Horse Trekking: Multi-Day Journeys on Icelandic Horses

Horse Trekking: Multi-Day Journeys on Icelandic Horses

The rhythmic four-beat tölt of an Icelandic horse carries you across landscapes that seem borrowed from another planet. These ancient journeys through Iceland's wilderness represent one of the country's most authentic adventure experiences—a practice that connects modern travellers with Viking-age traditions whilst revealing remote corners of the island impossible to reach by any other means.

The Icelandic Horse Difference

Icelandic horses possess qualities that make them uniquely suited to multi-day wilderness journeys. Standing 130-145cm tall, these compact animals evolved in isolation for over 1,000 years, developing extraordinary sure-footedness across volcanic terrain, river crossings, and steep mountain passes. Their additional gaits—the tölt and flying pace—provide remarkably smooth rides over long distances, reducing rider fatigue during 6-8 hour riding days.

Unlike conventional horses, Icelandic horses retain their thick winter coats well into spring, allowing for comfortable overnight camping in temperatures that would challenge other breeds. Their intelligence and calm temperament prove essential when navigating river fords, crossing lava fields, or encountering sudden weather changes that define Iceland's mountain regions.

Classic Multi-Day Routes

#### The Kjölur Highland Route

This 170km journey follows the ancient Kjölur trail connecting northern and southern Iceland through the uninhabited highlands. The 5-6 day expedition begins in Gullfoss and concludes in Varmahlíð, crossing the Kjalhraun lava field at 700m elevation between the Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers.

Riders encounter the Hveravellir geothermal area, where natural hot springs provide welcome relief after long days in the saddle. The route passes through stark highlands dotted with obsidian peaks, glacial rivers requiring careful fording, and vast expanses where the only sounds are hoofbeats and wind across ancient lava.

Technical demands include navigating unmarked terrain, managing pack horses carrying camping equipment, and crossing multiple glacial rivers including Hvítá's tributaries. Weather windows typically occur between late June and early September, with July offering the most reliable conditions.

#### Landmannalaugar to Eldgjá Circuit

This challenging 4-5 day route combines rhyolite mountain scenery with dramatic volcanic formations. Beginning in Landmannalaugar's rainbow-coloured mountains, the 85km circuit ventures into the Fjallabak Nature Reserve before approaching the Eldgjá volcanic fissure—a 40km-long canyon created during Iceland's largest historical eruption in 934 AD.

The journey traverses obsidian fields, crosses numerous unnamed streams, and climbs to viewing points above Eldgjá's moss-covered walls. Camping occurs in designated areas within the nature reserve, with riders carrying all provisions on pack horses. River crossings prove particularly challenging during this route, requiring experienced guides familiar with safe fording points.

#### Westfjords Coastal Expedition

The remote Westfjords offer 3-4 day coastal routes combining dramatic sea cliffs with abandoned farmsteads and historical sites. One popular 60km route begins in Ísafjörður, following ancient bridle paths along Ísafjarðardjúp fjord to Kaldalón valley beneath Drangajökull glacier.

This expedition reveals abandoned 19th-century settlements, provides opportunities for seal watching along remote beaches, and includes camping on black sand shores where Arctic terns nest in summer months. The route's technical challenges include steep descents along cliff paths and tidal considerations when crossing certain beaches.

Practical Preparations

#### Costs and Booking

Multi-day horse trekking expeditions range from ISK 180,000-350,000 (€1,200-2,300) per person depending on duration, route difficulty, and inclusion levels. Premium operators like Íshestar and Eldhestar provide comprehensive packages including horses, guides, camping equipment, and meals. Budget options through smaller farms may cost ISK 120,000-200,000 (€800-1,330) but require riders to supply personal equipment.

Booking 3-6 months in advance proves essential for popular summer slots. Shoulder seasons in May and September offer reduced rates but require greater weather flexibility.

#### Essential Equipment

Personal riding equipment includes waterproof riding trousers, insulated boots suitable for stirrups, and multiple insulation layers. Icelandic outfitters provide helmets, but experienced riders often prefer familiar equipment. Sleeping bags rated to -5°C prove necessary even in summer, whilst waterproof bivvy bags provide additional protection during highland camping.

#### Physical Requirements

Multi-day expeditions demand moderate to high fitness levels. Daily riding sessions last 5-7 hours with breaks, requiring core strength and basic riding competence. Previous experience with extended trail riding proves beneficial, though accomplished riders adapt quickly to Icelandic horses' unique gaits.

Safety Considerations

Weather represents the primary risk factor during multi-day expeditions. Highland routes particularly face rapid weather deterioration, requiring immediate shelter deployment and potential route modifications. Professional guides carry satellite communication devices and maintain detailed evacuation procedures.

River crossings demand particular caution. Glacial rivers rise rapidly during warm weather or rainfall, transforming safe morning fords into dangerous afternoon torrents. Experienced guides assess conditions continuously and maintain alternative crossing points along established routes.

When to Ride

Multi-day expeditions operate primarily between June and September, with July-August providing optimal conditions. Highland routes require August-September dates due to snow clearance, whilst coastal expeditions extend into late September in favourable years.

Early season riding in June encounters fewer midges but requires greater weather flexibility. September offers dramatic autumn colours and reduced tourist presence but faces increasing weather unpredictability.

These multi-day equestrian journeys through Iceland's wilderness provide unparalleled access to landscapes and experiences unavailable through conventional travel. The ancient partnership between rider and Icelandic horse opens doorways to understanding both the country's dramatic geology and its enduring cultural connections to these remarkable animals.

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