Golden Circle and Horses

Exploring Iceland’s renowned Golden Circle is an exhilarating experience, but adding an Icelandic horse ride to the mix takes the journey to new heights. This full-day tour blends the country’s iconic natural wonders with an immersive equine adventure, offering participants a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture. From the dramatic landscapes of Thingvellir National Park to the thundering Gullfoss waterfall, the tour provides a well-rounded experience that caters to both sightseers and adventure seekers. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, visitors can expect an unforgettable day filled with breathtaking vistas and memorable interactions with Iceland’s beloved Icelandic horses.

Good To Know

• This full-day tour combines the iconic Golden Circle route with an immersive horseback riding experience through the stunning Icelandic landscape.

• The tour includes visits to major attractions like Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and Geysir geothermal area, with expert commentary from a local guide.

• All necessary riding equipment is provided, and guides offer insights on the history and cultural significance of Icelandic horses, a beloved national icon.

• The tour offers a unique perspective of Iceland’s natural wonders, allowing visitors to explore the terrain and connect with the local culture through horseback riding.

• This comprehensive tour is ideal for first-time or time-pressed visitors, providing a well-rounded experience of Iceland’s breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities.

Tour Overview

This combination full-day tour from Reykjavik, Iceland highlights the iconic Golden Circle route and offers a scenic horseback riding adventure on Icelandic horses, making it an ideal excursion for first-time or time-pressed visitors.

The tour includes visits to the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area.

Travelers can enjoy the beautiful Icelandic landscape while learning about the country’s history and natural wonders from an English-speaking local guide.

With an in-bus audio guide available in multiple languages and free Wi-Fi on board, this tour provides a convenient and informative way to experience the highlights of the Golden Circle and horseback riding in Iceland.

Tour Inclusions

The tour package includes an in-bus audio guide available in 10 languages, allowing travelers to learn about the sights at their own pace. An English-speaking local guide accompanies the group, providing expert commentary throughout the day.

Complimentary Wi-Fi on board and USB charging ports in every seat ensure passengers can stay connected and charged during the excursion. All necessary equipment for the horseback riding portion of the tour is provided, though food, drinks, and personal headphones aren’t included.

This comprehensive offering allows visitors to fully enjoy the stunning Icelandic landscape and experience the highlights of the Golden Circle route with convenience and comfort.

Meeting and Pickup

Customers can depart for the tour from the Reykjavik Terminal located at Skógarhlíð 10, 105 Reykjavik.

Hotel pickup is available for an additional cost, though it isn’t offered for Airbnb or private housing accommodations. Traffic limitations may require customers residing in postcode 101 to find alternative pickup spots.

The tour conveniently provides free Wi-Fi on board and USB charging ports in every seat, ensuring travelers can stay connected throughout the journey.

The English-speaking local guide will be on hand to provide an informative and enjoyable experience for all participants, whether they’re first-time or time-pressed visitors to Iceland.

What to Expect

As participants prepare for the tour, they should dress in warm, waterproof clothing, as the weather in Iceland can change suddenly.

Bringing personal headphones is also recommended for the audio guide, which is available in 10 different languages.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infant seats are provided. The tour size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

The tour includes several key elements:

1. Scenic horseback riding adventure on Icelandic horses.

2. Visits to the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and Geysir geothermal area.

3. Free Wi-Fi and USB charging ports on the bus for participants’ convenience.

Customer Reviews

Travelers have provided a range of feedback on the tour, with an overall rating of 4.5 based on 18 reviews.

Many customers praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning natural beauty of the Golden Circle and horseback riding experience.

However, some have voiced concerns about the tour’s organization and perceived value for money. A few suggest booking the horseback riding portion separately for better pricing.

Despite these minor issues, the majority of reviewers seem to have had an enjoyable and memorable time on the tour, with the combination of sightseeing and outdoor activities making it an ideal choice for first-time or time-pressed visitors to Iceland.

Horseback Riding Experience

The horseback riding component of the tour offers visitors an immersive and scenic adventure on the iconic Icelandic horses. Participants can expect to experience the country’s rugged landscapes firsthand as they ride through the picturesque terrain, providing a unique perspective on the Golden Circle’s natural wonders.

The tour includes:

1. All necessary riding equipment, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for riders of all skill levels.

2. Knowledgeable guides who provide insights about the local environment and the history of Icelandic horsemanship.

3. The opportunity to get up close and personal with these hardy, sure-footed horses, which are a beloved part of Icelandic culture.

Exploring the Golden Circle

After experiencing the thrill of horseback riding, visitors can now explore the highlights of the renowned Golden Circle route, one of Iceland’s most popular sightseeing circuits.

This scenic drive takes travelers through a landscape dotted with UNESCO-listed natural wonders, from the dramatic rift valley of Thingvellir National Park to the thundering cascades of Gullfoss waterfall and the geothermal marvels of the Geysir geothermal area.

Along the way, an onboard audio guide provides insightful commentary in multiple languages, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the rich history and geology of these captivating sites.

With the comfort of modern amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and USB charging ports, this comprehensive tour offers an effortless way to discover the very best of Iceland’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Highlights and Attractions

Thingvellir National Park’s dramatic rift valley showcases Iceland’s unique geological history, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the first stop on the Golden Circle tour, offering visitors a chance to witness this remarkable natural phenomenon.

Nearby, the Gullfoss waterfall cascades over two tiers, plunging 32 meters into a rugged canyon. Further along the route, the Geysir geothermal area boasts a number of hot springs, including the iconic Strokkur, which erupts every 5-10 minutes, shooting a column of water up to 20 meters high.

Complementing these natural wonders, the tour also includes an exhilarating horseback riding experience atop Icelandic horses, renowned for their gentle temperament and unique gaits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

You can bring your own snacks on the tour. Food and drinks are not included in the tour, so bringing your own snacks is allowed and recommended if you have specific dietary needs or preferences.

Are There Any Age or Height Restrictions for the Horseback Riding?

The tour has no specific age or height restrictions for the horseback riding. However, children must be accompanied by an adult, and infant seats are available. Participants should be able to safely mount and ride the Icelandic horses.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Golden Circle Site?

The tour spends approximately 1-2 hours at each Golden Circle site, allowing visitors ample time to explore Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area. The exact duration at each location may vary depending on the tour’s schedule and group needs.

Can I Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can book a private tour instead of a group tour. The provider offers private tours at an additional cost, providing a more personalized experience without the constraints of a larger group.

Do I Need to Tip the Tour Guide and Driver?

Tipping the tour guide and driver is not required, but it’s a common practice to show appreciation for their services. Most customers tip between 10-20% of the total tour cost if they’re satisfied with the experience.

Sum Up

The Golden Circle and Horses tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Iceland’s natural wonders and take in the local equine culture.

With expert guidance, visitors can discover iconic sites while enjoying the thrill of horseback riding through stunning landscapes.

This full-day experience combines sightseeing and adventure, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an unforgettable exploration of Iceland.