Iceland Horse Riding

RIDING ABILITY
Catering primarily to intermediate and experienced riders, our range of riding holidays includes single centre rides, multi-centre treks across the interior and adrenaline fuelled horse round-ups. At least one night is also included in Reykjavik on each tour. Though not luxurious, accommodation is comfortable and appropriate to the nature of horse trekking. Hotels, guesthouses, farmstays and shared mountain cabins all feature. Day treks are also available for beginners.

WHEN THEY OPERATE
Horse riding in Iceland, for obvious reasons, is very popular during the summer months, but not many people realise it can also be very rewarding outside of this season. Although we don’t offer as many trips at this time, a trek in the fresh autumn or spring sunshine, or even when wrapped up against the elements on a snowy winter’s day, can be wonderful. The landscapes around Reykjavik, where these treks take place, look fabulous under a blanket of snow and what better way to explore them than on hoof! Contact our sales team for further information.

THE SPECIALISTS
Offering a high level of personal service at Discover the World, we really do care and your holiday is important to us from the moment you book it to the moment you return. We know Iceland, as Ishestar know Icelandic horses and the comprehensive literature that we supply to you prior to departure ensures that you leave home prepared.

RIDING & ITINERARIES
A herd of free running horses accompany most treks, which is the traditional way of riding in Iceland. This allows horses to be swapped at least once a day. This applies to all tours offered for experienced riders as well as on some intermediate treks.

Riding an Icelandic horse is similar to the English style of riding. The guides will take time initially to explain the correct way to saddle the horse, how to mount it and how and when to ride the different gaits.

Please be aware that the itinerary may be subject to change if road or weather conditions prove unfavourable. 
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ACCOMMODATION & MEALS
Accommodation in Reykjavik is in guesthouses, in rooms with shared facilities, but can be upgraded to 2, 3 or 4 star hotels. Between 2 and 4 clients share a room, but a limited number of single rooms are available at an extra charge. During the ride all accommodation is shared ranging from made up beds to bunks and mattresses with sleeping bags. Indoor WC, warm showers and/or hot pools are available at most locations. Please refer to individual tours for information on accommodation used.

During the ride full board is provided. The menu typically consists of a large breakfast and traditional Icelandic meals of fish or lamb. Vegetarian meals are available if requested in advance. All riders make their own lunch pack from the breakfast table. Stays in Reykjavik are on a breakfast basis only.

MAXIMUM NUMBERS
Most Ishestar tours do not exceed 20 participants though the number is usually between 12 and 20 participants. Each tour operates with a tour leader, as well as several guides responsible for the welfare of the horses. There is also a cook for the longer treks across the highlands.

WEIGHT LIMITS
The weight limit for these tours is 110 kg (250 lbs). 

ADDITIONAL COSTS
Optional sight seeing excursions or activities are offered during some of the rides and can be paid for locally. Alcoholic beverages are not included in the holiday price and can be expensive locally, thus we would recommend purchasing your own supply from the Duty Free Shop at Keflavik Airport upon arrival. When you return to Reykjavik after your ride only breakfast is included.

CLOTHING & KIT
You should be ready for all kinds of weather in Iceland as conditions can change very quickly. You will be provided with a recommended kit list before departure. Ishestar provides saddle bags, rain wear, safety helmet and sleeping bags where necessary.

Iceland operates a strict policy on the import of used riding gear. Riding boots must be disinfected and a certificate brought from their local veterinarian to show that this has been done since customs officials may require proof. Riding trousers, jackets, hats, gloves, etc. must be washed or dry cleaned. It is important to obtain written documentation of this process since validation may be required by airport customs. Saddles, bridles and other leather gear including wax coats may not be brought into the country.

LOOKING AFTER THE HORSES
The riding centre run by Ishestar stables 54 horses, and a further 60 or so participate on the tours and training courses. Each is rested for at least 4 months of the year to ensure they are in the best condition possible.

Wherever possible local horses from the area where the tour is operated are used. Being used to their surrounds, these horses are particularly suited to the individual tours. On average 1,300 horses participate in the longer tours each year.

ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
Ishestar operates an environmental policy to both sustain and develop the natural environment and local economy following the principle points detailed below.
• Riding trails are selected with the full agreement and co-operation of the local people
• Minimising the disturbance by both horse and rider to the sensitive natural environment
• Working closely with the Soil Conservation Service and Nature Conservation Agency and other relevant organisations
• Making use of renewable resources wherever possible, reducing waste and encouraging recycling and reuse
• Encouraging responsibility of conduct towards land and life and sharing information about environmental matters with guests and other clients

AIRPORT TRANSFERS
Transfers between Keflavik and accommodation in Reykjavik are included on certain tours, though they can be arranged on any tour.

INFORMATION PACK
Clients receive a welcome folder upon arrival in Iceland containing information about the tour.

SINGLE TRAVELLERS
Since many of the tours make use of shared accommodation they are ideal for single travellers and often no supplement is required.