Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik
5
Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik
By Ishestar Horse Riding Tours
About
Spend time outdoors and explore the spectacular beauty of Iceland on this horseback riding experience from Reykjavik. It’s a great way to cover more ground than a walking tour, and access remote rural sites, such as lava-laden scenery, lakes, moors, and mountains. No need to worry if it’s your first-time horseback riding—the experience is tailored to your ability, and led by an instructor.
from per adult
$191.90
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 7-90, max of 30 per group
Duration: 2h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: German, English
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Highlights
- Access incredible outdoor beauty on this Icelandic horseback riding tour
- Travel light—all required riding equipment is provided
- Flexible tour–pick from morning or afternoon start times
- Stay hydrated—coffee, tea, or hot chocolate is provided
- Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate
- Helmets, rubber boots, rain gear and warm overall
What's not included- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Pre-booked pick-up and drop-off from pick up points in Reykjavik, unless specified with tour option
- Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.
- Sörlaskeið 26, 220 Hafnarfjörður, IcelandIf you are traveling on your own to our stables, please be there at least 30 min. prior to your tour departure.
Pickup details- Pick-up needs to be pre-booked. Please be sure that you've chosen a tour with pick up included if you require to be picked up from your accommodation or a designated bus stop close to your accommodation. If your hotel is not listed, please write it in and we will contact you regarding your pickup location. Please note the weight limit on our tours is 110kg/240lbs and the age limit is 7 years old.
Hotel pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.Port pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included ports.- Skarfabakki Harbour, 544P+F35, 104 Reykjavík, Iceland
Additional pickup optionsDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included pickup points.- Bus stop #1 - Ráðhúsið - City Hall, Vonarstræti 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop #3 Lækjargata, Lækjargata 4, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus stop #4 Miðbakki, 5325+4PG, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus stop #5 Harpa, Sculpture & Shore Walk 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop #6 - Safnahúsið The Culture House, Ingólfsstræti 1, 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop #9 Snorrabraut, Snorrabraut 24, 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop #12 Höfðatorg, Þórunnartún 6, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop #13 Rauðarárstígur, Laugavegur 120, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop #14 - Skúlagata, Klapparstígur 5, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop#15 - Vesturbugt, Mýrargata 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Hallgrimskirkja, Hallgrímstorg 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- BSÍ, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Airport Direct, Skógarhlíð 10, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 30057P1- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult
- Age limit is 8 years old
- Weight limit is 110kg/240lbs
- Used riding gear is not allowed on the tour or near the horses
- If you arrive in your own car please be at the stables 30 minutes before your tour starts
- Due to possible harm to unborn children pregnant women cannot ride on our tours
- Not recommended for travellers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travellers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- All riders must be able to mount the horse by their own strength.
- In our tours up to two children or youth may travel with each adult, paying full fare
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- How much is Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik?
- Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik price starts from $191.45. Discover and book Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik on Tripadvisor
- What is the Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik cancellation policy?
- Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik cancellation policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. Discover and book Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik on Tripadvisor
- Which company provides Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik?
- Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik is hosted by Ishestar Horse Riding Tours. Read reviews, discover additonal experiences or contact Ishestar Horse Riding Tours on Tripadvisor. Discover and book Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik on Tripadvisor
- How much time do I need for Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik?
- On average, this experience will take approximately 2h. Discover and book Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik on Tripadvisor
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 30057P1
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About the operator
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- whatifwefly0 contributionsorganized tourI booked the lava horse tour. We purchased a pick-up. At the horse riding center we all watched a video. I think that is a great idea, to educate everyone about the most important things about horse riding. Although most explanations included riding with using the reins and not the seat for example. This is probably easier to explain and the horses there may be more used to that. We got our riding gear afterwards and if needed could also get warm suits etc. One person then asked each person individually abouth their riding experiences and chose one of the already saddled horses that would suit the best. I also want to highlight positively that there was a guide next to us when mounting the horse, which held the other side of the saddle and adjusted the stirrups if needed. This is also very nice for the horse and the rider. After a couple minutes of riding, the group split into a group that continued in walking tempo and the other group continued in trot or tölt. It was good to have a couple minutes of riding before deciding to get to know the horse and the own abilities. In the faster group we did quite a few times trot/tölt. We did a photo stop in between and the guide took photos of us individually. The landscapes were beautiful. The trails were still icy at some points, but the horses are used to that. The guides made sure that we felt comfortable. They also seemed to know the horses, despite the number of horses, very well. The horses have 6 months off, which is more than required by law (?). At the end of the tour we could either stay a bit at the paddock or get inside. Hot Chocolate was provided. The weather was luckily very beautiful and the views were great.Written 9 March 2024
- bhall140 contributionsExcellent horses and staff, 5 ⭐️Such a lovely welcoming group of staff. From being greeted, to meeting the horses, being assigned a horse and the ride it was fantastic. Warm clothing of coveralls is provided however gloves need to be purchased. The instructors were very knowledgable and I liked they split the ride for experience meaning those with more could go at a faster pace. Execellent horse, very lovely temperament. Would definitely recommend coming here to ride. There is a more experienced ride in the afternoon I didn’t know about, if I did I would have definitely joined! Thank you again!Written 2 March 2024
- ItchyFeetGal0 contributionsFantastic!I did the Viking ride yesterday and it was fantastic! The horses are lovely and our guide was great, friendly and informative. The ride itself was beautiful, through the trails in the snow with wonderful views. Plenty of tolt and canter :) Cantering through the snow was something I’ll not forget! I really hope to come back again!Written 15 February 2024
- fh_940 contributionsLava TourDid the lava tour on Feb 1st with my partner and we had the best time! I rode regularly when I was younger but only do it occasionally as an adult and my partner had only ridden twice ever, and we felt this tour catered well to both our levels. We were asked about our experience before being matched to our horses. My partner was given Harry Potter and unfortunately I can't remember my horse's name but she was very sweet and well natured. Two guides accompanied the tour and were excellent with talking less experienced participants through what to do, and took the time to tell us lots about their stables, the Icelandic horse breed and Iceland in general! It was also great of them to take the time to snap a few photos for everyone during the rest break. Despite the snow, rain and wind while we were out, this was the perfect way to take in the scenery. We would love to visit again in the future!Written 4 February 2024
- Jessica P0 contributionsBest dayThis was truly one of the most special experiences of my LIFE. Jaggy guided me on the Viking tour with Frosty, a sweet, responsive and happy little horse. Frosty’s tolt was really fun - I only wish I could have watched him go. The scenery was incredible and I just felt like pinching myself the whole time. The staff clearly love and respect the horses and put their welfare first, and as a result, the horses are full of life. Go on this tour - you won’t regret it!Written 26 January 2024
- eddie8Worcester0 contributionsMy daughter loved thisMy daughter was desperate to do this and it didn't disappoint. We booked the hour horse ride with waffles. The staff were really nice and happy to take lots of photos. The tour goes round a dormant volcano and has some great views. They also have extra layers for you to wear depending on how cold it is. Be warned, though there is a weight limit. 17st is the cut-off, and I therefore had to sit out and drink the complimentary coffee. However, there is a nice cafe to sit in, so I didn't mind. My daughter and wife loved it. The waffle was a nice finish as well.Written 7 January 2024
- Safari509056306210 contributionsIcelandic horse tourViews were phenomenal! You'll ride to an overlook and get to see an inactive volcanoe. They'll give an option to split off into a fast or slow group, I recommend the fast. Even inexperienced riders can do it (as I am) and you'll not be left behind! Altogether 5/5 experience!Written 20 November 2023
- shannonbP6313LY0 contributionsGreat time with the horsesI was so excited to spend time with Icelandic horses and try tolting. This experience did not disappoint. I appreciated that the guides allowed the group to split into two groups so that my husband could decide to keep it at a walk but I could go with a faster group and try the other gaits. We especially appreciated the women at Ishestar who allowed us to come in spite of the Iceland women’s strike happening that day. They went above and beyond for us.Written 24 October 2023
- jennifersI175FQ0 contributionsNot what you think.The ride behind houses and what seemed like an industrial-type area. As an adult is was super boring and a waste of time. Half the people on the ride were 12-year-olds who had never been on a horse before. I'm sure it was fun for them...Written 6 October 2023
- H8685TPnicolab0 contributionsLoved it, brilliant fast ride with the experienced groupLovely trek on Icelandic horses. Very relaxed atmosphere, horses were happy. Guides were brilliant.Written 8 September 2023
- 951matthewi0 contributionsRed lava trail horse riding.An amazing family adventure, riding Icelandic horses with viking genealogy. We booked for a family of 2 adults and 3 teenagers, some never ridden a horse before. We were welcomed warmly with coffee and hot chocolate before being shown the safety and information video. We were then provided with a correctly sized riding hat and offered waterproof clothing should we have wanted it. However the weather was glorious and ☀️. We were then matched with our horses, introduced by name and helped to bond with them before being guided on how to mount them. Once everyone was safely in saddle the horses all moved without instruction to the gate, eager to start the adventure. The horses were friendly and mostly easy to command, occasionally stopped for a nibble of the foliage but generally well behaved. After about 15mins of inline riding, the group was offered to split into a walking group and a more advanced trotting group. Both groups rode for about another 1/2hr or so through the lava fields, some commentary provided by our guides, whom also offered to take photographs with your own phones along the route. As we rode we were extremely lucky to see and arctic fox hunting. It's coat is brown during the summer months to help with camouflage before turning pure white during winter months. After 30mins more of riding we stopped at a grassy opening to allow the horses their legal requirement of 15min break, allowing them to forage and enjoy the rest before our return journey. During the break the guides were answering questions and extremely approachable and friendly. Everyone of us had an amazing experience and fell in love with horses 😍.Written 2 September 2023
- 468betseys0 contributionsTRIP OF A LIFETIME!!!!Amazing!!! 8 days of riding. 6 through the highlands and 2 on the coast. The terrain and scenery were breathtaking. They fed us like royalty, the horses were excellent, and the staff was outstanding. They really looked out for us to make sure we had a wonderful experience. I have horses and ride regularly but was still a little concerned about going 8 days straight.(I'm 70), but the horses are such a pleasure to ride I had no soreness. that includes my niece who does not get to ride regularly. I'm already thinking about arranging my next tour. Rode new horses, saw new scenery and made new friends. Awesome!Written 27 July 2023
- TylerFromAUS0 contributionsWell Organised, EnjoyableI decided to go on a ride for two reasons, the most important being to make my expert rider wife jealous. I opted for a private ride as I am almost a total novice - the kind of rider who is probably better classified as cargo than rider. There was a video on what to do and what not to do, I was matched with a good looking sturdy horse whose name I can't pronounce, let alone spell, and I set off behind my Romanian/Icelandic guide. I was given the option of how to approach the ride and I chose to go with maximum efficiency, by which I mean I sat on the horses back like a Spaghetti Western actor on their first day, pretending to hold the reigns whilst the horse did all the work and I enjoyed the scenery at a leisurely pace. Usually I find having a conversation with people has become almost impossible, even bartenders seem reticent to say more than two words nowadays - my guide however engaged my in an interesting conversation about the Icelandic horse and Iceland in general for the whole ride. On our return I was able to spend as much time patting the horse as I desired. The facilities were clean and the horses looked hoppy and well to my novice eye - all in all it was a great experience and even if you are a novice like me you will be fine.Written 25 July 2023
- RoadWarrior2980 contributionsShort changedBooked a 2 hour private hack for my 15 year old daughter, who is a competent rider Arrived at the very nice venue to a nice welcome The ride was good and my daughter enjoyed it, but can’t score more than 2 stars as we booked and paid for a 2 hour hack and the whole thing was only 1 hour 40 minutes I really don’t like being short changed. We could have booked a shorter hack but we explicitly agreed and paid for 2 hours A great pity as everything else was pretty goodWritten 23 July 2023
- S7702SOhannar0 contributionsWonderful experience!Icelandic horse is a big part of icelandic culture, so when in Iceland, you need to experience a horse ride. I am a regular rider and I love horses. I was happy to see how they take care of horses at Ishestar. Horses were calm, comfortable and very friendly. Before the ride, they asked everybody their level of experience and found a proper horse for all of us. My horse was called Tigull which means diamond, and that he really was. We started the ride with a group of 20, but soon divided into a faster and a slower group. They made sure that all in a faster group were prepared for the pace and could handle their horses. So the ride went smoothly and we experienced several long toltrides. The views were amazing and we also made a photostop where the guides took photos of everybody on a horse. The guides also told us many interesting things about Iceland and icelandic horses. All in all, it was a very nice experience and I highly recommend Ishestar.Written 30 June 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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5.0
292 reviews
Excellent
247
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27
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Jay W
Alsager, UK1 contribution
An amazing day out with extremely friendly staff and Icelandic ponies.
I’d highly recommend people experience this, my fiancé is an avid rider who has years of experience. I was a first time rider. Both of us had an equally great experience. They make two groups the slower and faster group. The faster group was about trotting and introducing tolt which my fiancé managed to do (with amazing help from the guides).
I went with the slower group, you’re asked when choosing your horse how much experience you’ve had, if you’re nervous and if you’re up for an adventure. I was lead to a horse called Fleygur who I didn’t realise at the time has had some reviews wrote about him on here. I personally think his free spirited nature and personality made my experience better than it would have been on a different horse. He wanted to be at the front so he could work, I was told he sometimes works as a guide horse so his nature is to guide. He would always test to see if I was paying attention by going for food when he could.
Some have mentioned his habit of rolling, now when we got to the break point one of the guides (unfortunately can’t remember but she’s relatively new and from Denmark) asked if I could dismount my horse. Which I did after having photos etc. sure enough he tried to roll which everyone found quite amusing. I think the company have realised he will want to do this and now ensure they have more control of the situation to prevent any potential incidents in the future.
All in all, it’s really opened my eyes to a new potential interest of mine. That I’d never really considered before. The guides were extremely friendly, happy to talk (as I chewed their ear off with multiple questions) not just about horses but the local wildlife, how the lava fields formed, and other interesting pieces about Iceland and themselves.
I would happily go again, I felt very safe, very informed on what to do to control my horse and above all had an amazing day out.
I’d highly recommend people experience this, my fiancé is an avid rider who has years of experience. I was a first time rider. Both of us had an equally great experience. They make two groups the slower and faster group. The faster group was about trotting and introducing tolt which my fiancé managed to do (with amazing help from the guides).
I went with the slower group, you’re asked when choosing your horse how much experience you’ve had, if you’re nervous and if you’re up for an adventure. I was lead to a horse called Fleygur who I didn’t realise at the time has had some reviews wrote about him on here. I personally think his free spirited nature and personality made my experience better than it would have been on a different horse. He wanted to be at the front so he could work, I was told he sometimes works as a guide horse so his nature is to guide. He would always test to see if I was paying attention by going for food when he could.
Some have mentioned his habit of rolling, now when we got to the break point one of the guides (unfortunately can’t remember but she’s relatively new and from Denmark) asked if I could dismount my horse. Which I did after having photos etc. sure enough he tried to roll which everyone found quite amusing. I think the company have realised he will want to do this and now ensure they have more control of the situation to prevent any potential incidents in the future.
All in all, it’s really opened my eyes to a new potential interest of mine. That I’d never really considered before. The guides were extremely friendly, happy to talk (as I chewed their ear off with multiple questions) not just about horses but the local wildlife, how the lava fields formed, and other interesting pieces about Iceland and themselves.
I would happily go again, I felt very safe, very informed on what to do to control my horse and above all had an amazing day out.
Written 30 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sam H
3 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
My daughter and I absolutely loved this! The riding centre is really well organised, emails sent in advance of the tour were answered quickly, with a link to the nearest bus stop to our apartment. On arriving we were welcomed & watched a short video and were quickly set up with warm waterproof jumpsuits and riding hats - there was a big group, over 20 riders, in spite of it being pretty cold! We were asked about our riding experience and given a suitable horse based on this, and taken out to mount. Once everyone was on and ready, we walked out in a line. One of the guides was checking whether riders were with the rest of their party/friends and offering to put friends & family together if they weren’t already. After 15 minutes, we split into 2 groups, one to continue to walk, and one to go faster. Out of the group about 7 chose the faster side - the guide told us that they usually allow adventurous beginners to join but today they were only taking experienced riders as the tracks were very icy, which was great for us as we ended up in a smaller group of people who could ride. To begin 2 guides came with us, until they could see that we were all doing well enough with trot/tolt, and we did the rest of the tour with one guide, the other joining the larger walking group. We got to do lots of stretches of tolt, the horses were lovely, responsive and forwards. The trails were very icy but the horses were fine! The horses get to have a 15 minute break in the middle of the tour on top of a hill, and the guide took photos for us all and talked us through the development, history and special gaits of the Icelandic horse whilst they rested, along with some information about the landscape we were riding though. The sunrise gave us gorgeous pink and orange clouds against the snowy landscape. It was just beautiful. My daughter and I loved it, thought it was one of the best riding experiences we have had, we are both so glad we did it. When we got back, our bus was ready so we got hot chocolate to go and warmed up on our journey back. Initially I was worried that this might be way too cold and therefore not so fun, but I was very wrong, the jumpsuits are perfect as long as you have some layers underneath and something to keep head/hands feet warm too. We’ve never ridden a tolt before, it’s so smooth! I would totally recommend this for all levels of rider, they really looked after everyone very well. The guides are attentive, knowledgeable and friendly. It’s a big place, so you’re likely to be in a larger group, but it seemed to me to be run very, very efficiently. We’d definitely return here. Thanks so much for a lovely ride, Ishestar!
Written 8 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gregory D
Brantford, Canada8 contributions
Aug 2021
Our three guides were friendly, helpful and professional with the horses, and very knowledgeable about the lava fields. Although our day was rainy, windy, and grey; although our rain gear didn't keep our lower halves dry we still had a wonderful time riding through the fields on those beautiful horses. One of our guides even stated that we now could say we experienced horse riding in "proper Icelandic weather", and that's something to be proud of. Rain, shine, or grey sky this is an experience you shouldn't skip.
Written 2 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Annie M.
14 contributions
Aug 2022
This was a fantastic venture and I'm so glad we did it. It was a big barn, lots of horses and lots of people, but they were incredibly professional and they had the staff to make it work. I grew up owning and riding horses and can say that they seemed to be very well cared-for and "bomb proof." :) Pick up at our hotel (bus stop #13) was smooth and timely. We lucked out with beautiful weather! Some things to consider: they will split you into 2 groups, a faster group and a slower group. We were told that experts, intermediate and advanced beginner riders, and even total beginners but who were adventurous could go in the faster group. I did not realize when I chose the "slower" group, that this group would only walk -- no trotting was allowed. I wish I had maybe chosen the other group because my daughter was very upset with me that we did not get to experience the famous Icelandic horse trot (can't remember the name for it). That's really the only reason why I gave it a 4. I wish they had spelled it out that the slower group would only walk. Oh, and they do have boots, overalls, etc. available, but you will need to request it perhaps when you get there. Most people wore hiking boots, and I even saw some sneakers, though I would not recommend that. The guides were lovely and we felt very safe. Definitely recommend!
Written 17 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tina B
4 contributions
Aug 2023 • Solo
Pick up went smooth, but when I arrived there it was all big rush and I never knew what is next.
You can borrow your riding gear there but the lack of staff didn't provide a lot of help for unexperienced persons. The huge group around 25 people very extremely mixed regarding training level.
All the equipment was in rough shape and dirty, like plankets on the paddock ground, saddles on the floor, reins almost falling apart (like mine, too short, unfortunately saw it too late), etc. Not very well cared of.
The training and safety video was very professional which everybody must watch. Everything was all rushed (choosing horses, climbing up, adjusting the riding equipment...), they had several groups of tours of around 25 to 30 people. The horses all saddled up in the paddock. Really hurried mass processing, no individual care. But they treated the horses nice.
The horses were in good shape, well cared horseshoes, muscular and trusting but very food motivated. The saddles and bridles were not well adjusted to the individual horses.
The horse I rode was nice but he ignored my hints and helps at the beginning, very hard mouth ( lying on the hand) and until the guide told us how to get into Tölt correctly it was very hard to get a clear trot or tölt, he jumped from gait to gait. Nevertheless, as I am an experienced rider I figured it out quite early. But clearly the horses are not trained well or don't get corrections after all the beginners/tourists. The group with more than 25 riders was huge with considerable age and level difference. Fortunately was split up in a smaller group with experienced riders.
There were 3 guides in the beginning, after splitting 1 for experienced ones with 8 persons. This guide (I suppose a Polish girl) was very nice and helpful and tried to provide us good hack with lots of Tölt and challenging terrain in the lava fields, spooking horses one even stumbled and fell down (nobody injured, she cared a lot about the horses). Explained a lot and gave us hints and tricks so the quality improved. She did an excellent job! Thank you guide.
After all I CANNOT RECOMMEND the mass processing and the neglecting care of customers and the rush, probably the horses as well, I experienced better riding tours all over the world (I am a flight attendant, at least 20 tours). I literally was sweeped out after the tour, no coffee, no toilet break to get the pick up.
There are better riding stables around Reykjavik to provide individual care with no rush.
You can borrow your riding gear there but the lack of staff didn't provide a lot of help for unexperienced persons. The huge group around 25 people very extremely mixed regarding training level.
All the equipment was in rough shape and dirty, like plankets on the paddock ground, saddles on the floor, reins almost falling apart (like mine, too short, unfortunately saw it too late), etc. Not very well cared of.
The training and safety video was very professional which everybody must watch. Everything was all rushed (choosing horses, climbing up, adjusting the riding equipment...), they had several groups of tours of around 25 to 30 people. The horses all saddled up in the paddock. Really hurried mass processing, no individual care. But they treated the horses nice.
The horses were in good shape, well cared horseshoes, muscular and trusting but very food motivated. The saddles and bridles were not well adjusted to the individual horses.
The horse I rode was nice but he ignored my hints and helps at the beginning, very hard mouth ( lying on the hand) and until the guide told us how to get into Tölt correctly it was very hard to get a clear trot or tölt, he jumped from gait to gait. Nevertheless, as I am an experienced rider I figured it out quite early. But clearly the horses are not trained well or don't get corrections after all the beginners/tourists. The group with more than 25 riders was huge with considerable age and level difference. Fortunately was split up in a smaller group with experienced riders.
There were 3 guides in the beginning, after splitting 1 for experienced ones with 8 persons. This guide (I suppose a Polish girl) was very nice and helpful and tried to provide us good hack with lots of Tölt and challenging terrain in the lava fields, spooking horses one even stumbled and fell down (nobody injured, she cared a lot about the horses). Explained a lot and gave us hints and tricks so the quality improved. She did an excellent job! Thank you guide.
After all I CANNOT RECOMMEND the mass processing and the neglecting care of customers and the rush, probably the horses as well, I experienced better riding tours all over the world (I am a flight attendant, at least 20 tours). I literally was sweeped out after the tour, no coffee, no toilet break to get the pick up.
There are better riding stables around Reykjavik to provide individual care with no rush.
Written 29 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
M.B.
8 contributions
Mar 2022
We had such an amazing experience riding horses via Ishestar. From the pick-up service from every possible bus stop in the city center to making you feel super comfortable with the horses, everything was great. We did pick a very cold day to go on this tour, but the staff gave us extra winter-suits to keep us nice and warm during the ride.
The horses are super friendly but spirited and after the trip you get some time to cuddle and feed them (with "horse candy" as they call it). It's just such a special breed of horses and riding them through the thick layers of snow was amazing. Would def do this again if we find ourselves back in Iceland.
The horses are super friendly but spirited and after the trip you get some time to cuddle and feed them (with "horse candy" as they call it). It's just such a special breed of horses and riding them through the thick layers of snow was amazing. Would def do this again if we find ourselves back in Iceland.
Written 19 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
davidmarf
15 contributions
My wife and I try to go horseback riding wherever we go. Our experience here was easily the best one we have had. Before going on the ride we were shown a very helpful video of how to ride the horses. The staff were friendly and professional. They split up the group between those who wanted a gentle ride and those interested in more excitement. The Horses were small and spirited. While they clearly knew the route they were quite responsive so that even when walking they were fun to ride. Even though there was plenty of mud in the area where we treated the horses, the operation was the cleanest riding operation we ever encountered.
Written 3 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lmfmedia
Newburyport, MA7 contributions
Had a fantastic private ride with one of the managers, Patty who was super friendly and fun to talk with during our ride. She paired me with a well mannered gelding that had a great work ethic. This was my first time experiencing the special gait unique to Icelandic horses called the Tolt, and he happily picked up a Tolt when asked and motored along so smoothly. What a comfortable, smooth ride and awesome way to experience the beauty of the lava fields and glacier valley in the park right next to their stable.
This was a quick 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavik, I’d highly recommend this business and ask for Patty, she was wonderful!
This was a quick 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavik, I’d highly recommend this business and ask for Patty, she was wonderful!
Written 9 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your kind words and what lovely pictures of you and Vindheimur.
I'm glad you enjoyed the ride with us and had such a good time with Patty!
We hope to see you again some time if you ever come back to visit Iceland and the horses.
Written 10 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
mtrodgers99
Montreal, Canada396 contributions
Aug 2022
I understand that there is an inherent risk when taking a horseback ride. Despite being trained, they can be plain unpredictable or they can be spooked into doing something dangerous for the rider. However, I think it is fair to expect that a stable would not use an animal that has any habitual dangerous behaviour.
This was not my first horseback ride, but I have only novice skill at this. In my experience at the Is Hestar stable (on August 15 in the afternoon in case management wishes to discuss this with the guides) our ride started normal enough. When the group split to accomodate the guests that wished to have more than a walking experience, I stayed in the group that preferred to have only the walking experience. When the horses reached a grassy clearing, the guides advised us to let the horses eat; the horse were now on their regulation rest period. My horse (his name sounds like Fraygurr if you wish to avoid him) wandered a bit and then started nibbling the grass. After a couple of minutes, I felt him start to go towards the ground. I was at a loss what to do, when I heard someone yell "he's going to roll over!" The horse continued his downward action. Somehow I jumped off and had the presence of mind to roll away so that the horse couldn't hurt me. Sure enough, the horse was on his back squirming around like he had an itch.
The horse stood up. A guide came over to check on me. What she said shocked me. She said something like "I was watching him. I couldn't reach him so I shouted the warning to you. He often does that in this clearing. We normally manage to stop him."
It didn't sink into my conciousness until later that they put me on a horse with a known bad behaviour that could have seriously injured or even killed me.
This was not my first horseback ride, but I have only novice skill at this. In my experience at the Is Hestar stable (on August 15 in the afternoon in case management wishes to discuss this with the guides) our ride started normal enough. When the group split to accomodate the guests that wished to have more than a walking experience, I stayed in the group that preferred to have only the walking experience. When the horses reached a grassy clearing, the guides advised us to let the horses eat; the horse were now on their regulation rest period. My horse (his name sounds like Fraygurr if you wish to avoid him) wandered a bit and then started nibbling the grass. After a couple of minutes, I felt him start to go towards the ground. I was at a loss what to do, when I heard someone yell "he's going to roll over!" The horse continued his downward action. Somehow I jumped off and had the presence of mind to roll away so that the horse couldn't hurt me. Sure enough, the horse was on his back squirming around like he had an itch.
The horse stood up. A guide came over to check on me. What she said shocked me. She said something like "I was watching him. I couldn't reach him so I shouted the warning to you. He often does that in this clearing. We normally manage to stop him."
It didn't sink into my conciousness until later that they put me on a horse with a known bad behaviour that could have seriously injured or even killed me.
Written 7 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to review us.
We are sorry you did not have a pleasant experience with our lovely horse Fleygur. He is a gentle giant but also a free spirit.
As always there are certain elements that we can not 100% control when dealing with living animals. It is a very normal behavior for horses though to drop and roll in the paddocks after the ride once the saddles have been taken off and the horses know that they should wait until after their tack has been removed to do so. It seems that Fleygur wanted to do some rolling on the nice soft grass and took the chance to do so, we will have a discussion about the incident so I thank you for bringing this to my attention.
I can assure you that you were never in any danger, although it's rare that a horse lays down with a rider, a rider has never been rolled over as our horses are very gentle around people. We hope to see you again some day if you ever come back to visit Iceland and the horses.
Written 10 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
RuthB9999
Bedford, UK12 contributions
Jun 2022
I did the Afternoon Viking Horseback tour, and this was on of my highlights in Iceland. Booking and admin were really easy, and very people answered my phone and email queries very effectively in the days before. On the day, pickup was exactly as planned.
The actual riding experience was amazing! A wonderful horse with a really knowledgeable and friendly guide. We did loads of tolt, and cantered and walked; all across lava fields and through glorious scenery. It was so beautiful, and a real way to get closer to the Icelandic landscape.
The horses are gorgeous, and they look after them really well.
The actual riding experience was amazing! A wonderful horse with a really knowledgeable and friendly guide. We did loads of tolt, and cantered and walked; all across lava fields and through glorious scenery. It was so beautiful, and a real way to get closer to the Icelandic landscape.
The horses are gorgeous, and they look after them really well.
Written 13 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joe K
Stella, MO3 contributions
Are the saddles all English style? I have some experience with Western saddles but have the opportunity to learn English style. I have a full year to get ready. I will ve on a Viking cruise, is pick-up available close to the cruise terminal?
Jeremy P
Doncaster, UK15 contributions
These are easy to ride as can be, don't worry.
Susan B
Plymouth, UK
My daughter (16) and I would like to book this trip in Feb 23. I am a novice now at my age, but my daughter is a very experienced rider. Could we be split up into different groups on the ride? Susan x
Coriander314
5 contributions
Yes! Our group actually split up because we had a child with us who was too young for the lava ride. They were very accommodating and helped us get everyone in our group the experience they were hoping to have. Also note that on the lava tour, there is an opportunity to choose to break off and do a more advanced ride or continue on with the main group. So you could even start the ride together if you want to.
How far is the location from downtown? How easy is the drive?
Or would they pick up at Fosshotel?
Kat W
8 contributions
Hey I think it was a half hour drive not far from the main city area. We didn't drive but we're collected we stayed at eyja which I don't think was to far from the Foss so they should pick up from there. Most places list this on the bottom of the booking sheet.
Mark P Farrell
Loveland, OH6 contributions
With extra pick up fee, do you pick up at the Alda Hotel Reykjavik, or where nearby if not?
Thor Deegan
Stamford, CT6 contributions
Hi Mark,
I am not the service provider, but I was picked up at my hotel by shuttle bus, yes. i hope that answers your question.
Are you allowed to gallop or just tolt?
travelerM2889GP
Churchville, MD54 contributions
They split you into groups based on experience. Then, they ask what you would like to do. There were areas where we could gallop if we wanted to.
Daphne
Singapore, Singapore1 contribution
Hi, I would like to check if this tour is recommended for children at the age of 4? Can it be accompany by an adult during the horse riding?
travelerM2889GP
Churchville, MD54 contributions
Their website says age 8 minimum.
hellsylvi
Gengenbach, Germany33 contributions
Hello, my daughter is 6 years old. Is there a minimum age necessary? Thanks for your Feedback.
Regards, Sylvia
travelerM2889GP
Churchville, MD54 contributions
How do you arrange hotel pick up? I did not see an option when booking
Malinda53
New Milford, PA128 contributions
We booked the Ishtar Stables excursion through Guide to Iceland and had an option for a Reykjavik pick up but paid an extra fee. They picked us up in a mini van at the time/pick up place we selected.
Pathfinder776554
3 contributions
If you take the 10 a.m tour, at what time would the bus return to Reykjavík?
travelerM2889GP
Churchville, MD54 contributions
We just returned from this tour. They picked us up at 10, we rode for 2 hours and returned to our hotel by 2
Julie
Andover, UK4 contributions
Do you arrange hotel pickup after booking I can't see an option