Horse Riding 3 Hours Desert Beach Swimming by horse in Hurghada

Introduction

If you’ve ever dreamed of riding a horse across the sands of Egypt’s stunning Red Sea coast, this Horse Riding 3 Hours Desert Beach Swimming tour might catch your eye. Designed for those who crave a bit of adventure mixed with scenic beauty, this experience combines the thrill of riding in the desert, the serenity of the beach, and the unique opportunity to swim with horses in the Red Sea.

What we find particularly appealing about this tour is its accessibility for both beginners and experienced riders thanks to well-trained horses and professional guidance from knowledgeable instructors. Plus, the inclusion of round-trip transfers from Hurghada hotels makes it convenient and hassle-free.

However, some reviews point out that the actual time spent riding can be shorter than expected, which might matter if you’re looking for a full three-hour ride.

This adventure appeals most to travelers who enjoy animal encounters, love outdoor scenery, and seek a memorable, active experience in Egypt. It’s especially suited for those wanting a mix of desert exploration and sea adventure without the need for advanced riding skills.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximate 3-hour experience combining desert and beach riding, with a unique sea swim.
• Includes: Transfers from your hotel, helmets, bottled water, and professional guidance.
• Pricing: Around $26 for a well-priced adventure that offers good value for the diverse experiences.
• Group Size: Limited to about 10 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention.
• Reviews: Mixed but generally positive, with highlights on beautiful scenery and friendly guides.
• Additional costs: Transfers from some locations like Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh cost extra, up to $10 per person.

Detailed Review of the Experience

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

The tour starts with convenient hotel pickup, usually in the afternoon, which is ideal for catching the sunset over the desert and sea. The drive to the horse stable is short and comfortable, setting a relaxed tone for your adventure. Once there, you’ll meet your well-fed, healthy horses—a key factor that many reviews praise— and receive a briefing from the professional instructors on how to handle your mount and stay safe.

You’ll have some time to bond with your horse before you begin riding, which helps even nervous beginners feel more confident. Depending on your riding level, the tour offers horses suitable for beginners or more experienced riders, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience without feeling out of depth.

The ride itself begins with a walk through the desert landscape, an environment that’s quiet, expansive, and perfect for taking in Egypt’s natural beauty. The highlight is the seaside portion; you’ll ride along the beach, feeling the gentle breeze and hearing the sound of waves. The real magic happens when you are encouraged to swim with your horse in the deep waters of the Red Sea, an activity that adds a memorable twist to the ride.

The Scenic Value and Authenticity

One of the main attractions here is the contrast of environments—arid desert giving way to the shimmering shoreline. Many travelers comment on how beautiful the scenery is, especially at sunset, which seems to be the preferred starting time. The picturesque landscape offers ample opportunities for photos, especially when the sun dips low, casting warm hues over the sands and water.

While the actual riding time may sometimes fall short of the advertised three hours—with some reviews mentioning a 30-minute shorter ride—the overall experience remains immersive. Several reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides and well-cared-for horses, making the ride more enjoyable and safe.

The Sea Swim and Its Unique Appeal

Swimming with horses in the Red Sea is a feature that sets this tour apart. The sensation of wading into the water on horseback is unlike most typical beach rides and offers a sense of connection with the animal and nature that many find enchanting. Be prepared for some splashing and the possibility that not everyone in your group will find this part comfortable — as one reviewer mentioned, it was “intolerable for a few of us,” especially during the barefoot, bareback section.

The Value of the Price

At roughly $26 per person, this tour provides a lot of value. It combines a scenic ride, sea swimming, and guided instruction into one package, with hotel transfers included. When you consider the cost of a single activity—say, a short horse ride elsewhere—it’s a fair deal for those seeking variety and a memorable outdoor experience.

The Reviews and Real Experiences

The reviews are quite balanced. One traveler expressed disappointment, citing a shorter ride and less time in the saddle than expected, which is worth considering if your primary goal is a lengthy riding session. “The tour was only two hours long and the exact riding was 30 minutes,” shared one guest, highlighting that expectations should be tempered accordingly.

Conversely, others loved the beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and the good condition of the horses. One review called it a “once-in-a-lifetime experience,” emphasizing the beautiful areas and the excellent guide who made the trip enjoyable. The inclusion of music and party vibes at the end suggests a lively, relaxed atmosphere, suitable for travelers who enjoy socializing after their ride.

The Practical Details

Transportation and Group Size

The round-trip transfer from your Hurghada hotel is a big plus for convenience, especially as it’s included in the price. For those staying in Makadi, Sahl Hasheesh, or Ain Sokhna, there’s a small additional fee ($5 per person), while those in El Gouna or Safaga pay a bit more ($10). The tour keeps group sizes small—max 10 travelers—which helps ensure more personalized guidance and safety.

Timing and Duration

Starting in the afternoon is ideal for experiencing the best light and scenery. The overall duration is around 3 hours, but again, the actual riding time can be slightly less, so keep that in mind if you’re eager for a long ride.

Safety and Comfort

The tour includes helmets and bottled water, vital for comfort and safety. Moderate physical fitness is recommended, but beginner-friendly horses and guidance make it accessible to most.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure travelers looking for something different from traditional sightseeing. It’s ideal for animal lovers, especially those interested in horse riding and sea swimming. Families with older children might also enjoy the mix of outdoor activity and scenic beauty.

If you’re looking for an authentic, active experience that offers photo opportunities and a chance to connect with Egypt’s natural landscape, this tour fits the bill. However, if you prefer long, intense rides or are sensitive to shorter ride times, you might want to manage expectations.

The Sum Up

For a modest price, this tour offers a blend of desert, beach, and sea experiences that are truly memorable. The well-trained horses, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking scenery make it a worthwhile addition to your Hurghada itinerary.

While some may find the ride duration shorter than hoped, the unique combination of riding and swimming in the Red Sea is hard to beat. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a fun, active outing that’s accessible regardless of riding experience, and who appreciate authentic outdoor adventure with great photo potential.

In summary, this tour delivers a beautiful and fun outdoor experience at a reasonable price, making it well worth considering if you’re after something different from typical desert tours or snorkeling trips.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding experience?
The total time is approximately three hours, but some reviews mention the actual riding being around 30 minutes shorter, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are horses for both beginners and advanced riders, and professional instructors are on hand to guide you, making it accessible for most.

Does the tour include transfers?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Hurghada hotels are included, with extra charges for certain areas like Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for riding and the weather. Helmets are provided for safety, and it’s wise to bring a hat or sunglasses for sun protection.

Can I swim with the horses in the sea?
Yes, the tour includes swimming with horses in the Red Sea, an activity that many find memorable, though some may find it challenging or uncomfortable.

What’s the group size?
Limited to around 10 travelers, offering a more intimate experience and better guidance.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Whether you’re after a scenic ride, a fun sea adventure, or a bit of both, this Hurghada horseback tour offers genuine value and a memorable outing that captures the essence of Egypt’s stunning landscape.