Reynisfjara Beach Ride, 3 Hours

Iceland: Ride Reynisfjara’s Iconic Black Sand Beach runs through Saddle Stories. Rated 5.0 across 7 reviews. Runs 3 hours. From $292.

Overview

This three-hour ride from Saddle Stories takes you from a meeting point in South Iceland across rivers and open fields until the ground turns to black volcanic sand near Reynisfjara. The route is the point here: you reach one of the country's most famous coastlines the slow way, on an Icelandic horse, with a licensed adventure guide leading the group the whole time.

The horses are calm, sure-footed and suited to the terrain, and the breed's smooth tölt gait is part of the experience. Reviews from this tour back that up, with travellers describing well trained, relaxed horses and an organized outing.

On clear days the views stretch toward the Westman Islands offshore and, in the distance, Skógafoss. Expect ocean, cliffs and volcanic sand in every direction once you hit the coast. Bring your own transport, since hotel pickup is not part of the package, and note the firm limits: riders must be at least 10 years old and weigh no more than 100 kg.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet the starting pointArrive at the starting location in South Iceland, listed on the booking page. There is no hotel pickup.
2. Meet your horseAt the start you are introduced to your Icelandic horse and your licensed adventure guide, and all required safety equipment is provided.
3. Ride across rivers and fieldsThe group rides through open farmland and crosses rivers on the way toward the coast.
4. Viewpoint horse ridingRide for 1 hour through the designated viewpoint stretch, with ocean, cliff and volcanic sand scenery as you approach the Reynisfjara coastline.
5. Finish the rideThe outing ends within the three-hour total duration stated in the listing.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will make the difference between a good ride and a cold one.

• What to wear. The listing is specific: closed-toe shoes, long pants, gloves and weather-appropriate layers. Follow it closely, since you will spend the full ride outdoors.
• Pace and fitness. The tour is open to all riding levels, including first-timers. The horses are known for their calm nature and smooth tölt, and the guide keeps the group comfortable throughout.
• The coastline stretch. Travellers on this tour describe the beach section as the standout, with ocean, cliffs and volcanic sand all around. On clear days you may also see the Westman Islands or distant views toward Skógafoss.
• Weather luck. Go prepared rather than hopeful.
• Photos. Much of the ride takes place on horseback along an open coastline.
• Before you book. After booking, every rider must submit their age, weight and riding experience. This is mandatory to confirm eligibility, so have those details ready.

Common issues. There is no hotel pickup, so you need your own transport to the meeting point in South Iceland. The weight limit of 100 kg is strictly enforced, and the listing states that riders over the limit are refused participation without a refund. The minimum age is 10. Gratuities are not included in the price. As with any outdoor ride in Iceland, the experience depends partly on the weather, and offshore views only appear on clear days.

Picking A Ride