The Siggi Tour from Reykjavík: 1.5 to 2-Hour Ride

Iceland looks better from horseback. This short ride near Hveragerði takes you across lava fields, through one of Iceland’s rare green forests, and up the slopes of Reykjafjall with an English-speaking guide. I like the free pickup and drop-off, and I like that helmets and waterproof clothing are included. The main drawback is the timing: the experience is described as about two hours, while part of the itinerary lists three hours, so confirm the schedule before planning a tight connection.

This is a friendly choice for mixed riding ability. Experienced riders can enjoy the scenery and Icelandic horses, while beginners receive help and supervision. The 120-kilogram weight limit, weather-dependent operation, and meeting point at Hótel Eldhestar are the details you should check before booking.

Key points about the Reykjafjall ride

• Rare green scenery: Ride through a forest, an unusual sight in much of Iceland, before reaching the open slopes above Hveragerði.
• Hot springs along the route: The path passes through a colorful geothermal area shaped by major changes after the 2008 earthquake.
• Icelandic horses: Your English-speaking guide explains the background and history of this sturdy local breed.
• Beginner-friendly support: Riders with little experience are taught and looked after, while experienced riders can enjoy the trails.
• Practical gear included: Helmets and waterproof clothing help with Iceland’s changeable weather.
• Small enough to feel manageable: The maximum group size is 50, though the actual group may be smaller or larger depending on bookings.

Riding Icelandic horses near Hveragerði

The Siggi Tour takes place at Hótel Eldhestar in South Iceland, a short distance from the town of Hveragerði. This is horse country with a volcanic twist. Instead of viewing the area from a bus or following a walking path, you cover more ground in the saddle and move through several types of countryside in one outing.

I like the route because it gives you more than a basic paddock ride. You head up riding trails, reach the lower slopes of Reykjafjall, pass through forest, and continue toward geothermal ground above town. The scenery changes often enough to keep a short ride interesting.

You should not expect a full-day riding expedition. The advertised ride lasts about two hours, making it easier to fit into a South Iceland itinerary. At the same time, one itinerary description gives the activity a three-hour duration, so the safest plan is to leave extra time around it. That matters if you are connecting this ride with another timed activity.

The experience is led in English, which makes it easier to understand instructions and ask questions about the horses, the area, and Icelandic riding traditions. You are not simply placed on a horse and sent along. The available information points to care for both experienced and inexperienced riders, a useful feature if your group has mixed ability.

Starting at Hótel Eldhestar

Your meeting point is Hótel Eldhestar, at 816 Sveitarfélagið Ölfus, Iceland. The activity ends back at the same point. Pickup is offered, and the tour information describes free pickup and drop-off, which can be especially useful if you are staying in Reykjavík and do not want to arrange separate transport.

The pickup detail has real value. Iceland’s sights are spread out, and a short riding activity can become a much longer project if you have to rent a car or organize a taxi for one stop. Still, you should confirm the pickup arrangements when booking, since the supplied information does not list individual pickup times or every pickup location.

At the stable, you can expect to get ready with the required safety equipment. Helmets and waterproof clothing are included. This reduces the amount of specialist gear you need to pack, although you should still dress for outdoor conditions and wear clothing suitable for riding.

The 120-kilogram weight limit is firm enough to affect booking decisions. Check it before paying, particularly if someone in your group is close to the limit. Service animals are allowed, and most people can participate, but the activity is still conducted on horseback and requires you to follow the guide’s instructions.

Up the trails of Reykjafjall

The ride begins by climbing a hill on established riding trails. This opening section gives you a feel for the horse and the pace of the group while bringing you toward the slopes of Reykjafjall.

Reykjafjall helps frame the route. You are not riding across a flat field with no sense of place. The path climbs above Hveragerði, giving you a view toward the town and the broad southern lowlands. The area sits between the volcano Hengill and the open plains, so the setting combines mountain slopes with wide views.

I like this part for riders who want a little more variety than a slow circle around a stable. The route has elevation and changing ground, but it is still presented as a short, guided ride rather than an advanced mountain expedition. Your guide controls the outing, and beginners are taught and watched over.

You may find that the pace varies according to the group. Experienced riders often want more movement, while first-time riders need time to learn balance, reins, and horse behavior. The strongest praise attached to this experience centers on that mix: confident riders can enjoy themselves, and inexperienced riders receive careful instruction.

That makes the ride a sensible option for a family or friend group with different levels of confidence. It is less suitable if you want a private, fast-paced ride built entirely around advanced riding.

Through one of Iceland’s rare forests

The route continues through a green forest, described as an unusual sight in Iceland. This is one of the ride’s most distinctive details. Many visitors picture Iceland as volcanic rock, open grass, glaciers, and black sand. A forest section changes that picture.

The contrast also improves the ride. You begin with hill trails, move through trees, and later reach open geothermal ground. Each section gives you a different view from the saddle, so the two-hour outing does not feel like one repeated scene.

I would treat the forest as a scenic section rather than a major forest hike. You are passing through on horseback, not stopping for a long walk or a separate nature presentation. The value is in the change of setting and the sense that you are seeing a less expected side of South Iceland.

The forest can also make the ride feel more sheltered than the exposed slopes. Icelandic weather can change quickly, and the route includes waterproof clothing for that reason. The tour requires good weather, so conditions can affect the schedule. If poor weather forces a cancellation, you are offered another date or a full refund.

Hot springs above Hveragerði

After the forest and hill trails, the route reaches a colorful geothermal area above Hveragerði. You pass many hot springs, with the path continuing along the volcanic hills above the town.

Hveragerði is known for its hot springs and is often called the hot spring capital of the world. The geothermal area is not fixed in place like a museum display. It changed dramatically after an earthquake in 2008 and continues to change, which gives the setting a living, active quality.

That geological background adds meaning to the ride. You are not simply looking at steam rising from the ground. You are moving through an area shaped by earthquakes, volcanic forces, and underground heat. Your guide can also provide information about the setting and the Icelandic horse, giving the scenery some useful context.

You should keep your expectations in check. This tour does not list a long stop for bathing in hot springs, and you should not assume you will visit a public thermal pool. The geothermal area is part of the riding route. You see and pass the hot springs from horseback.

The colors and steam can make this the most memorable section, especially if you have already seen several of Iceland’s major waterfalls and coastal sights. It offers a different kind of South Iceland experience, one based on the ground beneath you rather than a large landmark in front of you.

Learning about the Icelandic horse

The horse is not just transportation here. The guide shares the history of Icelandic horses, a useful addition for anyone curious about local culture and rural life.

These horses are sturdy and well suited to Iceland’s conditions. The ride lets you experience the breed in the setting where it is traditionally used, rather than meeting the animals only in a stable yard. Your guide leads the group and helps you understand how to handle your mount.

If you have never ridden, the care given to beginners is important. The strongest praise for the experience focuses on inexperienced riders being taught and looked after properly. That does not mean you need to arrive with no preparation. You should be comfortable following instructions, wearing a helmet, and spending time on horseback.

Experienced riders are not forgotten. The trails and scenery offer enough interest for someone who already knows how to ride, even if this is not a long or highly technical outing. The best match is a group that wants a scenic ride with cultural and natural context, not a competitive or demanding riding session.

What the price includes at $134.15

At $134.15 per person, this is not the cheapest way to spend two hours in Iceland. The price makes more sense when you count what is included: the guided horseback ride, pickup and drop-off, a helmet, waterproof clothing, and instruction for less experienced riders.

Transport can be costly in Iceland, especially when a short activity requires a separate round trip. Free pickup improves the value, particularly for visitors without a rental car. Included outdoor gear is another practical saving, since waterproof riding clothing is not something every visitor carries.

The cost is easier to justify if the horse itself is a main reason for your trip. You are paying for access to riding trails, the Icelandic horse, a route through forest and geothermal country, and a guide who manages the group. If you are mainly seeking hot springs or mountain views, less expensive sightseeing options may offer more time at each location.

The 4.7 rating from 27 reviews and 93 percent recommendation rate suggest a strong level of satisfaction, with special praise for the way the staff handles different riding abilities. Those figures are encouraging, but they do not remove the need to check the duration, pickup details, and weight limit before booking.

Who will enjoy this ride most

I would recommend the Siggi Tour to:

• First-time riders who want instruction and close supervision
• Experienced riders who want a short scenic outing
• Groups with mixed riding ability
• Visitors staying in Reykjavík who value included pickup
• People interested in Icelandic horses and local riding culture
• Anyone who wants forest, volcanic hills, hot springs, and open views in one activity

You may want to choose another activity if you need a private ride, a long expedition, or guaranteed fast riding. The maximum group size is 50, so the experience can potentially feel busy on a full departure. The supplied details do not promise a small private group.

Weather is another deciding factor. The ride requires good conditions, and Iceland is not known for keeping a neat appointment with sunshine. Build flexibility into your schedule, especially if this is one of the main activities of your holiday.

Booking and cancellation details

Confirmation is sent within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. The activity uses a mobile ticket, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

If you cancel less than 24 hours before the scheduled start, you will not receive a refund, and changes during that period are not accepted. Cutoff times follow local Icelandic time.

If poor weather causes the operator to cancel, you are offered a different date or a full refund. That policy is useful for a weather-sensitive outdoor activity, but you should still avoid placing it immediately before an important flight or fixed tour.

FAQ

Where does the Siggi Tour start?

The tour starts at Hótel Eldhestar, 816 Sveitarfélagið Ölfus, Iceland.

Where does the tour end?

The activity ends back at the meeting point at Hótel Eldhestar.

How long does the ride last?

The tour is advertised as approximately two hours. One itinerary description lists three hours, so you should confirm the exact timing and allow extra room in your schedule.

Is pickup available?

Yes. Pickup is offered, and free pickup and drop-off are included.

What equipment is included?

Helmets and waterproof clothing are included.

Is the tour guided in English?

Yes. The ride is led by an English-speaking guide.

What is the weight limit?

The weight limit is 120 kilograms.

Can beginners join?

Yes. Most people can participate, and inexperienced riders are taught and looked after. Experienced riders can also take part.

What happens if bad weather cancels the ride?

If poor weather causes cancellation, you are offered a different date or a full refund. You can also cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Should you book the Siggi Tour?

Book it if you want a manageable horseback ride with real scenery, included transport, and a guide who supports both beginners and experienced riders. The route earns its price through variety: Reykjafjall trails, rare forest, volcanic hills, hot springs, and views toward Hveragerði all fit into one outing.

I would be cautious only if your schedule is tight, your group needs a private experience, or you are close to the 120-kilogram limit. Confirm the ride length and pickup plan before you pay. For most visitors who want to meet Icelandic horses and see the countryside at a slower, more personal pace, this is a strong South Iceland choice.