also a natural time to ask questions and see how the operation runs.

Riders repeatedly describe this as a family-run farm, and they mention long-term roots (one rider specifically cited the farm starting in 1968). The family atmosphere comes through in the small things: guides helping people on and off, staff staying friendly and calm, and everyone working together like they’ve done it a thousand times.

There’s also a practical upside: because the stables are set up for riders, you’re not left scrambling after muddy clothes and damp weather. You get to warm up, sit for a bit, and let your ride “settle” before the drive back.

Who should book this horseback ride (and who should think twice)

This is one of those tours where the “right person” is pretty broad.

It suits you if:

• You’re a beginner or coming with mixed skill levels. The horse matching is a big part of why first-timers report easy rides.
• You want a classic Iceland experience without committing to a full-day outing.
• You’re traveling with kids (minimum age is 7 years, and children must be with an adult).

It’s worth extra thought if:

• You have bad knees or a bad back. One rider flagged that mounting/dismounting and general horseback movement may not be ideal for everyone with physical limitations.
• You’re looking for a hands-on riding lesson. This is trail riding, not a schooling-style clinic.

Safety rules are also part of the reality. The operator can refuse service to anyone who appears intoxicated, and if they cancel for that reason, you won’t be refunded. That policy exists for the safety of both horses and riders, and it’s good to know up front.

Price and value: is $152.37 worth it?

At $152.37 per person, this isn’t the cheapest thing in Reykjavik—but it’s also not just “a quick activity.” For that price, you typically get:

• Hotel or guesthouse pickup (within Reykjavik, with a short drive after)
• All core riding gear: helmets plus warm waterproof layers/coveralls and rain gear
• Horse selection based on your experience
• A real guided trail ride outside the city
• Warm drinks and pastries after the ride (coffee/cocoa and cake or pastry show up in multiple notes)

When you compare it to DIY horseback options, what you’re really paying for is simplicity plus safety plus animal handling done by pros. Icelandic horses aren’t the kind of animal you want to “wing it” with. So value comes from the staff doing the prep and matching—then you enjoy the actual ride.

The other value signal: a maximum group size of 15. Smaller groups generally mean less waiting around and more direct help when you need it.

If your Iceland trip budget is tight, this can still be a smart splurge because it’s one of those experiences that feels deeply local—horses, farms, countryside—without taking a whole day.

Weather and timing: plan for wind, rain, and warmth

This tour requires good weather. If conditions are poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. In practical terms, that means you should keep your schedule flexible if you can.

What to wear is not “nice to have” here. Iceland wind can be sneaky. Even with gear provided, you’ll be more comfortable if you wear warm layers underneath. In winter, riders specifically recommend being prepared for the cold—hand/foot warmers are the kind of small upgrade that can change how much you enjoy the ride.

Also remember: pickups start early, and collection takes time. Build in a little buffer at your hotel so you’re not rushing to catch the window.

Should you book Laxnes Horse Farm from Reykjavik?

I’d book this if you want an easy, authentic Icelandic horseback ride with pickup convenience and gear handled for you. The biggest reason is the horse matching: beginners aren’t sent into chaos. Instead, you get paired up for a calm trail experience that still feels exciting and very “I’m really in Iceland.”

Skip it—or at least ask questions before committing—if you’re dealing with mobility limits like bad knees/back, or if you’re hunting for a structured riding lesson. This is trail riding with guidance, not a long instructional session.

If you’re traveling with kids 7+ and you want one memorable outdoor activity near Reykjavik, this is a strong choice. Book it, pack warm, and lean into the moment—mud, wind, and all.

FAQ

What time does pickup happen in Reykjavik?

Pickups start about 1 hour before departure, and collecting all passengers can take up to 20 minutes.

Where do I meet if my hotel is in a No-Pickup zone?

If your hotel is in a No-Pickup zone, the operator will contact you with an updated location and pickup instructions.

What riding gear is provided?

You’re provided basic gear such as a helmet and boots, plus rain clothing. In wintertime, you’ll receive snowsuits (and related warm gear like coveralls are commonly mentioned).

Is this tour suitable for beginners and children?

Yes for beginners. The minimum age is 7, and children must be accompanied by an adult.

How big are the groups?

The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes. The tour is offered in English.

What happens if weather is bad?

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

Can the operator refuse service?

Yes. The operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication, and in that case the canceled tour is not eligible for a refund.