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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Iceland
Intro to Iceland
East and South Highland Tours Iceland Shorts Northern Tours West
Also see:
Hiking Trips
Horseback in:
Norway
Finland
Europe Overview
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Northern Exposure Lake Myvatn
Northern Tours
Iceland
This tour was nominated by the Sunday Times as one of the 10 best trails in the world!
The North of Iceland is known for its spectacular natural sights and diverse landscape. Our tour goes from Bjarnastaðir Farm near Húsavík to the Lake Mývatn area, famous for its volcanic features and rich birdlife. Ásbyrgi Canyon, Dettifoss, Europe’s largest waterfall, and the strange rock formations at Hljóðaklettar are just some of the gems of nature we´ll be seeing on this amazing tour.
An optional whale watching tour completes the selection of natural attractions on and off shore.
We ride along soft riding tracks ideal for “tölting”, the unique extra gait of the Icelandic Horse. The first day we spend in Jökulsárgljúfur National Park and visit both Dettifoss Waterfall and Ásbyrgi Canyon. From rich green pastureland we head towards the Gæsafjöll Mountains and spend a night in a mountain cabin at Theistareykir. Through an area scarred with cracks and fissures from earthquakes and volcanic activity the route takes us to Lake Mývatn where bubbling mud pools and eerie lava formations are a reminder of the powerful energy right beneath our feet. We have the opportunity to bathe in the warm geothermal water of the outdoor pool at the Mývatn Nature Baths. The next two days take us through Laxárdalur Valley to Heiðabær for an overnight stay and relaxation in the swimming pool on site. From there we continue across Reykjaheiði heath towards the coast and back to Bjarnastaðir Farm.
After this amazing tour in an ever-changing landscape we can let our cares float away in the hot tub at Lundur Swimming Pool before sitting down to a hearty farewell dinner at the farm.
Camping Ride with vehicle support Progressive Ride (no camping) Ride with Gaited Horses Suitable for riders over 210 lbs
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Meeting:
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Keflavík International Airport
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Airport:
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Keflavík International Airport
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Transfer:
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Keflavík International Airport
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Riders:
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Min
8 riders
Max
16 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF)
Trip Rating
Video
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Rates and Dates for 2019
Rates include*:
Accommodations: Sleeping bag accommodations in simple mountain cabins during the ride, meals, flight from Reykjavík to Húsavík and bus drive to the farm, rain wear, water bottle, saddle bag, riding helmet, 5 riding days - 160 km
A | 2019 | 6 day trip, AP (High) | 6d / 5n | €2290 | $2750 |
B | 2019 | 6 day trip, AP (Low) | 6d / 5n | €2160 | $2595 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Transfer and Other Charges:
2019
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Pick up at BSÍ Bus station or at Reykjavik official bus stops near your accommodation between 6:30am-7:30am on Day 1
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Pick up at BSÍ Bus station in Reykjavik or at Reykjavik official bus stops near your accommodation
(see: www.busstop.is) between 6:30-7:30am on Day 1.
Tour Dates for 2019
Check here for details and availability
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B |
2019
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06/24
- 06/29
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP (Low)
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8
/16
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Reserve
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A |
2019
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07/01
- 07/06
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP (High)
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8
/16
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Reserve
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A |
2019
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07/08
- 07/13
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP (High)
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8
/16
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Reserve
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A |
2019
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07/15
- 07/20
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP (High)
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8
/16
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Reserve
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A |
2019
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08/05
- 08/10
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP (High)
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8
/16
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Sold Out
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A |
2019
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08/12
- 08/17
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP (High)
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8
/16
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Reserve
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B |
2019
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08/26
- 08/31
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6d / 5n
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6 day trip, AP (Low)
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8
/16
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Reserve
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Monday- Saturday
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Rates do not include:
Sleeping bag. Alcoholic beverages (can be bought at Duty Free ahead of time) Optional (available at an extra charge): Whale Watching
At Húsavík harbour a boat is waiting to go out on a whale watching cruise. There is no better way to end a great tour than by sailing into the evening sun with, hopefully, whales swimming alongside. (Price per person ~Euro 80)
Itinerary- Subject to changes
Monday: Reykjavík – Húsavík – Ásbyrgi – Dettifoss - Bjarnastaðir
Departure from pick up points in Reykjavik www.busstop.is to the Domestic Airport for the flight to Húsavík and transfer to Bjarnastaðir Farm. Pick up between 06:30 – 07:30. Please dress already in riding clothes and bring your passport or other identification for your domestic flight. At Bjarnastaðir, we have lunch and start our ride with a short introduction to the Icelandic horse and its special gaits. This is truly a day to remember when we ride on the east side of the National Park Jökulsárgljúfur and visit places like Gloppa, Hallhöfðastígur overlooking Hljóðaklettar and many more. After riding we have a sightseeing tour by bus to Europe’s largest waterfall, Dettifoss and the famous Ásbyrgi Canyon, one of the wonders of nature, a wide, horseshoe-shaped canyon with sheer cliff faces up to 100 m high. (Approx. 20 km)
Tuesday: Bjarnastaðir - Theistareykir Mountain Cabin
We ride across the mighty glacial river Jökulsá á Fjöllum (on a bridge) and into the mountains to the geothermal area of Theistareykir. At one point we will practically cross over from one continental plate to another as we ride over the Mid-Atlantic ridge! It is a fascinating area with deep earthquake fissures, multi-colored mountains and geothermal energy. With all this volcanic activity going on here, it is easy to understand that Iceland is still under “natural construction” (Approx. 35 km)
Wednesday: Theistareykir - Laxárdalur
Enjoy today’s ride from the Theistareykir area to Halldorstaðir in Laxárdal. We then drive to Bjarnastaðir farm, where we stay the remaining nights on the tour with a hot tub on the premises.
Thursday: Laxárdalur
We start the day with an exciting sightseeing tour by bus. We begin with a nice hot bath in Jarðböð, an outdoor lagoon with geothermal water and visit Dimmuborgir, fantastic black lava formations with rich vegetation. We saddle up again and head of through a black sand desert along the colorful Laxárdalur valley with the glittering Salmon River Laxá in the middle. A true day of contrasts in the ever changing Icelandic nature. We stop at the very special Hraunsrétt – made of lava. We ride to Skógarhlíð, where we leave the horses tonight. (Approx. 30 km)
Friday: Geldingadalur - Reykjaheiði
Today we set out through Geldingadalur Valley and Reykjaheiði into Öxarfjörður Fjord to Bjarnastaðir Farm, where the hot outdoor tub is waiting. (Approx. 40 km)
Saturday: Bjarnastaðir – Húsavík (optional: whale watching) – Reykjavík
In the morning return to Húsavík by bus and a whale watching cruise for those interested. (Price per person EUR 80). Others can enjoy the town‘s swimming pool with it‘s hot tubs or just go for a stroll in this beautiful town. Afternoon flight back to Reykjavík Domestic Airport and a transfer to your accommodation.
- We reserve the right to alter the itinerary if necessary
Meeting:
Keflavík International Airport
Airport:
Keflavík International Airport
Transfer:
Keflavík International Airport
Pick up at BSÍ Bus station in Reykjavik or at Reykjavik official bus stops near your accommodation
(see: www.busstop.is) between 6:30-7:30am on Day 1.
Tack:
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Icelandic
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Horses:
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Icelandic Horses
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Pace:
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Riders should be comfortable and in control at all paces, firm seat, comfortable in the saddle for up to 7 hrs. per day. - Approx. 160km total
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Level:
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(5
out of 5) Advanced
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Weight:
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Max
110kg (240lbs)
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Riders:
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Min
8 riders
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Max
16 riders
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A very special experience seldom to be experienced anywhere else but in Iceland - except maybe on some of our horse drives.
On this ride you will be riding each day with a free running herd of horses. You may switch horses from time to time.
A ride for strong intermediate riders. Comfortable and in control at all paces, firm seat, comfortable in the saddle for up to 7 hrs. per day.
The Icelandic Horse
The origin of the horse in Iceland is exactly the same as the arrival of the first settlers from Scandinavia in the ninth century. Clearly, the horse was the catalyst that allowed the settlement of Iceland to go forward and prosper. Since no other breed of horse has ever been imported to Iceland, this special animal is a pure-bred "Viking Horse".
The horse was used for everything. They worked tilling the farmlands from dawn to dusk and provided transportation between the farms as they were settled. They went on scouting expeditions into this new territory in search of everything from water to grazing areas. Strong and sure footed, the Icelandic horse adjusted and adapted to this new land certainly as fast and most likely faster than the new settlers.
Viking battles were fought on horseback and the animal quickly adjusted to any situation that was presented to it. Is it any wonder that many of the slain Vikings warriors of the many battles in earlier times were often buried with their horses as a sign of honor and respect.
The Icelandic horse has many characteristics unique unto itself. Perhaps the most noticeable would be its intermediate size and the mane of shaggy hair. The five gaits of the horse are also one of the special features that sets it apart form all other horses. These gaits are the fetgangur, the walk or step, the brokk or trot, the tölt, which is a faster type of walk, the skeið or the pace and the stökk, or gallop.
On large farm areas, perimeter fences keep in most of the horses, but many are also simply allowed to run free. This most naturally accounts for the spirited nature of the animal. All of them seem to adapt to the personality of their owner. It is essential to establish a trust between the Icelandic horse and the rider. Doing so literally guarantees a friend for life. The passion and spirit of the Icelandic horse is never broken only brought under control. As a result, the Icelandic pure-bred horse remains one the world's most unique animals to this day.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all except:(a) 1. nationals of Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherland. more
Akureyri area
Month
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Average High Temperature (°F)
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35
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36
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37
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42
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50
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56
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59
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58
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52
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43
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38
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36
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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23
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24
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26
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30
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37
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43
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46
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46
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40
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33
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27
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24
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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2
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2
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3
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6
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10
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13
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15
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14
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11
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6
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3
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2
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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-5
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-5
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-4
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-1
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3
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6
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8
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8
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4
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1
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-3
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-5
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
Iceland enjoys a much milder climate than its name and location adjacent to the Arctic Circle would imply. A branch of the Gulf Stream flows along the southern and the western coast greatly moderating the climate. However, the climate can change very quickly. Generally speaking, the south-western part of Iceland receives more rainfall than the rest of the country. The Arctic Circle in only 60 km north of Akureyri but still the climate is mild, with summer temperatures up to 25°C and winter temperatures in average around 0˚C.
Summer (May to September)
The first half of this period the sun stays above the horizon for almost 24 hours. However, even during the middle of summer the sky can be cloudy or overcast and in that case, the air is usually cool and cold during nighttime.
Winter
The winter season sees long nights and severe winter storms. However, the silence of the frozen expanse and the dance of the Aurora Borealis on a clear night sky draw an increasing number of tourists.
You should be ready for all kinds of weather as it can change very quickly. We provide you with good rain-clothes, a riding helmet and a saddle bag (where you can keep the picnic lunch, a small camera, extra pair of gloves etc.).
Luggage will be transported in the kitchen van. Bring bags rather than hard cover suitcases. Pack light because transport space is limited.
We recommend not too much luggage on the tour and you can leave extra luggage at the guesthouse if you want to.
You should be ready for all kinds of weather as the weather can change very quickly. We recommend that the following items are included when preparing for our longer tours.
• Knee high riding boots - water resistant/ waterproof
• Warm jacket or overcoat.
• Warm (woolen or fleece) sweater.
• Warm socks and gloves, at least two pairs, scarf and a cap or hat.
• Warm underwear, long if possible (protects also against chafing).
• For the ladies – sports bra.
• Riding trousers.
• Track suit.
• A pair of slippers to wear in the accommodation (Icelanders take off their shoes when entering a house).
• Swim suits, towels, soap etc.
• A small camera to take with you on the ride.
• Band aids and second skin plasters for chaffing.
• Insect repellent, gnat net head cover.
• Chocolate or glucose sweets for strenuous riding days.
• Sun lotion for face and lips (with high sun factor).
• Sunglasses.
• For those with sensitive eyes/contact lenses, goggles.
• Sleeping bag
• Small pillow to sleep on.
• Ear plugs. Some people snore!
Disinfecting of the riding gear
It is important to follow the regulation regarding the disinfecting of used riding clothes. Riding gear (riding trousers, jackets, etc.) needs to be washed (40°C) or dry cleaned. Items which can not be washed or dry cleaned (riding boots, riding hats) need to be disinfected at least five days prior to arriving in Iceland. The Icelandic Veterinary Authority recommends the broad-spectrum disinfectant Virkon S for disinfection. Used riding gloves, whips, saddles, bridles and other used leather gear may not be brought into the country. Please understand that these precautions are necessary because there are no contagious animal diseases in Iceland. Horses are not vaccinated and are therefore susceptible to infectious agents from abroad. Please help us to protect Iceland's fragile nature! For further information please take a look at: www.mast.is
Cameras:
We recommend to bring a small camera that can be taken in a pocket, a waist/hip bag or in the saddle bag.
Large camera equipment we can not allow on the horses for security reasons. Tours are operated with a free running herd - at speed of tölt or trot for most of the day. We take breaks to relax the horses and then it is possible to take pictures. While on the horse taking pictures is rather difficult since the horses are constantly moving. Because of the herd instinct it is not possible to stop an individual horse, they all will follow each other.
You can leave larger Digital SLR with your luggage at the farm or put it in their luggage that will be transferred to the new accommodation.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodation
Bjarnastaðir farm
Bjarnastaðir Farm, home of Halldór Olgeirsson and Elín Maríusdóttir is situated in the low bushy area of Kerlingaskógur, close to the glacial river Jökulsá á Fjöllum and Dettifoss Waterfall. You will enjoy great view over the Fjord Öxarfjörður and the famous Lake Skjálftavatn which suddenly appeared over night after a strong earthquake 28 years ago. Halldór and Elín, breeders of both horses and sheep will welcome you with open arms and their warmth and hospitality is indeed second to none.
•Number of beds: 18
•Outdoor jacuzzi: Yes
•Number of showers: 2
•GSM connection: Yes
•WiFi: No
Þeistareykir Mountain Hut
Þeistareykir is known as a geothermal area, with colorful mud pits, tabletop mountains, hills and lava fields, you will find the earth constantly at work. The mountain hut stays warm all year round due to the geothermal activity of the area. The area is great for hikers and those who want to enjoy nature in the “raw.”
•Number of rooms: 1
•Number of beds: 30
•Outdoor jacuzzi: No
•Number of showers: 0
•GSM connection: No
•WiFi: No
•Made up beds: No
•Number of WC: 1
•Website with photos: No
Meals
During the ride full board is provided. Our menu consists of a large breakfast and traditional Icelandic meals (fish or lamb). Vegetarian meals are available if requested in advance. All riders make their own packed lunch from the breakfast table. Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price and are hard to get in the highlands. They can be bought at a reasonable price in the Duty Free Store at Keflavik Airport upon arrival. Meals in Reykjavik are not included (breakfast only).
Tack:
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Icelandic
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Horses:
|
|
Icelandic Horses
|
Pace:
|
|
Riders should be comfortable and in control at all paces, firm seat, comfortable in the saddle for up to 7 hrs. per day. - Approx. 160km total
|
Level:
|
|
(5
out of 5) Advanced
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
110kg (240lbs)
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Riders:
|
|
Min
8 riders
|
Max
16 riders
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|
A very special experience seldom to be experienced anywhere else but in Iceland - except maybe on some of our horse drives.
On this ride you will be riding each day with a free running herd of horses. You may switch horses from time to time.
A ride for strong intermediate riders. Comfortable and in control at all paces, firm seat, comfortable in the saddle for up to 7 hrs. per day.
The Icelandic Horse
The origin of the horse in Iceland is exactly the same as the arrival of the first settlers from Scandinavia in the ninth century. Clearly, the horse was the catalyst that allowed the settlement of Iceland to go forward and prosper. Since no other breed of horse has ever been imported to Iceland, this special animal is a pure-bred "Viking Horse".
The horse was used for everything. They worked tilling the farmlands from dawn to dusk and provided transportation between the farms as they were settled. They went on scouting expeditions into this new territory in search of everything from water to grazing areas. Strong and sure footed, the Icelandic horse adjusted and adapted to this new land certainly as fast and most likely faster than the new settlers.
Viking battles were fought on horseback and the animal quickly adjusted to any situation that was presented to it. Is it any wonder that many of the slain Vikings warriors of the many battles in earlier times were often buried with their horses as a sign of honor and respect.
The Icelandic horse has many characteristics unique unto itself. Perhaps the most noticeable would be its intermediate size and the mane of shaggy hair. The five gaits of the horse are also one of the special features that sets it apart form all other horses. These gaits are the fetgangur, the walk or step, the brokk or trot, the tölt, which is a faster type of walk, the skeið or the pace and the stökk, or gallop.
On large farm areas, perimeter fences keep in most of the horses, but many are also simply allowed to run free. This most naturally accounts for the spirited nature of the animal. All of them seem to adapt to the personality of their owner. It is essential to establish a trust between the Icelandic horse and the rider. Doing so literally guarantees a friend for life. The passion and spirit of the Icelandic horse is never broken only brought under control. As a result, the Icelandic pure-bred horse remains one the world's most unique animals to this day.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all except:
(a) 1. nationals of Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden who are only required to produce national identity cards issued by the competent authorities in their countries of origin.
Passport Note
Iceland is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.
Visas
Not required by all nationals of referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days.
2. EU nationals staying longer than 90 days will need to apply for a residence permit from the directorate of immigration in Iceland.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Visa Note
A stay in another Schengen-Zone country counts as the same as a stay in Iceland.
Passport Required? |
British |
Yes |
Australian |
Yes |
Canadian |
Yes |
USA |
Yes |
Other EU |
Yes/1 |
Visa Required? |
British |
No |
Australian |
No |
Canadian |
No |
USA |
No |
Other EU |
No |
Return Ticket Required? |
British |
No |
Australian |
Yes |
Canadian |
Yes |
USA |
Yes |
Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Northern Exposure Lake Myvatn
Tour Code:
IT-ICRT03
6 days /
5 nights
~$2,750.00
Dates :
June to Sept
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained A | Beginner  | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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