Borgarnes: Horseback Riding Tour with Prep Lesson

Wind, horses, and Iceland in 90 minutes. At Hestaland near Borgarnes, you start with a prep lesson in a big indoor arena, then you head out for a scenic ride with a guide. I like that the start feels structured, so you can get your bearings fast before the open air hits.

Second, I like how the tour supports different comfort levels without making it feel like a school field trip. You’ll meet your horse, get comfortable with it, and then ride through countryside scenery with options for a regular group or a more personal private tour. If you want more action, many riders end up trying the Icelandic riding style called tölt during the ride.

One consideration: Iceland weather can be real. If it is windy, you might find the ride less relaxing than you expected, even when the staff and horses are doing everything right.

Key highlights you’ll feel right away

• Indoor prep lesson first, so beginners can practice in a controlled space before going outdoors
• Helmet included, which makes it easy to travel light
• Small group size (up to 10), so your guide can actually watch and help
• Scenic trail riding through countryside and along water views
• Private tour option if you want the pace and attention to match you
• Multiple language options (English, Icelandic, German, Danish)

Getting set up at Hestaland, about 15 minutes from Borgarnes

This horseback experience is based at Hestaland, roughly a 15-minute drive from Borgarnes. That matters because it keeps the start simple. You are not trying to coordinate long transfers right after you arrive in the West Iceland area.

You meet the guide at the stables, and the experience begins with a horse-handling moment. You’ll get to know your horse before you get on, which helps a lot if you are new to riding. It also sets the tone, calm and practical, instead of rushing straight into the saddle.

One more small but important detail: the tour does not include transportation to and from the activity. So plan on getting yourself to Hestaland on your own from wherever you are staying.

Your prep lesson in the indoor arena: where confidence is built

The core value here is the prep lesson in a large indoor arena. Before you ride outside, you get coached in the basics and given time to settle in around the horse.

This is especially helpful in Iceland because the outdoors can be cold, windy, and unpredictable. Starting inside means you can learn how to hold steady, how to communicate with your horse, and what your guide expects from you before you deal with the elements.

Guides are a standout part of the experience. You may be riding with people like Bára or Juna, and from their approach you can expect patient, beginner-friendly instruction. The best part is that the arena session is not just about rules. It’s also a chance to ask questions and notice how the horse responds to you.

The ride itself: guided countryside views with a real sense of wind and space

After the indoor session, you head out for the trail ride on your Icelandic horses. The ride is designed to be scenic and guided, with a guide who keeps an eye on the group the whole time.

A common highlight is how the route brings you past water views, including a ride along a river. Even on days when the sky looks moody, you can still get satisfying light for photos and those wide-open Icelandic feelings.

You should also expect at least one moment to pause for photos. Depending on conditions and the group’s pace, you may stop so you can get pictures without feeling rushed.

If the weather is breezy, you’ll feel it. That wind is part of Iceland. Just be ready for it, because it can make your arms work a bit more and it can feel colder than the forecast suggests.

Tölt and pace: how the guide reads your group

One reason people book Icelandic horse rides is the chance to experience tölt. This is a smooth, four-beat gait that many riders describe as comfortable once you are in rhythm.

The good news: you do not need to be an expert to enjoy that moment. The shorter 1.5-hour ride is suitable for all experience levels, including beginners. Guides can adjust how much time you spend in different gaits based on how the group is doing that day.

If you have more riding experience, you may find the pace gets more lively. Some riders report getting time where they requested or agreed on faster riding moments, again controlled by the guide and the conditions. The takeaway for you: this is not a one-size-fits-all ride, even though it is structured.

Group ride versus private tour: what changes in your experience

You can choose a regular group tour or go private. That choice changes the feel more than you might expect.

A small group, limited to 10 participants, is already a big advantage. It helps your guide keep eyes on everyone, which matters when you are learning. In a private format, you’ll likely get a more customized rhythm and more targeted help, especially if you are nervous or if you want to ride at a particular comfort level.

If you have specific wishes, this is where private shines. Think about things like taking more time at the start to learn how to position yourself, or staying in a gait you enjoy longer. The private option is also helpful if you prefer quieter, more personal guidance.

Duration and value: is 1.5 hours enough in Iceland?

At $109 per person for 1.5 hours, the value comes from what is included, not just the time. You get:

• Prep lesson in a large indoor arena
• Scenic guided trail ride
• A live guide
• A helmet

So you are paying for real instruction, safety basics, and guided access to horses in a setting built for riding. That is a lot more than a casual nature walk.

What is not included is transportation to and from the stables. Also, this particular listed duration does not say that lunch is included. If you compare this to a longer option that includes a meal, the value shifts toward a full day when you want to spend more time outside, but for a short break from sightseeing, 1.5 hours is a smart sweet spot.

My practical advice: if you want an Iceland activity that feels hands-on and memorable without eating your whole day, this fits. If you want lots of time in the saddle for advanced riding, then you’ll likely want the longer day format instead.

Who this short horseback ride suits best (and who should not book)

This is a good option if you want a low-pressure introduction to Icelandic horses.

The short trail ride is suitable for all experience levels, including beginners and people trying horseback riding for the first time. That matches what you want if your main goal is the experience plus the basics, not high-intensity riding.

If you are an intermediate or advanced rider, note that the full-day tour is recommended for intermediate to advanced riders. The shorter ride can still be fun, but it is not positioned as the longer skill-building format.

There are also clear limits:

• Not suitable for children under 6
• Not suitable for people over 243 lbs (110 kg)

What to wear and bring so the ride feels good

Iceland horseback riding is not the time for fashion footwear. Bring comfortable shoes you can walk in and that have grip. Wear warm clothing, because even when the session starts indoors, the outdoor trail time brings you back to the weather.

Comfort matters in the saddle, too. Wear comfortable clothes that let you move your legs and sit without fuss.

You also need to keep it simple: smoking is not allowed.

Small details that make a big difference on the day

A few things can shape how smooth the experience feels.

First, the ride works best when you arrive ready to follow the guide’s lead during the prep session. If you missed your start time, at least one rider described being handled kindly and moved to the next tour. Still, I’d treat that as a helpful exception, not a plan.

Second, expect the guide to do regular check-ins. Some riders describe guides asking if everything feels safe and comfortable throughout the ride. That kind of attention is a big reason people come away happy even when they are new.

Third, horses are animals, and conditions change. One rider even felt a horse might not be 100 percent and wished the staff had checked more thoroughly. You cannot see everything from your saddle, so if you notice anything that looks off, tell the guide right away. A good staff will take it seriously.

Should you book this Borgarnes horseback riding tour?

Book it if you want a practical, guided first-ride experience with a real prep lesson. The small group size, helmet included, and the indoor start make it a smart choice when you are short on time but still want something truly Icelandic.

Skip it or reconsider if you know you struggle with windy weather, or if you are looking for a long, advanced riding day. Also double-check your fit with the age and weight limits.

If you are visiting Borgarnes and thinking about a horseback moment, this one is a strong pick because it balances instruction with scenery in just 1.5 hours. You’ll leave with the kind of memory that sticks, even on a gray Iceland day.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding tour with the prep lesson?

The duration is 1.5 hours, including the prep lesson and the scenic trail ride.

Where do I meet the guide for this experience?

You meet at the stables in Hestaland. The location is about a 15-minute drive from Borgarnes.

Is a helmet included?

Yes. A helmet is included.

Do I need previous horseback riding experience?

For the shorter 1.5-hour trail ride, it is suitable for all experience levels, including beginners and people trying horseback riding for the first time.

Can I choose a private tour instead of a group?

Yes. You can choose between a regular tour and a private tour for a more personalized experience.

What group size is this tour?

It is a small group, limited to 10 participants.

What should I wear and bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and comfortable clothes.

Are there weight or age limits?

Yes. It is not suitable for children under 6 and not suitable for people over 243 lbs (110 kg).

Is lunch included?

Lunch is only included for the 5-hour day tour, not mentioned as included for the 1.5-hour experience.