Iceland - Glacier Trail

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from JS of Campbellville on 04/08/2023

PLEASE NOTE: Tours operate alternatively from North to South / South to North.

Itinerary North to South:

Day 1
Reykjavik – Hvammur Farm: Pick up at BSÍ Bus station in Reykjavik at 18:00. The bus will transfer riders to the farm in the North Iceland where the horses and staff are waiting. After a welcoming introductory meal and getting to know the group, relax in preparation for the adventure ahead.

Day 2
Hvammur – Vatnsdalur Valley – Forsæludalur – Hvammur: Ride along the banks of Vatnsdalsá river which give the opportunity to enjoy a fast ride at a soft tölt. This is one of the most beautiful valleys in Iceland and the setting of one of the ancient sagas, Vatnsdælasaga. On the ride, hear the tales of Iceland´s past of conflict, love and blood thirsty revenge. The horses stay at the Forsæludalur, while riders stay overnight at the Hvammur guesthouse and soak in the hot tub (Approx. 20km)

Day 3
Hvammur – Forsæludalur – Öndvegi Mountain Cabin: Ride up the valley to the canyon of the Vatnsdalsá river and its many waterfalls. Today the trail ascends up to the mountain plateau of Grímstunguheiði. The fertile valley with its farms is left behind as the horses run freely over the soft riding paths of the northern highland, one of the largest uninhabited areas in Europe. Enjoy the view over the impressive highland mountains and the completely untouched nature. Overnight at the Öndvegi Mountain Cabin. Up to mid-July the sun hardly sets in this part of the country.  (Approx. 35km)

Day 4 
Öndvegi – Gíslaskáli Mountain Cabin: The ride today passes the mountains Sandkúlufell and Sauðafell. This is a historical route that has been travelled on horseback for centuries – all the way back to the early settlement of Iceland. The horses run happily with on the soft paths of this free and mystical highland area. The horses stay the night by the river Kúlukvísl, the riders head up to Gíslaskáli Cabin where they will stay the next two nights. (Approx. 35km)

Day 5
Gíslaskáli – Hveravellir Geothermal Area – Gíslaskáli Mountain Cabin: The destination of today’s ride is Hveravellir, a very unique geothermal area between Hofsjökull and Langjökull glaciers. The path leads over the river Seyðisá and it's easy see the vegetation changing while getting higher up into the highlands. Today's ride is a shorter one inbetween 2 long riding days. The horses get to rest and the riders have time to explore the unique area of Hveravellir. The most famous outlaw Fjalla Eyvindur survived for years here in this rough but extremely beautiful nature. A natural hot pool invites the riders to a deserved relaxing bath before returning to the Gíslaskáli Mountain Cabin. (Approx. 15km)

Day 6
Gíslaskáli – Árbúðir Mountain Cabin: The day starts by riding through the Valley of Thieves, called Thjófadalir, a remote grassy valley surrounded by high mountains. During the last centuries, traveling through the remote Highland was a dangerous trip due to outlaws waiting to rob the riders. From the entrance of the valley, there is a splendid view over the fertile landscape. Following the glacial river Fúlákvísl the riders enjoy the view of the mighty glacier Langjökull. The day ends in Árbúðir Mountain Cabin. (Approx. 50km)

Day 7
Árbúðir – Fremstaver Mountain Cabin: The path follows the river Svartá for a while before crossing the river Hvítá and continues along the slopes of Mt. Bláfell. As riding down the mountain, the beautiful South appears in the front. The ride ends at Fremstaver Mountain Cabin which is beautifully located on the South side of the mountain Bláfell and not far from the famous Gullfoss waterfall. It's time to celebrate a successful tour with an authentic farewell dinner, storytelling and singing. (Approx. 25km)

Day 8
Fremstaver – Reykjavík: Say good-bye to the team and return back to Reykjavík. . On the drive back to Reykjavík BSÍ Bus station, there is a visit to the world famous natural wonders: Geysir and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. Approx. arrival at 14:00.

Itinerary South to North:

Day 1
Reykjavik – Fremstaver Mountain Cabin: Pick up at BSÍ Bus station in Reykjavik at 18:00 where the bus will transfer riders to Fremstaver Mountain Cabin, where the horses and staff are waiting. On the way there is a visit to the world famous natural wonders: Geysir and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. After a welcoming introductory meal and getting to know the group, relax in preparation for the adventure ahead.

Day 2
Fremstaver – Árbúðir Mountain Cabin: The riding adventure starts off towards the majestic glacier Langjökull and up into the Highlands. The horses bring the riders in their soft and strong gates along the slopes of Mt. Bláfell, cross the river Hvítá and follow the river Svartá. The first riding day ends at Árbúðir Mountain Cabin. (Approx. 25 km)

Day 3
Árbúðir – Gíslaskáli Mountain Cabin: The second riding day continues following the glacial river Fúlákvísl with great view of the mighty glacier Langjökull. Ride through the Valley of Thieves, called Thjófadalir, a remote grassy valley surrounded by high mountains. During the last centuries, traveling through the remote Highland was a dangerous trip due to outlaws waiting to rob the riders. From the entrance of the valley, there is a splendid view over the fertile landscape. The ride ends at the paddock of Hveravellir where the horses will spend the night and the riders head up to Gíslaskáli Mountain Cabin where they will stay for the next two nights. (Approx. 50 km)

Day 4
Gíslaskáli – Hveravellir Geothermal Area – Gíslaskáli Mountain Cabin: The destination of today’s ride is Hveravellir, a very unique geothermal area between Hofsjökull and Langjökull glaciers. The path leads over the river Seyðisá and it's easy see the vegetation changing while getting higher up into the highlands. Today's ride is a shorter one inbetween 2 long riding days. The horses get to rest and the riders have time to explore the unique area of Hveravellir. The most famous outlaw Fjalla Eyvindur survived for years here in this rough but extremely beautiful nature. A natural hot pool invites the riders to a deserved relaxing bath before returning to the Gíslaskáli Mountain Cabin. (Approx. 15km)

Day 5
Gíslaskáli – Öndvegi Mountain Cabin: In the morning the riders are taken to the horses at the paddock of Kúlukvísl where the ride starts. The horses run happily with us on the soft paths of this free and mystical highland area, pass the mountains Sandkúlufell and Sauðafell before reaching destination. This is a historical route that has been travelled on horseback for centuries – all the way back to the early settlement of Iceland. The night will be spent in Öndvegi Mountain Cabin. Up to mid-July the sun hardly sets in this part of the country. (Approx. 35 km)

Day 6
Öndvegi – Forsæludalur – Hvammur Farm: Continue the ride over the mountain plateau Grímstunguheiði. The valleys with the farms in the North are getting closer. It is impressive to see the fertile valley Vatnsdalur with all its fields and vegetation. While riding down to the valley, the canyon of the river Vatnsdalsá appears with some of its many beautiful waterfalls. The horses stay at Forsæludalur Farm which is the first farm to reach in this area when coming down from the highland. The riders overnight at Hvammur Farm. The hot tub offers a nice relaxation after today’s ride. (Approx. 35 km)

Day 7
Hvammur – Forsæludalur – Vatnsdalur – Hvammur: The tracks and paths along the banks of Vatnsdalsá river gives the opportunity to enjoy a fast ride at a soft tölt. Vatnsdalur is one of the most beautiful valleys in Iceland and the setting of one of the ancient sagas, Vatnsdælasaga. On the ride to Hvammur the group will learn of Iceland’s heroic past of bloody conflict, revenge and love. Say goodbye to the horses as they graze in the green fields of the valley. Celebrate the end of a successful tour with a farewell dinner, storytelling and singing. (Approx. 20 km)

Day 8
Hvammur – Reykjavík: Say goodbye to the team before transferring back to Reykjavík BSÍ Bus station. Approx. arrival at 14:00.

Bring a short riding jacket as long ones tend to flap. 
Luggage is taken ahead every day by truck/trailer to the next night's stop. We recommend you bring bags, rather then hard cover suit cases, and pack light because transport space is limited.
Accommodation is basic in rustic mountain huts in the midst of Iceland´s untamed nature.

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

In this land of the midnight sun the season for rides only lasts for 4 months – June, July, August and September but the rides we offer provide plenty of variety of scenery. You will ride the traditional Icelandic horses - they are called horses not ponies despite being pony sized! Icelandics are gaited horses and have a special gait known as the tölt which is very comfortable. Anyone comfortable with English (or McLellan) or Western tack will be able to adapt to sitting to the new gait without any problems – the trail leaders explain how to sit it before the first day’s riding. The guides will also explain how to tack up the horses, mount and how to ride the tölt before setting off. All the guides are English-speaking. As well as the ridden horses, a herd of loose horses will be running with the group, and you will change your mount at least once during the day.

There is about 6 – 7 hours riding each day (starting around 10.30am) as up to 35/55km has to be covered: you’ll need to be riding fit because occasionally the odd day may be slightly longer. The purpose of riding with a herd of horses is to enable a change of mount at the 2 or 3 breaks each day. A minimum of 10 riders up to a maximum of 20 riders per trip: so you could be riding with up to 70 loose horses! You ride across the wide salmon rivers on sturdy native ponies - the preferred mode of transport for many Icelanders, still. Pass glaciers, extinct volcanoes, icebergs floating in the lakes and explore the bubbling hot springs.

5 to 8 hours per day, this ride is mainly for good intermediate to advanced (beginners and novices can have tailor-made rides organised for them) - all paces including tölt (instruction is given), 110kg weight limit (please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.). Some walking beside horses required. Children are welcome provided that their parent/guardian is prepared to take full responsibility for them during the holiday.

Used riding clothes must be disinfected before entry to Iceland. 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 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: www.mast.is

The weight limit for this ride is 242 lb/110 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

On the Glacier Trail, sometimes the whole group stays together in one room, depending on the size and location of each mountain cabin. Indoor WC, warm showers and/or hot pools are available at most but not all locations. Large breakfasts are traditional (lamb and fish are the staple dinners) though special diets (vegetarian, etc.) can be provided if advance notice is given. Riders make their own picnic lunches up from the large food selection at the breakfast table. Luggage will be transported in the kitchen van. Please bring bags rather than hard cover suitcases and pack light because transport space is limited. 

Extra accommodation: We recommend that you arrive the day before the ride begins and stay in a hotel in Reykjavik. Some riders may also want to stay an extra night at the end of the ride before flying home. There are many hotels to choose from in Reykjavik, some recommendations are Cabin Hotel and Brim Hotel. 

As part of an initiative to improve the centre of Reykjavik for locals and travellers, there are no buses within the central part of the City. Instead, vehicles with group licenses will pick up and drop off all passengers staying at hostels and guesthouses within the area at designated bus stops, including airport transfers and tours.



Please take a look at the available bus stops here http://www.busstop.is/ to find the stop closest to your intended accommodation.

Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip.

NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures.

Passport and Visa requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country.

Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa.

In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/iceland

In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Iceland.html

In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/iceland

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions

Come prepared for all kinds of weather as the day can change very quickly! Summer temperatures can reach the 20°C+ but can be less than 10°C.

COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in Iceland and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.

You should make sure you have sufficient medical supplies (including prescription medicines) for the duration of your stay and any unforeseen delays, adequate travel insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment and repatriation.

Sunscreen and insect repellent is advised.

No special health precautions are required for the rides.

If you need to contact the emergency services, call 112.

No special health precautions are required for visits to Iceland.

In Iceland the supply voltage is 230V. If the appliance is a single voltage rated appliance, it will need to operate at the same voltage as the supply voltage of the country i.e. 230V. If this is not the case it should be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly.

Bring sufficient film, batteries, etc. with you because there are no opportunities to buy these out on the trail. If using a GoPro make sure to get the permission of the group to be filmed.

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 riding tours in Iceland:

• Helmet (also possible to borrow)
• Warm jacket (windproof and waterproof/water-resistant)
• Warm sweater (woolen or fleece)
• Warm socks
• Riding gloves (at least 2 pairs)
• Warm and comfortable underwear
• Riding trousers x2 (water-resistant material is a great option)
• Riding shoes/boots (waterproof & comfortable, some prefer hiking boots)
• Casual clothes for evenings
• A pair of slippers
• Swimsuit
• Towel
• Blister plasters
• Chocolate or glucose sweets for long riding days
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen with high protection for face/lips (in summer the sun is very strong in Iceland!)
• Vaseline or similar for lips
• Earplugs (there might be some snoring in shared accommodation)
• Sleeping mask (it’s bright outside around the clock in summer)
• Sleeping bag + small pillow (if you wish)
• Wet wipes (there isn’t always shower available)
• Dry shampoo
• Power bank

Items provided:
• Saddle bag
• Rain wear
• Helmet
• Water bottle



WASHING / DISINFECTING / FORBIDDEN

Geographical isolation and strict importation rules have protected the Iceland horse population from serious infectious diseases. As a result, Iceland is in a unique situation where strangles, equine influenza, equine herpes virus type 1, and many other diseases have never reached the country.

Horses are not vaccinated and are therefore susceptible to infectious agents from abroad. Please help Iceland to protect the fragile nature by following the instructions:

RIDING CLOTHES NEED TO BE WASHED AND DISINFECTED AS FOLLOWS:

Used riding clothes must be washed (40°C) in a washing machine or dry cleaned prior to entering the country.

Riding clothes and boots that cannot be cleaned this way should be washed and disinfected as follows:
1. Rinse thoroughly with detergent
2. Dry
3. Spray with 2% Virkon® S (20g per liter of water)
4. Store for at least 5 days prior to bringing the clothes into contact with horses in Iceland

FORBIDDEN ITEMS:
• Used riding equipment such as gloves, chaps, whips, saddles, bridles, pads etc.
• Used leather gear


If you have any doubts or questions, please don’t hesitate to ask!

8d / 7n programme with 6 riding days. Available on set dates. Alternative departures for this riding holiday are operated from North to South.

2025: 19, 26* June; 5*, 12* July; 8*, 15* August
(* High Season)

• £
• €
• US $
• SEK

WH Auden and Louis MacNeice Letters from Iceland

Chris Casseldine Most Unimaginably Strange: An Eclectic Companion to the Landscape of Iceland 

David Roberts 'Iceland Land of the Saga's';

Terry Lacy 'Ring of Seasons'.

For a broad selection of equestrian travel books, many previously unavailable visit www.HorseTravelBooks.com - inspiring adventure!

Blue Lagoon / Sky Lagoon / Whale watching / FlyOver Iceland

Enjoy geothermal pools, outdoor hot tubs, bird watching and exploring the lava fields and fauna in some of the evenings.

DISINFECTION: Riding gear (riding boots, riding trousers, jackets, hats, gloves, etc.) needs to be washed (40°C), dry cleaned or disinfected with Virkon S before arriving in Iceland. Saddles, bridles and other leather gear may not be brought into the country.
Please understand that these precautions are necessary because there are no contagious animal diseases (i.e. rabies or foot and mouth diseases) in Iceland and therefore important to protect the animals of the country.

Iceland is known as the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’ and is a large island in the North Atlantic Ocean, close to the Arctic Circle. It has close ties with Scandinavia and is part of Europe. Historically, Iceland was settled by Vikings and later came under Danish rule. Known for having the world's first parliament during Norse times, Iceland passed an act centuries ago banning horse imports, leading to today's pure breed. In 1944, Iceland gained full independence. Iceland also boasts a rich horse culture, with nearly every Icelander being a rider or adept at horseback riding.

Iceland is a true gem in the world of travel. With its incredible landscapes that seem to come straight out of a storybook, this destination is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The opportunity to witness volcanoes, stunning beaches, geothermal springs, rocky formations, and mineral-packed pools sparkling with color is truly unique. Plus, its wild landscapes are home to some of the world's most awe-inspiring natural phenomena, such as the midnight sun in June where you can experience almost 24 hours of daylight. And there's no better way to immerse yourself in this natural wonderland than by taking a horseback ride through the glacial river valleys and ancient routes. With its vast uninhabited land, Iceland is an adventure waiting to happen for those who are willing to explore off the beaten path. Only approximately 15% of Iceland is populated and most people choose to live around the coast, leaving the rest of the country's rugged beauty to be discovered by travellers.

Reykjavik, the world's northernmost capital, is picturesque with modern architecture and commerce mixed with traditional colourful wooden houses. The nearby geothermal hot springs have been harnessed to provide a cheap natural heating system. This leaves the air pristine and pollution free. Your photographs will benefit from the fabulous clear sharp light. The sea also plays a vital role in Icelandic life, supporting the fishing industry. The coast and fjords are rich in bird species, especially sea fowl.