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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Iceland
Intro to Iceland
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Also see:
Hiking Trips
Horseback in:
Norway
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Europe Overview
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Midnight Sun Ride
Northern Tours
Iceland
On this unique tour, we will let the midnight sun guide our path!
We ride during the early night and sleep out late. The midnight sun is nowhere brighter than where we will be riding in the northernmost part of Iceland. We will be riding exactly when the Summer Solstice occurs on June 21st when we have the longest day of the year. On that day we will have the unique opportunity to see the sunshine through all three pillars of the Arctic Henge in Raufarhöfn. This is a newly built monument for the island´s Pagan worshippers.
This part of Iceland is inhabited by only a few people, most of them living in little fishing villages along the coast. There is a lot of diversity in this tour starting with riding a few days on the beach. The Peninsula of Melrakkaslétta, which stretches almost to the Arctic Circle, is a paradise for birdwatchers and people with geological interest.
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Ride with Gaited Horses
Suitable for riders over 210 lbs
Center-based ride
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Meeting:
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Reykjavík City Airport
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Airport:
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Keflavík International Airport
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Transfer:
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Riders:
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Max
17 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2023
Rates include*:
Accommodation, All meals & 5 riding days
| A | 2023 | 8 day trip, AP | 8d / 7n | €2310 | $2380 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Transfer and Other Charges:
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2023
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Meet at Flugfélagið Ernir in Reykjavík airport for 12:45 pm on Day 1
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Meet at Flugfélagið Ernir in Reykjavík airport at 12:45 pm or we can pick you up at bus stops in Reykjavik (www.busstop.is - Please let us know what you prefer).
Rates do not include:
Drinks & Gratuities
Sample Itinerary - subject to changes
During this very special tour, guests usually wake up at about 3 pm and the riding activities tend to start at about 7-8 pm up to 3 in the morning. After the ride we enjoy a meal and you can then choose to go for a walk or relax in the hot tub.
Day 1. Arrival
We meet at Flugfélagið Ernir (Eagle Air) in Reykjavík airport at 12:45 pm or we can pick you up at bus stops in Reykjavik ( www.busstop.is - Please let us know what you prefer). Please bring your passport or other identification for your domestic flight.
After our flight to Húsavík, we drive to Bjarnastaðir farm. There, we meet up with the guides and horses.
After dinner and a short introduction to the Icelandic horse and its special gaits, we start our ride. We will ride throughout Öxafjörður Fjord along the coast to Katastaðir where we leave our horses before driving back to Bjarnastaðir farm where we sleep in made up beds.
Riding approx. 33 km
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Bjarnastaðir Farm
Day 2. Katastaðir – Sigurðarstaðir
On this day we ride on the beach from Katastaðir to Sigurðarstaðir. This path is quite isolated and it is not likely that we will meet a soul on our way. We will witness the blazing midnight sun on the northern coastline and hear nothing but the sound of the hoofbeat clicking on the ground, the waves of the ocean and birds quiring in the night.
After this amazing peaceful ride in the night, we will drive to Bjarnastaðir to rest.
Riding approx. 28 km
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Bjarnastaðir Farm
Day 3. Sigurðarstaðir – Raufarhöfn
We will continue our journey on the beach to the northernmost part of Iceland; the small village Raufarhöfn. Most of the 250 inhabitants of this small village live of traditional fishing.
On the way, we will witness a rich birdlife along the coast and get to witness this beautiful place which has the longest days and shortest nights in Iceland.
Riding approx. 24 km
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Bjarnastaðir Farm
Day 4. Melrakkaslétta – Katastaðir
Today, we will head back over the soft tracks of the Melrakkaslétta plains. Melrakkaslétta is known for its rich birdlife, many lakes to fish in and its unique beauty during the Summer Solstice. Its name comes from the arctic fox and if you look closely you might even see one stealing eggs from a birds nest. We will leave our horses at Katastaðir and get a good sleep at Bjarnastaðir farm.
Riding approx. 35 km
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Bjarnastaðir Farm
Day 5. Katastaðir – Bjarnastaðir
Summer Solstice occurs on this day! We will be at Raufarhöfn town to witness the longest day and shortest night in Iceland. We will have the unique opportunity to see the sunshine through all three pillars of the Arctic Henge in Raufarhöfn. We then ride back with the majestic mountains on the east leading the way to Bjarnastaðir farm. We ride through Kvíar slope which is about 165 meter above sea level and witness the undescribable beauty of the northernmost parts of Iceland when the midnight sun shines over us.
Riding approx. 38 km
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Bjarnastaðir Farm
Day 6. Departure
It is time to say goodbye to the horses and drive to Húsavík airport to catch the flight to Reykjavik. On the way, we will drive to Ásbyrgi canyon, one of the wonders of nature, a horseshoe-shaped canyon. The old saga says that the god Odin from northern mythology rode his giant horse Sleipnir who stepped down on the ground and formed this shoe print.
We are usually back in Reykjavik for about 5 pm.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
Meeting:
Reykjavík City Airport
Airport:
Keflavík International Airport
Meet at Flugfélagið Ernir in Reykjavík airport at 12:45 pm or we can pick you up at bus stops in Reykjavik (www.busstop.is - Please let us know what you prefer).
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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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Riding approx 30 km each day
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Level:
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(3.5
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
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Weight:
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Max
242 lbs
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Riders:
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Max
17 riders
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Riding Experience
This tour is a great riding experience that is suitable for
Riding Gear – Disinfect!
Riding gear (riding trousers, jackets, etc.) needs to be washed (40°C) or dry cleaned. Items which cannot be washed or dry cleaned (riding boots, riding hats) need to disinfected at least 5 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, chaps 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!
We provide saddle bags, rain wear and safety helmet.
Tack & Riding Style
The tack used for Icelandic horses is slightly different then the tack ordinarily used for other breeds.
The saddle is built close to a dressage saddle and has a relatively flat seat. Saddles come with plain or quilted seats. On longer rides, a crupper helps keeping the saddle in place. Riding style used on Icelandic horses is close to English riding style, but stirrups are worn long.
Bits used are mostly simple snaffles. Bridles have a detachable noseband and clip on reins.
The Farmers
The real connoisseurs of the local terrain and history. We make sure that each tour has its own charm and is organized by the local expert, the farmer, and his family. They use their own horses and ride through the part of the country they know so well.
Our farmers have over 30 years of experience in leading riding groups through Iceland.
Herd of Horses
On this ride, you will be riding several days (except for two days) with a free running herd of horses. Herding along free running horses is the traditional way of travelling in Iceland, since horses are changed at least once a day on longer tours. You get to ride a variety of horses.
Horses
The Icelandic horse is best known for its four-beat smooth gait, the “tölt”, which is very comfortable for the rider, especially on a longer tour. Riding an Icelandic horse in its native habitat land is an authentic riding experience. The horses are especially chosen for this trip and are suited even for riders who have not had much riding experience.
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
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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: http://www.mast.is/english/frontpage/import-export/import/ridingequipment/
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.
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.
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Accommodation
This is a stationary ride so you will be staying at the same accommodation every night.
Description
Bjarnastaðir Farm is located 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.
The farm has 23 beds and 4 showers. There is an outdoor jacuzzi where guests can relax in the evening.
There is Wi-Fi internet and cell service available at the farm.
Room Occupancy
Single rooms are not available on this trip.
Meals
During the ride full board is provided.
The menu consists of a large breakfast and traditional Icelandic meals (fish or lamb).
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.
Dietary restrictions
Vegetarian meals are available if requested in advance.
This trip
can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
|
|
Icelandic
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Icelandic Horses
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Riding approx 30 km each day
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3.5
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
242 lbs
|
|
Riders:
|
|
|
Max
17 riders
|
|
Riding Experience
This tour is a great riding experience that is suitable for
Riding Gear – Disinfect!
Riding gear (riding trousers, jackets, etc.) needs to be washed (40°C) or dry cleaned. Items which cannot be washed or dry cleaned (riding boots, riding hats) need to disinfected at least 5 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, chaps 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!
We provide saddle bags, rain wear and safety helmet.
Tack & Riding Style
The tack used for Icelandic horses is slightly different then the tack ordinarily used for other breeds.
The saddle is built close to a dressage saddle and has a relatively flat seat. Saddles come with plain or quilted seats. On longer rides, a crupper helps keeping the saddle in place. Riding style used on Icelandic horses is close to English riding style, but stirrups are worn long.
Bits used are mostly simple snaffles. Bridles have a detachable noseband and clip on reins.
The Farmers
The real connoisseurs of the local terrain and history. We make sure that each tour has its own charm and is organized by the local expert, the farmer, and his family. They use their own horses and ride through the part of the country they know so well.
Our farmers have over 30 years of experience in leading riding groups through Iceland.
Herd of Horses
On this ride, you will be riding several days (except for two days) with a free running herd of horses. Herding along free running horses is the traditional way of travelling in Iceland, since horses are changed at least once a day on longer tours. You get to ride a variety of horses.
Horses
The Icelandic horse is best known for its four-beat smooth gait, the “tölt”, which is very comfortable for the rider, especially on a longer tour. Riding an Icelandic horse in its native habitat land is an authentic riding experience. The horses are especially chosen for this trip and are suited even for riders who have not had much riding experience.
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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Midnight Sun Ride
Tour Code:
IT-ICRT34
6 days /
5 nights
~$0.00
Dates :
June
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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