From Reykjavík: Full-day Golden Circle & Horse Riding Tour

Discover the Full-Day Golden Circle & Horse Riding Tour from Reykjavík

This 11-hour tour from Reykjavík combines two of Iceland’s most iconic experiences: a horseback ride on the unique Icelandic horse breed and visits to the Golden Circle’s top sights. Priced at $226 per person, it offers a comprehensive look at Iceland’s stunning landscapes, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Its high rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 29 reviews highlights its popularity for well-organized logistics and memorable sights.

The tour begins with a horse-riding session at Laxnes Horse Farm, where riders are paired with Icelandic horses known for their smooth gait and friendly nature. After a scenic 1.5-2 hours ride through fields and hills, travelers then explore the Golden Circle attractions, including Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

While this tour is perfect for those eager to combine outdoor adventure with Iceland’s most celebrated natural wonders, it’s worth noting that children under 7 years and individuals over 264 lbs (120 kg) are not suitable for the horseback riding segment. The tour’s pace balances riding and sightseeing to maximize exposure without overwhelming participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Full-day experience with horseback riding and sightseeing in Iceland
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavík
• Ride Icelandic horses for 1.5-2 hours at Laxnes Horse Farm
• Visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall
• Guided in English with WIFI onboard the bus
• Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Start Your Adventure: Hotel Pickup in Reykjavík

The tour departs from a wide selection of 36 pickup locations across Reykjavík, including major hotels, bus stops, and the cruise terminal. This flexible pickup system helps ensure convenience for all travelers. The bus ride to Laxnes Horse Farm typically lasts around 30 minutes, setting the scene for the upcoming horseback experience.

The Laxnes Horse Farm is where the journey begins with an introduction to the Icelandic horses, a breed prized for their extra gait, small stature, and gentle demeanor. The guides expertly select the perfect horse for each rider, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience whether you’re a beginner or have riding experience.

Scenic Horseback Riding in the Icelandic Countryside

At the Laxnes Horse Farm, the highlight is the scenic horseback ride lasting between 1.5 to 2 hours. Riders traverse hills, lush fields, and even cross a gentle river, all while enjoying the serene Icelandic landscape. The Icelandic horse’s smooth gait makes this experience accessible even for those new to riding.

The guides at Laxnes are praised for their friendly attitudes and skill in helping riders, including those with mobility issues, find suitable routes. The riding gear is provided, making this segment straightforward and comfortable. The horses are described as friendly, calm, and easy to handle, which helps make this one of the tour’s most memorable parts.

Exploring Þingvellir National Park

After returning to the bus, the tour continues to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, travelers enjoy a guided walk and sightseeing for approximately 40 minutes. The park is famous for being the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—a geological marvel visible along the rift valley.

Visitors can take photos of the expansive scenery and learn about the site’s historical importance as the site of Iceland’s ancient parliament. The guided aspect ensures that you understand why this area remains a key part of Iceland’s cultural and natural identity.

More Great Tours Nearby

Witness the Power of Geysir

Next, the tour visits the Geysir geothermal area, where spectacular eruptions occur regularly. The Geysir itself is the area’s most famous geyser, though Strokkur often takes the spotlight with eruptions every 5-10 minutes. Visitors have around 70 minutes here to walk around, take photos, and watch these natural displays.

The geothermal activity visible at Geysir showcases Iceland’s volcanic vitality, with bubbling hot springs and spouting geysers providing captivating sights. The guides share insights into the geothermal processes that power this landscape, making this stop both entertaining and educational.

Marvel at Gullfoss Waterfall

The next stop is Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls. With a 40-minute walk and sightseeing period, visitors can stand close to the roaring falls and capture stunning photographs. The waterfall is fed by the glacial rivers of Langjökull, adding to its majestic appeal.

The powerful cascade of Gullfoss, with its two-tiered drop, offers a dramatic contrast to the tranquility of the earlier stops. It’s a highlight for many travelers seeking to witness Iceland’s raw natural energy firsthand.

The Return Journey and Drop-Off Locations

Following Gullfoss, the bus takes a 100-minute ride back toward Reykjavík. The tour concludes with drop-offs at over 36 locations throughout the city, ensuring that travelers can conveniently return to their accommodations or preferred stops.

The transportation features onboard WIFI, adding comfort and connectivity during the drive. The organized drop-off system helps maximize convenience, especially after a full day of exploration.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This tour is designed for flexibility and comfort, with hotel pickup included from many key locations in Reykjavík. The horse-riding gear is provided, and the guides speak English fluently, making explanations clear and engaging.

However, the activity is not suitable for children under 7 years or those over 120 kg (264 lbs), due to safety considerations during horseback riding. Participants should be prepared for a full day of activity and dress appropriately for outdoor sightseeing and riding.

Why Choose This Tour?

The combination of horseback riding and sightseeing makes this tour stand out among Icelandic day trips. It offers up-close contact with Icelandic nature through the unique experience of riding the country’s iconic horses, alongside visits to celebrated natural wonders.

The high ratings and positive reviews point to a well-organized experience led by knowledgeable guides. The balance of active riding and scenic stops ensures a fulfilling day without feeling rushed.

Travelers looking for a diverse Iceland experience that mixes adventure with iconic landscapes will find this tour a compelling choice. The affordable price and inclusion of hotel pickup make it accessible and convenient.

Full-Day Golden Circle & Horse Riding: Final Thoughts

This tour provides a rich blend of outdoor adventure and Iceland’s celebrated natural sites. The horse-riding experience at Laxnes is a highlight, especially for those eager to connect with Icelandic culture through its beloved breed. The sightseeing stops—Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss—are timeless symbols of Iceland’s volcanic beauty.

While the pace is full, the organized logistics and friendly guides help keep the experience smooth. The WIFI on the bus and numerous pickup locations add to the overall convenience.

This tour is particularly suited for travelers who want to combine active participation with sightseeing, and who appreciate the chance to see Iceland’s iconic landscapes in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from many Reykjavík hotels and stops.

How long is the horseback riding segment?
The horseback riding lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours at Laxnes Horse Farm.

Can children participate in the horseback riding?
Children under 7 years old are not suitable for riding.

Is there a weight limit for participants?
Yes, participants over 120 kg (264 lbs) cannot join the horseback riding.

What sights are included in the Golden Circle?
The tour visits Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience lasts about 11 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Guides assist travelers with mobility concerns, and the tour includes walking at sites.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $226 per person, offering a full-day adventure for a reasonable rate.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour operates with English-speaking guides.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

This full-day Golden Circle and horse riding tour from Reykjavík blends Icelandic culture and nature into a memorable, well-organized experience, ideal for travelers wanting to see Iceland’s highlights while enjoying the country’s iconic horses.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby