deep volcanic canyon in Iceland carved by a milky glacial stream

Canyons and Hidden Waterfalls

Discover the hidden beauty of Iceland’s highlands on this unforgettable six-day riding tour. Beginning at Kaldbakur farm in Hruna, the journey takes you deep into the heart of untouched nature.

Dates 2026

  • July: 8 - 13 & 16 - 21 & 24 - 29

Discover the hidden beauty of Iceland’s highlands on this unforgettable six-day riding tour. Beginning at Kaldbakur farm in Hruna, the journey takes you deep into the heart of untouched nature, through ancient lava formations, along sparkling rivers, and past remote waterfalls few have ever seen.

Riders experience the true spirit of Icelandic horsemanship: the bond between horse and rider, the rhythm of the herd moving freely through vast open spaces, and the warm companionship of fellow travelers. Each day offers a new landscape from deep canyons and moss-covered hills to the wild serenity beneath Kerlingarfjöll mountains. 

We discover the hidden gem of South Iceland: Laxárgljúfur, a breathtaking canyon carved by the crystal-clear Stóra-Laxá river. Towering cliffs, secret waterfalls, and untouched wilderness create a dramatic landscape few have seen. Hike along ancient trails, listen to the roar of hidden falls, and experience one of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders – far from the crowds, deep in the heart of the highlands.

At the end of each day, we rest in cozy mountain huts, share stories, and enjoy hearty Icelandic meals prepared with care. This is a tour for those who love adventure, nature, and the pure joy of riding the Icelandic horse in its natural element.

The host of this tour is Guðmundur Hólm and his family and friends, his passion for great food and exceptional horses shines through in his tours.

Attention

  • Individual travel insurance is not included in the travel price. We recommend that our customers take out appropriate travel insurance before visiting Iceland.
  • Flight to and from Iceland is not included.
  • Please bring your own sleeping bag with you on the tour.
  • Bring bags instead of hardcover cases.
  • Pack light as carrying space is limited.

Tour highlights

Laxárgljúfur

Laxárgljúfur canyon – A wild, narrow gorge carved by the Laxá river, offering scenic and secluded riding paths.

deep volcanic canyon in Iceland carved by a milky glacial stream

Ábóti

Ábóti waterfall, a secluded cascade on the Hvítá river, far from any road.

Skillárlandsfoss

Skillandsárfoss waterfall – A hidden gem in the canyon, only reachable on horseback.

Jarlhettur and Langjökull glacier

Views of Jarlhettur peaks and Langjökull glacier — two iconic landmarks of Iceland’s central highlands.

Kerlingagljúfur gorge and waterfall

Explore Kerlingargljúfur canyon and Kerlingarfoss waterfall, another secluded and dramatic natural wonder.

Day 1: Kaldbakur – Helgaskáli
Pick up at BSÍ busstation at 09:00. Kaldbakur is the innermost farm in Hruna, surrounded by stunning columnar basalt formations. We start our journey by riding towards Laxárgljúfur canyon and visit Skillandsárfoss, a tall, elegant waterfall that few ever see, as it’s only accessible on horseback. While the herd waits, we explore the area and enjoy this hidden gem. From there, we ride up through Laxárgljúfur to Helgaskáli, a traditional mountain hut by the Stóra-Laxá river above the canyon. Approx 30km

Day 2: Helgaskáli – Svínárnes
We head west towards the river Hvítá, with the majestic Jarlhettur peaks and Langjökull glacier in view. Svínárnes sits by the Sandá river, at the foot of the mighty Bláfell mountain — separated only by the wide Hvítá river. Approx 34km

Day 3: Svínárnes – Fosslækur
We start the day riding single file westward until we reach Hvítá and the secluded Ábóti waterfall another natural treasure far from any road. After a break, we return to Svínárnes to change horses, then drive the herd up to Fosslækur, a charming turf-roofed mountain hut. Nearby, there’s a small waterfall where we often enjoy a refreshing “shower” after a long day in the saddle. Approx 30km

Day 4: Fosslækur – Leppistungur
We drive the herd east towards the highlands and Kerlingarfjöll mountains, arriving at the Leppistungur hut. From there, we ride into the impressive Kerlingargljúfur canyon to visit Kerlingarfoss — another hidden, remote waterfall surrounded by striking cliffs and a breathtaking gorge. Approx 32km

Day 5: Leppistungur – Helgaskáli
We ride south along Mikluöldu back to Helgaskáli, crossing gravel plains, soft meadows, and smooth riding tracks. This is a fun and varied day in the saddle. In the evening, we celebrate our final night together with a delicious dinner and good company. Approx 38km

Day 6: Helgaskáli – Kaldbakur
We follow a similar route back as on Day 1, giving riders a new perspective of Laxárgljúfur canyon. It’s a beautiful farewell ride, with views of the river as it flows out of the canyon and splits into several streams. Back at Kaldbakur, we say goodbye to our horses before relaxing in the Secret Lagoon on the way back to Reykjavík — the perfect ending to an unforgettable adventure. Approx 25km

– We reserve the right to alter the itinerary if necessary –

  • Bus transfer from Reykjavík to the farm.
  • During the ride full board is provided. Our menu consists of a large breakfast and traditional Icelandic meals (fish or lamb). Vegetarian meals are available if requested when booking. All riders make their own packed lunch from the breakfast table.
  • Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price and are hard to get in the highlands. They can be bought at a reasonable price in the Duty-Free Store at Keflavik Airport upon arrival.
  • Rainwear, water bottle, saddle bag, riding helmet.

Helgaskáli

Helgaskáli is a cosy highland hut located by the river Stóra-Laxá near Geldingafell, along Línuvegur between Tungufellsdalur and Þjórsárdalur. Surrounded by untouched nature, it offers a peaceful retreat for adventurers exploring Iceland’s interior.

Number of rooms: 1
Number of beds: 24
Outdoor jacuzzi: No
Number of showers: 0
GSM connection: Limited
WiFi: No
Made up beds: No

Svínárnes

Svínárnes is a remote highland hut located by the river Svíná beneath Búrfell, in the beautiful Hrunamannaafréttur area. Surrounded by wide open landscapes and peaceful wilderness, it’s a perfect stop for those exploring Iceland’s interior.

Number of rooms: 1 (two connected houses)
Number of beds: 32
Outdoor jacuzzi: No
Number of showers: 0
GSM connection: Yes
WiFi: No
Made up beds: No

Leppistungur Hut

Leppistungur is set in the scenic highlands of the Hrunamannaafréttur area between the rivers Fúlá, Kerlingará and Sandá, south of the Kerlingarfjöll mountains — an ideal spot for riders and nature-lovers exploring Iceland’s wilderness.

Number of rooms: 1
Number of beds: 24 (bunk beds)
Outdoor jacuzzi: No
Number of showers: 0 (no indoor shower facilities)
GSM connection: Yes
WiFi: No
Made up beds: No

Fosslækur is a recently-built mountain hut (opened in 2008) nestled in the Icelandic highlands at about 460 m above sea level. It features running water and indoor toilet facilities, making it a comfortable stop in a remote setting. There is space for up to 20 adults in bunk-style beds, and the hut is equipped with a wood stove, a gas cooker and full kitchen gear—ideal for groups who want to stay off the beaten path but still have basic amenities.

Number of rooms: 1
Number of beds: 20
Outdoor jacuzzi: No
Number of showers: 0 (no indoor showers)
GSM connection: Yes
WiFi: No
Made up beds: No

Here you can book your Flybus ticket to and from Reykjavík. The Flybus departs from Keflavík airport 35-40 minutes after each arrival. Busses are located right outside the terminal building. Book my ticket.

Terms & conditions:
We request a confirmation payment upon booking of minimum 30% of the tour price. When the confirmation payment is received the seat is secure. The remaining balance is due 2 weeks before the tour departs. If you book the tour through the website the full amount is requested.

Children’s under 12 years receive 25% discount on our multi-day tours.

Liability:
We reserves the right to alter routes, itineraries or timetables without prior notice, should the necessity arise. No liability is accepted for loss or expenses due to delays or changes of arrival or departures of flights or other services, injury, sickness, accident, strikes, damage, negligence, weather, wars or other causes outside the control of Íslandshestar. All such losses and expenses are the personal liability of the traveler. The estimated duration of tours as indicated by km or timing can change according to road or weather conditions.

For more information please see also our Frequent Asked Questions and/or contact us at [email protected]

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