Horse Riding Tour in Reykjadalur (Smoky Valley)-All Riding Levels

Reykjadalur is already a cool idea, smoky steam valley views close to Reykjavik, and this horseback ride gives you a way to see it from the back of a 5-gaited Icelandic horse. I especially like that it’s beginner-friendly, so you are not starting from scratch on a wet, windy trail. You get a short, guided outing that feels hands-on without being exhausting, which is rare in Iceland.

The main thing to plan for is comfort in bugs and weather. On one ride, a guest said there were nonstop bugs and no bug netting for helmets, and it nearly ruined the day for them, even though the horses and guides were great. If bugs are an issue for you, plan accordingly so this stays fun from minute one.

Quick reasons this ride is a good bet

• Small-group feel: capped at a small maximum, with hands-on help when you mount and while you ride
• Icelandic horses with the fifth gait: you can experience that signature extra gait, often described as tolt
• Gear included: winter jumpsuit, rain clothing, and helmets mean you can travel lighter
• Close to Reykjavik: about 45 minutes away, so it fits cleanly into a day
• For beginners and families: ages start at 9, and you do not need prior riding time

Reykjadalur Horse Riding, a classic Iceland day plan

Reykjadalur sits near Hveragerði, and it’s one of those places that feels instantly “Iceland” once you get there. This horse tour turns that familiar day-trip area into something more active, with the kind of countryside ride that lets you slow down and watch what’s happening around you.

The tour is short by design, about 2 hours total, with roughly 1.5 hours out on the trail. That matters because in Iceland you can burn a lot of daylight just getting places, then another chunk waiting around. Here, you get mounted, guided, and moving at a manageable time scale.

The horses: what makes Icelandic riding different

This is a ride on classic Icelandic horses, specifically a 5-gaited breed. For first-time riders, the big win is that these horses are built for trail travel and for learning with a guide nearby.

The reviews also make it clear that the horses are generally well-behaved and clean, not the kind of chaotic animal you fear you might be stuck with. You might still get a little spirit, as one guest described, but that’s part of the charm with Icelandic horses. They feel alive, without feeling unsafe.

The tour includes the chance to experience the fifth gait, commonly talked about as tolt. One review framed it as getting a taste for the most famous Icelandic movement, and it’s a big reason people say this ride is worth repeating. Even if you don’t fully master it, you’ll know you tried the signature thing.

Beginner-friendly help that actually helps

I love when a beginner tour doesn’t just say you’re welcome, it actually teaches you. Here, the guiding shows up in the details: mounts, pacing, and how to hold yourself in the saddle.

Multiple reviews point to friendly, patient guidance, including guides described as two French guides who were lovely and knowledgeable, and another guest who praised a guide who was a young woman from Germany for being sweet. You also see a consistent theme, teaching you how to ride so you can focus on the experience instead of panic.

Small groups are another quiet advantage. The activity is capped at a maximum number of travelers, and that usually means less waiting and more time with the guide. In practice, that can be the difference between just following along and actually learning what you’re doing.

What happens during the ride: pace, rivers, and that signature gait

The route is focused on getting you out into the valley scenery quickly and comfortably, not on a long endurance trek. One rider described the general feel as slow and simple for most of the ride, with the walking pace dominating a large chunk of time.

You should expect a mix of trail and natural terrain, with at least occasional wading or crossing. One guest noted riding through a few low rivers, which is a big part of why Iceland horse riding feels so different from a tame arena experience. You’re also likely to spend time in fields and near the base of the mountain area around Reykjadalur.

As for speed, you may get to quicken at certain moments. One review specifically mentioned a faster pace in brief bursts, including gallop several times. Since guides adjust to the group and conditions, treat that as a possible bonus, not a guarantee. Either way, the tour’s design keeps it manageable.

Gear you do not have to shop for in Iceland

This tour includes winter gear items that matter in Iceland, especially in shoulder seasons or when the sky turns gray. You’ll get a winter jumpsuit, rain clothing, and a helmet. That’s a big value point, because winter gear in Iceland can be expensive or a hassle to pack.

Coffee and/or tea is also included. It might sound small, but for a short outing, it helps you feel taken care of instead of just dropped off.

One review said everything was supplied, and that meant no need to bring much beyond personal comfort items. That is the kind of travel win you feel, because it reduces the “what did I forget” stress.

The bug issue: how to protect your day

Here’s the one comfort risk that stands out. One guest said they had no bug nets for the helmet and described swarms that made the ride miserable, especially for a child who was upset. Another guest later said bug nets were provided and that flies were bad that year everywhere.

So the truth is: conditions can vary, and so can what gets handed out. If you hate bugs, consider bringing your own bug protection plan or dressing in a way that gives you coverage for your face and neck. Also, keep your expectations realistic in bug season, because wading and low river areas can mean more insects.

Price and value: is $126.50 fair for 2 hours?

At $126.50 per person for around 2 hours (with about 1.5 hours riding), this is not a cheap activity. But it can be good value for Iceland if you compare it to the full package.

You get:

• winter jumpsuit and rain clothing
• helmet
• coffee and/or tea
• a guided ride on Icelandic horses with beginner support

That included gear is the big driver of value. If you were renting a jacket, searching for proper rain protection, and buying a helmet on top of a trail guide, you’d feel the cost faster. Here, the cost is concentrated in the experience itself, and you show up ready to ride.

Also, the small-group cap helps. Fewer riders usually means more attention and a better learning curve, which is especially important for first-timers.

Logistics that keep things simple

You meet at Sólhestar Horse Rental Reykjadalur in Vorsabæjarvellir Valley, Reykjadalur 9, 810 Hveragerði. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

Pickup at hotels is not included, so plan on getting yourself there. The good news is the tour is close to Reykjavik by Iceland standards, around 45 minutes away. That makes it easier to build a day that includes other sights without losing half your day to transit.

The tour is offered in English, and you’ll have a mobile ticket. Confirmation happens at booking time.

Who should book this horse ride, and who might not

This is a strong fit if you want a classic Iceland activity without committing to a full-day hike. Beginners do especially well here, and it’s friendly for families, with an age minimum of 9.

It also suits travelers who want the Icelandic horse experience, including that fifth gait. If that’s on your Iceland bucket list, a short, well-guided ride is often the easiest way to check it off.

You might choose something else if:

• bugs can ruin your tolerance for outdoor time (some people had a rough ride due to insects)
• you strongly dislike even short roadside walking, because one review raised a concern about walking near a road shoulder for part of the route

Even with those caveats, most people describe the horses as calm and the guides as helpful, which is the real baseline you need for a positive ride.

Weather matters, so plan for gray skies

This tour requires good weather. Iceland tours frequently do, because safety comes first, and conditions can change quickly.

One review specifically said dreary weather did not stop the experience, which matches how Iceland really works. Think of the ride as a “go and ride” plan, not a “perfect sunshine” guarantee.

If the weather cancels the tour, the policy is to offer a different date or a full refund, so you’re not left stuck with nothing.

Final call: should you book this Reykjadalur ride?

I’d book this tour if you want:

• a beginner-friendly way to ride in Iceland
• a guided experience on Icelandic horses
• included gear that saves you from packing or renting
• an easy day-trip plan from Reykjavik

I would hesitate or go in with extra bug prep if you are especially sensitive to insects. One bad bug season can turn a great ride into a tough one, even with excellent horses and guides.

If you get the chance, prioritize booking with enough flexibility. When Iceland weather cooperates, this is the kind of activity that gives you real movement, real countryside views from horseback, and that memorable fifth gait moment.

FAQ

How long is the horse riding tour in Reykjadalur?

The tour is listed as approximately 2 hours. It’s described as a 1.5 hour riding experience within that overall time.

Do I need prior horseback riding experience?

No. The tour is beginner-friendly and says you do not need prior experience to participate.

What ages can participate?

Adults and children from 9 years old can take part.

What is included with the tour price?

Included are a winter jumpsuit, rain clothing, helmets, and coffee and/or tea.

Is hotel pickup included?

No, pickup at hotels is not included.

Where do I meet for the tour?

You meet at Sólhestar Horse Rental Reykjadalur, Vorsabæjarvellir Valley, Reykjadalur 9, 810 Hveragerði, Iceland. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

Are there any weight limits?

Yes. The maximum weight limit is 110 kg.

What happens if the weather is bad or I need to cancel?

You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience starts. The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.