Black Sand Beach Tour

An Iconic Ride in South Iceland!

Ride one of our Icelandic horses across rivers and open fields before reaching Reynisfjara, Iceland’s world-famous Black Sand Beach. Although the farm is located near Hvolsvöllur, many guests join as an easy day trip from Reykjavík, arriving early to make the most of the ride. This tour highlights the best of South Iceland’s dramatic coastline and horses well-suited to beach terrain. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of glaciers, mountains, and waterfalls, a panorama that changes with every step of your horse. On clear days, we may even glimpse the Westman Islands offshore or catch sight of the mighty Skógafoss cascading in the distance. The combination of dramatic landscapes and the smooth tölt gait of the Icelandic horse makes this journey both comfortable and thrilling, whether you are a first-time rider or an experienced horse lover. This is more than just a tour, it’s a true South Iceland adventure: authentic, unforgettable, and deeply connected to the land, the horses, and the people who call this place home.

Please note: this tour depends on the water level in the Holtsós river. If the river is too high to cross safely, we will adjust the route to an equally scenic alternative.

This tour is not operated in Hafnarfjörður, where many of our day tours are operated, but in the South part of Iceland, about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Reykjavík/Hafnarfjörður. See location here: Mid-Grund.

Experience the magic of autumn in one of the most iconic landscapes of Iceland. As the birch forests turn brilliant shades of gold, orange, and red, we ride through the breathtaking scenery of Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where history and nature come together. September also offers one of the first opportunities of the season to witness the enchanting Northern Lights dancing across the night sky, making this an unforgettable adventure both on and off horseback. 

On this tour, we do not travel with a free-running herd. Each guest rides their own Icelandic horse, while our experienced guides lead additional horses by hand.

  • DURATION: 3 hours riding tour
  • RIDING SKILLS: for beginners to advanced riders
  • DEPARTURE: daily at 9:00 & 14:00 (other times available upon request)
  • LOCATION: Mid-Grund, 861 Hvolsvöllur
  • NOTE: self-drive only
  • MEET ON LOCATION: 15 min prior to tour start
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING WITH ME ON THE TOUR?
  • Weather-appropriate clothing: Dress in layers to stay warm, depending on the season. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are highly recommended, as Icelandic weather can be unpredictable.
  • Comfortable boots: Closed shoes or boots are best for riding. Avoid sneakers or sandals.
  • Gloves and a thin hat: Especially in cooler months, to keep warm.
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen: The sun can be strong, especially reflecting off black sand and water.
  • Camera or phone: To capture the stunning scenery (securely stored while riding).
  • Positive attitude and sense of adventure!

Maximum weight for a rider is 100kg/220lb.

Riding clothes. Riding gear (riding trousers, jackets, etc.) needs to be washed (40°C) or dry cleaned. Items which can not be washed or dry cleaned (riding boots, riding hats) need to be cleaned and disinfected at least five days prior to arriving in Iceland. The Icelandic Veterinary Authority recommends the broad-spectrum disinfectant Virkon S for disinfection. Used riding gloves, whips, saddles, bridles, chaps and other used leather gear may not be brought into the country.

Kindly note that these precautions are necessary because there are no contagious animal diseases in Iceland. Horses are not vaccinated and are therefore susceptible to infectious agents from abroad. Please help us to protect Iceland’s fragile nature! For further information please take a look at: Import of riding equipment | Matvælastofnun

You can book online on our website or by contacting Ishestar by email daytours@ishestar.is or by phone +354 555 7000

Please note that riding tours at Mið-Grund and Grimsstaðir do not include transfer as they are Meet on location-only tours.

We recommend booking a couple of days in advance just to make sure that we have free spaces on the day you wish to arrive.

Included in all Day Tours:

  • riding helmets
  • rubber boots
  • rainwear or a warm winter overall
  • Live Guide in English
  • Please note that riding tours at Mið-Grund and Grimsstaðir do not include transfer as they are Meet on location-only tours.

Book Now

25.000 kr.

Contact us for more Information about this tour

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