2 hours Horse Riding on The Sea and Desert- Hurghada

The best part of this Hurghada outing is the moment your horse walks into the Red Sea. You begin with a calm ride across dry, rocky ground, then reach the shore for a short session in shallow water. The sea ride is the main event, and it gives you a view of Egypt that a standard beach day cannot.

I like the reasonable $18.82 price, which includes two hours of riding, a helmet, bottled water, and transport in an air-conditioned vehicle. I also like the beginner-friendly setup, with trainers on hand and calm horses used for children and less experienced riders. The main drawback is that the desert section may be rocky and affected by nearby construction, and the water ride is not a long swim with the horses.

Key points to know before you book

• The Red Sea section is the highlight: You ride into shallow water, generally around two feet deep, rather than swimming freely with your horse.
• Two hours means real saddle time: The ride includes both the desert and beach sections, not just a short photo stop.
• Beginners are welcome: Trainers provide pre-ride coaching and help during the outing.
• The horses vary by condition: Many descriptions praise healthy, gentle horses, but one serious complaint raised concerns about thin horses and rough handling.
• Pickup is included from many Hurghada hotels: Extra fees apply from Makadi, Sahl Hasheesh, Safaga, El Gouna, and Soma Bay.
• The group can reach 15 people: Ask about the group size if you want a quieter ride or more individual attention.

What the two-hour Hurghada horse ride is really like

This is a riding excursion with a clear rhythm: pickup, arrival at the stable, basic instruction, a walk through dry ground, a beach ride, and time in the water. The full outing takes about three hours once transport and preparation are included, while the riding itself lasts two hours.

The horses are described as Arabian or Egyptian desert horses, which can look slimmer and more finely built than the sturdy ponies familiar to many riders in Britain or northern Europe. That does not automatically mean a horse is unhealthy, but it can surprise you at first. Take a moment to look at the horse assigned to you and tell the trainer if the saddle feels loose or uncomfortable.

The ride is suitable for a range of abilities. You do not need to be an advanced rider, and the tour includes pre-ride coaching. The pace generally begins gently, with the option to try a light jog if the guide feels it is safe and suitable for the group. You should not expect a long, free gallop across open dunes.

Arrival at the stable and the first safety briefing

Pickup is offered in an air-conditioned vehicle, and bottled water is included. From many Hurghada hotels, this transfer is part of the package, which adds useful value because the stable is not necessarily within easy walking distance of resort areas.

The arrival process may feel less organized than you expect. Some people have described waiting at the stable before anyone explained what was happening or brought out the horses. That does not ruin the ride, but it is worth knowing so you do not mistake a quiet start for a problem.

A helmet is included. Trainers are meant to explain basic handling before you mount and to remain available during the ride. Hussain is one instructor specifically praised for being funny, helpful, and good at taking photographs. Another rider was assigned a horse called Sara, although horse and guide assignments can change.

Use the briefing to ask simple questions. Find out the planned pace, how the group will enter the water, and what to do if you feel uncomfortable. If you have not ridden for years, say so clearly. The calmer you are about your ability, the easier it is for the guide to match the pace to the group.

Across the dry ground: desert in the Hurghada sense

The first riding section takes you across dry, stony ground near the stable. The word desert can suggest broad golden dunes, but that is not always what you will see here. Parts of the route have been described as rocky terrain, open scrub, or ground near construction.

This is the least impressive part of the outing, especially if you are picturing a classic Sahara scene. You may cross a road and pass through an area that feels more like a building site than untouched desert. The horses can also seem eager to move on from this section, particularly in the heat.

Still, the dry ride has a purpose. It lets you settle into the saddle before reaching the water, and it gives the trainer a chance to see how comfortably you handle the horse. For a first-time rider, that gradual start is useful. You can learn how to sit, guide, stop, and keep your balance without beginning in the sea.

The golden light and open horizon can also make this section worthwhile for photographs. Just keep your expectations sensible. Book this for the combination of horse, shore, and water, not for a long wilderness ride through untouched dunes.

The Red Sea shore and shallow-water ride

The route eventually reaches the coast, where the character of the experience changes. The horses walk along the sand and then enter the Red Sea. This is where the excursion earns its place among Hurghada’s more unusual activities.

The water is generally shallow, with one detailed description placing it at about two feet deep. You stay mounted and ride through the water rather than swim alongside the horse. The horses may appear more relaxed in the heat, and the contrast between pale sand, clear water, and the animals makes this the strongest setting for photographs.

Be careful with the wording used to describe the water section. Bathing with the horses sounds like a full swimming session, but the practical experience is closer to riding through shallow coastal water. You may spend only a limited time in the sea, depending on conditions, group pace, and the guide’s instructions.

Some outings have taken place beside turquoise water and white sand, with one rider even seeing a dolphin approach briefly. That kind of sighting is never guaranteed, but it shows why the coastal portion can feel special. On the other hand, the beach may not be a remote natural setting. Parts of the route can include developed or unfinished areas.

Horses, instructors, and animal welfare

The strongest praise centers on the calm horses and friendly instructors. The tour has worked well for beginners, people returning to riding after many years, and families with children. One six-year-old was reportedly handled carefully by the instructors, which is encouraging for parents, although every child should be assessed individually before mounting.

A good guide makes a big difference here. Hussain is singled out for humor and for taking plenty of pictures. Other guides have been described as professional, gentle, and attentive. The quality of communication can vary, though. A French-speaking booking was reportedly met by a guide who spoke neither French nor English, while the driver spoke English only.

If language matters to you, confirm it before paying. Do not assume that a selected language will be available on the day unless the operator confirms it directly. Clear communication is especially important when you are riding near traffic, entering water, or helping a child.

Animal welfare deserves a frank note. Several descriptions say the horses looked healthy, calm, and well cared for. One person, however, was concerned about thin horses and reported seeing an owner hit them. That is a serious concern, even though it does not appear in every account. I would inspect the horse’s general condition, speak up if you see rough treatment, and avoid supporting any activity that makes you uncomfortable.

Who will get the most from this experience

This outing fits you best if you want a short, affordable riding adventure with a memorable setting. It works particularly well for:

• First-time riders who want instruction and a controlled pace
• Experienced riders who enjoy a relaxed beach ride
• Families with children who can manage a horse safely
• Couples looking for unusual photographs in Hurghada
• Anyone who wants a break from snorkeling, boat trips, and resort time

It is less suitable if you want advanced riding, long gallops, deep-water swimming, or a remote desert setting. The trip is also not a good match if you have difficulty mounting, balancing, or staying seated for two hours. The stated requirement is a moderate level of physical fitness.

The maximum group size is 15 people. That is manageable, but it may mean waiting while others mount, adjust their saddles, or enter the water. A smaller private group would likely give you more control over the pace, so ask about this before booking if personal attention matters.

Is $18.82 good value?

At $18.82 per person, this is inexpensive for a two-hour riding activity that includes a helmet, bottled water, and an air-conditioned vehicle. You are paying for a simple stable-based excursion, not a luxury equestrian day or a private expedition.

The value is strongest if your hotel is in Hurghada and included pickup is available. Extra transport charges apply from several nearby resort areas:

• Makadi and Sahl Hasheesh: $5 per person
• Safaga, El Gouna, and Soma Bay: $10 per person

Those additions still leave the outing fairly affordable, but calculate the final price before comparing it with other horse rides. You should also allow for the fact that the total activity takes about three hours, not only two, because pickup, waiting, preparation, and return travel take time.

The 4.7 rating from 39 ratings and 90 percent recommendation figure suggest that the experience usually delivers what people hope for. They do not remove the need to read the description carefully. The beach and water section receives the warmest praise, while the desert route, communication, pickup coordination, and animal care create the main reservations.

Practical advice for a smoother ride

Wear clothing that can get wet and dusty. Long trousers are more comfortable than shorts against the saddle, and closed shoes are sensible for mounting and walking around the stable. Bring sun protection, though helmets and bottled water are supplied.

Arrive at the hotel reception area on time and watch for messages from the operator. One failed pickup led to a complaint, while the operator said the driver waited 30 minutes but could not find the booked party. Agree on the exact meeting point in advance, especially in a large resort.

Do not expect to keep wearing the helmet after the ride or to hold onto the horse once you dismount. One account described the horse being led away quickly at the end. Keep your phone protected from water and dust, and ask who will take photographs if you want pictures without handling your own device while mounted.

The experience requires good weather. If poor weather forces cancellation, you should be offered another date or a full refund. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the start time, but cancellations or changes inside that period are not refunded or accepted.

Should you book this Hurghada horse ride?

I would book it if your main goal is to ride a calm horse through shallow Red Sea water at a low price. The water, friendly instructors, beginner support, and included equipment create a memorable half-day without a large cost.

I would not book it if your picture is a long ride across pristine dunes or a genuine swim with horses. Ask about the exact pickup, language support, group size, and current horse-care standards before confirming. For the right expectations, this is a fun coastal riding trip with an ordinary rocky approach and an unusually good final setting.

FAQ

How long does the experience last?

The full outing takes approximately three hours, including transport and preparation. The riding portion lasts two hours.

What does the two-hour riding session include?

The ride includes time across dry desert-style ground and along the Red Sea shore, with a shallow-water section. Horse or camel riding is offered according to your choice.

Do I ride into the sea?

Yes. You ride the horse into shallow Red Sea water. The water has been described as about two feet deep, so this is not generally a full swimming session.

Is horse riding suitable for beginners?

Yes. Trainers provide pre-ride coaching and assist during the ride. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Are helmets included?

Yes. A helmet and bottled water are included in the tour price.

Is hotel pickup included?

Pickup is offered, and transport in an air-conditioned vehicle is included. Extra charges apply from Makadi and Sahl Hasheesh hotels, as well as Safaga, El Gouna, and Soma Bay.

How much does pickup cost from nearby resort areas?

Pickup from Makadi or Sahl Hasheesh costs an additional $5 per person. Pickup from Safaga, El Gouna, or Soma Bay costs an additional $10 per person.

How many people can join the tour?

The maximum group size is 15 people.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the experience are not refunded or accepted. If bad weather causes the operator to cancel, you can choose another date or receive a full refund.