On this equestrian trail the horseback riders follow an exciting route through the varied landscapes of the north west of Iceland, covering distances of 20-40km a day. Riders return to the comfortable Hvammur farm house each night while the horses stay out on the trail. This means that the scenery is different every day.
Hvammur farm is located in Vatnsdalur Valley, an ancient extinct volcanic crater with panoramic views on the doorstep. The outdoor hot tub is a welcoming place to relax after a long day in the saddle. Begin the trail from this stunning base location, riding out through the valley and getting used to the special gaits and riding style of the Icelandic horses. Experience horseback riding alongside the rest of the herd. Some of the group will be in the lead, and others at the back to herd the horses along to their overnight stop. The equestrian trail follows a wide loop around the surrounding countryside, traversing rivers, crossing mountains and through a huge lagoon. The terrain throughout is a mixture of volcanic sand and soil - perfect for horseback riding.
This is one of the shorter Icelandic equestrian itineraries, but the varied scenery and distances covered means guests will experience some of the most incredible sights the island has to offer.
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 VH of Espoo on 25/07/2023
Due to the early start on Day 1, it is recommended that guests arrive in Reykjavik the day before the trail begins and stay in a hotel in the city. Please see 'Accommodation' for recommended hotels.
Day 1
Reykjavík – Hvammur – Vatnsdalur – Sveinsstaðir: Pick up at 08:30 in the morning from BSI Bus Station in Reykjavik. Please be ready at the earliest pick up time and wear riding clothes. Transfer by bus from Reykjavík to Hvammur Farm to meet the horses and guides. Start the ride through the Vatnsdalur valley, the setting of the Vatnsdæla-Saga. Ride along the banks of River Vatnsdalsá before crossing over to the western side of the valley. The ride ends at Sveinsstaðir Farm and riders return to Hvammur Farm for the night. (Approx. 25 km)
Day 2:
Hvammur – Sveinsstaðir – Hóp – Borgarvirki – Þverá - Hvítserkur: Leave Sveinsstaðir Farm and ride alongside the lagoon Hóp. The black sand at the beach is ideal for riding tölt. This trail along the shore gives an idea of the beautiful lagoon to be crossed tomorrow. Follow the Víðidalsá River and cross it before taking a lunch break at Stóra-Borg. Drive to Borgarvirki, a fascinating fortress from the Viking ages, then continue the ride to the sheep pen at Þverárétt. It is used by local farmers to sort the sheep in the autumn. Before returning to the guesthouse, take another excursion to the shore to see Hvítserkur, a basalt rock formation, nesting place to many seabirds. This area is home to large numbers of seals there is a chance to see them resting and playing on the beach. Spend the night again at Hammur Farm. (Approx. 30 km)
Day 3
Hvammur – North Atlantic – Thingeyrar: Today the trail explores the beauty of the Vatnsnes peninsula as it follows the black dunes on Sigríðarstaðasandur, towards the North-Atlantic. Lunch break on top of the Nesbjörg ridge to enjoy the view. Today riders cross the lagoon Lake Hóp and follow a safe trail through the water on the way to Thingeyrar Farm, once the site of a monastery founded in the 12th century. After a day full of highlights, relax in the outdoor hot tub at Hvammur Farm before a hearty dinner. (Approx. 40 km)
Day 4
Hvammur - Thingeyrar – Húnavatn – Hvammur: Start the day with a visit to historic Thingeyrar Church. This is the last day of riding and the returning of the horses to Hvammur Farm. Cross Lake Húnavatn on a safe trail in the water and enjoy the excitement of the horses as they reach the black sand on dry land. Ride on the eastern side of Vatnsdalur valley past the Hvammsfoss waterfall, surrounded by impressive basalt columns. Celebrate the successful return in the evening with farewell dinner. (Approx. 25 km)
Day 5
Hvammur – Reykjavík: Say goodbye to the guides and drive back to the accommodation in Reykjavík. Approx. arrival at 12:30pm in BSÍ Bus Station in Reykjavík.
The hosts reserve the right to change the itinerary if necessary.
There are no packing restrictions for this ride
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.
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, and 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 7 years.
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.
Hvammur farm is situated in the beautiful Vatnsdalur valley, home of many old Sagas, and has the famous salmon fishing river Vatnsdalsa running though it. The farmhouse has been recently renovated and has a hot tub with views over the river. Large breakfasts are normal. This is a farmhouse rather than a hotel so riders are expected to share a bathroom, there are 2 bathrooms.
Local produce such as lamb and fish are used in many of the dishes. 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 the initiative to improve the centre of Reykjavik for locals and travellers, the local authorities have banned buses from driving within the central part of the City. Intstead, 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 avalible bus stops here http://www.busstop.is/ to find the closest bus stop to your intended accomodation.
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.
There are a few plug sockets around the farmhouse where it is possible to charge cameras etc. If using a GoPro please 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 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
• 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
Knee-high rubber boots are recommended on the Day 3 and 4. It's possible to borrow rubber boots from the farm, but not always right size available.
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!
P.S. There are hand-knitted Icelandic sweaters for sale at the farm.
5d / 4n programme with 4 riding days available on set dates. We recommend riders to arrive a day early and stay in a hotel in Reykjavik the night before the ride starts.
2025: 7, 13, 21, 27* Jun; 7*, 13* Jul, 3*, 25 Aug
* denotes high season
No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | £ | |
2025 Low Season | 5d/4n | 4 | double pp | 1,585 |
2025 High Season | 5d/4n | 4 | double pp | 1,709 |
2025 High Season | 5d/4n | 4 | Child under 12 | 1,279 |
No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | € | |
2025 Low Season | 5d/4n | 4 | double pp | 1,865 |
2025 High Season | 5d/4n | 4 | double pp | 2,009 |
2025 High Season | 5d/4n | 4 | Child under 12 | 1,509 |
No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | US $ | |
2025 Low Season | 5d/4n | 4 | double pp | 1,965 |
2025 High Season | 5d/4n | 4 | double pp | 2,115 |
2025 High Season | 5d/4n | 4 | Child under 12 | 1,589 |
No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | SEK | |
2025 Low Season | 5d/4n | 4 | double pp | 21,699 |
2025 High Season | 5d/4n | 4 | double pp | 23,389 |
2025 High Season | 5d/4n | 4 | Child under 12 | 17,539 |
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
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.