One Hour Horseback Riding Trip with Transfer – Sharm El Sheikh

Introduction: Exploring the One Hour Horseback Riding Trip in Sharm El Sheikh

If you’re craving a taste of the Arabian desert without committing to a full-day excursion, the One Hour Horseback Riding Trip with Transfer in Sharm El Sheikh offers a neat, affordable way to enjoy the scenery. While many travelers appreciate the simplicity and convenience, some mention the ride’s brevity and the route’s predictability.

What we love about this experience is the seamless hotel pickup, the professional guide support, and the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking desert and mountain views—all without the hassle of negotiating with local drivers or dealing with crowded tours. The cost of around $12 per person makes it a budget-friendly option, perfect for families or first-time visitors looking for a quick, authentic taste of Egypt’s desert landscape.

However, some reviews highlight that the actual riding time is shorter than expected, and there’s a mandatory government safari fee payable in cash at the location. This is worth considering if your schedule is tight or if you’re seeking a longer, more immersive adventure.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a straightforward, guided experience with stunning scenery, and who value comfort and convenience. It suits those new to horse riding, families, or anyone short on time but eager to explore the Sinai Desert.

Key Points

• Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics stress-free.
• Price: At just $12 per person, it offers good value for a quick desert experience.
• Views: You’ll enjoy scenic vistas of mountains and the sea during the ride.
• Guidance: A professional guide leads the ride, providing safety and orientation.
• Duration: The ride lasts about one hour, though some reviews mention it could feel shorter.
• Additional Costs: Governmental safari fees are paid in cash and are mandatory.

What to Expect from the Horseback Riding Tour

Seamless Pickup and Transfer

The experience kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel in air-conditioned comfort. The pickup time is generally scheduled around 3:00 pm, aligning well with late afternoon light—perfect for photos and enjoying cooler temperatures. The transfer service is well-reviewed for punctuality and comfort, giving you a relaxed start to your adventure.

Arrival and Briefing at the Stables

Once at the stables, a friendly guide will provide a briefing on safety and riding instructions. You’ll be fitted with a helmet, and the guide will match you with a suitable horse or camel, depending on your preference. The staff at the stables are praised for their helpfulness and patience, especially for first-time riders or those a bit nervous.

The Ride: Scenic Desert and Mountain Views

The actual ride lasts approximately one hour. You’ll traverse the Sinai Desert, with views of both the mountains and the coast, offering a striking contrast of land and sea. The route is simple, primarily a straight trek along a well-trodden path. One frequent review from a guest named Nelson called it an “amazing horse ride”, praising the friendly staff and the natural beauty.

Some reviews mention that the ride’s route is rather short, with Florentina_S describing it as mainly a 15-20 minute trip to a Bedouin hut where refreshments are sold. She felt the experience was somewhat superficial, mainly a quick trot rather than a lengthy adventure. It’s important to set expectations accordingly—this isn’t a full-day safari but a brief, guided ride focused on capturing the scenic beauty.

The Bedouin Hut and Refreshments Stop

After the ride, there’s usually a stop at a Bedouin-style hut, where you can purchase refreshments or shisha. While some reviews enjoy the cultural touch and friendly atmosphere, others, like Jerome_C, note that no drinks are offered included, and you may need to bring your own hydration.

Return and Drop-off

The tour concludes with a smooth return transfer back to your hotel, typically within an hour of arrival at the stables. This hassle-free process allows you to relax after your ride and reflect on your desert experience.

The Value of the Experience: What You Get for Your Money

At just $12 per person, this tour offers an accessible way to get a taste of the Sinai Desert’s natural beauty. The all-inclusive package, which covers hotel pickup, a guided ride, helmet, and water, provides convenience and peace of mind.

The professional guide is a notable highlight, as many reviews mention guides like Mahmoud and others who are helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable. Their support is especially helpful for first-timers or travelers unfamiliar with riding animals in a desert environment.

While some might find the ride duration shorter than expected, the scenic views and guided support compensate for this. The additional government safari fee is a minor but mandatory expense paid in cash at the site, so budget accordingly.

The Experience Itself: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Hassle-Free Experience: The included hotel transfer removes the stress of local haggling and transportation logistics.
• Scenic Views: Expect impressive vistas of the Sinai mountains and the coast, ideal for photos and memorable moments.
• Guided Support: Knowledgeable guides enhance safety and provide interesting insights into the landscape and riding basics.
• Affordability: The low price point makes it accessible to many travelers, especially those on a budget.

Cons:

• Short Ride Duration: Some visitors felt the actual riding part was brief—around 15-20 minutes—not a full hour as advertised.
• Route Simplicity: The route is quite straightforward, offering limited variety or adventure for seasoned riders.
• Additional Fees: The mandatory safari fee paid in cash can catch some travelers off guard if not prepared.
• Limited Customization: The tour appears quite structured, with little flexibility or options for exploring further.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback riding trip is perfect for:

• First-time riders or those wanting a gentle introduction to desert riding.
• Travelers seeking value for their money while enjoying scenic views.
• Those preferring a guided, organized experience over self-exploration.
• Visitors with limited time who want a quick desert adventure.
• Families or small groups looking for a fun activity that combines culture and nature.

It might not satisfy those looking for a longer, more adventurous ride or a deeply immersive experience. If you’re expecting a full-day safari or a multi-hour ride, this might feel somewhat limited.

The Sum Up

This horseback riding tour in Sharm El Sheikh offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy desert vistas with the comfort of hotel transfers and guided support. Its biggest selling point is convenience, making it an appealing choice for travelers who want a quick, scenic escape with minimal hassle.

While the ride’s duration and route are relatively simple, the views of the Sinai Mountains and coast are truly scenic. The guides’ professionalism and friendliness add genuine value, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

If you’re a first-timer or traveling with family and want a relaxed, guided introduction to desert riding, this tour will fit the bill nicely. However, if you’re seeking a longer or more rugged adventure, you might find this experience somewhat underwhelming.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for value-focused travelers who prioritize ease, scenery, and a taste of Egyptian desert life over length or complexity.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes two-way hotel pickup and drop-off, making the process simple and stress-free.

How long does the actual ride last?
The ride is approximately one hour, but some reviews suggest the actual riding time may be shorter, around 15-20 minutes.

What should I bring?
Bring hydration, especially if you tend to get thirsty, as no drinks are provided during the ride. The tour includes a helmet and water, but extra snacks or beverages are up to you.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, guides are described as friendly, helpful, and professional, providing safety briefing and assistance throughout the ride.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced, and the route is quite straightforward, making it ideal for those new to horseback riding.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, a mandatory government safari fee is payable in cash at the site. Budget for this additional expense.

What scenery will I see?
Expect stunning mountain and coastal views, with a simple route traversing the Sinai Desert.

Can I choose between a horse or a camel?
The tour predominantly offers horseback riding, but some reviews mention the possibility of riding a camel as an alternative. Confirm this with your booking provider.

In summary, this horseback riding trip balances affordability, convenience, and scenic beauty. It’s best suited for newcomers, families, or those short on time but eager to enjoy a taste of Egypt’s desert landscape in a guided, safe environment.