September 3-9, 2025

Discover the perfect blend of adventure and education on this unique Icelandic experience, where each day offers two distinct ways to explore the beauty of the land. Every morning, you’ll have the opportunity to get to know Iceland’s famous horses, choosing either scenic trail rides or riding lessons to learn about the unique qualities of these hardy, sure-footed animals. Ride across Borgarfjörður’s rolling landscapes, feeling the smooth tölt of the Icelandic horse while learning about its history, behavior, and the vital role it plays in Icelandic culture. No previous riding experience is necessary.

Not interested in riding? No problem! Feel free to soak in our hot tub, take nature walks around our 300-acre farm, hike along the Gufuá river, explore our outdoor herds, or obvserve training and lessons. And of course, simply relaxing with a good book in our cozy guesthouse is always an option.

In the afternoons, shift gears and dive into Iceland’s extraordinary geology with guided van tours to some of the most awe-inspiring sites in the west and southwest of the country. From walking the iconic rift valley at Thingvellir National Park, to exploring the youngest lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula Rift Zone and hiking the volcanic landscapes of Snæfellsnes Peninsula, these excursions offer not only breathtaking views but also moderate to strenuous hikes for those eager to explore even further. Your guides, Drs. Amy Clifton and Kirby Young, have extensive experience conducting geological research in Iceland, as well as experience guiding groups of geology students and non-geologists. This trip is perfect for anyone wanting to experience the best of Iceland, combining the joy of riding with the wonders of its dynamic geology.

Contact us at [email protected] to reserve your spot!

All-Inclusive

    • Ground Transportation to from BSI
    • Daily lessons or trail rides
    • Daily excursions to explore the rich geological wonders of Iceland
    • 6 nights and 7 days accommodations in Hestaland’s guesthouse, based on double occupancy
    • Breakfast, lunch, dinner (wine and beer is included)
    • Small group size (max 12 people)
    • High-quality tack (saddle, bridle, helmet, saddlebag)
Price – $3,975 (airfare and travel insurance not included)

Sample Itinerary (subject to change)

Day 1

  • 10:00 Meet at BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik for transfer to Hestaland
  • 12:00 Arrive at Hestaland, lunch and introductions
  • 2:00 Afternoon lesson or trail ride
  • 6:00 Dinner
  • 7:30 Evening lecture introducing the geology of Iceland

Day 2

  • 7:00-9:00 Breakfast buffet
  • 9:00-12:00 Lesson or Trail Ride
  • 12:00 Lunch
  • 1:00 Depart for Thingvellir, Nesjavellir, Hengill, Hromundartindur, Dyradalur, Moberg, Raudholar
  • 7:00 Dinner

Day 3

  • 7:00-9:00 Breakfast buffet
  • 9:00-12:00 Lesson or Trail Ride
  • 12:00 Lunch
  • 1:00 Depart Hestaland, head to Eldborg for hike
  • 3:30 Raudhalshraun and Gerðuberg
  • 6:00 Dinner

Day 4

  • 7:00-9:00 Breakfast buffet
  • 9:00-12:00 Lesson or Trail Ride
  • 12:00 Lunch
  • 1:00 Depart Hestaland for Barnafoss, Baejargil, perhaps Surtshellir
  • 3:30 Deildatungahver/Krauma
  • 6:00 Dinner

Day 5

  • 7:00-9:00 Breakfast buffet
  • 9:00 Depart for full-day excursion to the Reykjanes Peninsula Rift Zone or Snaefelsness Peninsula
  • 6:00 Dinner

Day 6

  • 7:00-9:00 Breakfast buffet
  • 9:00-12:00 Lessons or Trail Rides
  • 12:00 Lunch
  • 1:00 Grabrok and smaller craters, walk to Glanni waterfall / Alt. 3 hour hike up Baula (for experienced hikers only)
  • 6:00 Dinner

Day 7

  • 7:00-9:00 Breakfast buffet
  • 10:30 Depart Hestaland for BSI Bus terminal in Reykjavik, arriving shortly before 12 pm