Iceland - Northern Exposure

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 SY of Petaling Jaya on 29/08/2024

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 – Akureyri – Ásbyrgi – Dettifoss - Bjarnastaðir: Meet at the Icelandair flight desk at Reykjavik domestic Airport at 6:20am for the flight to Akureyri and transfer to Bjarnastaðir Farm. Please dress in riding clothes and bring passports or other identification for the domestic flight. Lunch at Bjarnastaðir before starting the ride with a short introduction to the Icelandic horse and its special gaits on the east side of the National Park Jökulsárgljúfur. Today there is a sightseeing tour by bus to Europe's largest waterfall, Dettifoss and the famous Ásbyrgi Canyon, one of the wonders of nature. This is a wide, horseshoe-shaped canyon with sheer cliff faces reaching heights of 100m. Overnight at Bjarnastaðir Farm. (Approx. 20 km)

Day 2
Bjarnastaðir – Kelduhverfi - Theistareykir Mountain Cabin: After breakfast, drive to Kelduhverfi to start our ride. Ride into the mountains to see the magical landscape over Öxafjörður Fjord. Ride to the geothermal area of Theistareykir. Overnight at Theistareykir Mountain Cabin (or similar) (Approx. 35 km)

Day 3
Theistareykir - Laxárdalur: Enjoy today's ride from the Theistareykir area to Halldorstaðir in Laxárdal. Cover rough landscape while riding through the geothermal area and lava fields up to the desert area of Hólasandur. Ride down to Laxárdalur Valley and over the Laxá river to Halldórstaðir. Drive to Bjarnastaðir farm for the night with a hot tub on the premises. (Approx. 35 km)

Day 4
Laxárdalur: Saddle-up and head through the black sand desert along the colorful Laxárdalur valley with the glittering Salmon River, Laxá, running through the centre. This is a day of contrasts in the ever changing Icelandic nature. Stop at Hraunsrétt – made of lava. before riding to Skógarhlíð. Leave the horses for the night before heading back to Bjarnastaðir farm to spend the night. Enjoy a nice hot bath in Jarðböðin, an outdoor lagoon with geothermal water. (Approx. 30 km)

Day 5
Geldingadalur – Reykjaheiði: Today begins by riding through the Geldingadalur Valley and Reykjaheiði heath. At one point the route practically crosses over one continental plate to another on the Mid-Atlantic ridge! It is a fascinating area with deep earthquake fissures, multi-colored mountains and geothermal energy. With all this volcanic activity going on here, it is easy to understand that Iceland is still under "natural construction". Ride into Öxarfjörður Fjord to Bjarnastaðir Farm, where the hot outdoor tub is waiting and the group spend the last night. (Approx. 40 km)

Day 6
Bjarnastaðir – Akureyri – Reykjavík: In the morning return to Akureyri. Whale watching tour in Ribb boats (optional). Flight departure from Akureyri airport 13:20, arrival in Reykjavík domestic airport apporx 14:10.

Itinerary is subject to change at the hosts discretion.

On the domestic flight, the luggage restriction is 23 kg checked in bag and 6 kg carry-on 
Please bring bags rather than hard cover suitcases and pack light because transport space is limited.
Please don't bring a long riding raincoat as they tend to flap.
Please don't 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.

Clients ride the traditional Icelandic horses (called horses not ponies despite being pony sized!) which have a special gait known as the tölt. This is very comfortable and anyone with experience of 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. As well as the ridden horses, a herd of loose horses will be running with the group, and you will change your mount 2-3 times a day.

There is about 5-8 hours riding each day (starting around 10.30am) as up to 20-40km have to be covered each day: 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 6 riders up to a maximum of 20 riders per trip: so you could be riding with up to 70 loose horses. The tack used for Icelandic horses is slightly different than the tack ordinarily used for other breeds. The saddle is built close to a dressage saddle and has a relatively flat seat. Saddles come with plain or quilted seats. Riding style used on Icelandic horses is close to English riding style, but stirrups are worn long. Bits used are mostly simple snaffles. Bridles have a detachable noseband and clip on reins.

This ride is appropriate for intermediate to advanced riders who are fit enough to ride 5 to 8 hours per day. The riding is at 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 and that they satisfy the rider requirements. The minimum age for this ride is 8 years.

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.

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 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. 

Accommdation at Bjarnastaðir Farm:

The guesthouse is on the farm which is the home of Halldór and Elín. It's situated in the low bushy area of Kerlingaskógur, close to the glacial river Jökulsá á Fjöllum and Dettifoss Waterfall. You will enjoy great view over the Fjord Öxarfjörður and the famous Lake Skjálftavatn which suddenly appeared overnight after a strong earthquake 28 years ago. Halldór and Elín, breeders of both horses and sheep, will welcome you with open arms and their warmth and hospitality is indeed second to none.

Number of beds: 23.

Outdoor jacuzzi: Yes.

Number of bathrooms: 4.

GSM connection: Yes.

WiFi: Yes.

Accommodation at Þeistareykir Mountain Hut:

Þeistareykir is known as a geothermal area, with colourful mud pits, tabletop mountains, hills and lava fields, you will find the earth constantly at work. The mountain hut stays warm all year round due to the geothermal activity of the area. The area is great for hikers and those who want to enjoy nature in the “raw.”

Number of rooms: 1.

Number of beds: 30.

Outdoor jacuzzi: No.

Number of showers: 0.

GSM connection: No.

WiFi: No.

Made up beds: No.

Number of WC: 1

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 buses from 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 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 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 you are using a GoPro please 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
• Warm and comfortable underwear
• Riding trousers (water-resistant material is a great option)
• Riding shoes/boots (waterproof & comfortable, some prefer hiking boots), kneehigh rubber boots recommended when crossing rivers
• 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)
• Sleeping bag + small pillow (if you wish)
• Power bank

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


On some farms there are also rubber boots in many different sizes but not always the correct 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!

6d / 5n programme with 5 riding days - approx. 160km in total. Aavailable on set dates. We recommend riders to arrive a day early and stay in a hotel in Reykjavik the night before the ride starts, and after the last day of riding.

2025: 23* June; 28* July; 4*, 11*, 18 August
(*High Season)

• £
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• 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!

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.