Horse riding in Sharm el sheikh desert

Exploring Sharm el Sheikh from a different angle—on horseback in the desert—offers a refreshing break from the usual beach scenes. This tour promises a mix of scenic nature, cultural insights, and a bit of adventure, all within a manageable 2-3 hour excursion. While it’s not the longest or most adrenaline-pumping activity, it’s perfect if you’re craving something both relaxed and immersive.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to see the desert landscape from horseback—something you simply can’t get from a car or on foot. Second, the visit to a Bedouin village adds a cultural layer that feels genuine and enlightening. Lastly, the small group size (capped at 15 people) ensures a personal and attentive riding experience.

A potential consideration for travelers is the timing—since this ride happens in the cooler evening hours, it’s ideal for avoiding the daytime heat, but it might not be suitable if you prefer daytime adventures. Also, the experience involves a pickup from Hurghada, which is a larger distance from Sharm el Sheikh, so planning transport is key.

This tour is best suited for those wanting a laid-back, scenic adventure with cultural flavor, especially if you enjoy horse riding or are curious about Bedouin life. It’s also a good choice for travelers with moderate mobility who want to explore the desert without strenuous activity.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At around $21.64, it offers good value for a scenic horseback experience.
• Cultural Access: Visit a Bedouin village and enjoy cultural perks like Egyptian tea and a shisha pipe.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 riders, ensuring personalized attention and safety.
• Well-trained Horses: The horses are described as well looked after and responsive, suitable for riders of most levels.
• Beautiful Views: Expect stunning desert landscapes, especially during the cooler evening hours.
• Convenient Pickup: Hotel pickup and drop-off from Hurghada makes transportation straightforward.

In-Depth Review of the Horse Riding Experience in Sharm el Sheikh Desert

The Setting: Sharm’s Desert Landscape

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the scenery. Sharm el Sheikh’s desert is a patchwork of golden sands and rugged terrain, with sparse vegetation and distant mountain views. Travelers who have been on this ride often mention the “deep and intensive” feeling of riding through such a vast, open space. One reviewer described the experience as “everything very well organized,” emphasizing the smooth coordination and the sense of adventure it provided.

The ride takes place during the cooler evening hours, which makes the experience more comfortable, especially for those not accustomed to the desert heat. Expect to start just before sunset, with the fading light casting a magical glow over the landscape. This timing is perfect for photography enthusiasts wanting to capture the golden hues of the desert.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start with pickup: The tour kicks off with hotel pickup from Hurghada, a feature that adds convenience but also means you’ll need to plan transportation if you’re staying further away. The vehicle is comfortable and arrives on time, as noted by reviewers, who appreciated the smooth communication via WhatsApp.

Arrival at the desert: Once at the staging area, you’ll be introduced to your guide and assigned a horse suited to your riding experience. The horses are described as lively yet obedient, which reassures first-time riders. The guides are experienced, and one reviewer specifically praised the attention to rider safety, even accommodating different skill levels by pairing riders with appropriate horses.

The horseback ride: The ride itself lasts about 2 to 3 hours, providing enough time to soak in the desert scenery without feeling rushed. Riders pass through a Bedouin village, where they can take a break and learn about local traditions. During this pause, you’ll enjoy Egyptian tea and have the option to try a shisha pipe—an authentic taste of Bedouin hospitality.

The cultural stop: The Bedouin village offers a glimpse into local life, with some reviews mentioning the smooth communication and flexibility in customizing the experience via WhatsApp. It’s an opportunity to ask questions or simply take in the environment.

Return and drop-off: After the cultural experience, the tour concludes with a gentle ride back to the starting point, followed by your transfer back to the hotel. The entire process is praised for its organization and attentiveness to travelers’ needs.

The Horses and Guides

The horses are a standout feature—well cared for, lively, but calm enough for riders of various experience levels. One traveler noted they rode a “special horse” that added adrenaline and made the trip “crazy, intense, and unforgettable” due to its speed. This suggests the horses can be spirited, adding a touch of excitement for thrill-seekers.

Guides are experienced riders who prioritize safety and provide clear instructions. The reviews highlight their friendliness and professionalism, making the ride accessible while ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

Cultural and Refreshing Perks

The visit to a Bedouin village is more than just a photo op. It’s an authentic peek into local life, with the chance to sip traditional Egyptian tea and try shisha if you wish. These small cultural touches elevate the experience from mere sightseeing to a meaningful cultural exchange.

Practical Aspects and Value

Price point: At just over $21, this tour offers remarkable value, especially considering the included pickup, cultural stop, and scenic ride. It’s a budget-friendly way to add a different dimension to your Egypt holiday.

Group size: With a cap of 15, the tour maintains a cozy, less commercial vibe. You’re likely to get more personalized attention, which is reassuring for newcomers or nervous riders.

Duration: The 2-3 hour timeframe balances enough adventure with manageable time commitment, making it suitable even for travelers on tight schedules.

Weather considerations: Since the ride is scheduled in the evening, you’ll avoid the desert’s daytime heat, making the experience more comfortable. But keep in mind, if bad weather occurs, the activity could be canceled with full refunds or rescheduling options.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This horseback riding experience is ideal for those seeking a gentle desert adventure combined with culture. It’s suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, thanks to the well-trained horses and accommodating guides. Those who enjoy scenic views and authentic local interactions will find it particularly rewarding.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a strenuous activity, this might not satisfy your craving. However, if you want a relaxed, scenic, and culturally enriching outing, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

The Sum Up

The Horse riding in Sharm el Sheikh desert is a well-organized, authentic experience that balances scenery, culture, and fun. The tranquility of the desert landscape, combined with the insight into Bedouin life and the chance to ride a responsive horse, makes it a unique addition to any Egyptian itinerary.

While it’s a shorter ride, the thoughtful touches—like the cultural stop and small group size—make it feel personal and special. Its affordable price point further boosts its appeal, especially for travelers keen on exploring beyond the beaches without breaking the bank.

This tour suits those who love outdoor adventures, cultural exchanges, and scenic vistas, offering a taste of desert life in a safe, friendly environment. For a relaxed yet meaningful adventure that captures the spirit of the desert, this horseback tour is a solid choice.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Hurghada, which adds convenience for travelers staying nearby.

How long does the ride last?
The ride lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, making it a manageable activity without feeling too long.

Are the horses suitable for beginners?
Yes, the horses are well looked after and responsive, and guides are experienced in pairing horses with riders of different skill levels.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and a hat or sunglasses for sun protection are recommended, especially since the ride occurs in the evening.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the activity is best suited for those comfortable on horseback. It’s advisable to check with the provider for specific age or weight restrictions.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour has a free cancellation policy if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the horseback ride, cultural stop at the Bedouin village, Egyptian tea, and shisha if desired, plus pickup and drop-off.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, bad weather can lead to cancellation, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is capped at 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I customize the experience?
Yes, communication with the provider via WhatsApp allows for passing on personal wishes, including private trips or specific arrangements.

To sum it up, this horseback ride offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty and cultural discovery that’s hard to beat for its price. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, authentic desert adventure without the hassle of strenuous activity or large group crowds. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious newcomer, this tour provides a memorable way to see the desert from a new perspective.