1+ hour Private Horse riding tour from Reykjavík/Mosfellsbær

Horseback riding near Reykjavík with a real Icelandic farm.

This private ride up around Mt. Úlfarsfell is one of those Iceland activities that feels both classic and personal. From the moment you arrive, the guides match you with an Icelandic horse that suits your comfort level, then teach you how to ride the Icelandic way, not just how to sit there and hold on.

I especially like that it is truly private, so you get attention during mounting, dismounting, and learning the basic gaits. And the scenery is close enough to Reykjavik that you can do it even on a short trip, while still getting open countryside views that feel a world away. One possible drawback is that it has real safety and fitness limits, including a 110 kg weight cap, plus you must be able to mount and dismount confidently.

Key Highlights You Will Care About

• Private guide, tailored pace for first-timers and experienced riders
• Mt. Úlfarsfell views with time outdoors on trails and fields
• Icelandic horse riding basics plus time to practice gaits like the tolt
• Photos during the ride so you can focus on the experience
• Light refreshments included after you get back to the stable

Why Mt. Úlfarsfell Makes This Reykjavík Horse Ride Feel Big

If you want the Icelandic horse experience without losing half a day to driving, this is the kind of tour that works. You start in Mosfellsbær, just outside Reykjavík, then head out into the region around Mt. Úlfarsfell. That matters because you get countryside views and wide-open riding time without turning the whole trip into a logistics puzzle.

The ride itself also feels Iceland-specific. Icelandic horses are known for their smooth, sure-footed movement, and guides teach you how to communicate with the horse in a way that fits this country. You are not just paying for a trail, you are learning what makes these horses different and what the tolt is supposed to feel like.

I also like that the tour is designed for different comfort levels. The guide adjusts the total riding time (often around 1 to 1.5 hours) based on skill. So if you are nervous at first, you get the basics early, then your ride grows from there.

One small word of caution: Iceland weather can shift fast. Even with a good forecast, you should dress for cold and wind, because your time outdoors matters here.

Entering the Stable: The Lesson Starts Before You Ride

The tour begins at Icelandic Riding at Akrar 2, 271 Mosfellsbær. You meet your guide at the stable, and because this is private, it is just you and your group with the guide. That makes the first part of the experience calmer. You are not watching other people go and waiting your turn, you are getting set up with real attention.

Before you head out, you prepare the horses for riding. Several reviews mention guides going beyond basics, including grooming and bonding so the horse listens well to your voice. Guides such as Lily, Jonina, Linnea, and Snjoprinsessa are named in past experiences, and the recurring theme is that you are matched thoughtfully, not randomly.

If you are a beginner, you get step-by-step help with mounting and dismounting, plus basic technique for controlling the horse at safe gaits. If you have ridden before, you still get guidance, but the ride can include more variety and speed.

This start at the stable is where you learn the Icelandic difference. It is not just a language thing. It is about how the guide trains and handles the horse so your ride stays smooth and controlled, even on uneven ground.

Practical tip: wear comfortable riding shoes or good sneakers. You will be on stable surfaces and walking around, so footwear with grip matters.

Riding Mt. Úlfarsfell: Gaits, Terrain, and What You Might Feel

Once you mount, you head out into the nature area around Mt. Úlfarsfell. The route can shift a bit depending on rider level and conditions, but you should expect a mix of trail riding and open areas. Some rides include trotting, and for more experienced riders, reviews mention tolt, galloping up hills, and even passing through or near streams.

The tolt is a big selling point, and it is one you actually feel. In plain terms, it is a smooth Icelandic gait that many people find more comfortable than a typical trot. If you are new, the guide helps you understand what to do with your hands and posture so the horse moves evenly.

If you are experienced, you may appreciate the sure-footed confidence of Icelandic horses across varied ground. Reviews specifically call out how steady they feel over terrain changes and different speeds. That is a real benefit because it reduces the stress factor. You can pay attention to the scenery and the ride rhythm instead of worrying about balance every few seconds.

Also, the guide watches you. If you do not follow instructions or if the guide feels a rider is not capable in the moment, the tour might be cancelled without a refund. That sounds harsh, but it is there for safety. So take the safety briefing seriously and be honest about your comfort level.

Photos and Refreshments: How You End the Ride Without Rushing

At several points, guides take photos for you. This is not a setup where you ride, stop, pose, and lose the mood. One of the nice details is that the guide knows when to pause so you can keep your focus on riding and safety.

After the ride, you return to the stable, and you get light refreshments. That may sound small, but it changes how the tour feels. Riding in Iceland can work up a surprising appetite, even in cool weather. Having refreshments right after helps you recover without hunting for food right away.

If you are planning your day, remember the total time from arrival to departure is about 2 hours. The riding itself is often closer to 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on skill. So you get a real experience without the long time commitment that can make other activities feel stressful.

Also note that the tour is offered in English, and it is designed for a range of riders from cautious beginners to seasoned riders.

Timing, Transportation, and Getting to the Meeting Point

You start at Akrar 2 in Mosfellsbær, and the activity ends back at the meeting point. If you are staying in downtown Reykjavík, you have an easy public transit option listed: take bus 15 toward the area. It is nice when you can avoid juggling taxis, especially if weather is shifting.

This is a short, private tour, so timing matters. Iceland tours often run on weather windows, and this one requires good riding conditions. If things go sideways due to weather, you may be offered another date or a full refund.

One more practical angle: the site is described as near public transportation, which is helpful if you are traveling without a car. If you are driving, plan for winter or wet conditions. Even when the tour is only about two hours total, walking and mounting still need decent grip.

Who This Private Horse Tour Is Best For, and Who Should Skip It

This is one of those activities that can be perfect or frustrating depending on fit. Here is the straightforward breakdown.

You will likely love it if:

• You want a private experience instead of a big group.
• You want real help, especially with first-time riding steps like mounting and basic control.
• You specifically want Icelandic horses and want to learn why they are taught differently here.

It is also a smart choice for families with older kids, because the minimum age is 12.

You should think twice or plan carefully if:

• You weigh over 110 kg. The tour notes it is not suitable above that limit.
• You cannot confidently mount and dismount without trouble.
• You do not have at least moderate physical fitness, since you will be on your feet and doing steps on stable grounds.
• You have equipment concerns. The tour notes that riding gear that cannot be washed cannot be taken to Iceland, and it also stresses that it is forbidden by law to bring used horse or equestrian equipment into Iceland.

And a fun but important mindset check: this is not a sit-and-photos ride. You are expected to follow instructions. A guide can cancel the tour without refund if they feel insecure about taking a guest.

Gear and Weather Tips That Keep Your Ride Comfortable

The tour recommends comfortable riding shoes or walking shoes and good sneakers. In my experience, that is exactly the right call for Iceland: you want grip, warm socks, and shoes you do not mind getting a little dusty.

Dress for wind and changing conditions. Even when the day starts clear, Iceland can pull a fast one. Layers are your friend. You should also plan for the cold while you are waiting near the stable and when you are outdoors during the riding segment.

Two gear notes are worth taking seriously because they are Iceland-specific:

• Riding gear that cannot be washed cannot be taken to Iceland.
• It is forbidden by law to bring used horse or equestrian equipment into Iceland.

If you are traveling with extra tack or borrowed gear, this is where you can save yourself headaches. Keep what you bring clean and compliant.

Lastly, service animals are allowed. If that applies to you, plan around the stable area and follow the guide’s direction.

Should You Book This Private Horse Riding Tour Near Reykjavík?

I think you should book this if you want a short, high-value Icelandic experience that still feels hands-on. The private format and the way the guide tailors riding based on your level are the big reasons this one earns such strong satisfaction. Add in tolt riding potential, steady horses, photos taken for you, and included refreshments, and it becomes one of those tours that hits multiple needs at once: fun, learning, and memorable scenery.

Skip it if you do not meet the weight and fitness limits, if you cannot follow safety instructions, or if you are hoping for a casual, no-training experience. This is a guided ride with coaching, not just a ride along a flat track.

My bottom line: if your trip includes Reykjavík and you want a genuine Icelandic horse moment without the long haul, this private ride around Mt. Úlfarsfell is a very solid choice.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding portion?

You can expect about 1 to 1.5 hours of riding time, depending on your riding level. The total time from arrival to departure is around 2 hours.

Is this tour private?

Yes. It is a private tour, meaning only your group participates with your guide.

What does the tour cost?

The price listed is $144.82 per person.

What is the minimum age?

The minimum age is 12 years.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes. The tour is not suitable for those weighting over 110 kg.

What should I wear or bring?

Comfortable riding shoes are recommended, or walking shoes and good sneakers. For Iceland entry rules, be aware that riding gear that cannot be washed cannot be taken to Iceland, and used horse equipment is forbidden by law.

Do I get refreshments?

Yes. Light refreshments are included after your ride.

What if the weather is bad?

The experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. You can also cancel for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.