Hekla Adventure for World on Horseback

Itinerary for World on Horseback

Dates: 8-13. August 2025

Day 1: Getting started (Reykjavik - Minnivellir - Hellar - Minnivellir)

Late morning pick up in Reykjavik

We drive up to the former farm Minnivellir (1,5 hours) where we settle in. After a short brief, we catch our horses from the field next to the house, get acquainted with the gear and ready for the first ride. This ride takes us through lush fields – fertilized through the ash from the eruptions of the Hekla volcano – to the farm Hellar at Skarðsfjall mountain range. There we take a break and visit the biggest man-made cave in Iceland. We finish our visit with homemade snacks from the farmer and his family that has lived there for centuries before we head back to Minnivellir. We take a different route this time and ride alongside the shores of the mighty river Þjórsá.

Accommodation: Minnivellir (3 double bed rooms, sleeping loft)

Day 2: Towards the volcano

Today we get ready after breakfast for our first day of riding with the herd. Our group will go ahead of the heard leading the way into lush green farmland, riding through woodlands, crossing beautiful streams, and passing by the magnificent Thjofafoss waterfall.  We will wrap up our day at Rjupnavellir, where the horses will rest for the night.

Day 3: The Gateway to Hell

As we get to know our horses, and their gaits, we venture closer to Hekla. The journey starts with a river crossing into  a remote area under the roots of the volcano. After lunch, we part with the herd to tour private farmland at the base of Hekla, joined by the landowner. This ride takes us to hidden spots rich with mystical local tales.

Optional: Visit to the breeding farm and private hot pools at Sumarliðarbaer

Day 4: Following the river

Today we descend from Hekla, enjoying smooth paths through the impressive and ever-changing lava fields reinforcing the 'Gateway to Hell' epithet. Our route takes us down-stream along the river Rangá which we will cross before arriving at Hrólfstaðahellir, where the horses rest for the night. After the ride, we have the option to explore woollen goods hand-made by local women in a craft shop situated on a nearby farm.

Day 5: Winding down

Departing from Hrolfstaðahellir, we journey towards Rettarnes, an ancient sheep roundup site. The ride now takes us up along the Rangá river, alternating between green expanses, rugged lava terrains and ash dunes, until we circle back home to Minni-Vellir. We round our tour up with a dinner and one last night of having fun together in Iceland.

Day 6: Today we pack, bid our horses farewell, and return to Reykjavik.