Petting Zoo Daladýrð
Daladýrð is a family-friendly petting zoo in South Iceland where visitors can meet Icelandic horses, sheep, goats, rabbits, and other farm animals. Set on a working farm near Eyrarbakki, it is a perfect stop for families with young children.
Farm Life for Little Visitors
Daladýrð is the kind of place where a five-year-old can have the best morning of their holiday. Set on a working farm in the lowlands of South Iceland near Eyrarbakki, this small petting zoo lets children get close to the animals that have shaped Icelandic rural life for over a thousand years.
The star attraction is the Icelandic horse — a small, sturdy breed that has been isolated on the island since the Viking settlement. These horses are remarkably friendly, with a gentle temperament that makes them ideal for close encounters. Children can pet them, feed them, and pose for photographs that will end up on every family member's phone.
The Animals
Beyond the horses, the farm keeps a rotating cast of animals that children can interact with. Icelandic sheep — the woolly backbone of the country's rural economy — wander their pens and tolerate being stroked. Goats, always entertaining, compete for attention. Rabbits, chickens, ducks, and pigs round out the collection.
The animals are well cared for and accustomed to small, enthusiastic hands. Staff members are on hand to supervise interactions and answer questions about the animals. It is a genuinely educational experience wrapped in the simple pleasure of petting a friendly animal.
The Farm Setting
Daladýrð is a real working farm, not a theme park. The buildings are traditional, the fields stretch out around you, and the pace is unhurried. On a clear day, you can see the mountains of the interior from the farmyard. The farm café serves coffee, cakes, and light refreshments — a welcome pause for parents while children burn energy in the outdoor play area.
Getting There
The farm is located near Eyrarbakki in South Iceland, about 60 kilometres from Reykjavik. From the capital, drive south on Route 1 toward Selfoss, then follow signs toward Eyrarbakki. The drive takes about 50 minutes. The farm is well signed from the main road. It is easily combined with a Golden Circle trip or a visit to the Selfoss area.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What animals can we see?
- The petting zoo has Icelandic horses, sheep, goats, pigs, rabbits, chickens, ducks, and sometimes calves and kittens. The animals are accustomed to visitors and can be touched and fed. Icelandic horses are the main attraction — they are famously friendly and photogenic.
- Is it suitable for toddlers?
- Yes, Daladýrð is designed with young children in mind. The animals are gentle and used to small visitors. Staff are present to supervise interactions. The farm setting is safe and easy to navigate with pushchairs.
- How much does it cost?
- There is an admission fee per person, with discounts for children. Check the farm's website or social media for current prices and opening hours, as they may vary by season.
- When is it open?
- Daladýrð is typically open during the summer season, from June through August. Hours may vary, so check before visiting. It is generally closed during winter months.
- Can I combine this with other attractions?
- Yes, the farm is well positioned near the Golden Circle route. Kerid crater, Selfoss town, and the village of Eyrarbakki (with its maritime museum) are all nearby. It makes a good stop for families on a Golden Circle day trip.
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