From Hurghada: Makadi Bay Horse Riding Tour

Introduction

Our review focuses on the popular Makadi Bay Horse Riding Tour in Hurghada—an experience praised for its stunning scenery, friendly guides, and good value. We love that this tour offers a genuine way to enjoy Egypt’s desert landscapes and coastline while accommodating all riding levels.

Three things that stand out: the diverse routes crossing desert and sea, the professional guidance, and the option to customize your experience with add-ons like dinner or swimming. A possible consideration is that the travel time from some resorts, like El Gouna or Soma Bay, can be up to an hour, so plan accordingly.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, scenic adventure that combines the thrill of horseback riding with cultural touches and relaxing views. Whether you’re a beginner, a thrill-seeker, or simply want a different way to see Hurghada, this experience offers a lot for a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible options: From short rides to full-day adventures, with or without transfers.
• Scenic routes: Cross deserts, plains, and coastline, with photo stops along the way.
• Professional guides: Safety, insights into landscape and traditions, catering to all riding levels.
• Additional experiences: Dinner, live shows, and swim stops available for a more immersive day.
• Value for money: Starting at just $20, with options to upgrade for extended or VIP experiences.
• Authentic environment: Small groups and personalized attention ensure a relaxed, genuine experience.

Overview of the Horse Riding Experience

The Makadi Bay Horse Riding Tour stands out thanks to its variety of options and scenic routes. Whether you want a quick two-hour ride or a luxurious four-hour VIP experience with a swim in the Red Sea, there’s something to match your mood and schedule.

The tour begins with a shared pickup from your hotel—which can be a highlight or a drawback depending on your resort location. From Makadi Bay or Sahl Hasheesh, the drive takes about 25-30 minutes, making it manageable, but if you’re staying further away, like in El Gouna or Soma Bay, it can stretch to around 45 minutes or an hour. For those prioritizing comfort, private transfers are available at an extra cost.

Once at the riding base, there’s a brief 15-minute rest period, giving you time to settle in before the fun begins. The professional guides, who organize groups based on skill level, put everyone at ease. They’re known for their friendliness and knowledge, sharing insights into the landscape, local traditions, and even offering tips on riding techniques.

The horses are well-cared-for, calm, and suitable for all levels—from total beginners to more experienced riders. Helmets and safety equipment are provided and must be worn, ensuring a safe ride at all times.

Route and Scenery Highlights

Desert and Coastal Trails

Depending on your chosen options, your route will cross sand valleys, open plains, or the coastline. Morning rides tend to be cooler, with the desert dawn offering a gentle glow and fresh air—reviewers like Dean mention that “everything is perfect” during the sunrise. Afternoon rides are softer, with the sun warming the landscape, while sunset rides feature a stunning end-of-day glow.

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Photo and Rest Stops

Throughout the ride, there are scheduled stops for photos—an essential part of any trip. As one reviewer, Gabriella, said, “The tour guide took so many perfect photos and videos,” which guarantees you’ll leave with memorable images. Longer routes sometimes include a swim stop, where you can cool off in the Red Sea with your horse—a feature praised by those opting for the VIP 4-hour experience.

Special Moments

Riders often highlight the peacefulness of the environment and the chance to connect with nature. The guides’ local knowledge enriches the experience, sharing stories about the landscape, flora, and local traditions. This makes the ride more than just a sightseeing tour—it’s a cultural exchange.

The Different Tour Options

Basic 2-Hour Horse Ride (Entry Only)

Ideal for independent travelers, this option allows you to book just the ride without transfers. It’s perfect if you’re already nearby or prefer to arrange your own transportation. You’ll still benefit from a professional guide and safety equipment.

2-Hour Ride with Shared Transfer

Most popular, this package includes hotel pickup and drop-off from major resorts. It offers a straightforward way to enjoy the scenery without worrying about logistics, making it a stress-free option. Guests have praised the guides’ attentiveness; Claudia mentioned that Mohamed (Didi) “looked after us making sure we had the perfect experience and took lots of videos and photos.”

Combo Tour: 1 Hour Quad + 1 Hour Horse Riding

For those wanting a bit of everything, this early morning adventure combines quad biking through the desert with a horseback ride. It’s a good way to maximize fun and see different landscapes in one morning.

Sunset Ride with Dinner and Show

Starting around sunset, this option turns the ride into a full evening experience. After riding, you’ll enjoy an Oriental dinner, a live performance, and some stargazing. Reviewers like Terence loved this, mentioning how the guides made them feel at ease, even as they navigated busy desert roads and sandy trails.

VIP 4-Hour Experience with Swim Stop

For a truly indulgent day, this private tour extends to four hours, including a chance to swim with your horse in the Red Sea. This option is praised for its exclusivity, with some reviewers noting they appreciated the relaxed pace and personalized attention. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a luxurious escape.

What Makes This Tour Special

Professional and Friendly Guides

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and attentiveness. Pal shared that “the guides made us feel at ease,” and Carol praised Mohamed for “looking after us and taking lots of videos.” This personal touch, combined with clear safety instructions, ensures beginners feel comfortable while seasoned riders aren’t bored.

Stunning Views and Authentic Atmosphere

The combination of desert sands, plains, and the coastline provides a varied landscape. Sunrise and sunset rides especially offer breathtaking lighting that adds to the magic. Saskia commented that she appreciated the “great support and awesome horses,” which made her second booking a no-brainer.

Good Value for Money

At just $20 per person for the basic ride, the tour delivers significant value. The options for longer or VIP experiences, often including meals, shows, or swim stops, are reasonably priced considering the quality and uniqueness of the experience.

Flexible and Customizable

The tour’s ability to tailor the experience—adding meals, transfers, or extending the ride—means it can suit different preferences and budgets. The availability of “entry-only” tickets also benefits independent travelers.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation & Timing: The pickup service is a highlight for many, but travelers should be aware that travel times can vary. Confirm your pickup time the day before, especially if staying outside Hurghada. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours for standard rides, with longer options available.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothes are advised. Windy days may require long clothing to shield from sand. Helmets are provided, but bringing a hat or scarf can offer extra protection.

Safety & Restrictions: Pregnant women and those with back problems or mobility issues are not permitted. The maximum weight limit is 110 kg (243 lbs). No pets, large luggage, jewelry, smoking, alcohol, or drugs are allowed during the activity.

Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later. Cancelation is free if done 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Many reviewers appreciate the genuine and friendly environment; Saskia noted that even when she was late, her guide and she caught up with the group, which she found “more than great.” Gabriella mentioned that the “photos and videos taken by the guide” added to the overall enjoyment. The small group setting and professional guidance create a safe, personal, and memorable experience that feels authentic rather than touristy.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This riding experience is ideal for beginners and those wanting a relaxed pace, thanks to the professional guides and well-cared-for horses. If you enjoy scenic nature, photography, or cultural experiences, you’ll find this tour rewarding. The various options also suit families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a unique way to explore Hurghada’s landscapes.

However, travelers seeking intense adventure or very long rides might find the standard options a bit limited. Also, those with physical limitations or pregnant women should avoid horseback riding for safety reasons.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, most packages include hotel pickup and drop-off from major resorts. Entry-only tickets are available if you prefer to arrange your own transport.

What should I wear on the ride?
Comfortable clothes suitable for warm weather, sunglasses, sun hat, and closed-toe shoes are recommended. For windy days, long sleeves or scarves help protect from dust.

Can I join if I have no riding experience?
Absolutely. The guides organize groups based on skill level, and horses are suitable for beginners. Safety instructions are provided at the start.

Is there an option for a longer or private ride?
Yes, the VIP 4-hour tour with a swim stop offers a private, extended experience. It’s perfect if you want a more personalized and leisurely ride.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included only with the early sunrise option. The sunset tour includes dinner and a live show, adding to the overall experience.

Can I do the combo with quad biking?
Yes, the 1-hour quad plus 1-hour horse riding combo is available during the cooler morning hours, providing a varied adventure.

What is the maximum weight limit?
The activity is suitable for riders up to 110 kg (243 lbs). It’s important to communicate any health concerns beforehand.

What’s the best time of day to ride?
Sunrise and sunset rides offer the most atmospheric lighting and cooler temperatures. The sunset ride also combines beautifully with dinner and entertainment.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Children are welcome if they meet the safety requirements, and helmets are provided. However, safety rules prohibit pregnant women and those with certain health issues.

Final Thoughts

The Makadi Bay Horse Riding Tour in Hurghada offers a rewarding blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and fun. It’s well-suited for those wanting an authentic taste of Egypt’s landscapes without the rush of larger tour groups. The variety of options, from quick rides to luxurious VIP experiences, means there’s something for all looking to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors.

The professionalism of the guides, the care taken with the horses, and the stunning vistas make this a worthwhile addition to your Hurghada itinerary. It’s more than just a ride—it’s a chance to see the desert and sea from a different perspective, often accompanied by moments of tranquility and awe.

If you value good value, personalized attention, and the chance to capture some memorable photos, this tour is definitely worth considering. Perfect for adventure-seekers, nature lovers, or those simply looking for a special experience outside the typical beach holiday.

Whether you’re a novice rider or a seasoned equestrian, the Makadi Bay Horse Riding Tour promises an authentic, scenic, and memorable journey through Egypt’s mesmerizing landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: