Horse Riding & Hot Springs

Overview

On the horse riding tour by hot springs, you'll have the opportunity to take in a range of landscapes. The ride begins on well-maintained trails that take you up a hill, through a green forest (a rare sight in Iceland), and along the mountain Reykjafjall. You'll pass many hot springs in the impressive and colorful geothermal area above the village of Hveragerði, also known as the "hot spring capital of the world." This region underwent significant expansion following an earthquake in 2008 and is constantly changing. The route also goes through volcanic hills above the village, which boasts a beautiful location between the volcano Hengill and the vast plains of the southern lowlands. You'll have a nice view of the Varmá river (called the "warm river" because geothermal water flows through it) and green valleys with rising steam in the distance. In the winter, we'll stop to warm up with a hot drink and learn more about Icelandic horses before returning to the farm.

Location Pick-up

Daily tours start at 09:00. We offer pick-up service from the BSI central bus station, hotels, guesthouses, and designated bus stops between 7:45 and 8:30 in the morning and between 13:00 and 13:20. Please note that we cannot pick up from private apartments and Airbnb accommodations.

Is the ride difficult

No, we encourage everyone over 7 years of age to join this magnificent journey.

Safety

Everyone is required to wear a helmet.

Eldhestar has strict security measures in place. For safety reasons, you cannot bring backpacks, large cameras, selfie sticks, or other bulky items on the horses. Small waist bags are allowed. Horse riding is a potentially risky activity; you participate at your own risk.

Is the ride season bound

The tour is available all year, but it's a good idea to bring extra clothing like socks, gloves, and a hat on rainy days or during winter day tours if you get wet during the ride.

What to bring

To participate in the horse riding tour, you'll need to wear sturdy shoes, good sneakers or narrow hiking boots, and comfortable pants (riding pants are not required). It's a good idea to bring gloves and a thin hat under the helmet (a "buff" is a good choice). If you want to carry small items like a camera, you should bring a small waist bag (backpacks are not allowed on the horses). On rainy days or during winter day tours, it's a good idea to bring extra clothing like socks, gloves, and a hat in case you get wet during the ride.

Important information

The maximum weight for participants is 120 kg.

All used riding gear, such as boots and saddlebags, must be disinfected before coming to Iceland to prevent the spreading of infectious diseases that could threaten the horses. That typically includes washing riding wear and cleaning helmets, shoes, and safety vests with iodine or another disinfectant.

Used riding gloves and leather items, such as chaps, are not allowed.