Iceland - Sheep Round Up

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 JL of Shipston on Stour on 15/09/2024

Due to the early start on Day 1, it is recommended that guests arrive in Reykjavik the day before the round up begins and stay at a hotel in the city. Please see 'Accommodation' for recommended hotels.

Melrakkaslétta 4-night itinerary:

Day 1
Reykjavík – Akureyri – Ásbyrgi Canyon – Dettifoss Waterfall – Bjarnastadir: Meeting at the Iceland Air flight desk in Reykjavík domestic airport at 06:15am. Morning flight from Reykjavik Airport to Akureyri. Bus transfer to Bjarnastadir Farm, to meet up with the guides and horses and have a late lunch. Stop at Dettifoss along the way, home to Europe’s largest waterfall and Ásbyrgi National Park. Ásbyrgi is one of the wonders of nature, a wide, horseshoe-shaped canyon with sheer cliff faces up to 100 m high. After a short introduction and allocation of the horses, set out on a 2 -3 hours ride through Kerlingaskógur´s low bushy area for some great views over the Fjord Öxarfjördur and the famous Lake Skjálftavatn. The lake suddenly appeared over night after a strong earthquake 28 years ago, when the land dropped by 4 meters overnight. Overnight at Bjarnastadir. (Approx. 30km)

Day 2
Rounding up the sheep in Núpasveit: Starting early, each rider will join a local farmer and his dog to be a mentor and guide during the tour. Spend the day riding through an area rich with vegetation, green valleys and small lakes. In the late afternoon, leave the horses with the sheep at a remote mountain cabin and return to the farm for a hearty dinner and a good night’s sleep. (Approx. 35 km)

Day 3
Rounding up the sheep on Melrakkaslétta: The Melrakkaslétta Peninsula stretches almost to the Arctic Circle, and is a paradise for birdwatchers and those interested in geology. Right on top of the Mid Atlantic Ridge, this is where the North-American and Eurasian plates drift apart. The vegetation is ideal for the sheep. Meet up with the horses and continue driving the sheep down to Katastadarétt communal fold, where they are kept for the night together with the horses. Overnight at Bjarnastadir. (Approx. 30 km)

Day 4
Day of the round-up: This is the final day of the round-up. In the morning, the sorting of the sheep starts and lasts until each sheep has been returned to its owners. Participate in sorting the sheep, “pass the flask around” and join in the singing and celebrating after a successful ride into the mountains. Once the sorting is finished join the farmers from Dadastadir Farm and Presthólar Farm and help them drive the sheep home. Overnight and a farewell dinner at Bjarnastadir. (Approx. 35 km)

Day 5
Bjarnastadir – Akureyri – Reykjavík: Say good bye to horses and staff before getting the transfer to Akureyri airport to arrive by 7:30am in time for the 8:25am flight to Reykjavik in the morning. Arrival in Reykjavík domestic approx. 9:15am.

We reserve the right to alter the itinerary if necessary

Landmannalaugar 7-Day Itinery:

Day 1
Transfer to Landmannahellir: Pick up is at 10.00, from BSI Bus station in Reykjavik. Please be ready, dressed in riding clothes. Transfer from Reykjavík to Landmannahellir to meet the horses and fellow riders. Ride into the famous Landmannalaugar area with its natural hot pool, surrounded by colourful mountains and black lava fields. This is a short riding day which gives riders time to get acquainted with the terrain and to learn about the task which lies ahead. Overnight stay in Landmannalaugar. (3 – 4 hrs.)

Day 2
Jökulgilið – Landmannalaugar: Jökulgilið, a long and shallow valley with multiple colours and rock formations, is the destination for today. The valley is surrounded by mountains and glaciers, mostly barren yet covered with grass here and there. This is what attracts the sheep to this remote area far away from any human contact. A glacier-fed river makes it hard to access the valley during the summer months and can only be reached at certain times of the year.(8 – 9 hrs.)

Day 3
Landmannalaugar – Landmannahellir: Today the ride covers the area between Landmannalaugar and Landmannahellir. Although not too far apart, the area is covered with lava fields, craters and lakes and is a favourite area of the sheep. This makes it important to keep one's place in the human chain to make sure that no sheep are left behind. Final night in Landmannalaugar. (8 hrs.)

Day 4
Landmannahellir and surroundings: Leave Landmannalaugar in the morning. Riders pack their belongings into a transport vehicle and ride back to Landmannahellir, driving the spare horses along in a free running herd. Today explores the surroundings of Landmannahellir, a regular night resting place for those sheep gathering.(8 hrs.)

Day 5
Mt. Hekla volcano: Green grass turns into black ashes as the ride approaches the Mt. Hekla volcano. Mt. Hekla is an active volcano and erupts regularly, spewing lava, pumice and ash into the sky. Sheep can be found in the sheltered valleys and it is the job of the riders to make sure that they all return home. While part of the group are out in this wilderness looking for sheep, others drive the flock to Mt.Valahnjúkar. Overnight in Landmannahellir. (10 hrs.)

Day 6
Áfangagil – Hrólfstaðahellir: Áfangagil is the final destination for the flock today. This is where the round pen is and where the sheep will be sorted on the following day. The group searches the area to make sure that no sheep have stayed behind. Spend the last night at Hrólfstaðahellir. (8 hrs.)

Day 7
Day of the round-up: Today the sheep are sorted and returned to the owners, amid much singing and celebration. Once the sorting is finished, say goodbye to the horses and team, then drive back to Reykjavík BSÍ Bus Station where this great tour ends at approx. 18:00.

For rides that have a domestic flight (Melrakkaslétta), 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 bring cash for purchases during the ride.

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 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.

The tack used with Icelandic horses is slightly different to conventional tack ordinarily used with other breeds. The saddle is similar to a dressage saddle and has a relatively flat seat, which may be plain or quilted seats and, on longer rides, a crupper helps keeping the saddle in place. The riding style for Icelandic horses is close to English riding, but stirrups are worn long. Bits used are mostly simple snaffles and the bridles have a detachable noseband and clip on reins.

Riding days can be long so you should be in good physical condition. Hours per day in the saddle ranges from three to ten. Riders should be confident at all paces, in the open and over varying terrain, and able to mount and dismount unaided. When rounding up the sheep, you will need to be able to turn and adjust speed quickly. The minimum age for this ride is 16 years and the weight limit is 110kg. Not suitable for non-riders.
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.

Landmannalaugar:

Accommodation is in simple mountain cabins shared by the local farmers participating in the Sheep Round Up. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Large breakfasts are traditional. Dinners normally include lamb or fish, 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. Luggage will be transported in the kitchen van.

Melrakkaslétta:

Simple guesthouse accommodation at the farm, please bring your own sleeping bag. Large breakfasts are traditional. Dinners normally include lamb or fish, 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 below.

Cabin Hotel - http://hotelcabin.is/en/

Brim Hotel (also known as Reykjavik Hotel Centre) - http://www.booking.com/hotel/is/reykjavik-hostel-center.htmlAs 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 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! Autumn temperatures can reach the 15°C+ but can go below 5°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 please ensure that the group is willing 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. 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
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:
• Warm jacket (windproof and waterproof/water-resistant)
• Warm sweater (woollen or fleece)
• Warm socks
• Warm riding gloves (2 pairs)
• Warm and comfortable underwear
• Riding trousers x 2 (water-resistant material is a great option)
• Riding shoes/boots (waterproof & comfortable, some prefer hiking boots)
• Casual clothes for evenings
• A pair of slippers
• Towel
• Swimsuit
• Blister plasters
• Chocolate or glucose sweets for long riding days
• Sunglasses
• Vaseline or similar for lips
• Earplugs (there might be some snoring in shared accommodation)
• Sleeping bag + small pillow (if you wish)
• 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 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 / 6 riding days OR 5d/ 4n / 4 riding days. This special event takes place just once a year, in the Autumn. 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: (4 nights) 4 - 8 Sept (Melrakkasletta)
2025: (6 nights) 12 - 18 Sept (Landmannalaugar)

• £
• €
• 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!

Close to Reykjavík: 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. Icelandic horses are not vaccinated and 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

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.