Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching Tour From Reykjavik

Embark on an unforgettable adventure that showcases Iceland’s captivating natural wonders. This two-part tour combines the thrill of horseback riding through stunning lava fields with the awe-inspiring experience of whale watching. Skilled guides lead the way, ensuring a safe and enriching journey as you witness the country’s breathtaking landscapes and diverse marine life. From the rugged terrain to the vast open waters, this tour promises an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the stunning beauty of Iceland. With all necessary equipment and warm clothing provided, you’ll be well-prepared to delve deeper into the island’s captivating charm.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Whale Watching Experiences In Reykjavik.

Key Points

• This two-in-one tour offers both horseback riding through Iceland’s lava fields and a whale-watching boat excursion to spot whales, porpoises, and dolphins.
• The tour includes professional guides, provision of riding gear and warm clothing, and refreshments after the horseback riding session.
• The tour starts at the Ishestar Horse Riding Centre in Hafnarfjörður, with hotel pick-up available and a prompt 10:00 am departure.
• The tour is not recommended for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations, and there are age and weight restrictions for the horseback riding.
• The tour has received excellent customer reviews, with participants praising the knowledgeable guides, breathtaking scenery, and the option to try the whale-watching tour again if no whales are spotted.

Tour Overview

This two-in-one tour offers adventurous travelers the chance to explore Iceland’s great outdoors through horseback riding and whale watching.

First, you’ll follow a professional guide through Iceland’s lava fields on horseback, riding along trails that wind through the wild moorland and taking in panoramic views.

Afterward, you’ll board a whale-watching boat and cruise out onto the waves, keeping an eye out for whales, porpoises, and dolphins as you enjoy a new perspective on the region’s stunning scenery.

This unique combination of activities provides an exciting and diverse way to discover Iceland’s natural beauty.

What’s Included

The tour package includes a professional guide for both the horseback riding and whale watching excursions.

Riders will be provided with a riding helmet, rubber boots, and rainwear/warm clothing during the horseback riding portion. Plus, warm overalls are available for the whale watching boat tour.

After the horse riding tour, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are served.

Onboard Wi-Fi is also available during the whale watching segment, and travelers will receive a free ticket to try the whale watching tour again if no whales are spotted.

This comprehensive package ensures a comfortable and memorable adventure exploring Iceland’s stunning landscapes and marine life.

Meeting Point and Start Time

The tour begins at the Ishestar Horse Riding Centre, located at Súrlaskeið 26 in Hafnarfjörður, Iceland.

If travelers opt for the hotel pick-up service, Ishestar will collect them starting at 9:00 am. Otherwise, self-driving participants should arrive at the stables no later than 9:30 am, as the tour departs promptly at 10:00 am.

Once at the meeting point, travelers will be greeted by their professional guide who’ll lead them on the horseback riding and whale watching adventure.

Participants should arrive on time to ensure they don’t miss the start of the tour, as the schedule is tightly coordinated to maximize the experience.

Additional Information

Confirmation for this tour will be provided at the time of booking.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or who are pregnant. Participants mustn’t have any heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

This tour operates in various weather conditions, so travelers should dress appropriately.

The age limit for the horseback riding portion is 7 years old, and children 14 years or older need written parental permission to ride alone. The weight limit for riding is 110 kg/240 lbs.

This tour will have a maximum of 5 travelers.

Participants can enjoy free Wi-Fi during the boat tour and a complimentary ticket to try again if no whales are spotted.

Reviews

Drawing from the 39 reviews, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction.

Reviewers rave about the tour, describing it as an ‘incredible experience‘ and a ‘must-do’ activity in Iceland. Guests were impressed by the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who provided fascinating insights into the country’s history and wildlife.

Many commented on the breathtaking scenery, from the lava fields to the whales breaching in the ocean. Participants also appreciated the inclusion of warm clothing and refreshments, as well as the option to try the whale-watching tour again if no whales were spotted.

Exploring Iceland’s Lava Fields

Embarking on the horseback-riding portion of the tour, guests enjoy Iceland’s captivating lava fields, weaving through otherworldly landscapes dotted with volcanic rock formations. Following their knowledgeable guide, they traverse rugged trails, marveling at the region’s raw, untamed beauty. The lava fields, a testament to Iceland’s fiery geological history, offer a unique opportunity to connect with the island’s natural splendor. As they ride, guests are surrounded by panoramic vistas, with the majestic mountains serving as a breathtaking backdrop. This immersive experience allows them to truly appreciate the remarkable landscapes that make Iceland such an alluring destination.

Feature	Description
Terrain	Rugged, volcanic lava fields
Scenery	Panoramic views, volcanic rock formations, mountains
Trail	Winding, challenging routes through the wilderness
Guide	Knowledgeable, leading the way
Experience	Immersive, connecting with Iceland’s natural beauty

Whale Watching Adventure

Upon concluding the thrilling horseback adventure through Iceland’s lava fields, guests then board their whale-watching vessel to embark on a captivating marine excursion.

Scanning the vast expanse of the ocean, they eagerly anticipate catching glimpses of the region’s majestic sea creatures, including whales, porpoises, and dolphins. The boat glides smoothly across the waves, offering an unparalleled vantage point to observe the incredible wildlife.

Guests keep a keen eye on the horizon, watching for the telltale signs of a whale’s surfacing. When the magnificent creatures are spotted, a hush falls over the group as they take in the awe-inspiring sight.

This whale-watching tour provides a perfect complement to the earlier land-based activities, delivering an unforgettable day of exploration in Iceland’s natural wonders.

Scenic Panoramic Views

As guests saddle up and ride through Iceland’s lush, rolling landscapes, they’re treated to sweeping vistas that showcase the country’s dramatic natural beauty. Towering mountains, ancient lava fields, and verdant meadows unfold before them, offering a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding region. Along the way, they’ll spot cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, and rugged cliffs, each scene more picturesque than the last. The combination of the stunning scenery and the gentle, surefooted Icelandic horses creates an unforgettable experience that immerses riders in the breathtaking natural splendor of this magical land.

Scenic Highlights	Description
Mountains	Towering, snow-capped peaks
Lava Fields	Vast, ancient volcanic landscapes
Meadows	Verdant, rolling grasslands
Waterfalls	Cascading, powerful natural wonders
Lakes	Serene, mirror-like bodies of water

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Horse to the Tour?

Unfortunately, participants cannot bring their own horses to this tour. The tour provides all the necessary equipment, including horses, for the horseback riding portion of the experience. Guests must ride the horses supplied by the tour operator.

Do I Need Prior Horseback Riding Experience?

Prior horseback riding experience is not required for this tour. The tour offers instruction and gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both novice and experienced riders. Riders of all skill levels are welcome.

How Long Does the Whale Watching Part Last?

The whale watching portion of the tour typically lasts around 2-3 hours. Participants will cruise out onto the waters to spot whales, porpoises, and dolphins, providing a unique perspective on the region’s stunning natural scenery.

Can I Take Pictures or Videos During the Tours?

Yes, you can take pictures and videos during both the horseback riding and whale watching tours. The tours allow participants to freely capture their experiences with cameras and smartphones throughout the excursions.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but the tour operates in variable weather. Participants should dress appropriately, wearing warm, waterproof layers and proper footwear. The tour provider offers additional gear like boots and rainwear to ensure comfort during the outdoor activities.

Recap

This two-in-one tour offers an unforgettable way to experience Iceland’s natural wonders.

The guided horseback riding adventure through stunning lava fields is followed by a thrilling whale-watching boat trip, providing the chance to spot a variety of marine life.

With all necessary equipment and warm clothing included, as well as the option to try the whale-watching again if needed, this tour is an incredible and must-do activity for visitors to Iceland.