Icelandic Horse Trek - Q&A
How much will it cost?
£230 registration fee + £2,450 minimum sponsorship. The actual costs of the trip are £1,450 so the MS Trust receives £1,000, plus every penny raised over the minimum sponsorship. The sponsorship raised will enable the MS Trust to take positive steps to improve the lives of people living with MS today.
What are the horses like?
You will be riding pure bred native Icelandic horses, which have 5 gaits including the tolt and flying pace. They are even tempered and form part of the Icelandic culture. They are about 14 hh on average, very comfortable to ride and forward going. Your riding details will be used to match you as close as possible with a suitable horse. You will ride 2-3 different horses each day. There is a riding weight limit of 95 kgs.
What is the average age?
There isn't one! If you are over 18 (or over 16 and accompanied by an adult) you are eligible to register for the riding challenge. If you are over 65 or have a pre-existing medical condition you will need to provide a medical certificate from your doctor to confirm that you are fit for the challenge.
How fit will I need to be?
You will be riding an average of 35-45 kms/day for five consecutive days. This is not an endurance ride but you should be riding fit and be comfortable riding for up to six hours/day. At times the pace will be fast. The fitter you are the more you will enjoy this event.
How do I get sponsorship?
There are many different ways of raising money - through your friends and family, organising a fundraising event or asking companies and businesses to support you. Fundraising can seem daunting but remember we are here to help. If you are unsure about anything or thinking about organising an event please contact us and we will help you in any way we can. After registering you will receive a fundraising pack full of information and ideas. When you set your mind to it, it's amazing what you can achieve and many people go on to raise more than they set out to.
Do I need special kit?
You will receive a suggested packing list when you register. You will need to bring comfortable clothes, including waterproofs, suitable for riding and a riding hat which must be worn at all times when riding. NO USED LEATHER RIDING KIT CAN BE TAKEN INTO ICELAND. Long rubber riding boots are essential as you will be doing river crossings. You will also need a sleeping bag.
What is provided?
Scheduled return flights, all accommodation, food, and refreshments throughout the trip. All ground and baggage transfers, horses, a UK doctor and guides. You will need to budget for travel insurance, airport taxes (approx. £75), and your own personal expenses.
What sort of accommodation and food will be provided?
Accommodation will be shared multi bedded rooms at the farmhouse and youth hostel and open plan at the community centre. Food during the event will be wholesome and plentiful. You will make up your own pack lunches at the start of each day.
What sort of insurance do I need?
You will need to supply your own adequate insurance cover, which should include medical evacuation, repatriation and personal liability when riding, and provide proof before the event. Insurance can be purchased through Classic Tours.
What will the terrain be like?
The terrain varies between lava tracks and long sandy beaches. The horses are surefooted and able to cope with all types of terrain. The pace will often be fast. There will be river crossings and the tides will dictate when these are safe to cross so the riding times each day may vary accordingly.
What will the weather be like?
Iceland can have 4 seasons in one day. Temperatures during August range between a pleasant 10-15C during the day and a cool 5-10C at night. You should be prepared for strong sun, wind and rain. Global climate change means that nothing is predictable any more.
Can I extend my stay in Iceland?
Yes. If you want to stay on after the event you can extend the group flight at an extra cost of £40. This is subject to availability.
What health issues do I need to be aware of?
You are required to complete a medical form and return this to us to be reviewed. If you are 65 or over, have a pre-existing medical condition or you have received hospital treatment within 12 months of departure, it is compulsory that your medical form is signed by your doctor confirming that you are fit to undertake the challenge. An English speaking doctor will accompany the trip and be on hand to deal with minor ailments. You will never be more than two hours from the hospital there and also there are local medical facilities close to the route for less serious injuries or illnesses.