Red Lava Horse Riding Tour From Reykjavik

The draw here is the chance to ride an Icelandic horse through lava terrain formed by an eruption about 5,000 years ago, just outside Reykjavik. You get a close look at the country’s volcanic ground from horseback, not through a coach window.

I like two things in particular: the guides match the horse and route to the group’s riding ability, and the ride can include a chance to try the Icelandic horse’s distinctive tölt. Rain clothes and winter overalls are available, a welcome bit of practical thinking in Iceland.

The main caution is the weather under hoof. Cold, wind, rain and even ice can change the feel of the ride, so dress warmly and take the guides’ advice about conditions. If the trails are icy, this may not be the easygoing outing you pictured.

• Ride across old lava terrain: The route takes you through red hills and natural paths near Heiðmörk Nature Reserve.
• A route for mixed abilities: The outing covers about 5 to 7 km, with the route adjusted to riders’ experience.
• A chance to try the tölt: Guides may offer riders the chance to experience this distinctive Icelandic gait.
• Gear is available: Rain clothes and winter overalls can help when Iceland’s weather turns.
• Pickup is offered: Arrange collection from a Reykjavik hotel, guesthouse or the BSI Bus Terminal.
• A small-group format: The tour has a maximum of 15 participants, with hands-on guidance.

Getting ready at Solhestar

The tour begins at Solhestar Horse Rental Reykjavik, at Surtlugata 19. If you arrange pickup, the stable is a short drive from central Reykjavik, according to the tour details, though pickup is offered only from hotels, guesthouses and the BSI Bus Terminal.

Allow about 30 minutes at the start for preparation. You’ll be offered rain clothes or winter overalls, then matched with a horse. That pairing matters, especially if you’re new to riding or feel unsure around horses. The guides take your ability into account, and the route can be adjusted for the group.

The horse is an Icelandic, a breed known for a smooth gait called the tölt. Riders who are comfortable may get a chance to try it during the ride. You don’t need riding experience to join, but tell the guides honestly how you feel and what you’ve done before. A gentle walk may be the right pace for you, and you should not feel obliged to try a faster gait.

Preparation can take longer with a larger group. There are no more than 15 people, but fitting everyone with gear, selecting horses and getting mounted takes time. Think of this as part of the outing, not wasted riding time.

Riding through Heiðmörk’s red lava hills

The ride heads into the area around Heiðmörk Nature Reserve and Hólmsheiði, where the old lava ground shapes the route. The tour describes the volcanic hills as about 5,000 years old. You’ll travel along natural riding paths through a striking setting of red rock and moss-covered lava.

The route is roughly 5 to 7 km, with the final distance depending on the group’s experience. Beginners can take a smooth path along the Red Hills. A group of more experienced riders may follow a route by Rauðavatn instead. The guides decide which route fits the riders, so don’t assume you can choose a particular track when booking.

Rauðavatn adds another layer to the outing. Iceland’s early forestry work began here at the start of the 20th century, a reminder that the country’s story is not only volcanic. The ride is still focused on horses and open ground, rather than a long historical talk, but this small detail gives the area a human connection.

Expect about 1.5 to 2 hours in the saddle within a total tour time of around 2.5 hours. That is enough time to settle into the horse’s rhythm and take in the scenery, while still leaving room for the practical work at the stable. Be prepared for a little saddle soreness if you are not used to riding.

What the Icelandic horse adds

The horse is central to the appeal here, not just a way to get from one view to the next. Icelandic horses are a familiar part of the country’s identity, and this ride gives you a chance to meet one at close range. The horses are described as calm and suitable for a range of riders, but they are living animals with different temperaments. Follow the guide’s instructions and speak up if you feel uneasy.

The tölt is a special draw for many riders. It is a gait associated with Icelandic horses, and the guides may let those who want to try it experience it at a suitable pace. It is not a guaranteed feature at a particular speed, and beginners should focus first on feeling secure in the saddle.

The staff provide ongoing support during the ride, not only a quick safety briefing before you leave. That can be reassuring if this is your first time on a horse. Guides Claudia and Klara were singled out by name for their helpful service, but the practical point is broader: the guides are there to help you stay comfortable and choose a pace that suits you.

Weather, clothing and trail conditions

Iceland’s weather can change quickly, and a horseback ride leaves you exposed to wind and rain. Wear warm layers, sturdy socks and gloves, and use the rain gear or winter overalls offered at the stable. Several riders wished they had worn the provided waterproof clothing, while others found that warm gloves made a real difference. A warm drink has been offered after some rides, but dress as if you’ll need to stay comfortable without relying on one.

The season matters, too. A late-October ride on icy trails was stressful for one rider, whose horse struggled for footing. That is a useful warning, not a reason to assume every autumn ride is unsafe. Still, conditions can change the character of the trip. If there has been snow or freezing weather, ask about the trail before you set out, and take the guide’s judgment seriously.

Some riders found the horses gentle and the route easy; others noted that a horse could have more spirit than expected. If you have balance concerns, are nervous, or simply prefer a quiet walk, say so before mounting. One rider also found the English saddle unfamiliar, a reminder that the balance may feel different from what you expect. The guides can help you make a sensible choice, but this is an outdoor riding activity, not a carriage ride.

Choosing pickup and departure time

You can book a morning or afternoon departure. The morning tour starts at 9:30, with pickup beginning at 9:00. The afternoon tour starts at 13:30, with pickup beginning at 13:00. Pickup can take up to 20 minutes, so be ready at the stated collection point and keep your Icelandic phone number current in your booking details.

Pickup is available from Reykjavik hotels, guesthouses and the BSI Bus Terminal. It is not listed as a general pickup service from any address, so check your voucher carefully. If you are meeting at the stable, use the listed address: Surtlugata 19, 110 Reykjavík. The activity ends back there.

There is a strict timing note for pickup: if you are not at the collection point within five minutes after pickup begins, your booking may be canceled. That makes this a poor activity to squeeze between a late breakfast and another appointment. Build in a little breathing room, especially if you have luggage or need to find your pickup spot.

Is $139.13 good value?

At $139.13 per person, this is not a long full-day excursion. It is a focused, roughly 2.5-hour activity, with about 1.5 to 2 hours riding. The value comes from the combination of guided riding, horse matching, available weather gear and access to volcanic terrain close to Reykjavik. Pickup is offered, but check the booking details to see which option you have selected and whether it changes the cost.

For a first-time rider, hands-on guidance and a route adapted to the group can be worth more than covering a longer distance. For an experienced rider, the chance to ride an Icelandic horse and try the tölt may be the main reason to pay. Just keep expectations grounded: the ride is about 5 to 7 km, and a mixed-ability group may move at a moderate pace.

The outing is recommended by 96 percent of participants and has a rating of 4.8 from 386 reviews. That is a strong record, though it does not remove the risks of poor weather or icy footing. The tour is capped at 15 people, and the listed maximum weight is 110 kg. Check that limit before booking if it applies to you.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time. If poor weather causes the operator to cancel, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund. Those terms add flexibility, but they do not make last-minute changes easy, so check your plans before the 24-hour cutoff.

Who should book this ride?

This is a good fit if you want to spend time with Icelandic horses without leaving Reykjavik for a full day, or if you’re a beginner who would value patient guidance. It can also work for a group with different riding abilities, since the route and pace can be adjusted. Families may enjoy it, though the supplied details do not set a minimum age, so check before booking for children.

Experienced riders may find the ride appealing for the horse and the possibility of trying the tölt, rather than for speed or distance. If you want a demanding trail ride, this may be too gentle or short. And if you have balance problems, are uncomfortable around horses, or are booking during a spell of icy weather, ask questions before committing.

I’d book it for the chance to experience an Icelandic horse on lava paths close to the capital, with sensible support for beginners. I’d choose a day with a promising forecast, dress more warmly than the temperature alone suggests, and stay flexible about the route. If that sounds like a good way to spend a half-day, this ride is a practical and memorable choice.

FAQ

How long is the Red Lava Horse Riding Tour?

The tour lasts about 2.5 hours in total, including preparation. The ride itself takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

How far do you ride?

The route is about 5 to 7 km. The distance depends on the experience of the riders and the route selected by the guides.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?

Yes. The tour is described as suitable for beginners and more experienced riders, and the route can be adapted to the group.

Can I try the tölt?

Riders may be offered a chance to experience the Icelandic horse’s tölt. The opportunity and pace depend on the group and the ride.

Is pickup available in Reykjavik?

Pickup is offered from hotels, guesthouses and the BSI Bus Terminal. Check your voucher for the pickup details.

What time do the tours depart?

The morning tour starts at 9:30, and the afternoon tour starts at 13:30. Pickup begins 30 minutes before each departure.

What clothing is provided?

Rain clothes and winter overalls are available at the stable. Warm layers, good socks and gloves are also useful.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes. The maximum listed weight is 110 kg.

What happens if bad weather cancels the ride?

If the tour is canceled because of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.