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Riding tours / South Iceland

Kerlingarfjöll Highland adventure

South Iceland5 daysIntermediate +

Duration
6 days - 5 nights – 5 riding days
Riding skills
Intermediate – Advanced riders
Region
South Iceland
Price from
2.390 EUR

The ride

When we ride

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Along the trail

3 highlights on the route – scroll sideways to follow it.

Geysir Geothermal Area, where the Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes

Known for its powerful two-tiered cascade into a deep canyon.

A significant highlight is the exploration of the Kerlingarfjöll mountain range, renowned for its geothermal activity. Participants can witness steaming hot springs, colorful rhyolite mountains, and even bathe in some of the natural hot springs, providing a unique blend of adventure and relaxation.

Day by day

South to North

  1. DAY1

    Reykjavík – Gullfoss – Fremstaver

    Pick-up at 10:00 from BSÍ bus station in Reykjavík. As we leave the city behind, the rugged beauty of Iceland’s countryside unfolds before us. Our first stop is at two of Iceland’s most renowned natural wonders:

    Geysir Geothermal Area: Step into a bubbling world of hot springs and fumaroles, where the star attraction, Strokkur, erupts every few minutes, sending boiling water up to 30 meters into the air. This area is steeped in history, as it gave its name to all geysers around the world.

    Gullfoss Waterfall: Known as the “Golden Waterfall,” Gullfoss is a dramatic two-tiered cascade plunging into a deep canyon. Stand at the viewing platform and feel the power of the water, often accompanied by a rainbow on sunny days.

    After marveling at these natural wonders, we mount our Icelandic horses and begin our journey. Riding from Gullfoss to Fremstaver, we traverse highland trails, with panoramic views of vast plains and distant mountains. As the day winds down, we arrive at Fremstaver, a peaceful and remote cabin nestled in nature. Here, a hearty dinner awaits, followed by a restful night under the stars. Overnight at Fremstaver.

  2. DAY2

    Fremstaver – Árbúðir

    Today’s ride takes us deeper into the highlands, from Fremstaver to Árbúðir, along trails that showcase the raw, untouched beauty of Iceland. We cross glistening rivers and ride through verdant grasslands, where the only sounds are the rhythmic hoofbeats and the wind whispering through the hills.

    Árbúðir Hut: Located on the banks of the Hvítá river, Árbúðir is a rustic highland cabin offering breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. It’s an ideal spot to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in nature.

    After settling in, we enjoy a warm meal and share stories, laugh and sing. Dinner and overnight at Árbúðir.

  3. DAY3

    Árbúðir – Gíslaskáli

    We continue our adventure, riding from Árbúðir to Gíslaskáli, a journey that takes us across dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. The terrain becomes more rugged as we approach the base of the mountains, offering a sense of awe at the sheer power of nature.

    Gíslaskáli: This mountain hut is a haven of tranquility, surrounded by sweeping views of the highlands. It’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge after a day in the saddle.

    A delicious dinner awaits, followed by a cozy night in the hut. Overnight at Gíslaskáli.

What’s included

  • Bus transfer from Reykjavík to the farm.
  • During the ride full board is provided. Our menu consists of a large breakfast and traditional Icelandic meals (fish or lamb). Vegetarian meals are available if requested when booking. All riders make their own packed lunch from the breakfast table.
  • Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price and are hard to get in the highlands. They can be bought at a reasonable price in the Duty-Free Store at Keflavik Airport upon arrival.
  • Rainwear, water bottle, saddle bag, riding helmet.

Where you stay

Simple mountain cabins in the highland

Fremstaver

Fremstaver is a cozy hut on the south slopes of the mountain Bláfell. The cabin is situated in beautiful surroundings that offer many sight-seeing possibilities. Climbing the mountain Bláfell is a long but rewarding walk. The top offers views wide and far on a good day.

Number of rooms
1
Number of beds
25
Outdoor jacuzzi
no
Number of showers
0
GSM connection
yes
WiFi
no
Made up beds
x
Number of WC
2

Árbúðir Mountain Hut

Arbudir is a mountain cabin right beside the Kjölur route on the banks of the river Svartá. The cabin has sleeping-bag accommodation for 30 overnight guests.

Number of rooms
2
Number of beds
30
Outdoor jacuzzi
No
Number of showers
1
GSM connection
Yes but weak
WiFi
No
Made up beds
No
Number of WC
2

Gíslaskáli

Gíslaskáli is located in a beautiful and unspoiled landscape on the Kjölur tour. Nearby is the source of Svartár river which is a beautiful crystal clear spring water.

Number of rooms
1
Number of beds
40
Outdoor jacuzzi
No
Number of showers
x
GSM connection
Yes
WiFi
No
Made up beds
No

Good to know

Please note

  • Individual travel insurance is not included in the travel price. We recommend that our customers take out appropriate travel insurance before visiting Iceland.
  • Flight to and from Iceland is not included.
  • Please bring your own sleeping bag with you on the tour.
  • Bring bags instead of hardcover cases.
  • Pack light as carrying space is limited.

Here you can book your Flybus ticket to and from Reykjavík. The Flybus departs from Keflavík airport 35-40 minutes after each arrival. Busses are located right outside the terminal building. Book my ticket.

Terms & conditions:

We request a confirmation payment upon booking of minimum 30% of the tour price. When the confirmation payment is received the seat is secure. The remaining balance is due 2 weeks before the tour departs. If you book the tour through the website the full amount is requested.

Children’s under 12 years receive 25% discount on our multi-day tours.

Liability:

We reserves the right to alter routes, itineraries or timetables without prior notice, should the necessity arise. No liability is accepted for loss or expenses due to delays or changes of arrival or departures of flights or other services, injury, sickness, accident, strikes, damage, negligence, weather, wars or other causes outside the control of Íslandshestar. All such losses and expenses are the personal liability of the traveler. The estimated duration of tours as indicated by km or timing can change according to road or weather conditions.

For more information please see also our Frequent Asked Questions and/or contact us at info@islandshestar.is