Seaside Horseback Ride, Northern Iceland

Experience the beauty of Northern Iceland on horseback with this guided ride along the coast near Húsavik. Begin at a local farm, where you'll meet your expert guide and well-trained Icelandic horse, then mount up and set off at a gentle pace suited to your group's experience level. Cross windswept meadows and grasslands to reach the shores of Skjálfandi Bay (a haven for humpback whales and other marine life), and ride along dramatic black sand beaches with views of the surrounding mountains. Perfect for riders of all abilities, this seasonal 1.5-hour excursion is also suitable for children ages 10 and above.

Your scenic horseback adventure begins when you arrive at a local, family-run horse farm, located just a few minutes' drive south of Húsavík (additional pickup and drop-off services can be arranged at booking). Here you'll meet your guide and fellow riders, and be paired with one of the farm's well-trained Icelandic horses. This small, stocky breed's origins date back over 1,00 years, and they're known for their toughness and temperament, as well as their comfortable tölt (running walk) gait. The experience is open to riders of all levels, aged 10 and older, with a maximum weight limit of 240 pounds (110 kg).

Get to know your horse as you help groom and tack up, then hop in the saddle and set off for a scenic, 1.5-hour ride. Your guide will ensure that both the pace and route are suitable for your abilities and experience level as you cross lupine meadows and cut through marshy grasslands home to nesting Arctic terns and long-tailed ducks. Continue to a dramatic black-sand beach, where you can trot along the shoreline with far-reaching views over Skjálfandi Bay and the surrounding Kinnarfjoll mountains. End with a relaxed ride back to the farm, where you can help untack your mount and say your goodbyes.

Discover more unique experiences in Northern Iceland and active excursions in Iceland.