WOW-land. That’s what we’re going to call Iceland from here on out. Credit goes to our globe-tölter Lizzie Cullam, who coined this phrase after completing our debut Wilderness Expedition. She’s right – every moment of every day, we were lost for adjectives and could only utter WOW.
Firstly, in terms of horse culture, Iceland is off the richter scale. The Icelandic horse (not pony, even though they don’t stand higher than 14 hands) – is enchanting with his plucky demeanour, wild eyes, free-flowing mane, and not to mention that fifth gait – the tölt. This gait is best described as a four-beat lateral amble and is awesome for explosive acceleration and speed, while being SUPER comfortable for the rider.
Astride these big-hearted horses you’ll explore dramatic, raw and unkept Nordic landscapes of volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and lava fields with a free-running herd of Icelandic horses. Our riding partners in Iceland are the country’s oldest riding tour operator. Established for over forty years, their reputation precedes them.
The Wilderness Expedition is an eight day, seven night itinerary, with seven full days in the saddle. If you prefer untouched, stunning nature over luxury, then this is your tour! In true Icelandic style, you’ll drive a free-running herd of horses across vast grasslands, stony mountains and a moon-like volcanic landscape towards the glacier.
Fast Facts
- Horse Breed:Icelandic horses - the jewel in the crown of this ride!
- Pace:The pace varies on a daily basis but it’s a fast-paced ride. Expect to mostly trot and tölt with the occasional fast-paced canter.
- Weight Limit:A maximum of 100kg / 220lbs (depending on height, physical condition and riding ability).
- Type of tack:English all-purpose saddles.
- Seasons:August.
- Group size:A maximum of 12 guests.
- Time in Saddle:Approximately 6 to 8 hours in the saddle per day (this is also dependent on the weather, which could see you in the saddle for up to 10 hours).
- Riding Ability:Suitable for strong intermediate to advanced riders who are up for an adventure and can handle riding up to 6 to 8 hours each day. You need a good level of all-round fitness as well as riding fitness to wholeheartedly enjoy this ride. The more training you put in beforehand, the more fun you'll have on tour. Not sure what your riding ability is? Watch THIS video to find out.
- Accommodation:Throughout the 8 day itinerary you’ll stay in varying accommodation. On nights 1, 2 and 7, 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.
For the remaining 4 nights guests will be staying in remote, rustic, single-room mountain huts with bunk beds. This is communal living, no privacy, with up to 14 riders in a hut. There is no hot water for showering in these mountain huts. If you would prefer your own privacy (away from possible snorers), you’re more than welcome to opt for your own tent (at no extra charge).
*Sleeping mats and bags are provided at no extra charge. - Ride Length:8 days, 7 nights, with 7 riding days.
- Inclusions:
The price includes all ground transportation throughout the riding tour, private bus transfers to and from the capital of Reykjavík on the first and last day of the tour, and full board during the tour, starting with a light meal for lunch on the first day and ending with breakfast on the final day. Sleeping bags, mats, helmets, rain gear and saddlebags are provided.
- Exclusions:
The price does not include alcoholic beverages, international flights, travel insurance and any additional activities outside the itinerary.
DEPARTURE DATES & RATES
NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 10% deposit - as part of our 10x 10% payment plan!Departing | Finishing | Availability | Total |
---|---|---|---|
August 9, 2024 - Guided! | August 16, 2024 | SOLD OUT! |
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price includes all ground transportation throughout the riding tour, private bus transfers to and from the capital of Reykjavik on the first and last day of the tour, and full board during the tour, starting with a light meal for lunch on the first day and ending with breakfast on the final day. Sleeping bags, mats, helmets, rain gear and saddlebags are provided.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price does not include alcoholic beverages, international flights, travel insurance and any additional activities outside the itinerary.
Accepted payment is by credit or debit card only. There is a 2% surcharge on all card payments. Click HERE to read our recommendations on which cards are best to use to avoid international transaction fees.
WHY IS THE PRICE QUOTED IN EUR?
With our riding destinations, the currency is dictated by our ride partner in that country. Therefore due to fluctuating exchange rates we have to quote in the same currency.
Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All*Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to weather and other influencing factors.

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Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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The difference between the Wilderness Expedition (W.E.) and the Touch of the Highlands Ride (T.O.H.) in a nutshell
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Transfer Information
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More on Riding Ability
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The Horses
What our valued Globetrotters say about the The Wilderness Expedition

Julie York
‘The Icelandic Wilderness Expedition was everything I hoped for and more. The views of the glaciers were impressive. My daughter and I discovered the bliss of washing our faces in an ice cold glacial river and awed at the volcanic terrain that extended as far as the eye could see. Getting a taste of wild Icelandic weather was contrasted with blissfully dipping into a natural hot spring at the end of a long day. Accommodations in the highlands were tight and rustic, yet brimming with hospitality thanks to the effort of our guides and hands. They treated us like friends and family, not just as paying guests, and goodbyes were said with hugs and tears. We were also delighted to gain some new friends among the other guests and are already planning our next riding adventures together, which may very well include a return to Iceland!”

Ryan Butler
‘The Icelandic Wilderness Expedition was the best trip of my life, and I travel abroad at least once a year! There are no words worthy enough for our guides – some of the best humans I have ever known. The level of trust I have in them after such a short time is remarkable. The horses are some of the most impressive I have had to the pleasure to ride, and experiencing so many personalities really made me a better rider. Between the city of Reykjavik, the tour itself, the staff, food, friendship, and of course the horses, this trip will change your life. The only downside is having to come back to reality when it ends!’

Sarah Verschoor
‘The Icelandic Wilderness Expedition is truly an unforgettable, amazing, jaw dropping experience! The staff, horses, the food, the scenery, the accommodation – everything was amazing, and the amount of time and effort put into planning and preparing it really showed. I am so thankful for the whole team, and so grateful to have been able to take part in this incredible journey. The Icelandic horses are so special in their spirit and strength. I was amazed by their confidence and surefootedness across some very difficult terrain, and their tölt was very comfortable. It was truly a joy to ride these small but powerful horses!
I told the staff that I would be back and I intend to keep that promise! I will be dreaming about this ride until my next visit!’

Janice Maurer
‘The Icelandic Wilderness Expedition is one of a kind. I would highly recommend this ride to any adventurous soul. Mind you, this is a herding, camping, roughing-it style trip. No cell phone, no internet, truly off the grid, which I loved. Every day we rode different terrain and different horses. I didn’t have a favorite day, they were all perfect! The Icelandic horses constantly amazed me: strong, patient, surefooted, and they never ran out of energy. Each and every one of the guides and support staff were absolutely wonderful and we had a great group of globetrotters. We all became the best of friends. I will forever have special memories of this holiday.’

Leanne Goodluck
‘The Icelandic horses were all great to ride and handle. The saddle I had was really comfortable, I didn’t have a sore bum at all! I absolutely loved the first afternoon ride when we all tölted for the first time. The delight shown by everyone was great to experience as a group, it was so much fun! If the stunning scenery, the gorgeus, sweet-tempered Icelandic horses, and riding with a herd of fifty horses towards a glacier doesn’t tempt you to join the Wilderness Expedition in Iceland, then riding a horse at a flat out tölt surely will! One of the best riding feelings ever! Well worth the cost.’

Rosie Stroud
‘The highlight of the trip was riding with the herd of 70+ brave horses. Each horse I rode was incredible! We swapped horses up to three times a day and each one looked after me over rough and difficult terrain and had the sweetest nature. I now want an Icelandic horse – I would have bought one if I could get it back home!’

Sharon Rowles
‘The whole trek was a standout experience. I was happy with all the horses I rode. Such surefooted, willing, safe and affectionate wee souls. I loved the experience of all riding and being together. I felt included even before we set foot in the stirrups. Our guides, Nele, Gracina, Martin plus owner guides Hjalti and Magnus were all superb. Always fun, helpful and patient. Iceland is a very expensive destination; however, this ride was above and beyond what I expected, so I feel I had value for money, especially when you consider the high standards of the food, accommodation, tours, flights, horses, riding, etc.
Take the tölt and sign up for a ride in Iceland. Let Globetrotting handle the details. They will not disappoint.’

Kat Spencer
‘Since I’ve come back from Iceland, whenever anyone asks me anything about it, all I can say is ‘amazing’. I find it so hard to put my feelings into words. Every single part of the holiday was incredible. The horses were beautiful little beings with such character, who gave everything they had for you – they taught me to trust again. The landscape is awesome, so enormous it makes you feel very small and insignificant. The people were so friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about their country. I absolutely loved Iceland – amazing.’

Kathy Edgell
‘Everyone in Iceland was friendly, helpful and wonderful. The guides were amazing. They provide remarkable service and experience. Each horse has his/her own personality and I enjoyed changing horses to experience so many. The last day of riding was my favorite. It became green and the rivers and steep declines/inclines were awesome. All the food was amazing. Kate and Laura were great in providing detailed, helpful information!’
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