1+ hour Private Horse riding tour from Reykjavík/Mosfellsbær runs through Icelandic Riding. Rated 4.9 across 57 reviews. Runs 2 hours. From $154.
Overview
This is a private riding experience run by Icelandic Riding from their base at Akrar 2 in Mosfellsbær. The whole outing runs about 2 hours, and pickup from Reykjavík or Mosfellsbær is included, with details on the pickup arrangement given in the listing. Because it is private, only your group rides, which means the pace can be shaped around your experience level rather than a fixed group schedule.
Multiple reviewers describe this gait as smooth and interesting, and several first-time riders said the horses were gentle, responsive and easy to handle. Riders aged 12 and up can join, and one reviewer travelling with a child reported the guide matched riders to horses suited to their experience. The setting is open countryside near Mosfellsbær, and reviewers regularly call the scenery beautiful.
It suits both complete beginners and experienced riders. Reviewers who had never sat on a horse called it a perfect first ride, while experienced riders praised sure-footed horses at varying speeds, including tolt and gallops uphill and through water. Helmets and gloves are provided, and warm overalls are supplied in winter. Riders need moderate fitness, must be able to mount and dismount without a mounting block, and must weigh under 110kg.
What's Included
Included
- Private tour
- Local guide
- Use of helmet and gloves
- Warm overalls (in winter)
- Pickup from Reykjavík or Mosfellsbær: see listing.
Itinerary
- Pickup from ReykjavíkPickup is included from Reykjavík or Mosfellsbær; the listing gives the specific arrangements. The listing also recommends bus no. 15 from downtown Reykjavík as the best way to reach the farm.
- Arrive at the farmThe meeting point is Icelandic Riding, Akrar 2, 271 Mosfellsbær. Helmets and gloves are provided, with warm overalls in winter.
- Riding tour, 2 hoursThe ride itself lasts 2 hours, covering trails through the surrounding countryside. Several reviews describe friendly, responsive horses.
- Return to the farmThe activity ends back at the meeting point at Akrar 2, Mosfellsbær.
What To Expect From The Tour
A few practical points will help you prepare for this ride, from what to wear to how the private format changes the day.
- What to wear. The listing recommends comfortable riding shoes, or walking shoes or good sneakers. In winter, warm overalls are provided, and helmets and gloves are always included.
- Riding gear rules. It is forbidden by law to bring used horse or equestrian equipment into Iceland, and any riding gear that cannot be washed cannot be brought into the country. Leave used tack, boots and helmets at home.
- Pace and fitness. Travellers should have a moderate level of physical fitness and be able to mount and dismount the horse without a mounting block. Several reviewers said the guide tailored the pace to their level, and the private format allows this.
- First-time friendly. Multiple reviewers had never ridden before and described it as a good first experience, with basics explained before setting off. Experienced riders also reported enjoying faster work, including tolt and galloping.
- Weather reality. The listing states the experience requires good weather, and one reviewer noted conditions in Iceland can be unpredictable even on a good ride. If poor weather cancels the tour, a different date or a full refund is offered.
- Photos. One reviewer mentioned the guide took photos at well-chosen moments during a private ride. Since the format is private, there is room to ask, though nothing about photos is promised in the listing.
Common issues. There are firm physical limits: riders must be at least 12 years old, weigh under 110kg, and be fit enough to mount and dismount without assistance. The tour is not recommended for pregnant travellers or those with back problems, and it is not wheelchair accessible. The listing also states a tour can be cancelled without refund if a guest does not follow instructions or the guides feel unsure about taking them out. Weather can turn, as reviewers acknowledge, and poor-weather cancellations are handled with a different date or a full refund.
Picking A Ride
Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from Reykjavík or Mosfellsbær is included, and the specific pickup details are given in the listing. If you prefer to make your own way, the listing recommends bus no. 15 from downtown Reykjavík as the best way to get to the farm.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Icelandic Riding at Akrar 2, 271 Mosfellsbær, Iceland. The ride ends back at the same place.
What is included in the price?
The tour is private, with a local guide, helmet and gloves provided, warm overalls in winter, and pickup from Reykjavík or Mosfellsbær. The listing does not mention food or drinks.
Can beginners join?
Yes. Several reviewers were first-time riders and said the guide explained the basics and paired them with gentle, responsive horses. Experienced riders also report the tour works well for them, with chances to tolt and gallop.
Is there an age or weight limit?
The minimum age is 12 years, and riders must weigh less than 110kg. Guests also need moderate physical fitness and must be able to mount and dismount the horse without a mounting block.
What is the cancellation policy?
A full refund is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time, based on local time in Iceland. Changes and cancellations inside that window are not accepted, and if the tour is cancelled for poor weather you are offered a different date or a full refund.