Zanzibar Horseback Riding

Exploring Zanzibar on horseback offers a rare chance to connect with the island’s pristine beaches and vibrant coastlines. While I haven’t personally tried this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect. From stunning white sands to professional guides, this experience promises a blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic bonding with horses.

What immediately catches the eye is the friendly guides and well-organized activities. The inclusion of safety gear like helmets and comfortable saddles shows a focus on ensuring everyone’s comfort and safety. Plus, the promise of swimming with your horse adds a fun, interactive element that’s rare in typical beach activities.

However, one thing to consider is the limited ride time — around 30 minutes — which might feel brief for those hoping for a longer equestrian adventure. But, for most, this quick yet memorable experience feels well worth it given the stunning setting and personalized care.

This tour is an excellent pick for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a unique way to enjoy Zanzibar’s natural beauty without needing prior riding experience. If you’re craving a scenic, safe, and fun outdoor activity, this could be just what your trip needs.

Key Points

• Authentic Beach Experience: Ride along Zanzibar’s picturesque coastline on beautiful, calm horses.
• Safety & Comfort: Helmets, comfortable saddles, and a safety briefing make it accessible for all.
• Photo Opportunity: Guides like Nasir are praised for capturing memorable moments — expect great photos.
• Short but Sweet Ride: Approximately 30 minutes of riding offers a taste of beach life with horses.
• Swim with Your Horse: Tides and weather influence this highlight; plan accordingly.
• Professional Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable staff like Ali and Nasir contribute to a seamless experience.
• Booking Flexibility: Reserve three days in advance or contact via WhatsApp for last-minute plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

How the Tour Begins

The adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup in Zanzibar, a service that’s included in the price. This convenience means no fuss about navigating to the stable — just relax and look forward to the day ahead. Transport is timely, and tours often start early enough to make the most of your day.

Once at the stable, you’ll meet your guide and get introduced to your horse. From the reviews, guides like Salu and Ali are praised not just for their professionalism but also for their friendly, approachable manner. They provide a brief safety orientation, ensuring even those new to riding feel prepared.

The Horse Rides & Beach Paths

The main event is a 30-minute ride along the shoreline, offering sweeping views of Zanzibar’s coast. Expect to traverse white sands, with the gentle sea breeze and rhythmic sounds of waves creating a soothing backdrop. The guides emphasize safety, using helmets and comfortable saddles for all riders.

Travelers rave about how calm and beautiful the horses are, often describing them as “peaceful” and “nice,” making it ideal for beginners or families with kids. As one reviewer, Nads, mentioned, the activity is “well organized and well worth it,” highlighting the professionalism of the team.

Swimming with Horses

A major highlight is swimming with your horse, which depends heavily on the tide and weather conditions. Guides like Nasir are known to be patient and attentive, ensuring guests get the best possible experience. It’s a chance to cool off, bond with your horse, and create lasting memories. Since timing is critical, booking at least three days in advance helps ensure accurate scheduling.

More Great Tours Nearby

Post-Ride & Return

After your ride, you’ll return to the stable for a brief rest, and transportation will be provided back to your hotel. The entire activity lasts around a few hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure that fits easily into more extensive Zanzibar itineraries.

The Value & Practicalities

Price and What’s Included

At $129 per person, this tour offers good value considering the personalized service, guided instruction, and the unique experience of riding along Zanzibar’s coast. Included in the price are hotel pickup and drop-off, a 30-minute horse ride, a guide for instruction, and the chance to swim with your horse.

What’s Not Included

Guests should budget extra for tips — a common practice and appreciated by guides like Nasir and Ali — and personal needs like water or photography extras if not included. As some reviews highlight, guides often take photos and videos during the ride, so bringing a camera or phone is suggested.

Booking & Suitability

Pre-book at least three days ahead, or contact via WhatsApp for last-minute arrangements. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with recent surgeries, back problems, or those over 243 lbs (110 kg). It’s designed for those seeking a safe, beginner-friendly activity rather than an intense riding session.

Flexibility & Cancellation

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for travel plans that might change unexpectedly.

What Travelers Are Saying

Priscilla called her experience “great,” praising the guides’ friendliness and professionalism, especially the tips on riding. Nads shared that it was “one of the most beautiful experiences of her life” and appreciated the punctual pickup and organization. Rafa highlighted the “amazing” activity, describing it as “unforgettable memories” with calm, beautiful horses.

Another reviewer, Casey, appreciated the family-friendly atmosphere and the professionalism of the team, especially noting the photos taken during the ride. Victoria praised Nasir for his patience and capturing lots of great photos, making the experience even more memorable. Yhg wished the ride was longer but still found it “worth it” for the wonderful scenery and horse quality.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This horseback riding experience is best suited for beginners, families, and travelers craving a scenic, relaxing outdoor activity. If you’re looking for an authentic, safe way to enjoy Zanzibar’s coast without prior riding experience, this tour offers both safety and splendor in one package. The short ride makes it perfect for those who want a taste of adventure without a long commitment, and the opportunity to swim with horses is genuinely unique.

While the activity is relatively brief, the reviews suggest this is a well-organized, high-value experience that leaves travelers with beautiful photos and unforgettable memories. If you love nature, gentle adventures, and meeting friendly guides, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Zanzibar trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be beginner-friendly with a safety briefing and comfortable saddles, making it accessible even if you’ve never ridden before.

How long is the horseback ride?
The actual riding time is approximately 30 minutes, giving a good taste of beach riding without being overly long.

Can I swim with the horse?
Yes, swimming with your horse is included, but it depends on the tide and weather conditions. Booking at least three days in advance helps ensure you can enjoy this activity.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Helmets and safety gear are provided to ensure safety.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making it hassle-free.

How do I book?
Pre-book at least three days before your chosen date. Contact via WhatsApp for last-minute plans or specific inquiries.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, recent surgeries, or those over 243 lbs (110 kg).

In summary, Zanzibar Horseback Riding offers a charming, well-organized way to enjoy the island’s stunning coastlines from a different perspective. While it might be brief, the combination of gentle rides, professional guides, and scenic beauty creates a truly memorable experience. Whether you’re new to riding or just looking for a unique photo opportunity, this activity provides genuine value and a special slice of Zanzibar life.

You can check availability for your dates here: