Every summer, in the rural parts of Iceland, horses are set free to roam and raise their young. Hundreds of horses run together in the wild and enjoy the freedom. When the fall comes, farmers come together to round up, sort the horses, and take them home.
Tradition Highlights
The most spectacular part of this tradition is observed during the last weekend of September. The event, Laufskálarétt, happens in Skagafjörður, Northern Iceland. It is the most popular horse corral in the country, and thousands of guests watch farmers deal with hundreds of horses.
The Sorting and Celebration
Before the sorting starts, horses should be gathered. They are brought into Hofsós and put into the corral. Then, the farmers get into the center and sort the horses one by one. When the owner finds his horse, he has to make the animal come back home and forget about the freedom till the next summer. Sorting usually starts at around 11 am on Saturday. When the work is done, it’s time to celebrate. Visitors can enjoy the horse show, riding, singing, dancing, and having fun with the locals celebrating the return of their wild horses.
Popular Tourists Destination
The horse round-ups, a cherished tradition primarily found in Northern Iceland, attract tourists from around the globe. Many horse-tour providers and farms offer special tours, allowing guests to participate in rounding up the horses. Everyone can immerse themselves in the exhilarating experience of herding a vast herd of young stallions through the breathtaking Icelandic landscapes—a true cowboy adventure that promises unforgettable memories.
