Reykjavik: Red Lava Horse Riding Tour

Red lava on a horse is a blunt kind of magic.

This Reykjavik-area tour takes you past volcanic terrain on Icelandic horses, with optional hotel pickup and gear that actually helps in cold, wet weather. I like that the ride is built for mixed experience levels, so you’re not stuck feeling lost or bored.

Two things I’d happily point you to: first, the horses themselves. Expect friendly Icelandic temperament and careful guidance from the stable team, including instructors like Claudia and Patri (and other guide combinations you may meet). Second, you get a real sense of Iceland’s red volcanic ground instead of just doing a quick “around the field” spin.

One drawback to plan around: the conditions can be chilly and you’re riding outdoors, plus there are clear limits on who can participate (weight limit and no-go categories like back issues or mobility needs). If that sounds like you, skip this one and choose something else.

Key things that make this tour worth your time

• Beginner and advanced ride options: you’ll be put on a path matched to your experience.
• Redhills vs. Rauðarvatn routes: different riding terrain and different paces depending on your group.
• Helmets + rain/winter gear included: they’re serious about comfort and safety in Iceland weather.
• A meaningful riding block: plan on 1.5–2 hours of riding, not just a short photo moment.
• Tea and coffee provided: a warm reset after time outside.

Why the red lava ride fits Reykjavik so well

Reykjavik is great for museums and city food, but it can’t give you the volcanic feel you came to Iceland for. This tour does that job fast. You’re picked up (if you choose that option), driven out, and then you’re spending the core part of the experience on horseback through red volcanic terrain.

It also works if your schedule is tight. The total tour time is about 2.5 hours, but the riding itself stretches to 1.5–2 hours. That ratio matters. You’re not paying to sit on a van.

Icelandic horses and safety: how the guides set you up

The tour’s biggest “quiet detail” is how they set riders up before you move. You’ll meet the horses at the stables, then helmet up. A helmet is mandatory, and they provide it at the stable—simple and practical.

You’ll also be matched by riding experience. The ride is suitable for beginners and more experienced riders, but that doesn’t mean everyone rides the same pace. In practice, groups are split so you can learn without feeling rushed, and experienced riders have room to have fun. One review noted that riders were paired based on experience level, and that the fast group could work on the tölt while the slower group stayed more relaxed.

Guides such as Claudia and Patri are described as friendly and attentive, with a lot of explanation given during the ride. That’s a good sign for first-timers. Icelandic horses can be comfortable to ride, but your body still needs a minute to find the rhythm, and having someone watching you helps.

Two routes and two paces: Redhills vs Rauðarvatn

This ride isn’t just one loop. The distance is 5–7 kilometers, depending on your group. The route also changes based on riding level.

• If you’re on the Redhills route, you’ll ride along a smooth path on volcanic ground. Expect a lot of steady walking through red formations, mossy areas, and rocky terrain where you can focus on the ride and the scenery.
• If you’re in the Rauðarvatn group, you’ll get a more active route. Advanced riders may have more chances to move faster. Some groups did tölt sessions and took a longer return path to the stables.

What you should take from this: your experience is not one-size-fits-all. If you want to be cautious, you can. If you want more motion, there’s room for that too. A couple of reviews even mention the guides offering the option to speed up if you want.

The best part: that 1.5–2 hour riding block

You’ll ride for about 1.5–2 hours, which is long enough to feel like you’re actually on a journey—not just checking a box. Most of the time, the route is on natural paths, with red lava textures underfoot and dramatic volcanic shapes around you.

There’s also a planned photo moment. You’ll stop at red lava rocks for photos, and the guide may take pictures using your phone. It’s a nice touch because you can focus on the moment instead of trying to balance your camera while mounted.

One more practical benefit: because the ride includes breaks and pacing choices, you don’t feel sprinted through. The best riding days feel unhurried. This one aims for that balance.

Getting dressed for Iceland weather (without wasting your day)

This is where this tour earns points with me. Cold Iceland air can turn “fun” into “survival,” and the company helps you avoid that.

You’ll be provided with:

• Wet-weather clothing if needed
• Winter jumpsuits
• Helmet (required)
• Coffee and tea after

That doesn’t mean you show up in thin clothes. You still need warm layers, comfortable clothes, and weather-appropriate footwear. Bring warm clothing even if the forecast looks mild. In winter, gloves and wool socks matter. One rider specifically warned to prepare for cold winter conditions and mentioned gloves and wool socks.

Also pay attention to the rules:

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

If you’re tempted to wear sandals because it’s convenient—don’t. Your feet will be miserable if the weather is damp or windy.

Pickup, stables, and how not to waste time finding the meeting point

You’ve got two ways to start:

1. Hotel pickup (optional), for selected hotels and pickup points in Reykjavik

• Pickup happens 30 minutes before the tour start time.
• If you pick this option, be ready 30 minutes before.
• You’ll ride in a small bus or jeep marked with the provider name.

1. Drive yourself

• Meet 15 minutes before riding time at the stable.
• Free parking is in front of the stable.

The stables are easy to spot once you know what to look for: a big white stable with a big orange sign. That’s a small detail, but it saves you stress when you’re cold and trying to find the right spot quickly.

Price and value: what $142 actually buys you

At $142 per person for about 2.5 hours, you’re paying for a real guided riding experience, not just access to horses. The value stack is solid:

Included items that reduce your costs and friction:

• Instructor-led riding
• Helmet
• Wet-weather clothing and winter jumpsuits
• Coffee/tea
• Free parking
• Hotel pickup/drop-off if you select it

What’s not included:

• Food and drinks (so eat before you go, or plan a meal after)

When I look at value, I focus on “how much of the time feels like the activity.” Here, the riding time is long enough (1.5–2 hours) that you actually get the horseback part. Plus you don’t have to source your own protective gear for a short ride—big deal in Iceland.

Who should book this (and who should skip)

This tour is described as beginner-friendly, but it’s still real riding and real riding conditions. 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

They also state you need to be in physical good condition. I’d treat that seriously. Even if you’ve handled short horseback rides elsewhere, cold weather plus mounting/dismounting plus time outdoors can add up.

If you’re comfortable with the idea of spending hours outside in Icelandic weather and you’re within the limits, this can be a standout “Iceland in one morning/afternoon” activity.

Tips to make your red lava ride go smoothly

A few practical choices can improve your day fast:

• Wear warm layers and closed, grippy shoes.
• Skip shorts. The gear is there, but you’ll still feel exposed without proper clothing.
• Bring a plan for photos: you may get help with phone photos at the lava rocks stop, but you’ll still want to have your phone accessible.
• If you hate getting cold hands, grab gloves and don’t cut corners.
• Consider sunglasses if the day is bright or dusty—one rider called this out because roads can get dusty.

And when you’re on the horse: listen early. The guides’ biggest job is keeping everyone comfortable and moving safely, and that only works if you follow instructions right away.

Should you book the Reykjavik Red Lava Horse Riding Tour?

If you want an Iceland experience that mixes animals, volcanic terrain, and real time in the saddle, I think this one is an easy yes. The structure—helmet, gear, matching riders by experience, and two route options—makes it work for first-timers without boring more confident riders.

I’d hesitate only if you know you’ll struggle in cold outdoor conditions, or if you fall into the listed no-go categories (back issues, mobility limits, recent surgery, pregnancy, weight limit). In those cases, choose a different Iceland activity that matches your body and comfort level.

If you’re eligible and willing to dress for winter, you’ll likely feel like you got a lot of Iceland for your money.

FAQ

How long is the Reykjavik Red Lava Horse Riding Tour?

The duration is about 2.5 hours total, with around 1.5–2 hours of actual horseback riding time.

Is hotel pickup from Reykjavik included?

Hotel pickup is optional. If you choose it, pickup is available from selected hotels and pickup points in Reykjavik about 30 minutes before the tour start time.

Where do I meet if I’m driving myself?

Meet at the stables about 15 minutes before riding time. Look for the big white stable with a big orange sign. Free parking is available in front.

Do I get a helmet for the ride?

Yes. Helmets are provided at the stable and all riders need to wear one while riding.

What riding distance will we cover?

The ride is between 5–7 kilometers, depending on the experience level chosen for your group.

What should I wear in Iceland weather?

Bring warm, comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. The tour provides wet-weather clothing and winter jumpsuits if needed.

What footwear and items are not allowed?

Shorts, professional cameras, backpacks, and open-toed shoes are not allowed.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Yes. The tour is suitable for beginners and also for more experienced riders, with routes and pace adjusted for the group.