Iceland Icelandic Horseplay

Over the course of several weeks, I saw Icelandic horses several times engaged in very aggressive “play”. They’re a unique species described as fearless, probably because they have no natural predators, yet generally gentle around people. In addition to other gaits they have a unique gait called the tölt (ambling gait). While Icelandic horses have been exported all over the world, it is against Icelandic law to import any other breed and once a horse is exported, it is not allowed to return.

You will see a LOT of horses all over Iceland. If you’re interested in seeing them “in action”, have your camera ready. I saw them “sparring” several times but was only able to catch them once. I used a 24-105mm lens but wished that I’d had my 300mm mounted.

I never saw the name of the road but it is just a two minute drive from the Svodufoss parking area and directly across from Rif Beach. There was room to pull off the side of the road at this spot.