 | The beautiful Icelandic goat, also commonly known as the “settlement goat” is an ancient domestic breed believed to be of Norwegian origin. Most likely it arrived in Iceland with the first settlers from the Scandinavian countries over 1100 years ago. The Icelandic goat was on the verge of extinction during the late 19th century, but its population recovered recently mainly thanks to a few dedicated goat lovers such as Jóhanna Bergmann Þorvaldsdóttir, a devoted goat farmer in West Iceland. |
Despite enormous efforts there are less than 1000 goats in Iceland today, which make the breed very vulnerable. The Icelandic goat is the only farm animal sponsored by the Icelandic government for the sole purpose of ensuring its survival.
Icelandic goats come in many colors and they have a very playful, curious and sometimes even boisterous and mischievous character. Whereas the Icelandic sheep is rather shy of humans, the Icelandic goat on the other hand is very open to making contacts with humans. Under its coarse, long guard hair, the Icelandic goat has a finer and softer coat of high quality “cashmere” fiber. In the old days goats were mainly used for milk and meat, today the Icelandic goats are kept mainly as pets and their economic potential as a farm animal remains to be explored.
For the first time in Iceland we now offer a guided walk with these playful animals in beautiful landscape as a part of a self - drive tour around the natural wonders of the Golden Circle. Pick up your car in the morning in Reykjavík and explore Nationalpark Þingvellir, Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir hot spring individually. In the afternoon join your host at a hobby farm to meet the friendly Icelandic farm animals (dogs, cats, horses, rabbits and goats) and go for a guided approx. one- hour goat walking tour through beautiful landscape with views of glaciers and Mt. Hekla. End the walk on top of the grass roof of the farm house with a cup of coffee and some Icelandic sweet deli! During the walk your host will tell you everything you need to know about the animals, the charms of Icelandic farm life and the geology and history of the area.
Great for families but please note due to the nature of the terrain we recommend this tour only for children aged 8 and above.
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