El Gouna: Desert & Sea Horse Riding With Swimming Optional

Horseback Riding in El Gouna: A Genuine Red Sea and Desert Adventure

If you’re dreaming of riding through Egypt’s stunning landscapes, this tour offers a surprisingly affordable way to do just that. While we didn’t personally saddle up, reviews, itineraries, and photos paint a picture of an experience that combines desert tranquility, seaside fun, and cultural richness.

What makes this tour stand out are its scenic variety, the chance to ride along both desert trails and the Red Sea, and the personal touch from professional guides like Hussain. Plus, the small group setting promises a more intimate, safe atmosphere—perfect for first-timers or seasoned riders alike.

One thing to consider is that some reviews mention that the tour duration can vary, and not all rides might fully match the advertised length. So, if you’re expecting a precise 2-hour ride, it’s worth clarifying with the operator beforehand.

This adventure is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic rides, and cultural experiences, but who also value safety and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for those looking for a unique way to connect with Hurghada’s landscapes without straying far from their resort.

Key Points

• Diverse scenery: Ride through desert plains and along the Red Sea for contrasting views.
• Flexible options: Choose from sunrise, sunset, or longer VIP rides with swimming.
• Authentic experience: Learn grooming, feeding, and washing your horse, guided by professionals.
• Added fun: Stops for swimming in the Red Sea and photo opportunities enhance the trip.
• Small group setting: Ensures personal attention and safety, catering to a range of riding skills.
• Value for money: At about $20, it’s an affordable way to enjoy Hurghada’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Ride Itself: Scenic Trails and Cultural Touches

What sets this tour apart is its ability to blend desert serenity with seaside excitement. You’ll first meet your guide—often Hussain, known for his professionalism and friendly demeanor, according to reviews—and get a safety briefing and horse introduction. Helmets are provided, and you’ll be grouped based on riding experience, so even beginners can feel comfortable.

The routes take you across sandy valleys and desert plains, where the landscape varies with each ride. Some paths are shaded by sparse vegetation, others open up to vast, sun-drenched dunes. When riding along the Red Sea, you’ll find a rare opportunity to swim with your horse, a feature exclusive to the 4-hour VIP tour.

The Different Tour Options and What They Mean for You

• The 2-hour horseback ride with no transfer is perfect if you prefer self-arranged transportation. Many reviews mention the joy of riding along the sea, with one traveler noting, “It was great. Lovely horse and proper terrain and a lovely pop into the sea.”
• The shared transfer option adds convenience, with hotel pickup from major resorts. It’s a good choice if you want to avoid organizing your own transport.
• For the thrill-seekers, the combo tour combining quad biking and horseback riding in the cooler morning hours offers a balanced taste of desert adventure and beach fun.
• The sunset ride with dinner and stargazing is especially popular, creating a romantic and magical atmosphere. As one review puts it, it’s “perfect and so funny,” with guides like Hussain making it memorable.
• The VIP 4-hour ride with swimming is the most deluxe option, blending a longer ride with the rare chance to swim with your horse. It’s a pricier, more exclusive experience that many find worth the extra cost.

What to Expect at the Meeting Point and During the Tour

The meeting process is straightforward—your guide will greet you at the entrance, confirming your name and providing helmets and safety instructions. It’s helpful to arrive in comfortable clothes and shoes, ready for some dusty trails or sandy dunes.

Depending on the time of day, the atmosphere can be quite different: early morning rides are cool and quiet, with a golden sunrise; afternoon rides have a softer, almost introspective mood; sunset rides combine beautiful light with the added magic of dinner and stars.

The ride pace is relaxed, and guides are attentive to comfort and safety. The journey includes photo stops and sometimes brief breaks to enjoy the scenery or take pictures. Reviewers appreciate guides like Hussain for their professionalism and friendliness, making the ride smooth and enjoyable.

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The Swimming and Food Highlights

Only available on the VIP 4-hour tour, the swim stop in the Red Sea is a delightful surprise. You and your horse can take a refreshing dip, which is a rare treat for horseback riders.

The Oriental breakfast is available exclusively on the sunrise ride, adding a cultural touch to the early morning adventure. For sunset rides, a traditional dinner and live performance create a festive, memorable atmosphere—an experience that reviewers say is “perfect and so funny.”

Practicalities and Tips for Travelers

• Transportation: You can opt for shared transfers, private transfers, or self-arrive if you prefer. Travel times vary from around 25 minutes from Makadi Bay to up to an hour from El Gouna.
• What to Bring: Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear if you’re doing the VIP ride, sunscreen, and light clothes suited to warm or windy weather.
• Safety: Helmets are provided and must be worn; safety briefings are thorough. Pregnant women and those with back problems or mobility issues are advised not to participate.
• Price and Value: At $20, the standard ride offers excellent value, especially considering the scenic diversity and cultural insights. Longer VIP options and combo tours cost more but include unique features like swimming and dinner.
• Booking: Keep your plans flexible with a “reserve and pay later” option. Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Many guests highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Hussain, noting that he makes the experience both fun and safe. “The guide was amazing,” one reviewer explains, “horses are well fed, and we had the best time.”

The scenery receives high praise as well, with riders loving the mixture of desert and sea views. One traveler mentions, “The ride was wonderful, especially the stop at the sea,” although some note that the actual riding time can vary slightly from the advertised duration.

Concerns about the length of the ride or the organization seem minimal, but a few reviewers mention feeling rushed or that horses appeared exhausted after galloping. This highlights the importance of communicating your expectations with the guides and understanding that some variability is inevitable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback riding tour is best suited for those seeking an authentic outdoor adventure with scenic variety. It’s ideal for beginners or intermediate riders thanks to the professional guidance and safety measures.

Travelers who love nature, culture, and unique experiences will find the combination of desert trails, seaside swimming, and sunset dinners especially appealing. It’s also a good fit for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a memorable, affordable activity that captures the essence of Hurghada’s landscapes.

Those with limited mobility or pregnant women should look for alternative activities, as horseback riding isn’t suitable for everyone. Keep in mind the potential for variable ride durations and organize your transport accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour groups riders by skill level, and guides provide safety instructions, making it accessible for most.

Can I book without transportation?
Absolutely. You can choose the entry-only ticket and arrive independently at the stables.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and lightweight clothes are recommended. For the VIP ride with swimming, bring swimwear.

Is the ride safe?
Yes, helmets and safety briefings are provided. Guides are professional and attentive to riders’ comfort and safety.

Can I participate if I don’t want to swim?
The swim stop is only included with the 4-hour VIP tour. If you prefer not to swim, opt for the standard 2-hour ride.

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation (if selected), professional guide, safety equipment, the ride itself, and optional breakfast or dinner depending on the schedule.

How long is the typical ride?
The standard ride is about 2 hours, but actual durations can vary slightly due to the tour’s flexibility.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility issues, or weighing over 243 lbs should avoid participation.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This horseback riding tour in El Gouna offers an accessible and authentic way to explore Egypt’s stunning desert and Red Sea scenery. It’s a wonderful choice for those looking to add a touch of adventure and cultural connection to their Hurghada trip—whether you’re riding into the sunset or taking a refreshing dip in the sea.

You can check availability for your dates here: