Red Lava Horse Riding Tour From Reykjavik

The best part of this tour is the chance to ride an Icelandic horse across 5,000-year-old lava fields only a short distance from Reykjavik. You are not stuck in an indoor riding ring. The route follows natural paths among red hills, mossy lava, and open countryside, with views that feel distinctly Icelandic.

I like the careful horse matching and the fact that guides adjust the route to the group. I also like the chance to try the tölt, the smooth four-beat gait for which Icelandic horses are famous. The main caution is weather: rain, wind, sleet, snow, and icy trails can change a gentle outing into a harder ride, so the season and forecast matter.

Key points to know before booking

• Ride through ancient red lava: The route passes volcanic hills in Heiðmörk and Hólmsheiði, with Rauðavatn nearby.
• Good for first-time riders: Guides give help before and during the ride, and beginners can stay at a walk if they prefer.
• Experienced riders get options: The group may use a smooth path by the Redhills or a more active route near Rauðavatn.
• Weather gear is supplied: Rainwear and winter overalls are available, and you can also use riding boots.
• Pickup saves time: Door-to-door service is available from Reykjavik hotels, guesthouses, and the BSI Bus Terminal.
• Small-group setting: The maximum is 15 people, with about 1.5 to 2 hours actually spent riding.

Riding Icelandic horses beside Reykjavik

Icelandic horses are smaller and sturdy-looking, but they are not simply ponies for children. They are sure-footed, friendly animals with a distinctive gait called the tölt. On this tour, you may get the chance to feel it yourself, usually after the guide has seen how comfortable you are in the saddle.

That makes the ride more than a basic walk on horseback. You may begin at an easy pace, then try a little more speed or the tölt when the trail and group allow. If you are new to horses, you do not need to arrive ready for a fast ride. The guides pair horses with riders carefully and continue offering instructions along the way.

I especially like that the route is adjusted to the people in the group. A beginner group can take a smooth riding path along the Redhills. More experienced riders may follow a route near Rauðavatn, where there can be more room to make use of the horses’ abilities.

The ride covers about 5 to 7 kilometers. That distance sounds modest, but sitting in an English saddle for up to two hours can leave your legs and seat a little sore. If you have never ridden before, listen to the guide, relax your grip, and avoid trying to force the horse into a faster gait.

Getting ready at Sólhestar, about 30 minutes

The tour begins at Sólhestar Horse Rental Reykjavik on Surtlugata 19. The preparation period takes roughly half an hour, and this is an important part of the experience rather than dead time.

You receive safety and riding instructions, get fitted with equipment, and are matched with a horse. Staff provide rain clothing and winter overalls, which can make a major difference in Iceland’s changeable weather. Riding boots are also available, according to the experience details and direct feedback from the tour.

Take the offered gear seriously. A waterproof outer layer can matter more than the temperature on your phone. Wind can cut through ordinary clothing, and wet trousers become uncomfortable fast when you are sitting in a saddle. Wear warm socks, bring gloves suitable for wet weather, and use the supplied rainwear even if the sky looks harmless at the stable.

This is also where the guides can judge the mix of the group. A nervous first-time rider may be paired with a calm horse and given extra attention. A rider with more experience may be given an animal and route that allow a little more movement.

The process can take longer when the group is large, since everyone must be dressed, mounted, and adjusted. The maximum group size is 15, so this is not a private ride, but it is still small enough for hands-on help.

Heiðmörk and the red lava hills

The first riding area is Heiðmörk Nature Reserve, known here for its red volcanic hills and moss-covered lava. The volcanic rock comes from an eruption roughly 5,000 years ago, giving the outing a strong sense of place. You are riding through the remains of Iceland’s volcanic past rather than simply passing it from a tour bus window.

The red rocks make this route visually different from the black lava scenery found in other parts of Iceland. Depending on the weather, the colors can look muted and soft or striking against the sky. Rain and mist may reduce visibility, but they can also give the lava a darker, more dramatic appearance.

The paths are natural rather than polished. That is part of the appeal, but it also means you need to follow instructions closely. You may ride over gentle rises and changes in footing. The guide will normally set the pace and explain how to handle the horse as the ground changes.

The setting is close to Reykjavik, so you do not spend most of your booking in a transfer vehicle. That is a real advantage if you have only a short stay in the city or want to fit this activity around another outing. The scenery feels rural without requiring a full day on the road.

Rauðavatn and the forestry story

Rauðavatn adds another layer to the ride. The area is associated with the first steps of forestry in Iceland at the beginning of the 20th century. That detail may seem small, but it gives the route a useful contrast: you see volcanic terrain alongside an early effort to grow trees in a country better known for open, treeless spaces.

The route near Rauðavatn may be used for groups with more riding experience. It is not guaranteed that every group will follow the same line, since the guide chooses according to ability and conditions. If your party includes both beginners and confident riders, the staff may select the safer, smoother option for everyone.

You should not book this tour expecting a long stop for sightseeing at the lake. The focus is horseback riding, not a series of formal attractions. The value is in moving through the area at a quiet pace, with time to notice the rock, paths, and changing weather.

Hólmsheiði, where the ride really begins

Hólmsheiði is the main riding area and accounts for roughly one hour of the stated itinerary, though the full outing lasts about two and a half hours. In practice, you should expect around 1.5 to 2 hours in the saddle, with the rest used for transport, changing, horse matching, and instructions.

The standard route follows a beautiful, smooth path along the Redhills. This is the better choice for a first ride, especially if you feel unsure about balance or controlling a horse. You can concentrate on sitting correctly, keeping a light rein, and enjoying the scenery instead of worrying about difficult ground.

Riders with more experience may take a route near Rauðavatn. The guide can also decide how much trotting or tölt is suitable. You are not required to do anything that makes you uncomfortable. Some people prefer to remain at a walk, and the staff can accommodate that request.

A memorable feature is the opportunity to try the tölt. Icelandic horses can move in this gait while keeping the rider relatively steady, though it can still feel unfamiliar if you have only ridden horses at a walk or trot. Let the guide introduce it gradually. A short attempt can be fun, but you do not need to master it to enjoy the tour.

Weather is part of the decision

Icelandic weather can change several times during a single ride. People have described outings with rain, sleet, sun, and rainbows in the same session. That variety can make the scenery beautiful, but it also requires the right clothing.

The supplied rainwear and winter overalls are useful, especially outside the warmer months. I would still dress in layers and bring warm socks. Waterproof gloves or ski gloves are a smart choice, since ordinary gloves may become cold and wet.

Icy conditions deserve special attention. A late-October ride with snow and ice created difficult footing for several horses, and one horse lost balance on its front legs. That was an unpleasant experience for the rider, even though the guide felt the rider managed it well. This does not mean the tour is unsafe in normal conditions, but it shows why the weather policy matters and why you should not treat a winter booking like a summer ride.

If conditions are poor, the operator may cancel and offer another date or a full refund. If you are choosing between morning and afternoon, use the timing that works best with your schedule, but remember that daylight and weather can affect the feel of the outing.

What the guides do well

The strongest part of the experience is the level of personal help. Guides explain how to sit, control the horse, and manage changes in the trail. They continue giving instructions during the ride instead of leaving first-time riders to work everything out alone.

That support is especially useful on slopes and uneven ground. Guides also watch for riders who look nervous or unsteady and can offer individual help. The staff have been described as friendly and patient, and Klara is singled out for particularly warm service. Claudia is also named in a personal thank-you, suggesting that the staff relationship can feel quite personal rather than rushed.

The guides also take photos at the lava rocks using guests’ phones. This is not a formal photography service, but it can save you from trying to take pictures while holding reins and balancing in the saddle. Ask if you want a photo, and keep your phone secure before the horse starts moving again.

The ride is suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities, but the stated weight limit is 110 kilograms. Most people can participate, though anyone with serious balance concerns should be cautious. One person with a knee replacement chose not to continue after mounting, and staff helped with the return. That kind of flexibility is useful, but horseback riding still requires you to feel secure once seated.

Pickup from Reykjavik and tour timing

Pickup is offered from Reykjavik hotels, guesthouses, and the BSI Bus Terminal. It is not a general pickup service from every address, so check the voucher carefully before departure.

Morning pickup begins at 9:00 for a 9:30 tour. Afternoon pickup begins at 13:00 for a 13:30 tour. Pickup can take up to 20 minutes, and the operator asks you to be at the stated point no later than five minutes after pickup begins. Missing the vehicle could lead to cancellation of the booking, so do not treat the pickup window as an exact arrival time.

A phone number that works in Iceland should be included with the booking details. This gives the operator a way to reach you if there is a last-minute change.

The tour ends back at the starting point. That makes it easy to continue exploring Reykjavik afterward, although you may want a little time to change out of wet clothing first. Tea and coffee are offered afterward, a small but welcome touch on a cold day.

Is $139.13 a fair price?

At $139.13 per person, this is not a cheap half-day activity, but the price covers more than the time on the horse. You are paying for horse preparation, equipment, staff assistance, access to the riding paths, and the convenience of a short transfer from Reykjavik if you choose pickup.

The value is strongest if you want an Icelandic horse experience without giving up an entire day. You spend about 2.5 hours on the activity, and most of that time is connected directly to riding. The nearby location also keeps transport costs and lost sightseeing time under control.

I would consider it good value for a first-time rider who wants expert help and supplied weather gear. Experienced riders may also find it worthwhile because the route can include the tölt and a more active option near Rauðavatn. If you only want a quick photo beside a horse, this is more time and money than you need.

The price is less attractive if harsh weather forces you to spend the ride cold, wet, or anxious. That is why your clothing, the season, and the forecast should be part of the booking decision.

Who should book this ride?

This tour suits you if you want:

• A short horseback outing close to Reykjavik
• A gentle introduction to Icelandic horses
• A chance to try the tölt
• A small group with active guide support
• A ride through volcanic scenery rather than an indoor arena
• Pickup from a Reykjavik hotel, guesthouse, or BSI

It is also a good family option when riders have different ability levels. Beginners can stay on the easy route, while more confident riders may get a little more action.

You should think twice if you dislike cold, wet weather, have serious balance problems, or want a private ride. The group can include up to 15 people, and the pace must work for a range of riders.

Should you book the Red Lava Horse Riding Tour?

I would book it if you want a manageable introduction to Icelandic horses and do not have time for a full-day countryside excursion. The ancient lava, red hills, helpful staff, and possible tölt make it more distinctive than a basic stable ride.

Choose a day with reasonable conditions when possible, use every piece of supplied rain gear, and tell the guides honestly about your riding experience. If you are a complete beginner, do not feel pressured to trot or tölt. The smooth path and gentle pace are enough to make the ride worthwhile.

Book this tour for the combination of nearby volcanic scenery and attentive instruction, not for luxury or guaranteed sunshine. In good conditions, it offers a memorable way to see Iceland from the saddle. In icy or stormy weather, it demands more care and a willingness to accept that nature sets the pace.

FAQ

Where does the Red Lava Horse Riding Tour start?

The tour starts at Sólhestar Horse Rental Reykjavik, Surtlugata 19, 110 Reykjavík, Iceland. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

Is pickup available from Reykjavik?

Yes. Pickup is available from Reykjavik hotels, guesthouses, and the BSI Bus Terminal. Pickup begins 30 minutes before departure and can take up to 20 minutes.

How long does the tour last?

The full activity lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Around 1.5 to 2 hours are spent riding, with the remaining time used for preparation, horse matching, and instructions.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?

Yes. The ride is adapted to different experience levels, and guides provide support before and during the ride. Beginners can use the smoother route and may choose to remain at a walk.

What is the maximum group size and weight limit?

The tour accepts a maximum of 15 people. The stated maximum rider weight is 110 kilograms.

Can I cancel for a refund?

You can cancel at least 24 hours before the local start time for a full refund. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not accepted for a refund. If poor weather causes the operator to cancel, you will be offered another date or a full refund.