Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik

Imagine trading crowded bus tours for a more authentic adventure, where you get to explore Iceland’s wild outdoors on horseback and then see whales in their natural habitat. This two-in-one experience offers a fantastic way to learn about Iceland’s unique landscapes, blending land and sea adventures into one memorable day.

We love that this tour combines culturally rich horseback riding with the thrill of whale watching, all led by knowledgeable guides who know how to make everything smooth and enjoyable. Plus, the inclusion of safety gear and insider tips adds real value, making it accessible for all travelers.

One thing to consider: wildlife sightings, especially whales, can’t be guaranteed — a reminder that nature sometimes plays hard to get. Still, with a high success rate and a complimentary re-try policy, you’re well-covered for a rewarding experience.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures, love animals, and want a genuine, balanced look at Iceland’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned explorer, you’ll find plenty to love.

Key Points

• Unique combination of horseback riding and whale watching offers variety in one trip
• Expert guides increase the chances of spotting whales and sharing local knowledge
• All riding gear and safety equipment are provided, suitable for beginners and experienced riders
• Flexible re-try policy if no whales are seen during the tour
• Duration of about 5.5 hours balances activity with comfort, avoiding exhaustion
• Appreciated for good value, combining two memorable activities in one affordable package

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This Reykjavik-based tour effectively blends land and sea experiences—two of Iceland’s biggest draws—into one seamless day. It’s especially appealing because of its practicality: you get to enjoy a horseback ride through lava fields and the thrill of whale watching, all with knowledgeable guides in a small, intimate group size capped at five travelers. This means more personalized attention, which many reviews cite as a highlight.

The Ride: Icelandic Horses and Lava Landscapes

The day begins with pickup from your Reykjavik hotel — a straightforward way to start without the hassle of arranging transportation. Just outside the city, you’ll find yourself at the Ishestar Horse Riding Centre, where familiar surroundings give way to Iceland’s rugged nature.

The focus here is on Icelandic horses, a breed renowned for their smooth gait called the tölt, which makes riding over uneven terrain much more comfortable. As one reviewer noted, their horses are “fabulous,” and the guides are “kind and patient,” especially useful if you’re new to riding or a bit nervous. The small horses are well-trained, and the staff knows how to split groups by experience, ensuring everyone has an enjoyable time.

Expect the ride to last approximately 2.5 hours, winding through lava fields, remote moorland, and fields that showcase Iceland’s volcanic past. The landscape is stunning — black lava, patches of snow, and sweeping views that make even a brief stop for photos worthwhile. Reviewers often mention how “beautiful” the scenery is, with some even describing the ride as “exhilarating,” thanks to the mix of gentle and lively gaits.

The Scenic Transfer and Lunch Break

After the ride, you return to the stables, where you can enjoy a warm coffee, tea, or hot chocolate — a perfect way to warm up and chat about your ride. Then, it’s time to head back to Reykjavik’s Old Harbor for the next adventure.

Here’s where flexibility comes into play: you get free time for lunch (not included), giving you the chance to explore local cafes or pack a snack. It’s nice knowing you’re not tied down to a strict schedule, and many reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace.

Whale Watching on Faxaflói Bay

Boarding a high-speed boat, you leave the harbor after a short 20-30 minute ride out onto Faxaflói Bay. The boat is described as comfortable, fast, and well-equipped with onboard Wi-Fi and warm overalls, making the experience cozy even if the weather turns chilly — very common in Iceland.

The waterway is home to whales, dolphins, and porpoises, with the four most commonly seen species being minke whales, humpbacks, harbour porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins. Guides are praised for their expert commentary, helping you spot and identify these creatures, sometimes quite close to the boat.

One of the standout features of this tour, according to reviews, is the possibility of seeing humpback whales right next to the boat, which makes for incredible photos. Even if the sea is uncooperative and no whales are seen, the complimentary re-try ensures you leave with a positive experience: you can come back for free on another day.

The Authentic Experience

What truly sets this tour apart is its authentic approach. Instead of generic sightseeing, it offers hands-on interaction with Iceland’s environment. Reviewers love that the guides are knowledgeable and personable, sharing stories about the horses and explaining the wildlife behaviors during the cruise.

Many travelers highlight the value for money: two distinct adventures packed into one tour for around $225. It’s a good price considering the high-quality guides, safety equipment, and the chance to see wildlife in the wild. Plus, the small group size means you won’t be part of a noisy crowd, which makes the experience more personal and relaxed.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation & Meeting Point: The tour starts at Ishestar Horse Riding Centre just outside Hafnarfjörður, about a 15-minute drive from Reykjavik. If you prefer convenience, contact the supplier to arrange hotel transfers for an additional fee.

Timing: The tour departs at 10:00 am, giving plenty of time to enjoy both activities in daylight. The total duration is approximately 5.5 hours, which is manageable for most travelers without feeling rushed.

Weather & Clothing: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and prepare for rain or wind. The tour provides rainwear and warm clothing during both activities, which reviewers find essential, especially for the boat ride.

Age & Weight Limits: Children as young as 7 can participate in the horseback riding, and those over 14 need parental permission if riding alone. The maximum weight limit is 110 kg/240 lbs, so most people should be comfortable.

Group Size & Guides: With a cap at 5 travelers, the tour offers intimacy and tailored attention. Guides are described as friendly, patient, and well-informed, making it suitable even for first-time riders or wildlife newcomers.

Wildlife Sightings: Since whales are wild animals, sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, the tour’s reputable guides and success stories suggest a high chance of viewing, and the re-try policy adds peace of mind.

What Reviewers Say

While the majority of feedback is highly positive, some reviews note weather issues impacting whale sightings. One reviewer mentioned that the whale watching was canceled twice without prior notice, which was frustrating. Conversely, several reviewers praised the guides’ expertise and friendliness, especially during the land portion, describing the horses as “beautiful” and “well-cared for.”

Another point raised by travelers is the small group sizes, leading to tailored experiences and more personal interactions, which many value highly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This combo tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see multiple aspects of Iceland — from the volcanic landscape to the ocean’s wildlife — all in one day. It’s great for animal lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a genuine look at Iceland’s outdoors without the crowds. Families with children over 7 will find it especially appealing, as well as couples and solo travelers seeking a balanced mix of activity and relaxation.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer smaller groups and guides that provide insider insights. While weather can impact the whale sightings, the tour’s re-try policy makes it a low-risk choice for wildlife sightings.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Not by default, but you can contact the supplier to arrange hotel transfers for an extra fee. The tour begins at the Ishestar Horse Riding Centre outside Hafnarfjörður.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers and prepare for wind or rain. The tour provides rainwear, warm clothing, and rubber boots during the ride, plus warm overalls for the boat.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 7 and older can ride. Children 14+ need written parental permission to ride alone. The maximum weight is 110 kg/240 lbs.

What if I don’t see whales?
You will receive a complimentary ticket to try whale watching again on another day, so don’t worry if the sea is quiet during your trip.

How long is the horseback ride?
The ride lasts approximately 2.5 hours, winding through volcanic landscapes with fantastic photo opportunities.

How long is the whale watching cruise?
About 20-30 minutes to reach whale feeding grounds, with commentary and onboard Wi-Fi for added comfort.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are experienced in splitting groups based on riding ability, and all gear is provided to ensure safety.

What species might I see?
Most common are minke whales, humpback whales, harbour porpoises, and white-beaked dolphins.

Will I need to bring lunch?
Yes, you have free time for your own lunch at the harbor, as the tour does not include food or drinks.

What is the overall duration?
Approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes — a full but manageable day of adventure.

Final Thoughts

This Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching Tour offers a rich, well-rounded look at Iceland’s natural beauty. It balances adventure, education, and wildlife watching in a way that feels authentic and accessible. The small group size, friendly guides, and focus on safety make it a standout choice for those seeking a personalized experience.

While weather can influence whale sightings, the tour’s re-try policy and knowledgeable guides ensure you’ll leave with a positive impression, regardless. If you love animals, scenic landscapes, and sea life, this tour gives you a memorable slice of Iceland in one day.

Ideal for adventurers, animal lovers, and curious explorers, it’s a smart pick for those wanting to avoid the crowds and dive into the country’s true wilderness. Just remember to pack your layers and a camera—you won’t want to miss capturing these moments.

Note: Always check current weather and confirm your booking in advance, especially during Iceland’s unpredictable seasons.