Animal Welfare policy
At Exploring Iceland, the well-being of our animals is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to the highest standards of animal care, ensuring our horses live healthy and happy lives
Our promise
We believe that happy, well treated horses make for the best and most authentic experiences.
Respect
We treat every horse with kindness, patience and respect
Well-being
Our horses physical and mental well-being is our top priority
Natural living
Our horses live as naturally as possible, with plenty of space and companionship
Responsible Tourism
We operate sustainable tours that prioritize horse welfare
Exploring Iceland recognizes the importance of animal welfare to the tourism industry and believes it is an essential part of our commitment to responsible tourism.
We believe that tourism can surely be a means for positive interactions between humans and animals; however, where such interactions are not carefully managed or do not exhibit best practices there is potential to jeopardize animal welfare and our guest´s experience.
Exploring Iceland opposes and bans practices that are illegal and those that have a negative impact on animal protection and welfare.
Exploring Iceland Statement regarding blood mares in Iceland
Exploring Iceland fervently opposes the practise of taking blood from mares for the production of fertility drugs for the pig industry. Members of Exploring Iceland take a unreserved and firm stand with animal welfare. Exploring Iceland demands an immediate stop to the blood mare business in Iceland.
Exploring Iceland Statement regarding Whaling in Iceland
Exploring Iceland fervently opposes Whaling in Iceland as we believe it to be cruel, inhumane and completely unnecessary for the Icelandic economy.
We recognize that by working closely together with our local partners we have the greatest potential to achieve wide-reaching best practices in all matters concerning animal welfare; however, failure to adhere to this code of conduct may be grounds for terminating our relationship, depending on the seriousness of the violation and the particular circumstances.
Whilst we believe that horseback riding, husky tours and whale watching can be an exciting and intrinsic part of experiencing a destination, we also know there is a real need to ensure these experiences are carefully monitored to make sure all animals involved and our guests stay happy and safe.
We are dedicated to raising awareness of responsible and respectful treatment of horses and other animals involved in tourism in Iceland and abroad.
Recently we were chosen by the Finnish University of Lapland to take part in their highly ambitious Animals and Responsible Tourism Project.
How we care for our horses
Spacious Pastures
Our horses have access to large pastures year around to roam and graze.
Quality feed
We provide high-quality hay and clean water for our horses.
Health & care
Regular health check ups, farrier visits and attentive care, ensures our horses stay healthy
Ethical training
We use gentle, positive training methods and never force or rush our horses.
Rest and recovery
Our horses have regular days off and time to rest between our tours.
All our horseback riding tours are planned with horse welfare as a top priority. We limit consecutive departures, ensure proper rest between tours, and alternate long riding days with shorter days or days off.
On longer routes, enough horses are brought along, including spare horses if any become tired or injured. Our partners must provide adequate grazing or hay, clean water, salt, shelter, proper horseshoes, daily hoof checks, and suitable tack to prevent sores. Spurs and illegal bits are not allowed.
Any wounds or illness must be treated promptly and professionally, with veterinary guidance when needed. Main riding horses must be between 7 and 22 years old and in healthy body condition. Younger or older fit horses may accompany the group but are not used as main riding horses.
Guests are encouraged, and staff are expected, to follow these policies and all Icelandic animal welfare regulations. Guests must also follow MAST disinfection rules for riding equipment.
Failure to follow this code may result in ending cooperation with local partners. These guidelines apply to all tours operated by Exploring Iceland, while partner-operated tours are regularly checked for compliance.