Two hours on an Icelandic horse is a reset. The Siggi Tour from Reykjavík takes you into South Iceland, where you cross lava fields and ride through a rare green forest, with an English-speaking guide steering the whole experience.

I like two things most. First, the free pickup and drop-off makes this feel easy, not like a hassle of long drives and parking. Second, you get helmets and waterproofs included, which turns a potentially miserable weather moment into a practical, actually-comfortable ride.

One thing to consider: this is outdoors and depends on conditions. If the day’s weather is poor, the tour may switch dates or you may get a refund.

Key highlights you’ll feel on the ride

• Icelandic horses chosen for riders of different comfort levels
• Free pickup and drop-off, so you spend less time coordinating transport
• Helmets and waterproofs provided, built for Iceland’s changeable weather
• A route that mixes hot springs by Hveragerði with mountain trails
• A guide who explains the history of Icelandic horses as you ride
• A group size capped at 50 travelers, which helps keep the experience calm

Why this Siggi Tour is a smart South Iceland choice from Reykjavík

A lot of Iceland tours feel like a checklist: stop, photo, move on. This one feels more like movement with meaning. You’re not only looking at South Iceland. You’re traveling through it—on horseback—so the scenery changes in a way your legs can’t match.

What I find especially appealing is the mix of terrain. You go from rugged, volcanic country into greener stretches that are unusual for Iceland. Then you ride toward the geothermal zone above Hveragerði, a place locals and visitors connect with hot water and steam.

Even the time frame helps. The tour is listed at about 2 hours (with the activity schedule potentially running a bit longer), so it fits into a day without swallowing your entire trip.

Price and value: what $134.15 gets you (and why it’s fair)

The price is $134.15 per person. That number can look steep until you break down what’s bundled.

You’re paying for:

• An English-speaking guide who leads the route and manages horse behavior
• Helmets and waterproofs included (that saves you from buying or renting gear)
• Pickup and drop-off included (transport is usually where tours hide extra costs)
• A ride that covers more ground than walking in a region known for long stretches and uneven footing

For me, the key value is the combination: gear + guidance + access to areas you’d otherwise need time (and local know-how) to reach. If you’re staying in Reykjavík and want a real “South Iceland” feel without turning the day into a logistics project, this is a solid buy.

One extra planning note: it’s typically booked around 41 days in advance. If you’re traveling in peak season, earlier booking increases your odds of getting the time you want.

The ride equipment that makes or breaks horseback days

In Iceland, comfort matters fast. Wind, mist, and wet ground can turn “fine” into “nope” quickly.

That’s why I like that this tour includes helmets and waterproofs. You’re not improvising. You’re not showing up in sneakers and hoping for the best. Your job is simply to ride and listen to your guide.

They also keep things practical with a real safety focus. The tour is described as safe, and the included gear supports that. You’ll also be in good hands if you’re new—this is the kind of activity where having someone manage the horses and your position is half the experience.

Also worth knowing: there’s a 120 kg weight limit. If you’re near that number, it’s worth confirming before you book.

Getting started at Hótel Eldhestar in Ölfus

Your meeting point is Hótel Eldhestar, located at 816 Sveitarfélagið Ölfus, Iceland. The activity ends back at the same place, so you’re not stuck figuring out a ride home after you’ve finished.

You’ll want to show up ready to move. Horse riding is not like sitting on a bus. There’s mounting, adjusting gear, and a short “how it works” moment so everyone stays coordinated.

This is also where you’ll likely get settled with what you need for the day, including the waterproof clothing and helmet. If you’ve never worn a helmet for riding, don’t worry—you’ll get used to it quickly once you’re on the saddle.

The operator also notes that most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. If you’re traveling with a service animal, this is a good sign for planning ahead.

Riding up toward Reykjafjall: hills, trails, and that rare green forest

The ride starts with a climb and a change in scenery. You go up a hill on riding trails, with the route running along the slopes of Reykjafjall (you’ll see it described as part of the Reykjafjell/Reykjafell area). This matters because it shapes the whole feel of the day: you’re not just strolling across flat ground.

Then comes one of the most interesting surprises. The route takes you through a green forest, which is described as a rare sight in Iceland. Even if you’ve seen plenty of Iceland before, that kind of forest stretch changes how everything feels—less stark, more alive.

As you move along the trail, you’ll start to understand why horseback is a different kind of travel. On foot, you notice each step. On horseback, you notice the rhythm of the path and the pace of changing weather and light. That’s when Iceland’s geography really clicks.

One practical thought for first-timers: expect a bit of movement in the saddle. Riding is physical, but it’s controlled. Your guide sets the tone, and the included safety gear helps you stay focused instead of distracted.

Hveragerði geothermal zone: hot springs, steam, and earthquake history

As the ride continues, you pass by many hot springs in the geothermal area just above Hveragerði. This town is often called the hot spring capital of the world, and it’s easy to see why once you’re close enough to experience the steam and water activity firsthand.

The most striking detail here is how much the landscape has been shaped by recent events. The geothermal zone expanded dramatically during the 2008 earthquake and is described as constantly changing. That detail makes the area feel alive in a scientific way—not just scenic.

So what do you actually get during the ride? You get a chance to move along volcanic hills above Hveragerði and see how geothermal activity sits against everyday settlement. You’re riding above a town that lives with hot water, not just visiting a static postcard.

There’s also a payoff for your eyes as you go. The description includes a nice view toward Varmá, and you’ll likely catch broad perspectives as the trail opens up. Even short stops or slow stretches on horseback can give you time to actually look instead of constantly aiming a camera.

The mountain-and-plains contrast near Hengill

After the geothermal zone, the trail continues across volcanic hills above the village. Hveragerði sits between volcano Hengill and the wider plains of the southern lowlands, and that geography shows up in the ride.

This is where the route feels like more than a loop. You’re transitioning between different “Iceland personalities” in a short amount of time: volcanic textures, geothermal steam, and then wider views toward lowland country.

Why this matters: it keeps your attention. You’re not doing one single type of terrain for two hours. Your senses keep getting new input, which is exactly what you want from a shorter tour.

And it’s also why I think this ride works well for people who don’t have a full day to spare. You still get variety, but you don’t lose a whole itinerary to driving.

Pace, control, and rider comfort: what to expect as a beginner

The tour is built to be approachable. One of the strongest pieces of feedback tied to this experience is that it works for both experienced riders and first-timers. If you’re nervous, don’t assume you’ll be left behind. The operation is set up to teach and handle mixed comfort levels.

Here’s what that means for you on the day:

• You’ll get guidance on basic riding behavior from your guide
• You’ll likely start with calm handling before anything faster
• Helmets and waterproofs reduce the main distractions that make people overthink

If you’re an experienced rider, you can treat this as a scenic route with a guide. If you’re new, treat it as a controlled introduction to Icelandic riding—one where someone else manages the logistics and risk.

A small caution: you still need to follow instructions. Horseback riding is safe when you listen and move with the plan, not against it.

Timing: about 2 hours in the saddle, with a longer activity window possible

The tour is listed as 2 hours (approx.). At the same time, the activity schedule shows a 3-hour block for the riding experience area. That’s not unusual in Iceland, where check-in and getting everyone fitted can take extra time.

So my advice is simple: don’t schedule your next major activity immediately after pickup/drop-off. Build in some buffer.

Also remember the time of year. In low-light months, you’ll feel the clock more. In brighter seasons, you may feel tempted to rush. Don’t. A horseback ride is better when you let it be what it is: slow motion travel with real scenery.

Who should book this tour (and who might want a different option)

This Siggi Tour is a strong match if you:

• Want a short, high-value South Iceland experience from Reykjavík
• Like guided travel that still feels hands-on
• Want to ride an Icelandic horse rather than only see Iceland from viewpoints
• Appreciate safety gear and structured support for beginners

It may be less ideal if you:

• Have a hard limit on riding time and need something ultra-short and stationary
• Are uncomfortable in outdoor weather (because the tour requires good weather)

It’s also a good choice for people who want authenticity in the practical sense, not just the “look at this famous place” sense. You’re doing something real, rooted in Icelandic culture—caring for and riding the horses that are part of the country’s identity.

Weather realities and the smart way to plan around them

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

That’s important for planning because Iceland weather can flip quickly. If your schedule is tight, consider booking your ride earlier in the day or earlier in your Iceland trip window.

Also, the tour has free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which gives you flexibility if forecasts change.

Small group size helps the day feel less rushed

The tour caps at 50 travelers. That doesn’t sound tiny, but for a horseback activity it usually means you’re not stuck in a super-constant crowd.

Fewer people also means the guide can manage the line and keep explanations clear. That supports a smoother ride and makes it easier for first-timers to feel comfortable.

Should you book the Siggi Tour from Reykjavík to South Iceland?

I’d book it if your goal is a short South Iceland experience that feels more like moving through the country than watching it from a bus window. You’re getting a guided Icelandic horseback ride with key safety support, plus a route that connects lava country, a rare green forest, and the geothermal action around Hveragerði.

I’d think twice if you hate being outdoors in changing weather, or if you’re worried about riding comfort. While the experience is designed to work for mixed skill levels, it still involves time on horseback and following instructions.

If you’re on the fence, here’s the tie-breaker I’d use: if you want variety in just two hours—mountain slopes, hot springs, and views—this ride delivers. If you want a purely low-effort sightseeing day, you might prefer a non-riding option.

FAQ

How long is the Siggi Tour from Reykjavík?

The tour duration is listed as about 2 hours (approx.), though the schedule information shows a longer activity window that can run around 3 hours total.

Is pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Free pickup and drop-off are included.

What safety gear is provided?

Helmets and waterproofs are included for the ride.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes. The weight limit is 120 kg.

How big is the group?

The tour has a maximum of 50 travelers.

What if the weather is poor?

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

Where do I meet the guide?

You meet at Hótel Eldhestar at 816 Sveitarfélagið Ölfus, Iceland, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.