Iceland is famous for its volcanoes, geysers, and Northern Lights — but for many visitors, the island’s horses leave the most lasting impression. The Icelandic horse is a breed that has evolved in near-complete isolation for over a thousand years, and encountering them in their natural highland setting is an experience unlike any other.
A Breed Like No Other
The Icelandic horse was brought to the island by Norse settlers in the 9th and 10th centuries. Iceland’s strict import laws have since kept the breed genetically pure — no horses have been imported for over a thousand years. This isolation has produced an animal that is unusually hardy, long-lived, and gentle.
The Five Gaits
Most horse breeds have three natural gaits: walk, trot, and canter. The Icelandic horse has five. The fourth gait, the tölt, is a smooth, four-beat gait that allows riders to travel comfortably at speed across Iceland’s rugged terrain. The fifth gait, the flying pace, can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour and is used in racing.
Encountering Horses in the Wild
Iceland’s horses roam freely in the highlands during summer, gathering in large herds that move across the stark landscape. Driving Iceland’s Ring Road, you’ll frequently spot them grazing near the road, seemingly unbothered by passing vehicles. Many farms offer guided horseback riding tours — an exceptional way to explore Iceland’s interior.
A Cultural Symbol
Horses are woven into the fabric of Icelandic culture and appear throughout Norse mythology and the medieval sagas. Today they’re still used for traditional sheep roundups in autumn, when farmers ride into the highlands to gather their flocks.
Iceland is a destination that rewards every sense. If you’re planning a trip, remember that international travel health coverage is essential — and The Affordable Healthcare Center is here to help you find the right plan.
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