Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching Cruise from Reykjavík

Discover the Unique Combo of Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching from Reykjavík

This full-day tour from Reykjavík offers an exciting blend of land and sea adventures for $225 per person. The experience combines 1.5 to 2 hours of scenic horse riding on hardy Icelandic horses across the rugged moors near Hveragerði, with 3 hours of whale watching in Faxaflói Bay, where you can spot minke whales, humpbacks, white-beaked dolphins, and porpoises.

Starting at Hótel Eldhestar at 9:00 am, the tour is ideal for those seeking an active day immersed in Iceland’s wildlife and landscapes. The tour includes pickup, warm clothing, and safety equipment, making it accessible for most participants. While no meals are included, light refreshments are available on the whale cruise. The tour suits travelers aged 12 and above, with a maximum weight limit of 240 pounds (110kg) for horse riding.

Key Points

• Full-day experience combining horseback riding and whale watching
• Price of $225 per person with pickup included
• 1.5-2 hours of horse riding on Icelandic horses near Hveragerði
• 3-hour whale watching cruise in Faxaflói Bay with wildlife sightings
• Guides with expertise provide insights into Icelandic horses and marine life
• Weather-dependent: bad weather may lead to alternative dates or full refunds

Starting Point at Hótel Eldhestar for Scenic Horse Riding

The tour begins at Hótel Eldhestar, located at 816 Sveitarfélagið Ölfus, where a 1.5 to 2-hour horse ride takes place on hardened lava fields surrounding Hveragerði, known as the town of hot springs. Riders of all experience levels are welcome, and the guides are praised for ensuring safety and comfort, even for beginners.

During the ride, you cross heathland and fields on small, hardy Icelandic horses, famous for their tölt gait, which allows for a smooth ride across Iceland’s surreal landscapes. The scenery includes volcanic terrain and lush fields, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to learn about the history and arrival of Icelandic horses in Iceland nearly a millennium ago.

The Experience of Riding Icelandic Horses

Participants appreciate how guides explain the unique tölt gait, a distinctive four-beat gait specific to Icelandic horses, making the ride both fun and accessible. Even those with little riding experience find the activity enjoyable, thanks to professional guidance.

The horses are gentle and resilient, accustomed to navigating Iceland’s rugged terrain. For experienced riders, there is an option to gallop, adding an extra thrill. The experience is well-suited for beginners and those who just want to enjoy the spectacular scenery without intense riding.

Whale Watching from Reykjavik’s Ægisgarður Pier

After the land adventure, the tour moves to the Ægisgarður pier at the Old Harbour district in Reykjavík for a 3-hour whale watching cruise with Elding Whale Watching. The cruise offers sweeping views of the rugged coastline and takes place on a comfortable boat equipped with free WiFi.

Onboard guides provide fascinating insights into Icelands’ whales and marine life, sharing details about the species you might encounter. The boat is designed to give passengers a good vantage point for wildlife viewing, and the chance of sightings includes minke whales, humpbacks, white-beaked dolphins, and porpoises.

While some reviews note that wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, most report seeing multiple whales and dolphins, making the trip well worth the time. If no wildlife is seen, passengers receive a complimentary ticket to use on another boat ride, adding value for future trips.

Practical Details of the Whale Watching Cruise

Passengers are encouraged to dress warmly, as the weather at sea can be cool and windy. The cruise lasts around 3 hours, and guides share insights about the marine ecosystem of Faxaflói Bay. The size of the boat allows for comfortable viewing, and the onboard staff is praised for their friendly and informative service, even when wildlife sightings are limited.

The trip runs rain or shine, with full refunds or alternative dates if canceled due to bad weather. This flexibility ensures a stress-free experience, regardless of Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes experienced guides, safety equipment, warm clothing for both activities, and entry to a wildlife exhibition. The admission tickets for horse riding and whale watching are also covered.

However, lunch is not included, so travelers should pack their own light snacks or meals. Some light refreshments are available on the whale cruise, providing a quick break during the day.

Practical Logistics and Meeting Points

The start point for the tour is Hótel Eldhestar at 816 Sveitarfélagið Ölfus, where guests are picked up, and the end point is the Ægisgarður pier in Reykjavík. It is important to arrive early to check in and board the boat comfortably. The tour departs promptly at 9:00 am, and pickup arrangements are included in the booking.

Participants are advised to dress warmly, as both activities are outdoors and can be affected by weather conditions. The tour can accommodate most travelers, with a maximum group size of 20.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour is suitable for individuals aged 12 and above, with a weight limit of 240 pounds (110kg) for horse riding. The horse riding activity is described as generally safe, with guides ensuring everyone’s safety and comfort. The sea cruise involves no strenuous activity but does require appropriate clothing for the outdoor environment.

Review Highlights and Practical Tips

While some reviews mention that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, most note the quality of the guides and the scenic views as major positives. Travelers emphasize dressing warmly, especially if going in early spring, and the value for money given the combination of activities and included services.

Positive feedback highlights the professionalism of guides, the stability and size of the whale watching boat, and the enjoyment of riding Icelandic horses, even for beginner riders. The tour’s flexibility in weather cancellations adds peace of mind to booking.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Adventure and Wildlife Viewing

This full-day tour from Reykjavík offers a compelling mix of land and sea experiences showcasing Iceland’s natural beauty and wildlife. The combination of scenic horseback riding and marine wildlife encounters makes it a well-rounded option for travelers eager to explore both Iceland’s landscapes and waters.

While wildlife sightings depend on luck, most participants find the whale watching cruise rewarding, and the horse riding adds a personal, tactile connection to Iceland’s rural scenery. Pricing at $225 is reasonable considering the inclusion of guides, equipment, and transportation.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable outdoors in variable weather. It’s particularly ideal for families with older children or small groups looking for a memorable day on land and sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the whale watching tour suitable for children?
The tour is suitable for ages 12 and above, making it appropriate for older children and teens interested in wildlife and outdoor adventures.

What should I wear for the activities?
Both activities require warm clothing. The tour provides warm overalls for the horse riding, and it’s advisable to wear layers and waterproof gear for the boat cruise.

What if no whales are sighted during the cruise?
If wildlife is not visible, guests receive a complimentary ticket to use on another boat trip, ensuring value for your booking.

How long does each activity last?
The horse riding lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, and the whale watching cruise takes around 3 hours in total.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers guides, safety and safety equipment, warm clothing, admission tickets for both activities, and entry to a wildlife exhibition.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds or alternative dates are offered if the tour is canceled due to bad weather or poor wildlife sightings.

This Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching Tour provides a practical, engaging way to experience Iceland’s diverse landscapes and marine life, making it a rewarding choice for those prepared for outdoor adventure.