Tölt Under Iceland's Midnight Sun
From the moment you swing a leg over an Icelandic horse, you’ll tölt in sync across black volcanic earth, shifting valleys and milky-blue river deltas, always riding alongside a free-running herd that turns the landscape into a living saga. With horse herding in Iceland becoming a rare art, joining this herd beneath the midnight sun is a once-in-a-lifetime privilege that will transform you forever.
Trip Highlights
- That moment when you first experience the extraordinary gaits of the Icelandic horse, especially the famous tölt
- Relaxing in the piping hot natural hot tub at your mountain cottage
- gasping at the ever-changing vistas you’re presented with as you ride deep into the Icelandic highlands
- Descending into the dramatic and steep Merkigil Gorge and taking a quiet moment to appreciate the unique beauty of your pristine surroundings
- Tölting along with a free-running herd of Icelandic horses, your travel companions for this adventure
Details
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Riding levels
Suitable for strong intermediate to advanced riders with good physical fitness. You must have had previous experience riding in English tack. You’ll need to be up for an adventure and able to handle up to 6 hours’ riding a day.
Not sure what your riding ability is? See the definitions below.
- Type of tack
English all-purpose saddles.
- Horse breed
Icelandic horses - the jewel in the crown of this itinerary!
- Accommodation
Accommodation varies between comfortable shared cottages for five nights (2 – 3 bedrooms with shared bathrooms) and one night in a remote mountain hut with simple shared rooms for 2 – 4 guests and warm running water.
- Pace
The pace varies on a daily basis but it’s a fast-paced ride. Expect to mostly trot and tölt with the occasional canter. The pace is dictated by the herd of horses in which you are driving.
- Weight limit
A maximum of 100kg / 220lbs (depending on height, physical condition and riding ability).
It is VERY important that you provide your current weight accurately when booking. If your weight is not accurate, we cannot guarantee that your hosts will have a horse for you to ride.
- Group size
A maximum of 12 guests.
- Minimum age
16 years of age
- Time in Saddle
On average, 4 to 6 hours in the saddle per day (this is also dependent on the weather, which could see you in the saddle for up to 8 hours).
- When to go
July & August
- Languages
Instructions spoken in English.
Guides speak English and Icelandic.
What’s included (and what’s not)
Included
- All ground transportation throughout the riding tour
- Private bus transfers between Reykjavik and Varmahlíð on days 1 and 7
- Full board during the tour, starting with a light meal for lunch on the first day and ending with breakfast on the final day
- All riding activities outlined in the itinerary
- Sleeping bags, mats, helmets, rain gear and saddle bags
Excluded
- International and regional flights
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Additional activities outside the itinerary
Departure dates and prices
Instalment plans available
Lock in your ride with a 10% deposit and pay the rest over time – interest-free in 10 easy payments. Learn more.
Per person
2026
July 26 to August 1, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
August 23 to 29, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
We'll email you — you'll be among the first to hear when new departure dates are released.
The fun bits
Payment details
- A fixed Booking Fee of €93 EUR
- All bookings are charged in the local currency of the ride destination.
- Accepted payment method is by credit or debit card only.
Cancellation policy
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your ride, please let us know as soon as possible. Cancellation fees apply based on how close your departure date is, and deposits are non-refundable. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your booking. Read our full cancellation policy.
International fees
If you're paying in a currency different from your own, your bank may charge a conversion or international transaction fee.
Itinerary
Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to weather (let’s be honest, this is Iceland) and other influencing factors.
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Day Before: Arrival
Non-riding dayWe strongly recommend all globetrotters arrive in Reykjavik the day before the ride begins, so that you have time to recover from jet lag and have a look around this gorgeous city before heading off into the wilderness. It’s also quite the trip into town from the airport (approximately 1hr on the FlyBus) so to arrive the morning of day 1 and then try to meet the transfer service in town is not practical.
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Day 1: Varmahlíð
2 hours in the saddleYou will be picked up in Reykjavik this morning and transferred via private bus to Varmahlíð, where you’ll be met by your guides and taken to the cottages where you’ll spend the night. Here you’ll settle into your rooms and have a light lunch before heading to the stables and meeting the much anticipated mob of Icelandic horses for your FIRST ride on Icelandic terrain {insert squeals of delight!}.
For your debut ride, your guides will take you to the amazing natural paradise of the river delta of Héraðsvötn. The terrain offers the best possibilities to fully experience the gaits of the Icelandic horse, especially the legendary tölt. After an exhilarating ride, you’ll enjoy dinner before taking a relaxing bath in the natural hot tub under a dusky night sky (it doesn’t get dark until 10pm). I think it’ll be at this moment that you’ll pinch yourself just to make sure that all of this isn’t a DREAM.
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Day 2: Mælifellsrétt
4 hours in the saddleToday is the beginning of your EPIC Icelandic adventure. After a hearty, stomach-sticking breakfast you’ll be driven to the stables, saddle the horses and, together with your herd of free-running horses, you’ll start your six day riding adventure. The accompanying herd allows your group to change horses during the day, so your mounts can have a well-deserved rest and run free with their friends.
Today you’ll be riding through the stunning landscape of the river delta towards the pen known as Mælifellsrétt. The herd will get a slight head start with their journey towards the pen, and you’ll meet them there around noon. After lunch, you’ll ride with the herd along a low-traffic road towards the south, deeper into the valley. You’ll end the ride at the farm Gilhagi, where the herd of horses will stay overnight.
You’ll be transferred back to the cottages, where a delicious dinner will already be waiting for you upon arrival. A hot shower, flushing toilets and WiFi will be available. These are the perks of The Touch of the Highlands Ride: if you end up riding in less than ideal weather conditions, you know you’ll soon return to a warm and cosy cottage with a hot shower.
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Day 3: Galtará Hut
6 to 7 hours in the saddleYou’ll be heading out this morning to spend one night in the highlands, so make sure you pack your luggage – a small backpack with just your essentials for two days will suit perfectly, and everything you don’t need can be left at the cottages until your return. After a short drive back to Gilhagi farm, you’ll mount up and ride through the scenic canyon Gilhagadalur and into the highlands. The lush meadows on the verge of the canyon are a welcome treat for the horses.
Your destination is the mountain hut Galtará located near the Blöndulón Reservoire in the wide moor, Eyvindarstaðaheiði {try and pronounce that!}. The horses will also spend their night here – only a few steps away from your hut! Even though it’s remote, the Galtará hut has the added luxury of running hot water and showers – yay! You’ll enjoy a delectable dinner with all your new friends in the mountain hut. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see the Hofsjökull and Langjökull glaciers shimmering in the soft light of the midnight sun.
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Day 4: Svartárdalur Valley
4 to 5 hours in the saddleAfter breakfast at this charming, valley-perched mountain hut, you’ll prepare for an adventurous day. Leaving the peaceful Galtará and the stillness of the highlands behind, you’ll follow wide riding trails that allow for endless tölting. Depending on the weather, you may even be able to pick crowberries, the aromatic wild thymian, or the healthy Iceland moss. As you descend from Eyvindarstaðaheiði further into the Svartárdalur valley, you will see the corral Stafnsrétt, where the sheep are collected every autumn. This corral is your destination today. Your horses will retreat here for the night and you’ll drive back to the cottages.
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Day 5: Kiðaskarð Mountain Pass
5 hours in the saddleAfter being transported back out to Stafnsrétt this morning, you’ll be reunited with the herd and begin the journey towards home. The paths alternate between soft riding trails that are perfect for tölting and more challenging, rugged terrain. You’ll gasp in amazement at the horses’ strength and stamina as they climb uphill on rocky mountainsides. From the mountain pass Kiðaskarð you’ll be able to catch one last glimpse of the faraway highlands and the majestic glaciers – just a glimpse into the stunning natural wonderland this country has on offer.
You’ll continue your descent towards the pen Mælifellrétt, which you might remember from the lunch break on the second day. It’s here that you’ll leave the horses and retire back to your comfortable cottages to wait in anticipation for the last exciting riding day to come.
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Day 6: Glaumbær
3 hours in the saddleIt’s time for a good dose of history, globetrotters, because after breakfast you’re visiting Glaumbær, where you’ll see how Icelanders lived many years ago. Then it’s time to saddle your own horses for the last time. With their heads turned for home, it will be a fast and exciting ride. On the way, you’ll stop for lunch at Stokkhólmi farm. Now you’re in for a real treat: having perfected the art of riding the tölt, with the expert help of skilled instructors and well-trained pacing horses, you’ll get to experience the famous ‘flying pace’!
Finally, you’ll ride back to the stables at Vindheimamelar, were you’ll say a VERY SAD farewell to the trusty Icelandic mounts who have carried you on this incredible journey. Then it’s back to the cottages, where a final feast awaits. For an even better way to finish the ride off in true Icelandic style, you can jump into the stone hot tub while reminiscing about the incredible memories you’ve made in the Icelandic Highlands.
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Day 7: Departure
Non-riding dayAfter breakfast, you’ll say goodbye to your wonderful guides and hosts, who will undoubtedly have become lifelong friends. You’ll then be transferred back to Reykjavik via private bus.
Departing flights home can be anytime after 8pm this evening, or you might like to spend another night in Reykjavik.
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The Horses
The Icelandic horse is a unique breed of smallish horse that came to Iceland with the first settlers from Norway 1,100 years ago. Archeological digs in Europe have revealed that the breed is a descendant of an ancient breed that is now extinct outside of Iceland.
The Icelandic, as it is commonly referred to, is known for being sure-footed and able to navigate rough terrain with ease. It displays two gaits in addition to the typical walk, trot, and canter/gallop commonly displayed by other breeds. The first additional gait is a four-beat lateral ambling gait called the tölt. The tölt is known for its explosive acceleration and speed; it is also comfortable and ground-covering. The breed also performs a pace called skeið, or “flying pace”. Skeið is used in pacing races, and is fast and smooth, with some horses able to reach speeds of up to 50 kilometres per hour. It is not a gait for long-distance travel. The Icelandic horse comes in almost every imaginable colour, and the Icelandic language includes more than 100 names for the various coat colours and patterns.
The Icelandic breed is extremely popular internationally, and for good reason: you need to ride these horses to understand. A sizeable population exists in Europe and North America, but NOTHING beats riding Icelandic horses in their natural habitat, Iceland. In their native country they have few diseases, and as a result Icelandic law prevents horses from being imported, and exported animals are not allowed to return. In Iceland, the breed continues to be used for farm work in addition to showing, racing and recreational riding.
Transfer information
We recommend guests arrive in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, one to two days prior to the start of your ride, so that you have time to recover from jet lag and have a look around this gorgeous city before heading off into the wilderness.
Private return bus transfers between Reykjavik and Varmahlíð (where the ride is located) are included in the ride price.
You’ll be picked up from your hotel accommodation between 9-10am on day 1 of your ride.
You’ll arrive in Varmahlíð around 2pm where you’ll be met by your Icelandic guides and enjoy a light lunch before heading to the riding stable, which is located 8km outside of Varmahlíð.
On day 7, you’ll be transported back to your Reykjavik accommodation, arriving between 2-4pm. Should you wish to begin your return journey home this day, you’ll be dropped off at the Flybus Airport bus stop where you’ll be able to make your own way to the airport. Please don’t book departing flights home before 8pm this evening.
Please note
If you choose to stay in Reykjavik city centre, a designated meeting location will be advised via email approximately 1-week prior to departure, because buses are no longer allowed to drive in the centre of Reykjavik.
Accommodation
On 5 of the 6 nights, you’ll stay in comfortable cottages made up of 2 to 3 bedrooms, each with a shared bathroom. Although you may share a bathroom with just 1 other guest, please be prepared to share with up to 5 other guests. Assignment of rooms is at the hosts’ discretion, although special requests will be considered.
On the remaining night you’ll stay in a remote, rustic mountain hut with 2 to 4 guests per room. There is warm running water for showering in this mountain hut. #winning
Food
Meals are a highlight of this tour, with a generous breakfast buffet each morning, packed lunches prepared at breakfast and carried in your saddlebag, and hearty evening dinners that leave you well-fuelled for the next day. Water, tea, coffee, juice and soft drinks are always available, and a simple beer-and-wine bar operates on a tally system payable in cash at the end of the ride. If you prefer spirits, you’ll need to bring your own — alcohol in Iceland is very expensive, so it’s best to buy it at Duty Free on arrival.
Reviews
Lisa S
Jane B
Barbara V
Kimberly B
Loretta B
Linda M
Richard S
Stéphanie J
Frances L
Sharon R
Patience S
Kate T
Jackie M
Thea E
Lindsey B
Kathy D
16 reviews
Lisa S
‘This was my second trip with Globetrotting, and it was amazing! Being more of an adventure, with more saddle time and more unpredictable weather, etc., I wasn’t really sure what to expect, but it was incredible! The team was so prepared for anything; they made sure we were as comfortable and safe as possible. The Icelandic horses are just so plucky, hard-working, and even-tempered, and well-trained by the team that clearly cares deeply about them. I highly recommend this adventure!’
Jane B
‘This trip was a bucket list item for me, and it surpassed my wildest dreams! From the knowledgeable and welcoming staff, the delicious food, beautiful scenery and the fabulous, friendly and fun personalities of the amazing Icelandic horses. It was a privilege to share the culture and ride these horses. I can’t wait to go again.’
Barbara V
‘A trip of a lifetime! Magnificent terrain and skylines, horses with incredible stamina and heart, cosy cabins, and delicious home-cooked meals nightly. Few places can rival the spectacular open landscapes and views of Iceland!’
Kimberly B
‘My husband and I had the most incredible time on this trip. We fell in love with the people of Iceland, the Icelandic horses, and the beautiful scenery. The cottages we stayed at were cozy and clean. It felt like home. Our guides and staff were exceptional! They were a joy to be with and were very informative. They were kind and caring and took the best care of us. The tour was magical. We would love to come back in a few years and do it all over again!’
Loretta B
‘This ride was years in the waiting but so worth it. Nothing to fault with this trip. Even the weather was pretty good in Iceland’s terms! The horses are everything you could hope for. You will definitely end up with a favourite even though they are all amazing. Strong, willing, friendly, curious, and gorgeous. And you will get to tolt A LOT!! To finish with the ultimate gait – the flying pace is exhilarating. The crew are awesome and you will want for nothing. Go, you won’t regret it.’
Linda M
‘The Touch of the Highlands was an incredible experience! The robust horses took us through magical landscapes. The beautiful and clear weather allowed us to fully enjoy the scenery. I felt safe the whole time, and the guides and staff were supportive. The food was beyond what I expected, and the group of participants was sweet, nice, and fun. A big heartfelt thank you to everyone for a memorable trip.’
Richard S
‘My wife and I absolutely loved our trip to Iceland to ride their incredible horses! There is nothing quite like this adventure, where riders can drive a herd of 70+ horses through the rugged wilderness of Iceland, through canyons, across rivers, and up mountain trails. And nothing compares to the smooth and fast-paced tolt that allowed us to cover a lot of ground throughout the day.’
Stéphanie J
‘Wow, definitely the best way to discover Iceland! The Touch of the Highlands ride with Globetrotting allowed my daughter and I to fully connect with the incredible nature and warm, welcoming people of this stunning country. We fell in love with the magnificent Icelandic horses – they are truly incredible! The transfers, accommodation, food, and tack were all excellent, and the guides provided such kind, knowledgeable, and hospitable service. Our favorite experiences were the days exploring the highlands – the landscapes were breathtaking.’
Frances L
‘The Touch of the Highlands ride was absolutely incredible! The horses were amazing, our hosts and guides top-notch, and the scenery was fascinating and beautiful, particularly when the sun came out! We enjoyed long, fast tolts up and down rocky mountain passes and across wide meadows and streams, all the while pushing or leading a herd of 64 free Icelandic horses – that was really an unforgettable experience. We finished the week trying our luck at the famous flying pace, which was just the cherry on top of a week of amazing riding. We couldn’t recommend this trip more highly and would love to do it again!’
Sharon R
‘The Touch of the Highlands Ride was an exceptional experience. The cabins were lovely – clean, warm and cozy, set in a beautiful, bucolic location with amazing views. The food was outstanding, with every meal delicious and beautifully presented. The chef and his wife were warm and friendly, and their attention to detail and kindness were highlights of the trip. The standard of tack used on the ride was excellent, and the quality of the horses was superb. I loved every horse I rode, with Blakkur being a particular favorite for his incredible tölt. The guides and support staff were absolutely amazing. They were true horse people whose love and respect for the horses was evident. They kept us safe and entertained throughout, whether we were riding in the rain or singing Icelandic folk songs at dinner. Their kindness, hospitality and smiles made lasting memories. This was a soul-filling experience that has truly enriched my life’.
Patience S
‘The host and group leaders were stellar, as were the riding companions. The horses were superb, sturdy, and curious. It was a unique opportunity for me to watch the herd interactions and antics! The food and arrangements were delightful; a vegan rider’s and my diabetic diets were graciously attended to—and I managed to indulge! It was fun to ride so many different horses as we changed at each lunch stop. The last day’s flying pace ride was roundly celebrated with local Icelandic food and drink!’
Kate T
‘I’m not sure if I can adequately convey how amazing, wonderful, spectacular, and life-changing this ride was! From the moment I was picked up in Reykjavik, every moment was perfection! The food was wonderful, the guides and staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, the scenery was jaw-dropping, and the horses! My god, I will dream about those horses for years to come. I know it seems like hyperbole, but every day was more amazing than the next. I loved riding up into the highlands through fog and across what seemed like a lunar landscape, as much as I enjoyed riding through a valley next to a bubbling stream, looking up at cliffs that seemed to be hiding dragons in their depths. And the final day, riding across the river delta, was like something out of a dream. I can’t wait for my next Globetrotting adventure, and my next trip back to Iceland!’
Jackie M
‘The Icelandic horses are so fun. I loved every minute of riding them. They are willing, agile and very well taken care of, and the tölt is amazing to ride. The guides were excellent. Riding with the herd was a really cool experience and Iceland is a very striking country to ride in. I’d highly recommend this trip!’
Thea E
‘As someone who grew up riding but now doesn’t have much access to it, I was nervous before this ride – I honestly didn’t know what to expect. But it turned out to be one of the coolest things I have ever done in my life. The Icelandic horse is such a unique and wonderful breed. The guides were amazing, the views were outstanding, and the food far exceeded our expectations. It was really cool to see the different landscapes of Iceland while enjoying the serenity of riding horses. I have a super stressful job and this ride helped me calm down and get back into balance. I would highly recommend it to everyone!’
Lindsey B
‘I was nervous about traveling solo to Iceland at first, but I am so glad I decided to take the plunge. The scenery is take-your-breath-away spectacular. All of our hosts and guides were so friendly and amazing. We spent more than a few nights entertaining one another with our favorite songs. The real draw, however, was the horses. I have dreamed of riding these fabulous horses since I was a little girl, and the reality blew away my expectations. It was truly an experience where you have to pinch yourself to make sure it’s real. They were the friendliest, most curious herd I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with. Riding the tölt was a personal dream come true. It was like gliding around on a magic carpet! Traveling with and interacting with the herd of 70 horses made me remember why I fell in love with horses and riding in the first place. It was truly an amazing ride.’
Kathy D
‘Absolutely the best trip of my lifetime (I am 58). The staff were wonderful and cheerful. Nele was exceptional – always happy and positive. She made sure you were comfortable and happy with your horse. All the horses were amazing. The accommodation was great – a beautiful location, very clean and neat, and all amenities available. It was just a wonderful time. We actually got to herd some of the horses – it was very exciting!’
What's my riding level?
Not sure what your riding level is? Watch our videos to see all our levels.
Beginner
Reasonably confident riding a horse at a walk, a rising trot, and learning to canter.
Intermediate
Confident and in control riding at all paces outside an arena, but not riding regularly. Comfortable and competent using aids {the language of your leg, seat and hands} to communicate with your horse.
Strong Intermediate
An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly outside of an arena and is fit enough to ride for at least six hours per day. Strong intermediate riders are comfortable and competent in all three gaits; able to post or sit to the trot; have an independent seat while cantering (don’t hold onto the saddle); and can pick up the correct canter lead. They can also navigate more complex terrain, including asking a horse to sidestep and jump over a small obstacle.
Advanced
A frequent rider who is very fit, comfortable in the saddle for at least six hours per day, and has an independent seat and soft hands. Advanced riders are confident on a forward-moving horse at all paces over rough and variable ground on open terrain. They can ride over small jumps and know the techniques used to collect a horse
Not sure? Contact our team to help you figure out your riding ability.
Stories from the saddle
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