Take an equestrian vacation across Iceland´s western highlands, from the beautiful Vatnsdalur Valley in the north to the shrine of the nation Þingvellir in the south. The smooth tölt of quality Icelandic horses takes horseback riders through this mystical and inspiring landscape, following in the footsteps of the Icelandic people who rode these paths to visit their King back in 1907. Today, the horseback trails offer a rarely found peaceful wilderness.
Discover the legendary Arnarvatnheiði Heath with its countless lakes. The guides will regale guests with local myths and legends. During the trip, horseback riders will spot the majestic glaciers of Langjökull and Eiríksjökull before visiting the geothermal area of Húsafell; often called the pearl between the lava and the glaciers with its natural forest and great outdoor pool. The end of the trail takes riders to the Pingvellir National park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that horseback riders visit on horseback, just as the Icelanders have done for centuries. In addition, the horseback riders will be traveling with a herd of 60-90 free running horses. This is an extremely special experience, unmatched anywhere else in the world.
Accommodation is in shared rooms with shared bathrooms at local farms and mountain cabins. This trail is ideal for those who want to visit the many spectacular natural and historical sites.
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 RB of OXTED on 25/07/2023
Sample Itinerary: North - South
Day 1
Reykjavík – Vatnsdalur Valley – Hvammur Farm – Haukagil: Pick up at 9.00am from BSI Bus Station in Reykjavik. Drive north to Hvammur farm to be met by the farmer and his team. The farm is in the valley Vatnsdalur, shaped by water, glaciers and volcanic activity. Pass the historical farm, Hof, and cross Vatnsdalsá river. On the way, the free running horses join riders as the group heads towards the highland. The horses stay at Haukagil farm, the last farm on this side of the valley before it enters the highland plateau. Stay overnight at Hvammur, complete with a hot tub.(Approx. 20 km)
Day 2
Haukagil – Haugakvíslarskáli Mountain Cabin: Start the day by meeting up with the horses before heading out onto the trail. Today heads through the summer pastures dotted with horses and sheep belonging to the farmers in the north. Climb towards the highland plateau Víðidalstunguheiði and drive the horses through the open terrain. The highland opens up to reveal the mighty Álkugil gorge with picturesque waterfalls tumbling down over rock formations. Travel along what remains of the old Kings Trail, with tracks that have been worn from centuries of horses. Here, the only inhabitants are foxes, birds and maybe some trolls. Spend the night at Haugakvíslarskáli Mountain Cabin (or similar) (Approx 35 km)
Day 3
Haugakvíslarskáli – Arnarvatnsheiði Heath and Lake Arnarvatn – Álftakrókur Mountain Cabin: Head further into the mountains and set course for the spacious Fellaskáli Cabin owned by the farmers of Víðidalur valley. This is the lunch venue for the day. The horses are completely at home on these ancient paths. There are magnificent views over the impressive highland mountains and the glaciers of Langjökull and Eiríksjökull as they get closer. The vegetation changes to lush green colours as the ride heads into the heart of Arnarvatnsheið, created by rich volcanic soil and watered by many lakes. Pass Réttarvatn lake on the way to lake Arnarvatn. The silence and tranquility that is hard to forget. Say goodbye to the north as the ride heads further into the high plateau in the west area of Borgarfjörður. Ride to Álftakrókur Mountain Cabin (or similar) where wanted men were supposed to hide out from the law enforcements long ago. (Approx. 35 km)
Day 4
Álftakrókur – Eríksjökull Glacier - Hallmundarhraun Lava – Surtshellir Cave – Borgarfjörður Area: The ride continues beside one of the biggest lava fields in Iceland, Hallmundarhraun, and one can almost make out the forms of elves and trolls in the lava formations. The horses sense the grassland of the farms in Borgarfjörður Area, and tölt happily along the banks of the glacial river Norðlingafljót, before crossing it. At Eríksjökull Glacier, a Volcano standing majestically on the east side of the trail, see the best known cave in Iceland, Surtshellir. The spectacular 3500 m long lava cave was a hide out for bandits in olden days. The horses will stay at Þorvaldsstaðir. Accommodation at Hótel Á. (or similar) (Approx. 30 km)
Day 5
Þorvaldsstaðir – Húsafell - Hraunfossar – Augastaðir: Spend the day riding through, and exploring the extraordinary area of Húsafell. The horses are perfectly suited to the biggest natural forest of Iceland, Húsafellsskógur. Húsafell is often called the pearl between the lava and the glaciers and is a natural gem in a magnificent landscape. It has historical importance, and there are tales and stories of witchcraft and ghosts from past centuries. Visit the waterfall of Hraunfossar. The water seems to appear from the lava but is actually a cold spring that surges from the ground and runs in rapids down into the river Hvítá. After a day of riding, the horses spend the night at Augastaðir while riders enjoy the geothermal pools of Húsafell. Accommodation at Húsafell Gamli Bær Guesthouse.(or similar) (Approx. 20 km)
Day 6
Húsafell – Ancient Ok Trail – Brunnar Mountain Cabin – Brautartunga Community center in Lundareykjardalur: Today's route leads from Augastaðir over the ancient trail of Ok. This highland trail is named after the 1190m glacier on the east side of the trail. Here one can also see the glaciers of Geitlandsjökull, Langjökull and Þórisjökull. This impressive area is bare of vegetation. Leave the horses at Brunnar Mountain Cabin to rest while the group head for an overnight stay at the community center Brautartunga in Lundareykjadalur Valley, to enjoy a private hot tub and swimming pool. This is a great place to enjoy the last evening of the tour together with a good Icelandic meal, storytelling and singing. (Approx. 35 km)
Day 7
Brunnar – Skógarhólar – Þingvellir – Reykjavík: Enjoy a great view while riding at a fast tölt along the trail over Bláskógarheiði Heath towards National Park Þingvellir. These tracks have been used for centuries by the people travelling to the parliament in Þingvellir. Here, there are historical sites every step of the way as the route gets closer to the final destination. Only a few km from Brunnar, the trail pass the legendary stone cairns Hallbjarnarvörður. The trail brings riders south of the Kaldidalur road and along the tracks of Draugabrekka (Ghostslopes) and Tröllaháls (Trollhill). As the Ármannsfell Mountain get closer, so do the Skógarhólar Fields were this adventure ends. Skógarhólar is run by the Icelandic Horse Clubs Association and is located in Þingvellir National Park. Say goodbye to the horses before exploring the sites and history of Þingvellir. The unusual geology is evident in the Canyon Almannagjá which was formed between two tectonic continental plates drifting from each other. Transfer to Reykjavík. Approx. arrival in Reykjavík approx 5:30pm. (Approx. 20 km)
Sample Itinerary: South - North
Day 1
Reykjavík – Þingvellir – Skógarhólar – Brunnar Mountain Cabin: Meet between 08:00 and 09:00 at the pick-up points in Reykjavik (www.busstop.is). Please be ready at the earliest pick-up time and dress in riding clothes. Transfer to the Skógarhólar Fields where the team and the horses from Hvammur farm will meet the group. Skógarhólar is run by the Icelandic Horse Clubs Association and is located in Þingvellir National Park. Experience the beautiful sites and history of Þingvellir, often called the national shrine of Iceland. The oldest existing parliament in the world assembled here. The spectacular geology of Þingvellir and the Almannagjá Canyon was formed between two tectonic continental plates drifting apart from each other. Enjoy the first riding day at a fast tölt with a great view over the Bláskógarheiði Heath. These tracks have been used for centuries by the people travelling to the parliament in Þingvellir. Pass Ármannsfell Mountain and ride further to Tröllaháls (Trollhill) on the tracks formed by so called Draugabrekka (Ghostslopes). The ride reaches the Kaldidalur road in the north and the route to the destination for the day, Brunnar. A few km from Brunnar, the trail passes the legendary stone cairns Hallbjarnarvörðu. Leave the horses for the night at Brunnar. The group stay over night at the cultural heart of Iceland, Þingvellir. (Approx. 20 km)
Day 2
Brunnar – Ancient Ok Trail – Augastaðir Farm – Hraunfossar Wateralls. The route today leads us from Brunnar to the ancient trail of Ok. This fascinating highland trail is named after the 1190m high impressive glacier Ok, located on the east side of the tracks, along with the glaciers Geitlandsjökull, Langjökull and Þórisjökull. This impressive area is without any vegetation. Leave the horses at Augastaðir Farm to rest and transfer to the overnight stop at Hotel Á at the farm Kirkjuból. Visit the exceptionally beautiful waterfall of Hraunfossar where the water seems to appear from the lava, but is actually a cold spring that surges through the ground and runs in rapids down into the river Hvítá. (Approx. 35 km)
Day 3
Augastaðir – Húsafell – Þorvaldsstaðir Farm – Surtshellir Cave: Spend the day riding through, and exploring, the extraordinary area of Húsafell. The horses can sense the terrain ahead as the group reach the biggest natural forest of Iceland, Húsafellsskógur. Húsafell is often called the pearl between the lava and the glaciers, and is a natural gem in a magnificent landscape and has ancient stories of witchcraft and ghosts from the past. The horses rest at Þorvaldsstaðir while the group visit the best known cave in Iceland, Surtshellir. The spectacular 3500 m long lava cave was a hideout for bandits in past times. Relax and unwind in the geothermal pool at Húsafell. Accommodation at Hótel Á.(or similar) (Approx. 20 km)
Day 4
Borgarfjörður Area -– Eríksjökull Glacier - Hallmundarhraun Lava – Álftakrókur Mountain Cabin: Leave the grassland of the farms in Borgarfjörður and head for Iceland´s Western Highlands. The ride continues beside one of the biggest lavafields in Iceland, Hallmundarhraun. This is an area filled with legends of outlaws and tales from the past. One can almost see the outlines of elves and trolls in the formations of the lava. The horses tölt happily as the ride continues along the banks of the glacial river Norðlingafljót. Eríksjökull Glacier, which also is a volcano, lays on the east side of the trail. Ride to Álftakrókur Mountain Cabin for the night (or similar) where fugitives from the law were supposed to hide out in the past. (Approx. 30 km)
Day 5
Álftakrókur - Arnarvatnsheiði Heath and Lake Arnarvatn – Haugakvíslarskáli Mountain Cabin: Set course for Fellaskáli Cabin, owned by the farmers of Víðidalur valley, where the group takes the main break of the day. The horses are happy on the ancient highland paths. There is an impressive view over the highland mountains and the glaciers of Langjökull and Eiríksjökull. The vegetation changes to a lush green, created by the rich volcanic soil and water from many lakes. Ride to the heart of Arnarvatnsheiði past the lake of Réttarvatn on the way to the lake of Arnarvatn. The silence and tranquility is hard to forget. Fertile highland vegetation and rich birdlife are the highlights of this area. Say goodbye to the south as the route heads to the high plateau in the northern part of the Húnvavatnssýsla District. Here, the only inhabitants are foxes, birds, and maybe some trolls. Ride through the summer pastures dotted with horses and sheep as the route ascends towards the Mountain Cabin for the night, Haugakvíslarkáli (or similar) in Víðidalstunduheiði Heath. (Approx. 35 km)
Day 6
Haugakvíslarskáli – Haukagil Farm – Vatnsdalur Valley – Hvammur Farm: Today the route heads down from the highland plateau of Víðidalstunguheiði heath to the valley of Vatnsdalur. The horses sense they are close to home and tölt happily onward. Drive the horses through the highlands before rejoining civilisation. Pass the mighty Álkugil gorge with waterfalls tumbling down over rock formations, before joining the remains of the old Kings Trail. Spend the night at Haukur´s Farm, Hvammur, to enjoy the last evening of the tour together. Relax with an outdoor jacuzzi, good meal, storytelling and singing. (Approx 35 km)
Day 7
Haukagil – Vatnsdalur – Hvammur Farm – Reykjavík: Vatnsdalur is said to be one of the most fertile and beautiful valleys in Iceland, shaped by water, glaciers and volcanic activity. Today's ride passes the historical farm, Hof, and crosses the Vatnsdalsá river. The horses know the way home as the route proceeds along the riding paths of the Vatnsdalsá River. Say a fond farewell to the horses and good-bye to Haukur and his crew. Guests are taken to Reykjavík by bus to BSÍ (Main Bus Station) Approx. time of arrival in Reykjavík at 18:00. (Approx. 20 km)
Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and may be altered while on route ground according to the prevailing conditions..
Accommodation is in mountain huts, please use bags rather than hardcover suitcases as space is limited, so please pack light (see packing list)
Please note that knee-high rubber riding boots are recommended
Please don't bring a long riding raincoat as they tend to flap. A short riding jacket will suffice.
It is advisable to riders to bring their own snacks for the ride (chocolate, energy bars etc).
Please bring cash for purchases at the riding centre.
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.
Clients ride the traditional Icelandic horses (called horses not ponies despite being pony sized!) who 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. The 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.
Riding days can be long so you should be in good physical condition and have a basic knowledge of horsemanship. Hours per day in the saddle ranges from three to six. The minimum age for this ride is 11 years old.
A sense of adventure is important as is an open and positive frame of mind due to the nature of the trip.
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.
Accommodation is in a combination of made-up bed at farm houses and in mountain cabins. Indoor WC, warm showers and/or hot pools are available at most locations. The mountain cabins offer simple accommodation and you will need a sleeping bag. Please bring your own! Sometimes the whole group stays together in one large room. Accommodation is equipped with beds or bunk beds, depending on the size and location of each mountain cabin. Some nights are spent at Hvammur farm which is situated in the beautiful Vatnsdalur Valley where the famous salmon fishing river,Vatnsdalsá runs through the middle. The farmhouse has recently been renovated and has a hot tub in the garden with a view over the river. The farm is also equipped with Wifi and 2-4 beds in each room.
Accommodation is in mountain huts, please use bags rather than hardcover suitcases as space is limited, so please pack light (see packing list).
Large breakfasts are traditional. Lamb and fish are the staple 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 (a tip: bring a small box, Tupperware or similar, to pack it in). Luggage will be transported in the kitchen van. Please bring bags rather than hard cover suitcases and pack lightly 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, the local authorities have banned all buses driving 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 the designated bus stops, including airport transfers and tours. Please 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 usually reach around 17°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.
There is electricity available in each nights accommodation to charge cameras etc. There is WiFi available when staying at Hvammur Farm. If using a GoPro, ensure you have 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 packing layers of clothing and that the following items are included when preparing for this tour.
**Please note, leather items shoes/riding boots etc are only permitted if disinfected with Virkon S 5 days before arrival.**
-Riding Helmet - We strongly recommend you wear a properly fitting riding hat, if you bring your own this must be disinfected 5 days before arrival
-Riding Boots - We strongly recommend knee-high, rubber boots to avoid getting wet feet and for ease of disinfection. Please DO NOT bring leather or suede chaps.
-Riding trousers
-Warm jacket or overcoat.
-Warm (woolen or fleece) sweater.
-Warm socks and gloves, at least two pairs, scarf and a cap or hat.
-Warm underwear, long if possible.
-Tracksuit or casual, loose clothes
-A pair of slippers to wear in the accommodation. (Icelanders take off their shoes when entering a house).
-Swimsuit, towels and soap
-Band aids and second skin plasters for chaffing.
-Fly net
-Chocolate, snacks like energy bars or glucose sweets for strenuous riding days (not available at the riding centre)
-Sun lotion for face and lips (with hight UV factor)
-A sports bra for the ladies often comes in handy
-Sunglasses
-Bum bag or similar to carry water, cameras etc.
-Ear plugs (some people snore!)
-Sleeping bag
Items provided:
-Safety riding helmet
-Saddle bags
-Rain wear (heavy/industrial so best to have your own and use the provided gear only in the worst of weather)
Luggage will be transported in the kitchen van. Please bring soft bags rather than hard cover suitcases and pack lightly because transport space is limited.
Please Note:
All riding gear (riding trousers, jackets, etc.) needs to be washed (40°C) or dry cleaned before arrival. Items that can not be washed or dry cleaned (riding boots, riding hats) need to be cleaned and disinfected at least five days prior to arriving in Iceland. The Icelandic Veterinary Authority recommends the broad-spectrum disinfectant Virkon S for disinfection.
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 and Safety helmet.
7d / 6n programme with 7 riding days available on set dates. We recommend riders arrive a day early and stay in a hotel in Reykjavik the night before the ride starts.
2025: 22 - 28 July; 30 July - 5 August
| No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | £ | |
| 2025 | 7d/6n | 7 | double pp | 2,685 |
| 2025 | 7d/6n | 7 | Child under 12 | 2,015 |
| No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | € | |
| 2025 | 7d/6n | 7 | double pp | 3,185 |
| 2025 | 7d/6n | 7 | Child under 12 | 2,389 |
| No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | US $ | |
| 2025 | 7d/6n | 7 | double pp | 3,555 |
| 2025 | 7d/6n | 7 | Child under 12 | 2,665 |
| No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | SEK | |
| 2025 | 7d/6n | 7 | double pp | 38,445 |
| 2025 | 7d/6n | 7 | Child under 12 | 28,835 |
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, whale watching (Reykyavik)
Disinfecting of used riding gear: 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. Please help us to protect Iceland's fragile nature!
For further information please take a look at: www.mast.is
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.
