Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik
5
Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik
By Ishestar Horse Riding Tours
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
About
Spend time outdoors and explore the spectacular beauty of Iceland on this horseback riding experience from Reykjavik. It’s a great way to cover more ground than a walking tour, and access remote rural sites, such as lava-laden scenery, lakes, moors, and mountains. No need to worry if it’s your first-time horseback riding—the experience is tailored to your ability, and led by an instructor.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 7-90, max of 30 per group
Duration: 2h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: German, English
More
Highlights
- Access incredible outdoor beauty on this Icelandic horseback riding tour
- Travel light—all required riding equipment is provided
- Flexible tour–pick from morning or afternoon start times
- Stay hydrated—coffee, tea, or hot chocolate is provided
- Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate
- Helmets, rubber boots, rain gear and warm overall
What's not included- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Pre-booked pick-up and drop-off from pick up points in Reykjavik, unless specified with tour option
- Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.
- Sörlaskeið 26, 220 Hafnarfjörður, IcelandIf you are traveling on your own to our stables, please be there at least 30 min. prior to your tour departure.
Pickup details- Pick-up needs to be pre-booked. Please be sure that you've chosen a tour with pick up included if you require to be picked up from your accommodation or a designated bus stop close to your accommodation. If your hotel is not listed, please write it in and we will contact you regarding your pickup location. Please note the weight limit on our tours is 110kg/240lbs and the age limit is 7 years old.
Hotel pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.Port pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included ports.- Skarfabakki Harbour, 544P+F35, 104 Reykjavík, Iceland
Additional pickup optionsDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included pickup points.- Bus stop #1 - Ráðhúsið - City Hall, Vonarstræti 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop #3 Lækjargata, Lækjargata 4, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus stop #4 Miðbakki, 5325+4PG, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus stop #5 Harpa, Sculpture & Shore Walk 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop #6 - Safnahúsið The Culture House, Ingólfsstræti 1, 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop #9 Snorrabraut, Snorrabraut 24, 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop #12 Höfðatorg, Þórunnartún 6, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop #13 Rauðarárstígur, Laugavegur 120, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop #14 - Skúlagata, Klapparstígur 5, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Bus Stop#15 - Vesturbugt, Mýrargata 101, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Hallgrimskirkja, Hallgrímstorg 1, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- BSÍ, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
- Airport Direct, Skógarhlíð 10, 105 Reykjavík, Iceland
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 30057P1- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult
- Age limit is 8 years old
- Weight limit is 110kg/240lbs
- Used riding gear is not allowed on the tour or near the horses
- If you arrive in your own car please be at the stables 30 minutes before your tour starts
- Due to possible harm to unborn children pregnant women cannot ride on our tours
- Not recommended for travellers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travellers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- All riders must be able to mount the horse by their own strength.
- In our tours up to two children or youth may travel with each adult, paying full fare
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 30057P1
From
£89.51
per adult
Select date and travellers
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
Similar experiences
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- chrisbH1514DB0 contributionsSpirit ridingThis was the only excursion we planned while in Iceland and it was not disappointing. We were the only couple to ride that day with our three experienced guides. Sophie, Peah, and Leah was awesome. They gave us a very unique experience and being the only couple riding we really felt special. Loved the horses, mine was named Spirit and he had a mind of his own. The only drawback was the location was a little difficult to find but overall, I highly recommend this trip.Written 4 October 2024
- Michelle G0 contributionsBeautiful Horses and Incredible ViewsMy boyfriend (who has no riding experience) and I (who grew up riding) did the Black Sand Beach tour and could not have asked for a better experience! Our guide, Lia, was fantastic and had a strong passion for horses and nature. It’s clear the horses are loved and well cared for. The views around the property and at the black sand beaches were breathtaking! Would definitely recommend this tour to anyone looking for a unique experience in Iceland.Written 18 September 2024
- HotTubJohnny0 contributionsGreat experience!Great experience. The staff was really nice, the horses seemed really well cared for. We all really enjoyed it. We split off with the faster group and got our fair share of trotting. I will say, it's more about the horse experience than the scenery, but that's fine. Just don't be disappointed that it's not the most scenic of your time in Iceland. They had snowsuits you could wear if you weren't bundled up enough for the weather.Written 18 September 2024
- canadiandanishgirl0 contributionsDon't miss this if you like horsesI had such a great time here. They did a great job of preparing us and finding out about our experience riding to match us with an appropriate horse. Although being with the horses and riding was my favourite part, the landscape was also phenomenal. The leader of our group shared very interesting stories with me (my horse was second in line) about Icelandic horses, the farm, and the natural environment. We had lots of time to spend time with our horse after the ride, take pics, etc.Written 16 September 2024
- Kristine K0 contributionsPretty good!Me and my friend pretty much blindly booked this tour last second before our trip to Iceland, and I’d say it was worth it. The trip was nice, and the landscape was gorgeous, especially during summer and in the sun. The guides were very kind and helpful! They offered to take pictures at the destination, as well as some grazing and fun facts about the Icelandic horse, which was super sweet! Socializing with the other tourists which were as excited as me was also really fun! I had a really good time on my horse. Even if he was a bit of a pushy youngster, he was the most wonderful little guy. I could absolutely tell that the horses are being trained very well! The reason why I’m giving this tour a 4/5 is because of some difficulties with the pickup, and because the lines on our trip went well out of control. On the trip, you get separated into two groups. One group for those who want to take it slow, and one for those who want to tölt/trot. There were definitely a lot of people who overestimated their ability and went for the speedier group without knowing how to control a horse properly. This led to the line being cut, random people stopping at random times right in your face, people not knowing how to walk on or control their speed, etc. which threw the entire group out of proportion. I could feel both me and my horse get stressed and upset with the situation as it kept happening the entire trip. I’m sure this could’ve been avoided with some more checks on the riders experience level. Else from that our trip was very lovely. When you register your hotel as your pickup place, make sure to check your spam/trash folders for any mails about pickup information, as we never received this mail and kept waiting for half an hour as we didn’t know that we were supposed to meet up at a bus stop nearby. Thankfully the situation solved itself in the end! Thank you for having me Íshestar! ❤️Written 20 July 2024
- Danepup0 contributionsFantastic experience - guides and my horse Freya were wonderful!I did this trip through Viator. It was fantastic. I got picked up and dropped off at my hotel, the riding was well-organized and so much fun. I've ridden Icelandic horses before, but with a different company. Ishestar provided ran suits, which was perfect since it rained the whole time, but that didn't detract. Our group had five guides with us and after about 10-15 minutes, we could split into a slow or fast group. I've never been able to go faster than an amble on any other horse riding experience, but since I went with the fast group, we trotted and tolted (another gait that I hadn't experienced), which was fun. I had a beautiful bay horse name Freya and she was very good to me. The guides were sweet and knowledgeable and when we took our break at the top of a hill overlooking a lava field, they took individual and family photos of us. It's clear the horses are well-cared for. They get six months off from humans, which I like. We also got tea and coffee after ward while we waited for the shuttle driver to return. I would ride with this company again and I highly recommend it.Written 19 July 2024
- 380gretelu0 contributionsWonderful Experience/ Great Personable StaffI loved the experience I had riding with Ishestar. The horses were well trained and that helped boost confidence. The guides/trainers were so helpful and attentive, no matter what the issue was. Their advice was easy to understand and process. The trail and scenery felt authentic . I am ready to go again and bump up to the next speed level. I just didn't want to do that the first time out. I am an experienced rider and I was riding with beginner level family members. We all enjoyed the coffees and water and gift shop after the ride.Written 27 June 2024
- LanaV_120 contributionsPeaceful and relaxing horse riding in nature.Amazing company. Professional and courteous people. Beautiful and gentle horses. Our family enjoyed the horse riding tour and we are beginners. Thank you.Written 26 June 2024
- Y6365TSleslieb0 contributionsHORRIBLE use Islenski NOT IshetarJune 19th 2024 We recommend Islenski Horseback riding over Ishetar. Ishtar will not refund tours for beginning riders when the W EATHER is UNSAFE. It is raining/windy/unsafe to ride Wednesday June 19th from 10am-12noon. Ishetar had no other rides available later in the day and we couldn’t reschedule because our flight home leaves in the am June 20th.Written 19 June 2024
- Y5382WPsantiagor0 contributionsBest tour ever!I did the Viking tour and fortunately I was the only one that day and I got a private tour! The staff was very welcoming and my guide, Elisa, made the tour very fun and informative about Icelandic horses and the Iceland as a whole. I would 100% recommend booking any tour with IshestarWritten 22 May 2024
- mateuszp9480 contributionsAbsolutely amazing!10/10 Everything in the smallest detail exceeded my expectations. First of all, from the very beginning you can feel that the horses are loved and cared for in this stable. The staff - both reception and guides - are very friendly, calm but also professional. It was my first time and I was taught the basics well and felt safe on horseback with the guides. The trail is amazing, you go through lava fields and there are mountains all around. It was great and after this experience I am even thinking of starting a new hobby!Written 3 May 2024
- L7325DXnicolem0 contributionsIncredible Experience!This entire experience was incredible! My 8yr old daughter and myself went. We had assumed she wouldn't be able to ride alone, so she was quite nervous when she was brought her own horse to ride. The staff however was so positive and encouraging. They reassured her, reminded her how to hold the reins. During the ride our guide ended up having her next to her and they talked the whole way! At the end she let my daughter ride in all by herself, and now my daughter wants to go again! Our other guide was fantastic about reminding us about riding tips (pull the reins to the right, stay to the right of the trail, lean back going downhill), telling us about the lava field, she also used our phones to take photos of us on the horses!Written 13 April 2024
- nicta20170 contributionsMaking wonderful memories!We booked a 1.5 hour lava field tour with Ishestar after seeing their flyer at one of the bus stops (and verifying them using Tripadvisor reviews!) What an amazing experience! We paid for pickups included, which were timely and efficient and when we got there, free coffee, tea and hot chocolate was available, a seating area and a small shop. We were shown a safety video, which had clear instructions and acted as a great reminder as I’ve not ridden a horse for several years. We were then kitted out in warm all in one suits and hats and dependent on our experience, we were then led to a horse. I can’t remember the name of my horse, but she was described as being a ‘sweet girl’ and she most certainly was. Everything about this experience was credible and competent, with clear care towards the horses and the people riding them to ensure everyone’s safety. We had three staff with our group, which split into two as we got going - the walking group, supported by two staff and the experienced group, supported by one staff. The horses were also given a rest break an hour into the experience and we were also able to get some photos at this time. When we got back to the stable, there was just the right amount of time to say goodbye to our horses, grab a drink and a souvenir before our lift back into Reykjavík. This experience is one that will stay with me for the rest of my life, I’m so happy and grateful for everyone at Ishestar and especially the horses xWritten 10 April 2024
- O4205HKtonym0 contributionsWonderful memory which will be treasuredAs occasional riders we were all swiftly reassured from the outset that the ride would be suitable for us as a family and the venue we left from was very nice with coffee and snacks available. After a short video about the trip we were offered (and gratefully accepted) very warm suits to go over our cloths against the cold. Once wrapped up we were introduced to our horses for the day based I’m sure on our size and experience and I was very happy with the wonderful Pjakkur who was the bestest of boys. The ride itself was very pleasant and the view as you would expect superb. The guides Barbora, Elisa and Janina were all very attentive and chatty as we rode with little bits of knowledge about Iceland and the horses given as we rode and especially when we stoped to give the horses a break. Would highly recommend this trip to anyone no matter your previous experience with horses.Written 7 April 2024
- katiet180 contributionsGreat ride!I booked the Viking Tour for my daughter who is an experienced rider and she had a wonderful experience! She and one other rider went out with a guide for several hours on beautiful trails. The communication with the stable beforehand was excellent and the staff were wonderful. The facility was easy to get to from Reykjavik, very clean and organized, and the ponies seemed happy and well cared-for. So glad we chose Ishestar and would definitely do it again!Written 5 April 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
5.0
327 reviews
Excellent
278
Very good
29
Average
15
Poor
3
Terrible
2
These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
This service may contain translations provided by Google. Google disclaims all warranties, express or implied, with respect to translations, including any warranties of accuracy, reliability, and any implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and freedom from forgery.
Jay W
Alsager, UK1 contribution
An amazing day out with extremely friendly staff and Icelandic ponies.
I’d highly recommend people experience this, my fiancé is an avid rider who has years of experience. I was a first time rider. Both of us had an equally great experience. They make two groups the slower and faster group. The faster group was about trotting and introducing tolt which my fiancé managed to do (with amazing help from the guides).
I went with the slower group, you’re asked when choosing your horse how much experience you’ve had, if you’re nervous and if you’re up for an adventure. I was lead to a horse called Fleygur who I didn’t realise at the time has had some reviews wrote about him on here. I personally think his free spirited nature and personality made my experience better than it would have been on a different horse. He wanted to be at the front so he could work, I was told he sometimes works as a guide horse so his nature is to guide. He would always test to see if I was paying attention by going for food when he could.
Some have mentioned his habit of rolling, now when we got to the break point one of the guides (unfortunately can’t remember but she’s relatively new and from Denmark) asked if I could dismount my horse. Which I did after having photos etc. sure enough he tried to roll which everyone found quite amusing. I think the company have realised he will want to do this and now ensure they have more control of the situation to prevent any potential incidents in the future.
All in all, it’s really opened my eyes to a new potential interest of mine. That I’d never really considered before. The guides were extremely friendly, happy to talk (as I chewed their ear off with multiple questions) not just about horses but the local wildlife, how the lava fields formed, and other interesting pieces about Iceland and themselves.
I would happily go again, I felt very safe, very informed on what to do to control my horse and above all had an amazing day out.
I’d highly recommend people experience this, my fiancé is an avid rider who has years of experience. I was a first time rider. Both of us had an equally great experience. They make two groups the slower and faster group. The faster group was about trotting and introducing tolt which my fiancé managed to do (with amazing help from the guides).
I went with the slower group, you’re asked when choosing your horse how much experience you’ve had, if you’re nervous and if you’re up for an adventure. I was lead to a horse called Fleygur who I didn’t realise at the time has had some reviews wrote about him on here. I personally think his free spirited nature and personality made my experience better than it would have been on a different horse. He wanted to be at the front so he could work, I was told he sometimes works as a guide horse so his nature is to guide. He would always test to see if I was paying attention by going for food when he could.
Some have mentioned his habit of rolling, now when we got to the break point one of the guides (unfortunately can’t remember but she’s relatively new and from Denmark) asked if I could dismount my horse. Which I did after having photos etc. sure enough he tried to roll which everyone found quite amusing. I think the company have realised he will want to do this and now ensure they have more control of the situation to prevent any potential incidents in the future.
All in all, it’s really opened my eyes to a new potential interest of mine. That I’d never really considered before. The guides were extremely friendly, happy to talk (as I chewed their ear off with multiple questions) not just about horses but the local wildlife, how the lava fields formed, and other interesting pieces about Iceland and themselves.
I would happily go again, I felt very safe, very informed on what to do to control my horse and above all had an amazing day out.
Written 30 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sam H
4 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
My daughter and I absolutely loved this! The riding centre is really well organised, emails sent in advance of the tour were answered quickly, with a link to the nearest bus stop to our apartment. On arriving we were welcomed & watched a short video and were quickly set up with warm waterproof jumpsuits and riding hats - there was a big group, over 20 riders, in spite of it being pretty cold! We were asked about our riding experience and given a suitable horse based on this, and taken out to mount. Once everyone was on and ready, we walked out in a line. One of the guides was checking whether riders were with the rest of their party/friends and offering to put friends & family together if they weren’t already. After 15 minutes, we split into 2 groups, one to continue to walk, and one to go faster. Out of the group about 7 chose the faster side - the guide told us that they usually allow adventurous beginners to join but today they were only taking experienced riders as the tracks were very icy, which was great for us as we ended up in a smaller group of people who could ride. To begin 2 guides came with us, until they could see that we were all doing well enough with trot/tolt, and we did the rest of the tour with one guide, the other joining the larger walking group. We got to do lots of stretches of tolt, the horses were lovely, responsive and forwards. The trails were very icy but the horses were fine! The horses get to have a 15 minute break in the middle of the tour on top of a hill, and the guide took photos for us all and talked us through the development, history and special gaits of the Icelandic horse whilst they rested, along with some information about the landscape we were riding though. The sunrise gave us gorgeous pink and orange clouds against the snowy landscape. It was just beautiful. My daughter and I loved it, thought it was one of the best riding experiences we have had, we are both so glad we did it. When we got back, our bus was ready so we got hot chocolate to go and warmed up on our journey back. Initially I was worried that this might be way too cold and therefore not so fun, but I was very wrong, the jumpsuits are perfect as long as you have some layers underneath and something to keep head/hands feet warm too. We’ve never ridden a tolt before, it’s so smooth! I would totally recommend this for all levels of rider, they really looked after everyone very well. The guides are attentive, knowledgeable and friendly. It’s a big place, so you’re likely to be in a larger group, but it seemed to me to be run very, very efficiently. We’d definitely return here. Thanks so much for a lovely ride, Ishestar!
Written 8 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gregory D
Brantford, Canada8 contributions
Aug 2021
Our three guides were friendly, helpful and professional with the horses, and very knowledgeable about the lava fields. Although our day was rainy, windy, and grey; although our rain gear didn't keep our lower halves dry we still had a wonderful time riding through the fields on those beautiful horses. One of our guides even stated that we now could say we experienced horse riding in "proper Icelandic weather", and that's something to be proud of. Rain, shine, or grey sky this is an experience you shouldn't skip.
Written 2 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Annie M.
18 contributions
Aug 2022
This was a fantastic venture and I'm so glad we did it. It was a big barn, lots of horses and lots of people, but they were incredibly professional and they had the staff to make it work. I grew up owning and riding horses and can say that they seemed to be very well cared-for and "bomb proof." :) Pick up at our hotel (bus stop #13) was smooth and timely. We lucked out with beautiful weather! Some things to consider: they will split you into 2 groups, a faster group and a slower group. We were told that experts, intermediate and advanced beginner riders, and even total beginners but who were adventurous could go in the faster group. I did not realize when I chose the "slower" group, that this group would only walk -- no trotting was allowed. I wish I had maybe chosen the other group because my daughter was very upset with me that we did not get to experience the famous Icelandic horse trot (can't remember the name for it). That's really the only reason why I gave it a 4. I wish they had spelled it out that the slower group would only walk. Oh, and they do have boots, overalls, etc. available, but you will need to request it perhaps when you get there. Most people wore hiking boots, and I even saw some sneakers, though I would not recommend that. The guides were lovely and we felt very safe. Definitely recommend!
Written 17 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tina B
4 contributions
Aug 2023 • Solo
Pick up went smooth, but when I arrived there it was all big rush and I never knew what is next.
You can borrow your riding gear there but the lack of staff didn't provide a lot of help for unexperienced persons. The huge group around 25 people very extremely mixed regarding training level.
All the equipment was in rough shape and dirty, like plankets on the paddock ground, saddles on the floor, reins almost falling apart (like mine, too short, unfortunately saw it too late), etc. Not very well cared of.
The training and safety video was very professional which everybody must watch. Everything was all rushed (choosing horses, climbing up, adjusting the riding equipment...), they had several groups of tours of around 25 to 30 people. The horses all saddled up in the paddock. Really hurried mass processing, no individual care. But they treated the horses nice.
The horses were in good shape, well cared horseshoes, muscular and trusting but very food motivated. The saddles and bridles were not well adjusted to the individual horses.
The horse I rode was nice but he ignored my hints and helps at the beginning, very hard mouth ( lying on the hand) and until the guide told us how to get into Tölt correctly it was very hard to get a clear trot or tölt, he jumped from gait to gait. Nevertheless, as I am an experienced rider I figured it out quite early. But clearly the horses are not trained well or don't get corrections after all the beginners/tourists. The group with more than 25 riders was huge with considerable age and level difference. Fortunately was split up in a smaller group with experienced riders.
There were 3 guides in the beginning, after splitting 1 for experienced ones with 8 persons. This guide (I suppose a Polish girl) was very nice and helpful and tried to provide us good hack with lots of Tölt and challenging terrain in the lava fields, spooking horses one even stumbled and fell down (nobody injured, she cared a lot about the horses). Explained a lot and gave us hints and tricks so the quality improved. She did an excellent job! Thank you guide.
After all I CANNOT RECOMMEND the mass processing and the neglecting care of customers and the rush, probably the horses as well, I experienced better riding tours all over the world (I am a flight attendant, at least 20 tours). I literally was sweeped out after the tour, no coffee, no toilet break to get the pick up.
There are better riding stables around Reykjavik to provide individual care with no rush.
You can borrow your riding gear there but the lack of staff didn't provide a lot of help for unexperienced persons. The huge group around 25 people very extremely mixed regarding training level.
All the equipment was in rough shape and dirty, like plankets on the paddock ground, saddles on the floor, reins almost falling apart (like mine, too short, unfortunately saw it too late), etc. Not very well cared of.
The training and safety video was very professional which everybody must watch. Everything was all rushed (choosing horses, climbing up, adjusting the riding equipment...), they had several groups of tours of around 25 to 30 people. The horses all saddled up in the paddock. Really hurried mass processing, no individual care. But they treated the horses nice.
The horses were in good shape, well cared horseshoes, muscular and trusting but very food motivated. The saddles and bridles were not well adjusted to the individual horses.
The horse I rode was nice but he ignored my hints and helps at the beginning, very hard mouth ( lying on the hand) and until the guide told us how to get into Tölt correctly it was very hard to get a clear trot or tölt, he jumped from gait to gait. Nevertheless, as I am an experienced rider I figured it out quite early. But clearly the horses are not trained well or don't get corrections after all the beginners/tourists. The group with more than 25 riders was huge with considerable age and level difference. Fortunately was split up in a smaller group with experienced riders.
There were 3 guides in the beginning, after splitting 1 for experienced ones with 8 persons. This guide (I suppose a Polish girl) was very nice and helpful and tried to provide us good hack with lots of Tölt and challenging terrain in the lava fields, spooking horses one even stumbled and fell down (nobody injured, she cared a lot about the horses). Explained a lot and gave us hints and tricks so the quality improved. She did an excellent job! Thank you guide.
After all I CANNOT RECOMMEND the mass processing and the neglecting care of customers and the rush, probably the horses as well, I experienced better riding tours all over the world (I am a flight attendant, at least 20 tours). I literally was sweeped out after the tour, no coffee, no toilet break to get the pick up.
There are better riding stables around Reykjavik to provide individual care with no rush.
Written 29 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
M.B.
8 contributions
Mar 2022
We had such an amazing experience riding horses via Ishestar. From the pick-up service from every possible bus stop in the city center to making you feel super comfortable with the horses, everything was great. We did pick a very cold day to go on this tour, but the staff gave us extra winter-suits to keep us nice and warm during the ride.
The horses are super friendly but spirited and after the trip you get some time to cuddle and feed them (with "horse candy" as they call it). It's just such a special breed of horses and riding them through the thick layers of snow was amazing. Would def do this again if we find ourselves back in Iceland.
The horses are super friendly but spirited and after the trip you get some time to cuddle and feed them (with "horse candy" as they call it). It's just such a special breed of horses and riding them through the thick layers of snow was amazing. Would def do this again if we find ourselves back in Iceland.
Written 19 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
davidmarf
18 contributions
My wife and I try to go horseback riding wherever we go. Our experience here was easily the best one we have had. Before going on the ride we were shown a very helpful video of how to ride the horses. The staff were friendly and professional. They split up the group between those who wanted a gentle ride and those interested in more excitement. The Horses were small and spirited. While they clearly knew the route they were quite responsive so that even when walking they were fun to ride. Even though there was plenty of mud in the area where we treated the horses, the operation was the cleanest riding operation we ever encountered.
Written 3 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
WJKCG
Oslo, Norway97 contributions
The horse ride with Ishestar was very nice. The pickup from the hotel worked well. On arrival we were served hot drinks and a short introductory film, before it was time to find helmets and ale were allocated a horse according to experience. There were three experienced drivers on the trip, so we felt well looked after. Eventually they split the group in half, so that those who wanted to ride faster could do so. For those of us who were part of the group who were still in the classic walking team, it was a great trip in a landscape characterized by lava. A talkative and knowledgeable leader of the group made the experience extra good for me. But would like to recommend this to others, as a simple and accessible solution for those who want to experience both the lovely horses and great nature, but who have a little limited time - and perhaps limited experience from horseback.
Written 29 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lmfmedia
Newburyport, MA13 contributions
Had a fantastic private ride with one of the managers, Patty who was super friendly and fun to talk with during our ride. She paired me with a well mannered gelding that had a great work ethic. This was my first time experiencing the special gait unique to Icelandic horses called the Tolt, and he happily picked up a Tolt when asked and motored along so smoothly. What a comfortable, smooth ride and awesome way to experience the beauty of the lava fields and glacier valley in the park right next to their stable.
This was a quick 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavik, I’d highly recommend this business and ask for Patty, she was wonderful!
This was a quick 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavik, I’d highly recommend this business and ask for Patty, she was wonderful!
Written 9 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your kind words and what lovely pictures of you and Vindheimur.
I'm glad you enjoyed the ride with us and had such a good time with Patty!
We hope to see you again some time if you ever come back to visit Iceland and the horses.
Written 10 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
mtrodgers99
Montreal, Canada382 contributions
Aug 2022
I understand that there is an inherent risk when taking a horseback ride. Despite being trained, they can be plain unpredictable or they can be spooked into doing something dangerous for the rider. However, I think it is fair to expect that a stable would not use an animal that has any habitual dangerous behaviour.
This was not my first horseback ride, but I have only novice skill at this. In my experience at the Is Hestar stable (on August 15 in the afternoon in case management wishes to discuss this with the guides) our ride started normal enough. When the group split to accomodate the guests that wished to have more than a walking experience, I stayed in the group that preferred to have only the walking experience. When the horses reached a grassy clearing, the guides advised us to let the horses eat; the horse were now on their regulation rest period. My horse (his name sounds like Fraygurr if you wish to avoid him) wandered a bit and then started nibbling the grass. After a couple of minutes, I felt him start to go towards the ground. I was at a loss what to do, when I heard someone yell "he's going to roll over!" The horse continued his downward action. Somehow I jumped off and had the presence of mind to roll away so that the horse couldn't hurt me. Sure enough, the horse was on his back squirming around like he had an itch.
The horse stood up. A guide came over to check on me. What she said shocked me. She said something like "I was watching him. I couldn't reach him so I shouted the warning to you. He often does that in this clearing. We normally manage to stop him."
It didn't sink into my conciousness until later that they put me on a horse with a known bad behaviour that could have seriously injured or even killed me.
This was not my first horseback ride, but I have only novice skill at this. In my experience at the Is Hestar stable (on August 15 in the afternoon in case management wishes to discuss this with the guides) our ride started normal enough. When the group split to accomodate the guests that wished to have more than a walking experience, I stayed in the group that preferred to have only the walking experience. When the horses reached a grassy clearing, the guides advised us to let the horses eat; the horse were now on their regulation rest period. My horse (his name sounds like Fraygurr if you wish to avoid him) wandered a bit and then started nibbling the grass. After a couple of minutes, I felt him start to go towards the ground. I was at a loss what to do, when I heard someone yell "he's going to roll over!" The horse continued his downward action. Somehow I jumped off and had the presence of mind to roll away so that the horse couldn't hurt me. Sure enough, the horse was on his back squirming around like he had an itch.
The horse stood up. A guide came over to check on me. What she said shocked me. She said something like "I was watching him. I couldn't reach him so I shouted the warning to you. He often does that in this clearing. We normally manage to stop him."
It didn't sink into my conciousness until later that they put me on a horse with a known bad behaviour that could have seriously injured or even killed me.
Written 7 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to review us.
We are sorry you did not have a pleasant experience with our lovely horse Fleygur. He is a gentle giant but also a free spirit.
As always there are certain elements that we can not 100% control when dealing with living animals. It is a very normal behavior for horses though to drop and roll in the paddocks after the ride once the saddles have been taken off and the horses know that they should wait until after their tack has been removed to do so. It seems that Fleygur wanted to do some rolling on the nice soft grass and took the chance to do so, we will have a discussion about the incident so I thank you for bringing this to my attention.
I can assure you that you were never in any danger, although it's rare that a horse lays down with a rider, a rider has never been rolled over as our horses are very gentle around people. We hope to see you again some day if you ever come back to visit Iceland and the horses.
Written 10 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Are the saddles all English style? I have some experience with Western saddles but have the opportunity to learn English style. I have a full year to get ready. I will ve on a Viking cruise, is pick-up available close to the cruise terminal?
Written 10 July 2022
These are easy to ride as can be, don't worry.
Written 29 October 2022
Susan B
Plymouth, United Kingdom
My daughter (16) and I would like to book this trip in Feb 23. I am a novice now at my age, but my daughter is a very experienced rider. Could we be split up into different groups on the ride? Susan x
Written 28 June 2022
Yes! Our group actually split up because we had a child with us who was too young for the lava ride. They were very accommodating and helped us get everyone in our group the experience they were hoping to have. Also note that on the lava tour, there is an opportunity to choose to break off and do a more advanced ride or continue on with the main group. So you could even start the ride together if you want to.
Written 1 July 2022
How far is the location from downtown? How easy is the drive?
Or would they pick up at Fosshotel?
Written 2 February 2022
Hey I think it was a half hour drive not far from the main city area. We didn't drive but we're collected we stayed at eyja which I don't think was to far from the Foss so they should pick up from there. Most places list this on the bottom of the booking sheet.
Written 5 April 2022
With extra pick up fee, do you pick up at the Alda Hotel Reykjavik, or where nearby if not?
Written 5 September 2021
Hi Mark,
I am not the service provider, but I was picked up at my hotel by shuttle bus, yes. i hope that answers your question.
Written 7 September 2021
They split you into groups based on experience. Then, they ask what you would like to do. There were areas where we could gallop if we wanted to.
Written 16 August 2019
Hi, I would like to check if this tour is recommended for children at the age of 4? Can it be accompany by an adult during the horse riding?
Written 14 July 2019
Their website says age 8 minimum.
Written 14 July 2019
Hello, my daughter is 6 years old. Is there a minimum age necessary? Thanks for your Feedback.
Regards, Sylvia
Written 31 May 2019
How do you arrange hotel pick up? I did not see an option when booking
Written 27 April 2019
We booked the Ishtar Stables excursion through Guide to Iceland and had an option for a Reykjavik pick up but paid an extra fee. They picked us up in a mini van at the time/pick up place we selected.
Written 30 April 2019
If you take the 10 a.m tour, at what time would the bus return to Reykjavík?
Written 15 February 2019
We just returned from this tour. They picked us up at 10, we rode for 2 hours and returned to our hotel by 2
Written 3 July 2019
Do you arrange hotel pickup after booking I can't see an option
Written 20 January 2019
Showing results 1-10 of 22