Horses, lava, and Reykjavik convenience. This Red Lava Horse Riding Tour turns volcanic terrain into a calm, confidence-building ride with friendly Icelandic horses. I especially love how you’re matched to a route and pace based on skill, and how the guides keep things organized even when weather turns rude. One catch: you’ll be outside for stretches, so your warmth gear matters more than you think.

You’ll spend about 1.5 to 2 hours riding (total tour time is 2.5 hours), covering roughly 5–7 km depending on the group. The ride uses natural paths that feel smooth underfoot—unless Iceland decides to toss in wind and wet. The good news: they provide helmets, rainwear, and winter gear so you’re not guessing.

My favorite practical detail is the “comfort after” setup: tea and coffee are available, and there’s time to say goodbye to the horses before you head back. You should still consider that food isn’t included, so plan a meal before or after.

Key highlights to know before you go

• Skill-based routes: Redhills for an easier flow, and Rauðarvatn for more advanced riders.
• Real riding time: Plan on 1.5–2 hours in the saddle, not a token trail.
• Weather gear is included: rain clothing plus winter jumpsuits when it’s cold.
• Photo stop at red lava rocks: a short break where you can pose and get help with phone photos.
• Helmets and instruction included: you’ll be briefed and guided start to finish.
• Pickup or self-drive works: optional hotel pickup plus free parking at the stables.

Why This Reykjavik Horse Ride Works So Well

Iceland can be loud—wind, water, thunder, the whole deal. This tour is different. It trades drama in the sky for drama under your hooves: red lava fields and quiet trails where the horses do most of the heavy lifting.

I like that it’s not just for hardcore riders. The beginner-to-experienced setup is built into the day. In practice, that means you’re not stuck watching others move at your pace. You get the chance to ride the way you can handle—walk, and for the more confident group, faster options that may include tölt sessions.

The value angle is also straightforward. For around $142 per person you’re getting much more than time on a horse: helmet, wet-weather clothing, winter jumpsuits, an instructor, and transport from Reykjavik if you pick that option. The only big omission is food, so budget time for a proper meal afterward.

What the 2.5 Hours Really Look Like

The tour is listed as 2.5 hours, but the heart of it is the ride. You’ll generally do two phases:

1) Transfer + prep (pickup drive or short drive yourself, then meet the stable staff)

2) Riding (your 5–7 km loop)

On the riding portion, you’re out for about 1.5–2 hours. That’s long enough to feel like you’re actually traveling across the terrain, not just bouncing around for a photo. Expect lots of walking on natural paths, with changes based on rider level.

A nice detail: groups are split for experience, and pace options show up during the ride. Some riders report doing short bursts of faster movement in the advanced group, while beginners focus on settling in and moving comfortably.

Meeting the Horses at Sólhestar Stables (and the small stuff that matters)

If you’re driving, make your life easy: there’s free parking in front of the stable, and you’re told it’s about 15 minutes from downtown.

For everyone else, optional hotel pickup happens about 30 minutes before the tour start time (you’re collected by a small bus or jeep with the provider’s name on the side). If you’re self-driving, you’ll still want to arrive 15 minutes early so you’re not rushing helmet fittings.

At the stable, you’ll see a big white stable with an orange sign. Plan to spend a few minutes getting your helmet and any provided gear sorted. Several riders mention having time to try helmets and get set before mounting—so show up on time and you’ll feel calmer immediately.

Red Lava Fields: Redhills vs Rauðarvatn

This is the “why” part of the day.

You’ll ride through Iceland’s volcanic world along a smooth, natural path through the Redhills area for many riders. It’s the route designed to keep things comfortable while still giving you dramatic views.

For more experienced riders, the tour may shift to the Rauðarvatn route. That’s where you’re more likely to get longer or faster sections. In the field, that means:

• the trail choices can feel more varied
• the pace can change more often
• and riders may get tölt sessions (for those in the faster group)

Most groups still get a shared memory: red lava formations and that strange, beautiful mix of moss, rock, and volcanic texture under your route. The terrain is the star, but the organization is what keeps it fun instead of stressful.

How the Guides Keep It Safe (and actually fun)

The most consistent theme in what you’ll read is simple: the guides are friendly, and they manage the ride in a way that makes new riders relax. You’ll be instructed in English, with clear guidance on how to sit, hold on, and follow the pace changes.

I also love that riders are paired with a horse suited to their experience. That’s not a small detail. With Icelandic horses, temperament and comfort matter. When you’re matched well, first-timers tend to settle quickly—often within minutes.

You’ll hear guide names show up in many accounts, including Claudia, Claira, Nina, Patri, and Kolgrima. That matters because it hints at something practical: this isn’t a “set and forget” ride. The same team keeps showing up, which usually means consistent standards and a calm flow during mounting and riding.

One more safety point: helmets are required, and the tour provides them at the stable. So bring your warm gloves and your best attitude, but you won’t need to guess about safety gear.

Gear for Iceland Weather: What’s Provided vs What You Must Bring

Iceland doesn’t care about your itinerary. This tour plans for that reality.

You’ll be provided with:

• Helmet (required)
• Wet-weather clothing if needed
• Winter jumpsuits (for colder conditions)
• Coffee and tea during/after the ride
• A guiding team and instructor

What you should bring:

• Warm clothing in layers
• Comfortable clothes
• Weather-appropriate gear

And please take note of the rules they spell out:

• No shorts
• No open-toed shoes
• No backpacks
• No professional cameras

A couple of practical bits I’d steal from rider advice: wear wool socks and get ready for cold snaps in winter. Also, if it’s dusty in shoulder seasons, sunglasses can be useful.

If you’re unsure about what “warm enough” means, choose “warmer than you feel” over “just comfortable.” You’re sitting in the saddle for long stretches, so you cool down even when the ride feels active.

Photo Stops and the Post-Ride Rhythm

This tour has at least one intentional break built in: a stop at red lava rocks for photos. One rider notes that the guide can take photos for you using your phone, which is a big help when you’re balancing a scarf, gloves, and a camera-less “I hope it’s not blurry” moment.

After the ride, you’ll head back to the stables or—if you booked it—back to your accommodation. Tea and coffee are available, and you’ll have time to wrap up and say goodbye to the horses.

A quick reality check: if you’re hoping for long, lingering scenic photo sessions, this tour is still a guided riding experience with a set pace. One rider wished there’d been more time for photos, but the trade-off seems to be that you get a solid amount of riding in one tidy block of time.

Price and Value: Is $142 a Fair Deal?

Let’s talk value in normal-human terms.

At $142 per person (for a 2.5-hour tour), you’re paying for:

• instructor time
• helmet + safety setup
• winter cold-weather gear and rainwear
• the horse handling and stable operation
• transport if you choose pickup
• coffee and tea

Food is not included, so you should add the cost of a meal to your day planning. Still, for Reykjavik, this kind of “gear included + real riding time” model is what makes it feel worth it. You’re not just paying to look at horses from a distance. You’re actually in the saddle for 1.5–2 hours, and that’s the piece that tends to make or break the experience.

In other words: if your goal is a hands-on Iceland activity that feels like an event, not a quick stop, the pricing matches what you’ll get.

Who This Ride Suits Best (and who should skip it)

This tour is aimed at beginners and experienced riders. Riders are split by ability, and you can choose paths that match you.

It’s also not for everyone. The tour data says it’s not suitable for:

• pregnant women
• people with back problems
• people with mobility impairments
• wheelchair users
• people over 110 kg / 242 lb
• people with recent surgeries
• people with low level of fitness

If any of those apply, don’t treat that as a “maybe.” With horseback riding, balance and physical comfort are real factors.

If you’re generally healthy and can follow instructions, this can be a great “first Iceland horse” option. Even riders with little experience report feeling comfortable after a short adjustment time.

Practical Tips That Make Your Ride Smoother

Here’s what I’d do to maximize comfort and minimize surprises.

• Arrive on time: 15 minutes early if driving. For pickup, be ready 30 minutes before start time.
• Dress in layers, not just warm: Iceland’s temperature swings can be fast when wind kicks up.
• Wear closed-toe shoes (they’re strict about this).
• Leave your backpack behind: if you must carry something, keep it simple and minimal.
• Expect a range of pace options: the advanced group may get tölt sessions. Beginners generally stay in easier movements.
• Bring a charging strategy for photos: your phone will be your camera, and you’ll want it to survive cold conditions.
• Plan food separately: no snacks or drinks beyond tea/coffee.

One more small trick: if you’re traveling in winter, gloves matter. People explicitly recommend being ready with cold gear, and your hands feel it first.

Should You Book This Tour?

Yes—if you want Iceland in a way that feels physical and personal. This isn’t a “drive past and look” kind of experience. You ride into the red volcanic terrain on Icelandic horses, you get matched by skill, and you’re given the gear so you can focus on enjoying the ride.

Skip it if you know you’re not comfortable with cold, sitting for long stretches, or balance-based activities. Also skip if any health limits apply from the tour’s stated guidance.

If you’re on a short Reykjavik stay and want one memorable outdoor activity that still runs smoothly—pickup options, clear instruction, and real riding time—this is a strong pick.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding part?

The total tour is listed as 2.5 hours, and the horseback riding time is about 1.5–2 hours.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Yes. The tour is stated as suitable for beginners and also for more experienced riders, with routes and pace options matched to rider experience.

Can I get hotel pickup from Reykjavik?

Yes, pickup is optional from selected hotels and pickup points in Reykjavik, about 30 minutes before the tour start time.

What should I bring, and what gear is provided?

You should bring warm, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable clothes. The tour provides a helmet, wet-weather clothing if required, and winter jumpsuits. Coffee and tea are also included.

Where do I meet if I drive myself?

You’ll meet at the stable. Plan to arrive about 15 minutes before the set riding time. There is free parking in front of the stable, and you’ll see a big white stable with a big orange sign.

Are cameras and backpacks allowed?

Backpacks are not allowed. Professional cameras are also not allowed, but you can use your phone for photos (guides can help take photos using your phone).