We’re thrilled to see your interest in buying an Icelandic horse.

Whether you’re new to the breed or already know it well, these simple steps will help guide the process.

Step 1 - Define your needs

Icelandic horses are known for their personality and versatility, making it possible to find a horse that truly matches your riding style and goals.

We recommend starting by defining what you are looking for. These questions can help:

• What do you intend to use the horse for? (leisure, sport, breeding, therapy, etc.)
• What is your riding experience and preference?
• What kind of temperament are you looking for? (calm, energetic, or somewhere in between)
• Where should the horse be in its training? (young, ridden, trained in basic gaits, secure in tölt, experienced on a competition track, etc.)
• Are you looking for a 4- or 5-gaited horse? How important is gait quality?
• What is your budget?

Being clear about your priorities helps professionals guide you more effectively.

Step 2 - Contact a breeder or seller

Share your criteria with

breeders or sellers

in the Icelandic horse community. If they have a horse they believe could be a good match, you can typically expect:

• The horse's name and FEIF ID*
• Videos showing the horse in different situations and gaits
• Information about training, temperament and background

When possible, we recommend test riding the horse or having a trusted professional do so on your behalf. Make sure they clearly understand what you are looking for.

Step 3 - Veterinary check and paperwork

Before finalising a purchase, most buyers choose to arrange an independent pre-purchase veterinary examination. At purchase, make sure that:

• The horse's identity is confirmed (microchip reading)
• Ownership is transferred in

  WorldFengur

• Registration and passport are handed over (if applicable)

Step 4 - Bringing your horse home

If the horse is leaving Iceland, an experienced

export company

is essential. They will:

• Advise on destination specific requirements
• Handle documentation and transport logistics in Iceland
• Coordinate timelines, quarantine (if required) and flights

You can then decide whether to collect your horse at the destination airport or use a professional transporter.

If the horse is not leaving Iceland:

• Make sure you understand applicable transport regulations and documentation
• Arrange a professional transporter or transport the horse yourself

Step 5 - Arrival

Once the horse arrives, give it time to adjust. Good preparation includes:

• A calm environment and appropriate turnout
• Gradual introduction to new feed, companions and routines
• A vaccination process (if the horse comes from Iceland) and/or a follow-up check with a local veterinarian, if needed

Buying an Icelandic horse is not just a transaction but the start of a beautiful partnership. Being clear about your expectations, asking questions and working with experienced professionals contributes to horse welfare, rider safety and long-term enjoyment.

Photo: Carolin Giese

* FEIF ID refers to the horse’s unique registration number in WorldFengur.

More about FEIF.