If you’re considering a horseback riding adventure on Koh Samui, this 1-hour tour promises a blend of seaside tranquility and scenic beauty. While it might not be the longest or most adrenaline-pumping ride around, it offers a peaceful way to see the island’s pristine coastlines with the added bonus of professional guidance and photo opportunities.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to gallop along Taling Ngam’s secluded and virgin sands feels like stepping into a postcard. Second, the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in turquoise waters with your horse is both fun and memorable. Third, the views of four different islands from the coast give you a taste of Koh Samui’s diverse scenery—all while being guided by friendly, English-speaking staff.

On the flip side, some reviews highlight that the actual riding time can be quite limited, with a lot of the experience focused on photos and standing around. If you’re expecting a lengthy or more physically engaging ride, this might not meet those expectations. Still, for those craving a gentle, scenic beach trek with great photo moments, this tour fits well.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate calm coastal rides, want to snap great pictures, and are looking for a short, hassle-free adventure. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a memorable beach outing without strenuous activity.

Key Points

Stunning coastal views and the chance to see four islands from the beach.
Gentle ride suitable for beginners and those seeking a relaxing experience.
Photo opportunities with professional-quality shots of you and your horse.
Limited riding time might leave some feeling the experience is brief.
Safety and guidance provided by experienced, English-speaking staff.
Ideal for sunset or morning rides, depending on your preference.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience Breakdown: What to Expect

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Starting Point: Am Samui Resort Taling Ngam

Your adventure begins at the Am Samui Resort in Taling Ngam, a quiet and scenic area ideal for a peaceful seaside experience. Meeting the Coco Samui Riding Club team here is straightforward—just head to the lobby, where you’ll be greeted and given a safety briefing. This initial 15-minute talk is essential for understanding how to handle your horse and what to expect during your ride, especially if you’re a beginner.

Safety Briefing: A Vital Step

The safety briefing covers everything from how to mount and dismount your horse to riding etiquette, ensuring everyone feels secure. If you’re a beginner, you might find this part especially reassuring. Notably, for riders with less experience (rated 1-5), a dedicated horse handler is available for an extra 100 THB per person, providing additional support.

The Horseback Ride: 1 Hour Along Taling Ngam

Once on horseback, you’ll start by following the shoreline, with your guide sharing insights about the area in English or Thai. Expect a gentle pace—no need to worry about overexerting yourself. The most talked-about aspect, according to reviews, is the scenery. You’ll be riding on pristine, secluded sands that are rarely crowded, giving a real sense of being away from the busy tourist spots.

Some guests mention that while the ride is mostly relaxed, the actual trotting or galloping might be limited—one reviewer stated they rode only about 200 meters on the beach. Others appreciated the experience of walking and standing in the surf, which offers a chance to cool off and enjoy the ocean.

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Water Swim & Photo Moments

One of the tour’s highlights is the possibility to swim with your horse in clear, inviting waters. This is a fun, interactive part of the experience that adds to the memorable nature of the ride. Guides often take professional photos and videos, so you’ll leave with incredible shots to share or keep as souvenirs.

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Return to Base

After about an hour of riding and enjoying the scenery, you’ll return to the starting point. The entire process—from briefing, riding, to returning—takes roughly 1.5 hours including check-in and safety instructions.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Timing and Group Size

You can choose from morning or evening rides, allowing you to enjoy either sunrise tranquility or sunset views. The tour is kept small—limited to 10 participants—to ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Cost and Value

While the tour’s exact price isn’t specified here, reviews suggest that the ride might be relatively short—about 200 meters of actual riding according to some guests—so the value depends on your expectations. The inclusion of professional photos and the scenic setting can make it worth it for those keen on capturing memories without the hassle of booking separate photos or tours.

What to Bring

To make the most of your ride, pack essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, your camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and long pants for comfort. Remember to bring cash for optional extras like the horse handler service or tips.

What’s Not Allowed

To keep the environment pristine, the tour prohibits drones, plastic bags, smoking, alcohol, and littering. Baby strollers and baby carriages are also not permitted, so plan accordingly if traveling with young children.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While some guests expressed a bit of disappointment with the limited riding time—one said they only rode “about 200 meters on the beach”—others appreciated the friendly staff and the overall tranquil scenery. A review from January 2026 mentioned that although the staff was friendly, the ride’s highlight—the 15 minutes on the beach and in the sea—was perceived as too short.

It’s worth noting that the tour’s primary appeal lies in the stunning views and photo opportunities, making it especially attractive for travelers wanting a peaceful, picturesque experience rather than a lengthy riding session.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re seeking a relaxing, scenic beach ride with opportunities to snap memorable photos, this tour offers a convenient way to enjoy Koh Samui’s coastal beauty. It’s best suited for those who prefer gentle rides in calm surroundings, and who value expert guidance and professional photography.

However, if you’re after a longer or more physically active horseback adventure, this might feel a bit brief. The limited riding time could be a drawback for experienced equestrians or those expecting an adrenaline rush.

This experience shines in its breathtaking setting and the peaceful vibe of Taling Ngam, making it an ideal choice for romantic outings, family trips, or solo travelers looking to add a special moment to their island stay.

FAQs

How long is the actual horseback riding part of the tour?
The ride lasts about one hour, but the entire experience including safety briefing and photo sessions might take around 1.5 hours. Some reviews mention that the riding itself is relatively short—around 200 meters on the beach.

What is the best time of day to take this tour?
You can choose between morning and evening slots. Morning rides let you enjoy peaceful sunrise views, while evening rides are perfect for sunset scenery and romantic atmospheres.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
Yes, this tour is not suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those with certain medical conditions. Riders over 200 lbs may also need to check with the provider, as safety is a priority.

What do I need to bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, your camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and long pants for comfort. Cash is recommended for optional services or tips.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The safety briefing and the availability of dedicated horse handlers (for an extra fee) make it manageable for beginners, especially if you’re new to riding.

Can I take photos during the ride?
Yes, guides often take professional-quality photos and videos, so you can focus on enjoying the moment while capturing memories.

What should I expect from the scenery?
Expect serene, secluded sands and views of four distant islands. The ride is gentle, and the scenery is what most guests find most memorable—perfect for those looking for tranquility and beautiful vistas.

Final Words

This Koh Samui beach ride offers a peaceful escape into nature, with stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities. While the riding segment itself may be brief, the setting and ambiance provide a truly memorable experience. It’s best suited for those wanting a relaxed, scenic outing rather than a lengthy adventure or high-energy activity. If you’re after a taste of island tranquility with some excellent photo moments, this tour can be a lovely addition to your Koh Samui itinerary.

Koh Samui: 1-Hour Horseback Riding on Taling Ngams Shores