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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Iceland
Intro to Iceland
 East and SouthHighland Tours Iceland Shorts Northern Tours West
Also see:
Hiking Trips
Horseback in:
Norway
Finland
Europe Overview
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Iceland Special
Northern Tours
Iceland
Iceland Specials
Each year we offer some special itineraries to explore new parts of Icaland with our partners. In 2012 we have 3 Special Rides for you.
Jökulsárgljúfur - 10B
Another adventurous tour with our hosts from Saltvík Farm; Bjarni Páll and Elsa, well known from the Northern Exposure and Diamond Circle rides. On this Special Tour we ride beyond Lake Mývatn to Grímsstaðir Farm and continue to Möðrudalur Farm, well hidden in mountains and at the highest altidue above sea level of all Icelandic farms. This remote place was a blessing for many travelers through the ages and the farmers certainly saved hundreds of lives by offering shelter to those stranded in bad weather. We explore new gems of nature when riding through Jökulsárgljúfur National Park, along the on the east side of mighty Jökulsá River, past Dettifoss, Europe‘s most powerful waterfall. Enjoy the spectacular view before we proceed to Forvöð, a hidden pearl in the National Park that can only be reached on foot or on horse back. We spend the nights at some familiar places like Theistareykir Mt. Cabin, the Lake Mývatn area and Lundur schoolhouse building and explore fascinating new areas in the mountains, following trails that have been forgotten for years.
Borgarfjörður/ Dalir - 10C
Join our hosts Siggi and Ólöf, well known from our Snæfellsnes rides, on an adventurous tour into the beautiful Borgarfjörður district, along the old mountain trail Holtavörðuheiði and into the North-West. This tour takes you into the mysterious Strandir area, well known for untouched nature and ancient sorcery. This remote area is home to elves and dwarfs, so closely knitted into the Icelandic heritage. We continue through Dalir, an area where the intrigue and love triangle of the Laxdæla Saga took place.
This is the longest of our rides with 10 riding days. You will enjoy the view of Mt. Snæfellsjökull volcano, ride through the mountains and cross fjords on low tide. You will also ride along the beach, a pleasure for horses and riders alike. Enjoy great horses, tasty meals and experience the variety of the Icelandic landscape introduced to you on this exciting ride.
Eastern Panorama Lónsöræfi - 10D
Discover hidden nature gems together with our host Denni and enjoy
the amazing horses of the East on this tour into the remote wilderness.
On this tour we head South and discover never before seen treasures of
the East. We ride down into fjords and up into the mountains on this
trail beyond compare.
From the picturesque town of Höfn in Hornarfjörður we ride into the
amazing scenery of the Lón and Lónsheiði area with harsh yet colorful
mountains. With view to the glaciers we ride in abandoned valleys like
Geithellnadalur with dramatic cliffs and numerous waterfalls. Our host
Denni has developed this amazing trail into the wild. Get smitten by his
passion for the East of Iceland and join him on this trail far away
from the beaten tracks.
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Camping Ride with vehicle support
Progressive Ride (no camping)
Suitable for riders over 210 lbs
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Meeting:
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Airport:
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Keflavik Airport
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Transfer:
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Keflavik Airport
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Riders:
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Min
8 riders
Max
20 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2012
Rates include:
Accommodation: Dbl. rooms in Reykjavík. Sleeping bag accommodation in shared rooms during the ride, most meals. All transfers during riding tours (incl. domestic flights). Rainwares. Sleeping bag with a sheet, Saddle bag and safety helmet
| A | 2012 | 12 day trip, AP Special B Jökulsárgljúfur and beyond | 12d / 11n | €2896 | $3885 |
| Extra night in Reykjavik Fosshotel Baron pp (dbl) ~ | €110 | $150 |
| Extra night in Reykjavik Fosshotel Baron Single ~ | €150 | $205 |
| Single supplement (requested) in Reykjavik per night/person | €65 | $90 |
| Kids under 12 - 25% off | €0 | $0 |
| B | 2012 | 13 day trip, AP Special C Borgarfjörður, Dalir and Strandir | 13d / 12n | €2788 | $3740 |
| Extra night in Reykjavik Fosshotel Baron pp (dbl) ~ | €110 | $150 |
| Extra night in Reykjavik Fosshotel Baron Single ~ | €150 | $205 |
| Single supplement (requested) in Reykjavik per night/person | €65 | $90 |
| Kids under 12 - 25% off | €0 | $0 |
| C | 2012 | 12 day trip, AP Special D Eastern Panorama Lónsöræfi | 12d / 11n | €2650 | $3555 |
| Extra night in Reykjavik Fosshotel Baron pp (dbl) ~ | €110 | $150 |
| Extra night in Reykjavik Fosshotel Baron Single ~ | €150 | $205 |
| Single supplement (requested) in Reykjavik per night/person | €65 | $90 |
| Kids under 12 - 25% off | €0 | $0 |
Transfer Option:
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2012
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Transfer from Keflavic airport on Day 1 included
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Rates do not include:
Meals in Rykjavik except breakfast.
2012 Special Ride Offers in Iceland
Jökulsárgljúfur - 10B
Thursday, August 2: Arrival in Iceland – Keflavík Airport – Reykjavík
Transfer from Keflavík Airport to a hotel in Reykjavík. At approx. 19:00 we invite you to a welcome dinner at a nearby restaurant. Receive details of your tour and meet your fellow riders.
Friday, August 3: Reykjavík - Akureyri - Saltvík Holiday Farm - Theistareykir Cabin
Domestic Flight in the morning to Akureyri and transfer to Saltvík Farm. On the way we stop at majestic Goðafoss waterfall. At Saltvík, we start our ride over the plateau Reykjaheiði heath 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-coloured mountains and geothermal energy. With all this volcanic activity it is easy to understand that Iceland is still under “natural construction”! (40 km)
Saturday, August 4: Theistareykir – Jarðböð – Hraunbrún Guesthouse
Enjoy today’s ride from the Theistareykir area past the mountains Gæsafjöll and Hrafnabjörg. We follow good riding tracks through the mountains, past lakes and through bushy vegetation. Enjoy the magnificent view over the Lake Mývatn area, surrounded by mighty volcanoes, before riding down towards our accommodation at Hraunbrún guesthouse, located near the lake. Before dinner we relax and enjoy a nice hot bath in Jarðböð, an outdoor lagoon with geothermal water. (40 km)
Sunday, August 5: Mývatn – Grímsstaðir á Fjöllum Farm
This will be one of our longest riding days , when we pass the bubbling mud pools at Hverarönd, ride alongside Búrfellshraun lava field and further into this eerie landscape, shaped by the power of the earth in the great fires of Lake Mývatn. Our destination is Grímsstaðir Farm on the east side of the mighty river Jökulsá á Fjöllum (which we cross on a bridge!!) (50 km)
Monday, August 6: Grímsstaðir – Möðrudalur Farm
This day takes us through the valleys Grímsstaðadalur and Víðidalur, across black deserts, past various mountains and through remote valleys to an oasis in the wilderness, Möðrudalur Farm, where we will stay overnight. Certainly one of the highlights of this tour is for us to visit the family there, which is famous for their hospitality. (40 km)
Tuesday, August 7: Möðrudalur – Grímsstaðir
We return to Grímsstaðir choosing another route through the mountains this time. Overnight again at Grímstaðir Farm. (43 km)
Wednesday, August 8: Grímsstaðir – Hafursstaðir – Lundur schoolhouse
We follow the mighty glacial fed river Jökulsá á Fjöllum on the east side all the way to Europe’s greatest waterfall Dettifoss. After a good stop at the waterfall we proceed north alongside the canyons to Forvöð, a hidden pearl in the park, which you can only reach on foot or by horse. We leave the horses at Hafursstaðir, a deserted farm and drive to Lundur schoolhouse building in Öxarfjörður. A swimming pool offers relaxation after another long riding day. Overnight stay at the schoolhouse. (45 km)
Thursday, August 9: Hafursstaðir – Lundur
Today we enjoy excellent riding paths as we continue our way into beautiful Öxarfjörður countryside with its low bushy areas and green valleys. Overnight again at Lundur schoolhouse. (25 km)
Friday, August 10: Lundur – Ásbyrgi – Theistareykir
In the morning we ride again in Jökulsárgljúfur National Park. We visit the horseshoe shaped canyon in Ásbyrgi. Now we head again into the mountains again to the friendly hut at Theistareykir. (45 km)
Saturday, August 11: Theistareykir - Saltvík
This is our last day of riding. We follow the ancient route across Reykjaheiði heath back to Saltvík Farm. Here we spend our last night and enjoy the hot outdoor tubs! (40 km)
Sunday, August 12: Saltvík – Reykjavík
Return to Akureyri and flight back to Reykjavík Domestic Airport with arrival at approx. 13:30. Last night in a hotel in Reykjavík.
Monday, August 13: Departure from Iceland - Reykjavík - Keflavík Airport
Transfer by bus to Keflavík Airport in time for the flight back home.
Borgarfjörður/ Dalir - 10C
Tuesday, July 17: Keflavík Airport - Reykjavík
Arrival of riders. Transfer from Keflavík Airport to a hotel in Reykjavík. Welcome dinner and briefing in a nearby restaurant at 19.00.
Wednesday, July 18: Reykjavík – Stóri-Kálfalækur – Grímsstaðir
Morning transfer to Stóri-Kálfalækur Farm, where horses and staff are waiting for us. After an introduction to the Icelandic horse and its special gaits we start our ride into the mountains through fertile farmlands and along good riding tracks to Grímsstaðir Farm with its proud history dating back to medieval times. Overnight at Stóri-Kálfalækur in made up beds, Showers and a hot tub on site. (30 km)
Thursday, July 19: Grímsstaðir – Háreksstaðir in Valley Norðurárdalur – Reykir
Today is a long yet beautiful riding day when we cross River Grímsá and ride underneath Mt. Valbjarnarmúlar to Lake Hreðarvatn, surrounded by lava fields and low birch bushes. In Norðurárdalur valley we follow the Norðurá River all the way to Háreksstaðir Farm. The horses stay behind and we drive to country hotel Reykir in Hrútafjörður. Here we spend 4 nights in double rooms. Swimming pool and hot tubs on site. (50 km)
Friday, July 20: Háreksstaðir – Holtavörðuheiði - Melar in Hrútafjörður
This is an adventurous day when we follow the traditional mountain road, connecting the North and the South of Iceland, over Holtavörðuheiði heath. Let us hope for a clear view of the North-Atlantic Ocean in front, the eastern coast of Vestfirðir peninsula to the North and the highlands with glaciers Langjökull and Hofsjökull to the South-East. Coming into the Hrútafjörður area we leave the horses at Farm Melar and drive again to Reykir. Enjoy bathing in natural hot water and a hearty dinner. (45 km)
Saturday, July 21: Melar - Bær
During this day we have a breathtaking view over Hrútafjörður Fjord and the mountains of the North-West. We follow old sheep trails until we reach Bær Farm. Here our horses rest for the night and we drive once again back to Reykir to enjoy the comfort of this nice accommodation and the hot tubs. (30 km)
Sunday, July 22: Bær - Snartartunga
We continue our ride alongside the Hrútafjörður Fjord, past deserted farms and villages that once were proud trade posts, many even with fish factories. Imagine live during the old days when this area was thriving and attracted people of all kinds. Many sorcerers practiced their dark arts in this area. Maybe this tonight we will hear the howling of those who ended their lives on the fire. Overnight stay again at Reykir. (35 km)
Monday, July 23: Snartartunga – Gilsfjörður – Mikligarður
We leave Strandir and cross Heath Snartartunguheiði over to Fjord Gilsfjörður and the Saurbær area. Imgine elves and dwarfs living in big rocks in this remote ara. Today we have a breathtaking view over the countless islands of Breiðafjörður Fjord. We leave the horses at Mikligarður Farm and drive to Skerðingsstaðir Farm where we spend the night. A bathe in a nearby swimming pool in natural warm water offers relaxation after today’s ride. (30 km)
Tuesday, July 24: Mikligarður – Skerðingsstaðir
Today we turn south again and cross Sælingsdalsheiði heath past the school centre in Laugar. We reach the coast and ride on the beaches for a while until we reche Skerðingsstaðir Farm. Our horses stay with us that night at Skerðingsstaðir and of course the swimming pool is waiting. (40 km)
Wednesday, July 25: Skerðingsstaðir – Dúnkur
We continue our ride past Búðardalur village and alongside the Hvammsfjörður Fjord which we cross on low tide! Certainly a thrilling experience for all of us to ride (galopp!) in approx. 40 – 50 cm. deep water for 15-20 minutes! We head for Dúnkur Farm, where we leave the horses and stay overnight once again at Skerðingsstaðir. (35 km)
Thursday, July 26: Dúnkur – Mýrdalur
Heading south we follow the socalled Fossaleið route. East of Lake Hlíðarvatn we ride to Mýrdalur Farm. Here we leave the horses. This is a day of excellent riding tracks through the beautiful countryside. Overnight stay at Stóri-Kálfalækur Farm, where we can relax in the hot outdoor tub. (40 km)
Friday, July 27: Mýrdalur – Stóri-Kálfalækur Farm
This is our last riding day. Depending on the tide, we either ride down to the beaches and on to Stóri-Kálfalækur or take the longer route on land, underneath Mt. Fagraskógarfjall, through the lava fields to return back to the farm. (30 or 40 km)
Saturday, July 28: Stóri-Kálfalækur – Reykjavík
Return to Reykjavík by bus and accommodation at a hotel. Arrival at approx. 11:30 AM and the rest of day at leisure.
Sunday, July 29: Reykjavík – Keflavik
Transfer by bus to Keflavík Airport in time for the flight back home.
Eastern Panorama Lónsöræfi - 10D
Wednesday, August 15: Arrival in Iceland – Keflavík Airport – Reykjavík
Transfer from Keflavík Airport to a hotel in Reykjavík. At approx. 19:00 we invite you to a welcome dinner at a nearby restaurant. Receive details of your tour and meet your fellow riders.
Thursday, August 16: Reykjavík – Egilsstaðir – Höfn in Hornarfjörður – Stafafell í Lóni
Early morning flight to Egilsstaðir and from there a bus drive to Höfn í Hornarfjörður, a beautiful fishing village located on the south east corner of Iceland, where the adventure starts. Sand bars and glacial rivers traverse this area with many shifting lagoons and sand reefs being formed. The impressive mountain range close to mighty Vatnajökull glacier makes this one of the most picturesque places in Iceland. We cross the pass Almannaskarð, enter the Lón area and head towards Stafafell where we spend the night. (40 km)
Friday, August 17: Stafafell í Lóni – Eskifell – Stafafell í Lóni
Stafafell is nestled between the rainbow-hued mountains of Lón and Lónssandur, in the delta of river Jökulsá í Lóni. The mountains of Stafafell are known for their rhyolite colours and rich contrasts of nature.
We head inland towards Mt Eskifell, passing the beautiful cliff Díma, riding along the river banks of the glacier river and passing the waters in a place where it spreads out on wide black sands. The horses really show there best on this amazing ground we ride on. Return to Stafafell where we spend another night.
(37 km)
Saturday, August 18: Stafafell í Lóni – Lónsheiði – Starmýri – Djúpivogur
We start this day by taking a loop around Reyðarártind, riding through a narrow valley, before heading across the Lónsheiði heath and entering Álftafjörður fjord, the “fjord of swans”. Enjoy the wonderful view over islands and the lively birdlife. We spend the night in fishing village Djúpivogur. (33 km)
Sunday, August 19: Starmýri – Geithellnadalur
We pass Hofsá and Hofsdalur as we ride along the shore. Waves from the Atlantic Ocean burst dramatically on small islands and rocks on the beach. At Mt. Breiðafjall we turn inland and ride into the deserted valley Geithellnadalur with countless waterfalls and cliffs. At the end of the valley we enjoy the silence. It seems like we are alone in the world, except for maybe some wild raindeer that might come into sight. Accommodation is rustic tonight as we stay in tents in this remote valley. (32 km)
Monday, August 20: Geithellnadalur – Hamarsdalur
We cross a spring fed river and enjoy great riding paths as we head out of the valley. We ride on the opposite side of the valley and enjoy the view towards the ocean. At Geithellar Farm we change horses before we ride close to the shore, halfway around Mt. Krákhamarsfjall, to reach the next valley Hamarsdalur. At Hamarssel we leave our horses and drive to Eyjólfsstaðir farm. Here we spend the next three nights. (37 km)
Tuesday, August 21: Hamarsdalur – Papey – Fossárdalur
From Hamarssel we ride towards Djúpivogur village and rest under a beautiful cliff with interesting rock formations at the deserted farm of Strýta the birthplace of Ríkharður Jónsson, one of Icelands most famous stone sculpturer. It is obvious where he got his love for rocks, shapes and artistic vision. We cross Innri Hálsar, towards Skollabotn. From there we take a short drive to Djúpivogur marina to make a boat tour to Papey Island. The trip lasts 4 hours. The bird-cliffs of Papey are examined and we get a look at seals on nearby sea stacks as well. A guided hike on the island itself is included with a look at Iceland's oldest and smallest wooden-church. (30 km, plus miles at sea ).
Wednesday, August 22: Fossárdalur – Geitdalur
Today we head inland through Fossárdalur valley. The landscape is quite extraordinary. Rocks are abundant, the river Fossá runs through the valley and has some twenty-five waterfalls, each with its particular fascination and worth a stay and closer inspection. We ride uphill and reach the heath heading north between lake Ódáðavatn and lake Líkárvötn. Our surroundings change into open highlands with lakes and ponds. We head down through another deserted valley, Geitdalur, until we reach civilization again and spend the night at Stóra Sandfell. (42 km)
Thursday, August 23: Geitdalur – Hallormsstaðaháls – Skjögrastaðir
From Geitdalur our path leads us through Skriðdalur valley and up to the Hallormsstaður ridge. Here we have a great view all the way to the ocean in the north, to Vatnajökull glacier and Mt. Snæfell in the south-west and Lake Lagarfljót in the north-west. From here ride down into Hallormsstaður forest and follow great winding paths through the woods. The final destination for our horses is Skjögrastaðir Farm and we continue to Fljótsdalsgrund where we spend this night and the next(36 km)
Friday, August 24: Skjögrastaðir – Gilsárdalur – Sturluflöt – Skriðuklaustur
We rejoin our horses and follow Gilsárdalur Canyon heading south until we turn down from the heath to Suðurdalur valley near the farm Sturluflöt. From here we follow the riverbanks of river Keldá through a peaceful valley until we reach our final destination at Skriðuklaustur. Another night at Fljótsdalsgrund and a party in the evening to celebrate our successful return. (43 km)
Saturday, August 25: Fjótsdalsgrund – Egilsstaðir – Reykjavík
Flight back to Reykjavík in the morning with arrival at approx. 11:00 at Reykjavík Domestic Airport. Overnight stay at a hotel in Reykjavík.
Sunday, August 26: Departure from Iceland - Reykjavík - Keflavík Airport
Transfer to Keflavík Airport in time for the return flight home.
- We reserve the right to alter the itineraries if necessary.
Airport:
Keflavik Airport
Transfer:
Keflavik Airport
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Tack:
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Icelandic
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Horses:
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Icelandic
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Pace:
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Recommended for experienced riders with the necessary stamina for long riding days of 40 - 50 km during 7 - 9 hrs.
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Level:
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(4
to
5
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
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Riders:
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Min
8 riders
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Max
20 riders
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Please note: This tour is only recommended for experienced riders with the necessary stamina for long riding days of 40 – 50 km during 7 – 9 hrs. 190 miles!!
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.
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
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This list is only a guideline for you
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Travel documents and Voucher
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Flight tickets
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Passport
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Visa (check with your consulate)
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RIDING GEAR
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Riding pants or Jodhpurs (used if possible!)
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Riding boots (Knee high riding boots - preferably rubber, because of the rivers we cross)
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Riding helmet (recommended for all trips)
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Warm jacket or overcoat
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Warm (woolen or fleece) sweater
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| Warm socks and gloves, at least
two pairs, scarf and a cap or hat. |
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Warm underwear, long if possible (protects also from chaffing).
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PERSONAL CLOTHING
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Jogging suit or other comfortable cloths to wear in the huts
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For the ladies – sports bra.
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| Bathing suit and flip flops |
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Slippers for the huts (Icelanders take off their shoes when entering a house)
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ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING
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A small camera to take with you when riding
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| Personal toiletries (soap etc.) |
| Small pillow |
| Towel |
| Ear plugs *shared accommodation* |
| Small flashlight, ie: headlamp |
| If interested, duty free alcohol at Iceland airport |
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Chocolate or glucose sweets for strenuous riding days
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Band aid and second skin plasters for chaffing
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Sore cream (for the emergency)
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Insect repellent; gnat net head cover
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Sun lotion for face and lips (with high sun factor)
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Sunglasses
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Song books
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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.
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 sleeping bag. Also a saddle bag (where you can keep the picnic lunch, a small camera, extra pair of gloves etc.).
Normal street-clothes are not necessary except for your stay in Reykjavík before or after the tour.
We recommend not too much luggage on the tour and you can leave extra luggage at the guesthouse if you want to.
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*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
Double occupancy rooms in Reykjavík and at Farm Dæli. Sleeping bag accommodation in shared rooms at all other accommodation – please bring your own sleeping bag!
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Tack:
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Icelandic
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Horses:
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Icelandic
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Pace:
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Recommended for experienced riders with the necessary stamina for long riding days of 40 - 50 km during 7 - 9 hrs.
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Level:
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(4
to
5
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
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Riders:
|
|
Min
8 riders
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Max
20 riders
|
|
Please note: This tour is only recommended for experienced riders with the necessary stamina for long riding days of 40 – 50 km during 7 – 9 hrs. 190 miles!!
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.
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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Iceland Special
Tour Code:
IT-ICRT10b
12 days /
11 nights
~$3,885.00
Dates :
July to Aug
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Lodging:
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accomodation
Tack:
Icelandic
Horses:
Icelandic
Pace:
Recommended for experienced riders wit...
Airport:
Keflavik Airport
Location on Google Map
Video
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
Download tour PDF
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