Icelandic Horse Riding & Whale Watching Day
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Description
Begin in the countryside with a relaxed 1.5–2 hour ride on an Icelandic horse selected to suit your experience. Beginners and confident riders can enjoy the outing together, with the guide introducing the breed’s friendly nature and famously smooth tölt.
A light lunch adds an inviting pause before transport continues to Reykjavik’s Old Harbour for a whale watching safari across Faxaflói Bay. The shift from green countryside to open ocean makes the experience wonderfully diverse.
Pickup, riding equipment, lunch and the wildlife cruise are arranged as one convenient full-day experience.
Itinerary
Reykjavík pickup
From the city into the countryside
Begin with the confirmed morning collection and travel through South Iceland towards the riding centre at Vellir, where open fields and distant mountains create a peaceful setting for meeting the horses. There is time to enjoy the atmosphere, hear the stories behind the experience and capture photographs before continuing.
Vellir riding centre
Meet the Icelandic horse
Receive a friendly introduction, helmet and weather gear before being matched with a horse suited to your experience. The distinctive Icelandic breed is celebrated for sure-footed movement and an engaging character. The changing light, open landscape and expert guidance give this part of the day a memorable Icelandic character.
Countryside horse ride
Around 1.5–2 hours in the saddle
Follow the guide through scenic rural surroundings at a comfortable pace. Beginners and experienced riders may ride together, with opportunities to experience the smooth tölt when the route and group allow. There is time to enjoy the atmosphere, hear the stories behind the experience and capture photographs before continuing.
Light lunch
A welcoming break after riding
Return from the trail and enjoy an included light lunch at the country hotel. It is a relaxed moment to warm up, share impressions and prepare for the afternoon by the sea. There is time to enjoy the atmosphere, hear the stories behind the experience and capture photographs before continuing.
Reykjavík Old Harbour
Whale watching in Faxaflói Bay
Continue to the waterfront and board the whale safari, sailing beyond Reykjavik in search of whales, dolphins, porpoises and seabirds beneath a wide ring of coastal mountains. There is time to enjoy the atmosphere, hear the stories behind the experience and capture photographs before continuing.
What is included
- Pickup and transport according to the booking
- Guided Icelandic horse ride
- Riding helmet and rain gear or winter overalls
- Light lunch
- Guided whale watching safari
What do I need to bring
- Warm layered clothing
- Waterproof and windproof outerwear
- Flat, non-slip footwear
- Hat and gloves
- Camera or phone
Good to know
Pick-up: Use the exact pickup point and time shown on your voucher. Self-drive guests meet at the riding centre in Vellir.
- Reykjavik pickup is normally around 08:00; use the exact point and time shown on your voucher.
- Guests arriving independently should be at the riding centre by 09:00.
- Share riding experience and dietary requirements during booking.
Highlights
- Friendly Icelandic horses
- Smooth tölt and countryside scenery
- Included light lunch
- Whale watching in Faxaflói Bay
- Two iconic Icelandic animals in one day
Icelandic Horse Riding & Whale Watching Day – Frequently Asked Questions
The waters around Faxaflói Bay can host whales, dolphins, porpoises and seabirds. Every departure is different, making each genuine wildlife encounter feel especially rewarding.