Iceland - Canyon 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 SJ of Burlington on 08/09/2021

Day 1
Reykjavik – Kálfhóll farm: Pick up at BSÍ Bus station in Reykjavik at 18:00 for the transfer to Kálfhóll, where horses and staff will be waiting. Get to know fellow riders and the team over a welcome dinner. Overnight at the farm.

Day 2
Kálfhóll – Thjórsá glacier river – Sandlækjamýri: After an introduction to the Icelandic horse and its special gaits, start the ride along the trail at the Thjórsá glacier fed river. Lleave the horses at Sandlækjarmýri field and drive to Kálfhóll to overnight. This day is the perfect start to get to know the horses and the Icelandic way of trail riding in a relaxed atmosphere. (approximately 15 km)

Day 3
Kálfhóll – Sandlækjarmýri – Kálfhóll: Leave Kálfhóll farm and drive back to the horses. Head to the farmlands of neighboring community of Hrunamannahreppur to drive spare horses along in a free running herd, enabling riders to change mounts regularly, and at a brisk space. Cross the well know Salmon River Stóra-Laxá and stop for our picnic lunch at Hrunaréttir, a corral used for the annual sheep round-up in autumn. Continue the ride toward the majestic canyon, Brúarhldd, where milky green water passes through the bizarre rock formations. The ride ends at Brúarhldd and the group drive to the Kálfhóll Farm to spend the night. (approximately 30 km)

Day 4
Kálfhóll – Gullfoss – Kálfhóll: Continue the ride on soft trails ideal for tölting. Alongside Hvítá River the trail follows the ever deepening canyon toward the impressive Golden Waterfall Gullfoss. The name “Gullfoss” means “Golden waterfall” in English, and it is named after the golden hue that the waterfall takes on during sunrise and sunset. Gullfoss is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland and is known for its powerful and dramatic appearance, with water falling a total of 32 meters (105 feet) in two stages. Enjoy a lunch break at Gullfoss before riding back to Kálfhóll to spend the night. (approximately 20 km)

Day 5
Haukadalur – Haukadalsheidi – Kálfhóll: The ride leads through Haukadalur valley with its beautiful birch forest before crossing clear little streams on the way, and the rich vegetation of wild mountain flowers that bloom during high summer. Ascend to a highland plateau where riders will notice the changes in surroundings toward the higher ground. A breathtaking view of the mountain ranges and glaciers of the highland around awaits riders at the top of Haukadalsheidi. The rest of the day is spent in the Geysir area with plenty of time to explore this interesting area with its countless bubbling hot springs. (approximately 18 km)

Day 6
Geysir – Tungufellsdalur – Kaldbakur – Kálfhóll: Leave the Geysir area and ride along green pastures back to the bridge at Brúarhlöð canyon to cross the mighty Hvítá River. Head towards the interior and follow the Tungufellsdalur valley onto Hrunaheiðar heath plateau and experience riding along the edge of civilization. The horses spend the night at Kaldbakur Farm while the group drive to the Secret Lagoon for relaxing bathe in the geothermal pools and then drive to Kálfhóll and spend the night. (approximately 30 km)

Day 7
Kálfhóll – Kaldbakur – Hrepphólar – Kálfhóll – Reykjavík: The last day of riding includes more terrific scenery. Follow the tracks past Mt. Galtafell before reaching River Laxá and Sandlækjarmýri. Finally, turn toward the banks of Thjórsá River and follow them back to Kálfhóll Farm to say goodbye to our guides, staff, and horses, and return to Reykjavík BSÍ, approx. arrival at 20:00. (approximately 40 km)

The hosts reserve the right to alter the itinerary if necessary

Please don't bring a long riding raincoat as they tend to flap.

Please bring cash for purchases at the farm.

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.

The riding season only lasts for 4 months in the land of the midnight sun; June, July, August and September, but the rides provided offer plenty of variety of scenery. Guests ride the traditional Icelandic horses (called horses not ponies despite being pony sized!) which have a special gait known as the tölt which is very comfortable and 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 and guides will explain how to tack up the horses, mount it 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 during the day.

There is about 6 – 7 hours riding each day (starting around 10.30am) and up to 35/55km ha to be covered each day, so riders need to be 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 5 riders up to a maximum of 20 riders per trip.

Although you do not need to be an expert rider for this tour, riding days can be long so you should be in good physical condition and have a basic knowledge of horsemanship.
5 to 8 hours per day, this ride is mainly intermediate to advanced – novices can be catered for - all paces including tölt (instruction is given). Some walking beside horses required. Children are welcome provided that their parent/guardian is prepared to take full responsibility for them during the holiday. The minimum age for this ride is 8 years There is a 110kg weight limit (please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.) Not suitable for non-riders.

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.

Whilst on the ride accommodation is in summer cottages on farmland. There are three bedrooms in each cottage and shared livingroom, kitchen and bathroom. Single supplements are available for single rooms but please note that this does not include a private bathroom, please enquire for more information. Hot tub is outside and always ready for use.

Large breakfasts are traditional. Lamb and fish are the staple ingredients at dinners, although special diets (vegetarian, etc.) can be provided if advance notice is given. Riders make their own lunches up from the large food selection at the breakfast table.







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, no buses are allowed in 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 you have the permission of the group to be filmed.

Pack as you usually would for a holiday, for e.g. sunglasses, toiletries and then these are your Horse Riding holiday essentials.
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
If you are unsure, please speak with your Travel Consultant:
ESSENTIALS FOR ALL RIDING HOLIDAYS
Riding helmet – complying with current EU & British standards – (some locations, mostly in the EU, can provide them but if possible bring your own for comfort and correct fit)
Riding boots designed for riding and walking
Chaps
At least 2 pairs of riding trousers – jodhpur’s/breeches are best for anything, except western riding (Jeans)
Long sleeved shirts
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Water bottle
Mobile phone
• Warm jacket (windproof and waterproof/water-resistant)
• Warm sweater (woollen or fleece)
• Warm socks
• Riding gloves
• Warm and comfortable underwear
• Riding trousers (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
• 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)

Items provided:
• Towel
• 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 litre 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!

7d / 6n programme with 6 riding days. Available on set dates throughout the year.

2025: 31 May; 16*, 23 Aug
* 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 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.