Trip Overview

Experience the unbridled joy of horseback riding in Iceland on our version of the “pony express,” tölting across volcanic landscapes draped in wildflowers! Gallop on the beaches and ride your Icelandic horse to explore glaciers, hot springs, and waterfalls, learn about Icelandic history, and discover Reykjavik’s vibrant foodie scene.

You’ll fall in love with your Icelandic horse at first sight. This iconic breed is best known for its comically shaggy coat and long mane although experienced riders also praise it for its famously smooth gait, a fast but very smooth trot or “tölt.” On this scenic tour of Iceland by saddle, you can ride free as the Vikings once did, exploring this island in the company of your trusty steed and his or her companions. This ride is for intermediate to advanced riders who relish 3-5 hours a day in the saddle.

Upon arrival at the Reykjavik Airport, meet your guide and the women who’ll be joining you for this amazing week of active adventure, food, and fun. In the charming capital of Iceland, Reykjavík, you’ll sightsee on foot and enjoy food tastings of local cuisine before taking a refreshing afternoon horseback ride along the Álftanes Peninsula, tölting among the ducks, geese, terns, and golden plovers. Plus, spend your first three nights in beautiful Hotel Húsafell.

Mix some history with heady seaside views on a morning trail ride to the home of medieval poet and scholar, Snorri Sturluson, to learn about his life and work then ride to Deildartunguhver to hear about Europe’s most powerful hot spring. After stabling our horses, you’ll decompress the Viking way in Krauma Spa’s hot tubs and steam baths then tuck in to a delicious and well-deserved evening meal.

Check out this video from our 2014 Iceland horse riding journey to get a good idea about what it is like to ride an Icelandic horse:

Your week of horse riding in Iceland will also include tölting through the surf and sparkling streams to see Langjökull and Eiriksjökull glaciers, the Lambafoss waterfall, the black lava field of Búðarhraun, and several rides along Golden Beach in Löngufjörur. “Sightseeing” detours will take you to see the black sand beaches of Djúpalónssandur and a chance to test your strength at Dritvík. Here, stones have been used for centuries to find out who’s got the power to haul nets and row boats out to sea!

Since much of Iceland’s livelihood depends on its fisheries, part of your foray into Icelandic cuisine includes cruising on a small boat among the fishing skerries of Breiðafjördur Bay to watch shellfish being dredged, harvesting scallops, sea urchins, and crabs. Fish doesn’t come any fresher than straight from the nets, so while you’re on deck, enjoy raw scallops right from the shell! Don’t be shy – freshly shucked sea scallops are as sweet as candy.

It’s a rare moment when women can stop their busy lives to venture far for fun, so take a moment at your farewell dinner to reflect on how richly rewarding it has been to travel with women who share your passion for horses and adventure. Which stole your heart first; Iceland’s outstanding native horses, phenomenal gourmet dining experiences, or her seductive landscapes?

Lush meadows and snow-capped mountains, hot springs and geysers, braided flood plains and frozen lava fields, plus glaciers on volcanoes have all been forged to create Iceland, a feral land of earth, fire, water, and ice!

With the North Star close at hand, join AdventureWomen in 2022 on our extraordinary Icelandic horseback riding odyssey!

Please note: All women riders on this trip must be strong intermediate to experienced riders with English and/or Western riding experience, and be in very good physical condition.

Main Attractions

  • Three to five hours of unforgettable bliss tölting on an Icelandic horse each day
  • Explore Iceland’s diverse and colorful landscapes from volcanoes to glaciers and waterfalls to black sand beaches
  • After an active day in the saddle, relax in hot springs and spas
  • Discover Iceland’s unique history and island culture
  • Taste the best of Icelandic cuisine from seafood to skyr

What You'll See and Do

  • Cultural Exploration
  • Horseback Riding
  • Hot Springs
  • Natural History
  • Photography
  • Sightseeing
  • Spa Element
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If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

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Trip Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Iceland
You’ll be met by your guide at the Reykjavík airport early this morning to start your adventure! If you are arriving into Reykjavík before the official start of the trip, be ready early – you’ll be picked up at approximately 7:30am to meet the group! On the way from the airport, take a quick detour to see the hot springs of Krýsuvík before enjoying a light breakfast at a cozy harbor café.

Head out on foot into Rekyjavík and explore the city. You’ll have the opportunity to taste several local delicacies during your tour.

Change into your riding gear and meet your horses! Set off on your first gentle ride on the Álftanes Peninsula, a hidden gem in the outskirts of Reykjavík. Enjoy the rich bird life of the area, including ducks, geese, terns, and golden plovers, while riding by views of Bessastaðir, the residence of the Icelandic President.

Drive to Húsafell Nature Reserve, where you’ll check into your hotel. Enjoy a lively welcome dinner as you get to know your fellow travelers this evening. Share stories and learn about why each woman in your trip is excited to explore Iceland!
Light Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Húsafell

Day 2

Reykholt
Enjoy a visit to the Snorrastofa Museum where you will learn about Snorri Sturluson, a famous 13th century Icelandic historian, poet, and politician.

Today’s ride is about three hours, and over mostly even terrain. Have a picnic lunch somewhere along the trail. (Pack your bathing suit for later!) End the day by soaking in the Krauma Spa at Deildartunguhver, the largest natural hot spring in Europe. Drawing on the geothermal reserves of the area, it pumps out a staggering 180 liters of boiling water each second, and the billowing clouds of steam created by this mighty fissure are truly impressive. Sit down for dinner right at the SPA restaurant after enjoying the hot tubs, steam baths, and an open-fire relaxation room.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Húsafell

 

Day 3

Reykholt
Head back to the horses after breakfast for a ride with glacier views. With a little luck in weather you should be able to see the Langjökull and Eiríksjökull glaciers as well as a nearby icefield. Ride to Lambafoss, a beautiful waterfall in the river Lambá, where you will enjoy a picnic lunch. The ride will take about three hours. After the ride, stop at a local microbrewery to learn about and taste Icelandic beer.

Drive through an area famous for greenhouse horticulture. Stop to buy some fresh Icelandic products on the way to the charming Hraunfossar waterfalls. Enjoy a prosecco toast with your local snacks at the waterfalls before heading back to your hotel for the evening where you will enjoy dinner as a group.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Húsafell

 

Day 4

Snæfellsjökull Peninsula
The tölt gait is known for its explosive acceleration and speed; it is also comfortable and ground-covering. There is considerable variation in style within the gait, and thus the tölt is variously compared to similar lateral gaits such as the rack of the Saddlebred, the largo of the Paso Fino, or the running walk of the Tennessee Walking Horse. Like all lateral ambling gaits, the footfall pattern is the same as the walk (left hind, left front, right hind, right front), but differs from the walk in that it can be performed at a range of speeds, from the speed of a typical fast walk up to the speed of a normal canter.

Board a boat for an unforgettable trip on Breiðafjörður Bay where you will cruise between countless islands populated by millions of birds. While you’re cruising, the boat will dredge some shellfish. Try some fresh scallops sushi style, raw with soy and wasabi, right on deck! On the way back to shore, you will see fishermen returning with their catch of the day.

After lunch at a restaurant in the harbor, head out for some sightseeing along the coastline of the Snæfellsnes Peninusla. Stop at Mt. Kikjufell, the most photographed mountain in Iceland, and walk along the beautiful black lava beaches of Djúpalónssandur. Measure your strength at Dritvík, where stones have traditionally been used to determine who is strongest and who is weakest; this determined who got sought-after assignments on fishing boats that set out into the rich fishing grounds around the Peninsula.

Head to your lodge and take a one to two hour introductory ride on the beach near the farm. Enjoy the cozy lounge and the hot tub this evening.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Lava Water Hotel

Day 5

Snæfellsjökull Peninsula
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before setting out on your horse. Ride along the beach, over sparkling streams and rivers, and through the rough black lava fields of Búðarhraun. Today’s ride will be about five hours and 20 kilometers. The timing of your rides over the next few days depends on the tides.

Stopping for a picnic lunch on the beach is a wonderful way to spend time appreciating the Icelandic landscapes surrounding you. Head back to your lodge for a well-deserved dinner. Take advantage of the hot tub to rest tired muscles.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Lava Water Hotel

Day 6

Snæfellsjökull Peninsula
Head out again today for a five hour, 20 kilometer ride along the beach. You’ll cover different ground each day, and each day will give you new views of the dramatic landscape. Much of your ride will have striking views of the Snæfellsjökull Glacier, made famous by Jules Verne. Enjoy another picnic lunch today.

Relax at your lodge this evening. Kick up your feet and share stories with the women in your group.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Lava Water Hotel

Day 7

Snæfellsjökull Peninsula
Enjoy one last five hour ride along the stunning beaches of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Have a picnic lunch and spend time soaking in the remoteness of the area.

Have a farewell dinner with your new AdventureWomen friends. Reminisce over all of the memories you have made and celebrate the end of an amazing journey through this truly spectacular country.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Lava Water Hotel

Day 8

Depart Iceland
Say goodbye to your new AdventureWomen friends as you transfer to the airport for your flights home.

If you’d like to stay a few extra nights in Reykjavík, let us know and AdventureWomen can arrange a hotel for you.
Breakfast

Please note: AdventureWomen will attempt to adhere to the itinerary as much as possible. However, certain conditions (political, climatic, environmental, and cultural) may necessitate changes in the itinerary. AdventureWomen reserves the right to alter any itinerary at any time, if necessary. We will attempt to notify participants of changes as far in advance as possible. Costs incurred by such changes will be the responsibility of the participants. 

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
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Traveling to Iceland



Arrival and Departure Information

June 23rd Departure:

Arrive: Arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF) on June 23, 2022 by 8:00am.

Depart: Depart Keflavik International Airport (KEF) on June 30, 2022 after 4:00pm.

July 8th Departure:

Arrive: Arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF) on July 8, 2022 by 8:00am.

Depart: Depart Keflavik International Airport (KEF) on July 15, 2022 after 4:00pm.

We are happy to help you make your flight and travel arrangements. If you’d like to do anything prior to or following the AdventureWomen trip, we’d be delighted to help you arrange any trip extensions you’re interested in.

Note: The recent trend in travel is for travelers to finalize their plans much closer to departure time than was customary in the past. While we try to be as flexible as possible booking last-minute registrants, we must release hotel rooms two to three months prior to departure! Please keep this in mind when making your travel plans.

Passports and Visas

Citizens of the United States must have a passport valid for six months beyond your travel dates with at least two blank facing pages. If you do not have a passport, please apply now!

Health Considerations

We rate this trip as moderate to high energy. You should be in good physical condition and horseback ride on a regular basis. You should meet these requirements:

  • You feel comfortable and safe in the saddle in all gaits
  • You feel comfortable riding at higher speeds over rugged terrain
  • You feel comfortable following the speed of the herd over long distances
  • You are not afraid of riding uphill or downhill at higher speeds
  • You have compassion and understanding for the horse’s abilities and limits.
  • You don’t mind long hours outside in any weather

Please note: You do not need any prior knowledge of Icelandic Horses or the special gait tölt. You will ride English Style, but Western Style riders will get used to the riding. You will ride four to six hours a day, with breaks for lunch and shorter stops in between.

You must notify us if you weigh more than 190lbs. We need to make sure we can find a horse suitable for you.

We have a partnership with FitForTrips, a company that will design an individualized fitness plan for you to ensure that you are prepared for the trip. Visit https://fitfortrips. com/partners/adventure-women/ for more information.

You should come with a flexible, adventurous, and enthusiastic spirit, and a wonderful sense of humor that adventure travel requires.

How to Register

Call the AdventureWomen office at (800) 804-8686 to determine space availability and register for this trip. We can complete your registration, including taking your credit card deposit over the phone.

If you prefer, you can register online by clicking “Sign Up for this Trip” on the trip page.

Please be sure to read the AdventureWomen policies before registering!

Preparation and Packing

Once you register for your adventure, we will send you a comprehensive preparation guide including weather information, gratuity suggestions, and a packing list.

As a reference, AdventureWomen typically suggests $200-250 for gratuities on most trips. Detailed information will be provided to you prior to departure.

Forms and Final Payment

The deposit for this trip is $1,500, and is nonrefundable and nontransferable. Once you book, you will need to fill out and return to AdventureWomen:

  • Information Form
  • Booking Conditions Form
  • Copy of Flight Information
  • Copy of Issuing Page of Passport (Photo Page)
  • Supplemental Release for COVID

Final payment is due to AdventureWomen in a cash form (check, money order, or wire transfer). A maximum of $1,500 per person can be put on a credit card, which includes your deposit.

June 23rd Departure Final Payment Due Date: March 25, 2022.

July 8th Departure Final Payment Due Date: April 9, 2022.

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
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What's Included

Included

  • Accommodations as per itinerary based on double occupancy
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • Activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • English-speaking guide(s) throughout the trip
  • All ground transportation
  • One group transfer on arrival and departure
  • Drinking water available from taps to refill personal bottles
  • Gratuities for hotel staff and waitstaff

Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Iceland
  • Optional activities
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
  • Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Gratuities for main guide and driver

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

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Accommodations

Hotel Húsafell
Conservative architecture in harmony with mother nature were the guidelines in the planning of Hotel Húsafell. It is a unique natural gem in a magnificent landscape.

Amenities: Soap, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryer; electricity; Wifi

Lava Water Hotel
The Lava Water Hotel is a family-owned farm in the southern part of he Snaefellsnes peninsula. Enjoy a quiet stay surrounded by the beautiful natural landscapes of this part of Iceland.

Amenities: Shampoo, hair dryer; electricity; Wifi

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary