Red lava fields and friendly horses, that’s the trick. This 2.5-hour Icelandic horse ride with Sólhestar Horse Riding takes you through dramatic volcanic terrain, and you get to choose a route that matches your comfort level. I like that the team keeps the experience controlled and safe while still letting you feel the fun, and I also like the cozy touch of tea and coffee after (plus included rain gear when weather turns). One thing to consider: it can be physically demanding in cold wind, and the tour is not suitable for people with mobility limits, back problems, or pregnancy.

Pickup from Reykjavik is optional, and the actual horseback time lands at about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll ride roughly 5 to 7 kilometers depending on the experience route, so it’s not a quick “sit and smile” moment. Plan to dress warmly, and you’ll be set.

Key highlights to look for

• Route choices (Redhills vs Rauðarvatn) based on riding experience and your chosen pace
• Icelandic horses paired to help beginners feel secure
• Provided protection: helmet, rain clothing if needed, and winter jumpsuits in cold season
• Volcanic scenery time on natural paths through red lava terrain
• Phone photo moment at red lava rocks, with guides helping capture the shot
• Warm drinks after to take the edge off, even when the weather is grim

Red Lava Fields, Friendly Icelandic Horses, and the Pace That Fits You

If you’ve ever wanted Iceland to feel a little slower, a little hands-on, and very real, horseback riding in the red lava area is one of the best ways. You’re not just looking at volcano country from a car. You’re moving through it at walking speed, then (if your group is set up that way) you may get chances to ride more actively.

I like how the tour builds a match between you and the ride. Your route depends on skill and comfort, so beginners aren’t pushed into a faster setting, and more confident riders still get something to do with their legs and balance. The horses are Icelandic, and the guides treat them like working partners, not props. That matters, because it affects your confidence the whole time.

The other thing I like is the setting. The red lava terrain has a strong, graphic look, and you keep seeing it from different angles while riding. It’s the kind of view that makes you stop paying attention to time.

How Getting to Sólhestar Works From Downtown Reykjavik

Most people stay in Reykjavik, so the logistics matter. This tour offers optional hotel pickup in Reykjavik, with pickup scheduled about 30 minutes before the start time. The transfer uses a small bus or jeep labeled with the provider’s name, which keeps it easy to spot.

If you have your own car, you can drive directly to the stables. There’s free parking in front of the stable, and it’s a short drive from downtown, about 15 minutes. That’s helpful if you’re timing your day around meals or if you simply don’t want to wait for pickup.

Whatever option you choose, give yourself margin. You’re asked to arrive at the stable 15 minutes before set riding time. That early buffer is important because you’ll need that time for helmet fitting and getting ready for cold or wet weather.

Helmet On, Winter Gear On: Your First Minutes at the Stables

The first part of the experience is all about gear and pairing. You’ll meet at the stable, you’ll be given a helmet, and then you’ll get help getting sorted for the conditions. Helmets are required for all riders, and the guides keep it straightforward.

If the weather needs it, you’ll also get rain clothing, and in winter season you should expect winter jumpsuits. In Iceland, that’s not a luxury, it’s comfort. Wind and wet can turn an otherwise fun ride into a shivering session, so having the right layer system makes the experience enjoyable instead of miserable.

Once you’re geared up, you’ll meet your horse. Riders are paired based on riding experience, and the guides focus on making sure you feel comfortable before you move out. In past groups, beginners were supported quickly, often after just a short adjustment period on the horse.

Redhills Walk vs Rauðarvatn Tölt Sessions

Here’s where the tour becomes more than scenic travel. You’ll ride about 5 to 7 kilometers total, but that distance varies depending on the path and the rider group. The tour is designed for beginners and more experienced riders, and you’ll feel the difference in how the ride is paced.

On one route, you follow the Redhills, riding along a smooth natural path. This portion tends to feel steady and confidence-building. You’ll still see the lava terrain closely, with red formations and mossy patches, but the emphasis is on control and comfort.

For more experienced riders, the route may include riding by Rauðarvatn. In many cases, that’s where the ride feels more alive. Guides may offer moments to increase speed, and advanced groups can have tölt sessions. Tölt is a distinctive Icelandic gait, and if you’ve never tried it, it can feel both smooth and exciting because it’s different from the typical walk or trot.

You can expect stops for photos. There’s even a mini photo moment at red lava rocks, and guides may take photos on your phone so you don’t have to wrestle it out while staying balanced in the saddle.

What You’ll See on the Ride: Volcanic Terrain Up Close

The best part of riding through this area is how close you get to the evidence of Iceland’s geology. While the red lava terrain is the headline, the real magic is the variety of textures you pass: rough lava shapes, moss patches, and hills that change the view every few minutes.

The ride includes stretches along natural riding paths, not just flat corridors. As you move, you’ll feel the terrain under you, and the guides help keep everyone together. That’s why the route choice matters so much. The same area can feel peaceful for beginners and more exhilarating for experienced riders.

Guides also share context during the ride. You can expect English explanations about the area, including history and geology, while you’re moving. That combo, views plus facts at a human pace, makes the time feel fuller.

Red Lava Rocks Photo Stop and Post-Ride Tea

You’ll get a photo stop at red lava rocks, and it’s set up like a short moment to enjoy the view and get a good shot. One practical detail I appreciate: guides can take photos using your phone. That reduces the usual “hold still, hope the photo works” stress.

When you finish, you return either to the stables or back to your Reykjavik accommodation, depending on your pickup option. Either way, the tour doesn’t end with you cold and done. Tea and coffee are included, which sounds small until you’re actually standing there with numb fingers.

That drink break is also useful for resetting. You’ve been focused on posture and balance, and then you get to relax for a few minutes before heading back.

Weather Reality: Dressing for Wind and Wet in Iceland

Even in seasons with good daylight, Iceland weather can change fast. This tour helps you plan for that, because you get wet-weather clothing if needed, plus winter jumpsuits in colder periods. Still, you need to bring the right base layers.

I suggest you wear warm clothing and comfortable layers you can move in. Keep socks warm and non-slippery. Gloves matter more than you think, especially if you’ll be taking photos or adjusting gear between the horse and helmet.

Also pay attention to the specific “not allowed” list:

• shorts
• professional cameras
• backpacks
• open-toed shoes

Those rules aren’t meant to be annoying. They’re about safety and comfort. An open-toe shoe is a real problem around cold ground and gear. A backpack can interfere with riding position and safe handling.

Is $142 Good Value for a Reykjavik Horse Ride?

At $142 per person for about 2.5 hours, this isn’t a budget activity. But value is more than price. You’re getting horseback time (1.5 to 2 hours), an instructor, helmet, and included cold-weather gear like rain clothing and winter jumpsuits when conditions call for it. You also get coffee and tea, plus optional hotel pickup.

Compared to activities that mostly rely on transport to a viewpoint, you’re paying for direct access to the animal and the terrain. That’s why it can feel worth it: you’re not only seeing volcano country, you’re experiencing it from the saddle.

There’s also a safety-and-comfort factor. Helmets are required, and riders are paired based on experience. That reduces the chances that you’ll spend the ride worrying instead of enjoying it. In Iceland, that’s part of the real cost, and it shows in the guides’ approach.

If you’re trying to fit one memorable outdoors activity into Reykjavik, this is one of the best “time equals experience” options you’ll find.

Who This Tour Suits, and Who Should Skip It

This tour is for people who want a structured riding experience without needing advanced skills. It suits beginners and more experienced riders because route pacing can be adjusted, and instructors guide you throughout.

It also suits you if you like practical guidance. Expect clear instruction on riding and comfort, plus explanations about the area as you go. Reviews mention guides checking riders and making sure people feel settled before moving out.

Skip this one if it doesn’t match your body needs. It is 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

That doesn’t mean it’s dangerous. It means horseback riding has physical requirements: balancing, staying stable, and handling cold weather gear and terrain.

If you’re unsure, be honest about your fitness and your comfort on uneven ground.

Should You Book This Red Lava Horse Riding Tour?

Book it if you want a true Iceland experience in the Reykjavik area that’s active, scenic, and beginner-friendly. I’d also book it if you’re short on time, because the tour is long enough to feel like you actually rode, not just tried a horse for five minutes.

Think twice if cold weather or uneven terrain is a hard no for you, even with winter jumpsuits and rain clothing. And if you fall into the list of who it is not suitable for, it’s better to choose a different kind of day.

If your goal is to mix volcano terrain with friendly Icelandic horses, this is a strong choice.

FAQ

How long is the tour, and how long will I be riding?

The total tour duration is listed as 2.5 hours. You will ride for about 1.5 to 2 hours, with the rest of the time used for getting ready and moving between the stable and the accommodation or return.

Is hotel pickup included?

Hotel pickup is optional. If you select the pickup option, you’ll be collected from selected hotels and pickup points in Reykjavik about 30 minutes before the tour start time.

Where do I meet, and is parking available?

You should be at the stable 15 minutes before the set riding time. Free parking is available in front of the stable, and you will see a big white stable with a big orange sign.

What cold-weather clothing and safety gear are provided?

A helmet is provided and required while riding. Wet-weather clothing is provided if required, and winter jumpsuits are included for colder conditions.

Do I need to be an experienced rider?

No. The ride is suitable for beginners and also for more experienced riders. You’ll choose a riding path that matches your experience level.

What should I wear, and what is not allowed?

Bring warm clothing and weather-appropriate clothing. Not allowed items include shorts, professional cameras, backpacks, and open-toed shoes.

What is the weight limit?

The weight limit is 110 kg, or 242 lb.

Is food included?

Food and drinks are not included. Coffee and tea are provided as part of the tour.

Can I cancel, and can I pay later?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, keeping travel plans flexible.