Private Bali Horse riding at saba beach

If you’re craving a unique way to connect with Bali’s natural beauty, a private horseback ride along Saba Beach might just be the experience you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally saddled up in Bali, reviews and detailed descriptions offer a vivid picture of what this tour entails. From peaceful black sands to friendly guides, this activity promises a memorable outing for those seeking tranquility and scenic views.

Three things we really like about this experience are its flexible scheduling, well-trained horses, and authentic beachside atmosphere. These qualities make it stand out as an accessible, safe, and picturesque adventure. On the flip side, some travelers have mentioned potential concerns about horse behavior and staff professionalism, so keeping expectations realistic is key. This tour is ideal for beginners, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a gentle, scenic escape from Bali’s busier attractions.

Key Points

• Authentic Beach Experience: Ride along quiet, black sands with stunning Indian Ocean views
• Professional Guides & Well-Trained Horses: Ensures a safe, enjoyable outing
• Flexible Departure Times: Allows you to tailor the experience around your schedule
• Private Tour Focus: Only your group participates, making it intimate and personalized
• Affordable Value: At around $45.79, it offers an accessible way to enjoy Bali’s coastal beauty
• Potential for Inconsistencies: Some reviews mention horse fatigue or behavior issues, so be prepared

What to Expect from Your Horseback Ride at Saba Beach

This activity typically lasts about one hour, giving you a solid glimpse of Bali’s lesser-known black sand coastline. From the moment you arrive at the meeting point on Jl. Pantai Saba, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and your guide—most notably, guides like Jerry and Ryan are praised for their patience and helpfulness. The tour is private, meaning only your group will ride, allowing for a relaxed pace and personalized attention.

The Starting Point and Setup

Your journey begins at the designated meeting point in Saba, Bali. Here, safety gear such as helmets and equipment are provided, which is a vital aspect for beginners or those unfamiliar with riding. The staff’s focus on safety and their approachable demeanor are frequently highlighted in reviews, with Olivia Z. mentioning how her guide Jerry made her feel comfortable on Mila, a gentle, calm horse.

The Ride Itself

The route takes you along a quieter stretch of Saba Beach, which means you won’t be battling crowds or noisy traffic—just you, your horse, and the soothing sound of waves. Travelers love that the horses are well cared for, with Alex G. noting, “The horses look well taken care of and were a pleasure to ride.” The black sand beach adds a distinctive backdrop, offering a different aesthetic than the typical Bali beaches.

Many reviews, including Olivia M.’s, describe the experience as peaceful and scenic, especially during sunset. Riding in the late afternoon allows for stunning photos with the Indian Ocean as your backdrop, which many reviewers say makes the experience even more memorable.

The Guide and Interaction

The guides are praised for their friendliness and patience—crucial traits, especially for first-timers. Tina D. mentions her guide Gerry, who made her feel at ease, and Alexandra B. highlights Stella, a sweet pony she rode during her session. These personal touches contribute to a relaxed, enjoyable vibe and help beginners feel more confident.

The Experience for Different Riders

While most reviews are glowing, a few highlight that horse behavior can vary. Stacy W. shared an uncomfortable experience with a “very inappropriate and sleazy” guide, which underscores the importance of choosing reputable providers. Another traveler, Roxanne M., reported that after a two-hour ride, her wife had to walk back because one horse was tired and didn’t want to walk, with some concern over the animals’ well-being. Bersinar Bali Tour responded, apologizing and explaining that the horses were tired that day, offering a partial refund, and emphasizing their commitment to animal care.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

The main advantage of this Bali horseback riding tour is the combination of natural beauty, safety, and intimacy. The black sands of Saba Beach aren’t as crowded as Bali’s popular white-sand beaches, providing a more peaceful environment. The one-hour duration strikes a good balance, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or overexerted.

The price point of around $45.79 per person makes the experience accessible for many travelers, especially considering the inclusion of safety equipment, a professional guide, and a private setup. When you factor in the opportunity to capture stunning photos and enjoy the ocean breeze, many find it excellent value for money.

The Authentic Bali Experience

Unlike more commercialized activities, this ride offers an authentic, unhurried encounter with Bali’s coastal landscape. It’s less about adrenaline and more about soaking in the serenity, making it perfect for beginners, couples, or solo travelers wanting a gentle, scenic adventure.

Flexibility and Convenience

With wide choices of departure times, you can easily fit this activity into your Bali itinerary. Whether you prefer a late afternoon ride to catch the sunset or a morning session for calmer waters, there’s room to customize your day.

Safety and Comfort Considerations

The inclusion of helmets and professional guides is reassuring. However, reviews remind us to monitor horse behavior and staff professionalism. Always communicate clearly if you feel uncomfortable or notice anything amiss. The max weight limit of 85 kg is worth noting if you’re on the heavier side.

The Realities: What You Should Know Before Booking

While most reviews are positive, a few travelers have expressed concerns. It’s important to remember that horse fatigue can happen, especially in the heat of midday, and some horses may be tired or less responsive. The tour’s private setting is a highlight, but it also means your experience can vary depending on the horse’s mood and the guide’s attitude.

Plus, some reviews mention inconsistencies in the experience—such as shorter rides than promised or behavioral issues with horses. These highlight the importance of checking reviews beforehand and communicating your expectations.

Finally, the activity does not include transportation or breakfast, so plan accordingly if you want a seamless experience—consider arranging your own hotel pickup or enjoy a relaxed breakfast after your ride.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This horseback ride is best suited for beginners, solo travelers, couples, and small groups seeking a peaceful, scenic escape. It’s perfect if you want a gentle adventure away from Bali’s busier tourist spots. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will also appreciate the opportunity to snap photos with an Indian Ocean backdrop while riding along black sands.

It’s less ideal for those seeking high adrenaline or challenging rides, or for travelers concerned about horse welfare, as some reviews point out varying horse conditions. Always choose a reputable provider and communicate your comfort level.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a relaxed, scenic, and affordable way to see Bali’s coastline from a different perspective, this horseback riding tour at Saba Beach offers a lot. The friendly guides, calm horses, and stunning scenery combine to create a memorable experience. It’s a great activity for those wanting a peaceful break from the island’s busy streets, especially at sunset, when the views become truly magical.

While there are minor caveats about horse behavior and staff professionalism, overall, this tour provides good value for money and a genuine chance to enjoy Bali’s quieter side. If you’re after an authentic seaside adventure with minimal fuss, this ride should definitely be on your list.

FAQs

How long is the horseback riding tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery and take photos without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers safety equipment, a helmet, a professional guide, and the horse ride itself. Transportation and breakfast are not included.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, most reviews mention that guides are friendly and patient, making it perfect for first-timers or inexperienced riders.

Can I choose a specific time for the ride?
Yes, there are wide choices of departure times, so you can select a slot that fits your Bali itinerary, whether morning or sunset.

Are the horses well cared for?
According to most reviews, the horses are well-trained and taken care of. However, some reports mention occasional fatigue or behavioral issues, so be mindful and communicate your preferences.

Is it a private tour?
Yes, this activity is private, meaning only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for riding, and don’t forget your camera to capture the beautiful surroundings. Helmets are provided for safety.

To sum it up, this Bali horseback riding tour at Saba Beach offers a peaceful, scenic, and authentic way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty. It’s ideal for those seeking a gentle adventure, good value, and memorable photos, with experienced guides to ensure your safety and comfort. Just keep an eye on horse behavior and staff professionalism, and you’re set for a delightful coastal escape.