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

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

This Icelandic horse riding experience promises a scenic journey through the volcanic landscapes of Reykjadalur, just a short drive from Reykjavik. With a reputation for being beginner-friendly and small-group focused, it offers a gentle, authentic way to see the countryside.

What caught our eye? Firstly, the small-group setting ensures personalized guidance, which is great whether you’re new to horses or an experienced rider. Secondly, the proximity to Reykjavik means you can easily fit this into a day’s exploration without wasting time on long travel. Lastly, the quality of the horses and guides stood out, with reviews praising their friendliness and patience.

A potential consideration? The tour’s duration is just about 1.5 hours of riding, so if you’re craving a longer adventure, you might want to look for more extensive options. Still, for most, this is enough time to enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty without feeling rushed.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, scenic activity that’s accessible for all levels — perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to experience Iceland’s countryside in a hands-on way.

Key Points

• Small-group tours provide personalized guidance and support
• Ideal for all experience levels, including complete beginners
• Proximity to Reykjavik makes it easy to book as part of a day trip
• Includes all gear and equipment for a hassle-free experience
• Authentic Icelandic horses are gentle and well-behaved, even for nervous riders
• Reviews highlight friendly guides and stunning scenery, with some noting the benefit of small group sizes

Setting the Scene for Your Ride

The tour starts at Sólhestar Horse Rental in Reykjadalur, about 45 minutes from Reykjavik. The meeting point is easy to find and includes facilities where you’ll be greeted by your guides and provided with all necessary gear — winter jumpsuits, rain clothing, and helmets. This is especially helpful given Iceland’s unpredictable weather; being prepared means you can focus on the ride rather than fussing with clothing.

Once suited up, you’ll meet your horse — a key highlight as many reviewers mention the horses’ gentle nature. The horses are well-cared-for and accustomed to riders of all experience levels, making them a perfect match for those new to horseback riding. For the more seasoned, the Icelandic horses’ special gait — tölt — offers a unique, smooth ride that’s both relaxing and fun.

The Ride: What You Can Expect

The actual riding portion lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll traverse the varied terrain of Reykjadalur. Expect grassy fields, river crossings, and volcanic landscapes. The scenery is what makes this tour stand out; reviewers rave about the breathtaking views of Iceland’s countryside and the chance to see the landscape from a different perspective.

Guides are attentive, offering hands-on support, especially for beginners. According to reviews, guides like the young woman from Germany were “so sweet” and “incredible and patient,” which makes a big difference if you’re a bit nervous or inexperienced.

The terrain is suited to all levels, with most of the ride at a walking pace. Some riders enjoyed the rare opportunity to “tölt” — a smooth, ambling gait unique to Icelandic horses — which many found exhilarating. One reviewer mentioned it was “nice to tølt on an Icelandic horse,” which shows how even beginners get to experience this special gait.

Authentic and Comfortable Experience

The inclusions add comfort: from winter jumpsuits and rain clothing to helmets, everything is provided, removing the hassle of packing or bringing gear. Plus, the tour includes coffee or tea, offering a cozy finish to your outdoor adventure, especially appreciated if the weather turns a bit chilly.

The small group limit (up to 14 people) ensures that guides can give individual attention, making the experience more personalized and enjoyable. We loved the way guides shared interesting tidbits about the landscape, and one mentioned learning about bunkers along the way — a tiny glimpse into Iceland’s history that adds a bit of extra flavor to the trip.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted in Reviews

Reviewers repeatedly mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the well-behaved horses as the highlights. One described the horses as “healthy and friendly,” while another loved how the guides made the experience “extra special” by sharing their local knowledge.

A few travelers noted challenges, like bugs, which could affect the ride, but the guides provided bug nets to mitigate this, showing their attention to detail. The rider who said she “wanted to turn around almost immediately” was frustrated by bugs, but overall, the majority enjoyed the scenery and the calm, gentle horses.

Tour Logistics and Value

Pricing at around $124.51 per person offers a good balance for such a scenic, guided outdoor activity. When you consider the included gear, guide support, and the unique experience of riding Icelandic horses, the value is evident.

The tour is short enough to fit into a busy day but offers a memorable taste of Iceland’s natural beauty that will appeal to first-timers and repeat visitors alike. It’s especially convenient for families or solo travelers looking for a light yet authentic adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This horseback riding tour is perfect if you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic activity that doesn’t require prior riding experience. Families with children over 9, couples wanting a quiet outdoor activity, or solo travelers eager to connect with Iceland’s landscape will find it rewarding. The combination of gentle horses, beautiful views, and friendly guides makes it an experience tailored to those who enjoy nature but prefer a comfortable, well-supported outing.

It’s also an excellent option if you want to combine outdoor adventure with some cultural insights, thanks to guides sharing local history and stories.

In The Sum Up

This Reykjadalur horseback riding tour offers an authentic, accessible, and scenic way to explore Iceland’s remarkable landscapes without the need for prior riding experience. The small-group setup ensures personal attention, while the inclusion of all gear and supportive guides makes it hassle-free. You’ll get to enjoy the gentle pace of Icelandic horses, ride through volcanic terrain, and take in views that make every step worth it.

Perfect for those seeking a relaxing outdoor activity that combines nature, culture, and gentle adventure. The relaxed pace, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery come together to give you a memorable Icelandic experience.

While a shorter ride might not satisfy those craving a full-day adventure, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a taste of Icelandic countryside that’s both fun and manageable.

FAQ

Is prior horseback riding experience required?
No, this tour is designed to be beginner-friendly, and no prior experience is needed. Guides provide support and instruction along the way.

What should I wear for the ride?
You’ll be provided with winter jumpsuits and rain clothing, but comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended. Helmets are included for safety.

Can children participate?
Yes, the tour is suitable for children from 9 years old. It’s a family-friendly experience for those wanting a gentle, scenic ride.

How long is the ride?
The horseback riding lasts about 1.5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the landscape without feeling rushed.

What if the weather is bad?
Most bookings receive confirmation upon booking, and the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are the horses well-behaved?
Yes, reviews highlight the horses as gentle, healthy, and very friendly, making them perfect for all riding levels.

Overall, this Reykjadalur horseback riding tour balances comfort, scenery, and accessibility, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting to see Iceland from a different perspective — on horseback, with stunning views and friendly guides leading the way.