Icelandic Horse Riding and Whale Watching Cruise from Reykjavík
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The perfect combo for animal lovers! Two great activities packed into a day of fun - one on land and the other at sea! Devote a day to Iceland’s animal life, both at sea and land, on this 8-hour experience from Reykjavik. Head for a stable outside the city and enjoy a 1.5-hour ride on a sturdy Icelandic horse. As you follow an expert guide, cross rugged moors and farmland on established riding trails, and stop to admire the scenery and snap photos on route. Afterward, enjoy a 3-hour whale watching cruise and search for humpback and minke whales, dolphins and porpoises in Faxaflói Bay — just don’t forget your camera!
Available options
Sea Horse Combo
Duration: 8 hours: This combo tour can be anywhere from 8-9 hours from start to finish.<br/>Refreshments: Light lunch is offered at Eldhestar horsefarm. Other refreshments available at Elding whale watching tour for purchase.<br/>Full-day combo tour: Whale Watching at Elding and Horseback Riding at Eldhestar. <br/>Pickup included
What's included
1,5-2 hr. horse riding
Entry to wildlife exhibition
Free WiFi on board boat
3 hr. whale watching
Warm clothing on both tours
Experienced and knowledgable guides
Necessary safety equipment
Detailed itinerary
1
1-1.5 hr. horse riding in the hardened lava fields of Hveragerði, the town of hot springs. See the beautiful landscape while you enjoy a lovely ride on the Icelandic horse!
2
Enjoy a 3 hr. whale watching tour in Iceland's biggest bay. Encounter minke whales, dolphins, porpoises and humpback whales and take in the breathtaking landscape on the way.
What's not included
Gratuities
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.1
8 reviews
5★
4
4★
2
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
3.6
5 reviews
5★
2
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum age is 12 years
Please dress warmly for both activities
In the case of non-sighting tours you will be given a complimentary ticket to use on another boat ride
In the case of cancellation due to bad weather conditions you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund
Please note that to take part in the horse riding element of the tour, travelers must weigh less than 240 pounds (110kg)
This is a full day tour with no meals included. You can purchase light refreshments on board whale watching tour or pack your own lunch.
Meeting point
Meet us in the ELDHESTAR stables located in Hveragerði. Be sure to arrive in good time before departure.
Important notes
Please note that although we offer pickup in the greater Reykjavík area, sometimes the pickup location will NOT BE DIRECTLY IN FRONT OF YOUR HOTEL, but at the NEAREST BUS STOP. Check elding.is/pickup-locations for more information.
About South Iceland
South Iceland is a region of stunning natural beauty, known for its volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. It offers a mix of dramatic landscapes and charming small towns, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Top Attractions
Seljalandsfoss
A stunning waterfall where you can walk behind the cascading water. It's one of the most iconic waterfalls in Iceland.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Skógafoss
One of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, with a massive drop of 60 meters. You can climb the stairs to the top for breathtaking views.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
A famous black sand beach near Vík í Mýrdal with basalt columns, a cave, and powerful waves. It's a unique and dramatic coastal landscape.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
A stunning canyon with a river winding through it, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation. It's a popular spot for hiking and photography.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Katla Ice Cave
A unique ice cave formed within the Katla volcano. Guided tours take you inside the cave to explore its stunning blue ice formations.
Adventure
3-4 hours (including tour)
ISK 15,000 - 20,000
Must-Try Local Dishes
Plokkfiskur
A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.
Main Dish
Can be made vegetarian by substituting fish with vegetables.
Hákarl
Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy with a strong, acquired taste.
Snack
Not suitable for vegetarians or those sensitive to strong flavors.
Skyr
A thick, protein-rich Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.
Dessert
Dairy product, not suitable for those with lactose intolerance unless using a lactose-free version.
Rúgbrauð
Dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.
Bread
Vegetarian, but may contain gluten.
Popular Activities
Glacier hiking
Ice caving
Volcano tours
Hiking
Soaking in hot springs
Visiting beaches
Enjoying scenic drives
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with long daylight hours, mild temperatures, and easy access to all attractions. The weather is most favorable for hiking, exploring waterfalls, and enjoying outdoor activities.
10°C to 15°C
50°F to 59°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Icelandic
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Icelandic Króna (ISK)
Time Zone
GMT+0
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
South Iceland is generally safe, with low crime rates. The main safety concerns relate to the natural environment, including variable weather, icy roads, and powerful waves.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of weather conditions and road closures
- • Stay away from the edges of cliffs and waterfalls
- • Be cautious of powerful waves at black sand beaches
Getting there
By air
- Keflavík International Airport • 120 km from South Iceland
By bus
Reykjavik Bus Terminal (BSÍ)
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are reliable but infrequent. Schedules are limited, especially outside peak season.
Taxis
Available • Apps: No major app-based services
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Vík í Mýrdal
Hvolsvöllur
Selfoss
Day trips
Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands)
120 km from Vík í Mýrdal • Full day
A group of volcanic islands known for their dramatic landscapes, puffins, and the famous Eldfell volcano. Accessible by ferry from Vík í Mýrdal.
Landmannalaugar
200 km from Hvolsvöllur • Full day
A remote and stunning highland area known for its colorful rhyolite mountains, hot springs, and hiking trails. Accessible by 4x4 vehicle or guided tour.
Skaftafell
100 km from Vík í Mýrdal • Half day
A scenic area within Vatnajökull National Park, known for its hiking trails, glaciers, and the famous Svartifoss waterfall.
Festivals
Thjóðhátíð (National Festival) • Late July
Vík Festival of Music and Art • Mid-July
Pro tips
- Plan your itinerary carefully, as distances between attractions can be long and weather can be unpredictable
- Rent a car for flexibility and the ability to explore at your own pace
- Pack layers and waterproof clothing, as the weather can change quickly
- Book accommodations and popular tours in advance, especially during peak season
- Take advantage of free or low-cost activities, such as hiking and visiting waterfalls
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
