Sharm El Sheikh: Horse Riding Beach or Desert with Pickup

Summary

Ride horses by the Red Sea or desert with local guides from Sharm hotels

You’ll ride horses along the Red Sea or through peaceful desert outside Sharm El Sheikh—with gentle guidance from local trainers even if you’ve never ridden before. Hotel pickup makes things simple, helmets are included, and you can choose your route as you go. Expect laughter, small surprises from your horse, and moments of quiet that linger after you return.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the driver grinned when he picked us up at our hotel in Sharm El Sheikh—he asked if we’d ever ridden before, then laughed when I said “not since I was a kid.” The drive out was quiet except for some Arabic pop on the radio and the windows cracked just enough to let in that dry, salty air. When we pulled up, a young trainer named Ahmed waved us over. He handed me a helmet and patted my horse’s neck—her name was Layla, which he said means “night,” though it was still early morning and the sun already felt strong.

I’ll admit, I was nervous about horse riding on the beach but Ahmed walked beside me at first, pointing out how to hold the reins and not to worry if Layla stopped to sniff at something (which she did—a lot). The sand under her hooves felt softer than I expected. There were kids playing soccer nearby and an older man fixing nets under a palm tree; he nodded as we passed. At one point, Layla snorted so loud I nearly jumped. Ahmed just grinned again and told me she liked me—who knows if that’s true, but it helped.

You get these flashes of blue from the Red Sea between dunes, and there’s this smell—sort of seaweed mixed with horse sweat and sunscreen. We could choose between sticking to the water or heading into the quieter desert stretches. I picked both, honestly couldn’t decide. The silence in the desert was different—no waves, just wind and hoofbeats—and I caught myself wishing time would slow down a bit. After an hour or so (felt shorter), we circled back where our driver was waiting with cold water bottles. My legs wobbled getting off Layla—I probably looked ridiculous but didn’t care much.

I keep thinking about that mix of nerves and calm—the way strangers here made space for us without fussing or putting on a show. If you’re looking for something easygoing but real near Sharm El Sheikh, this day trip sticks with you longer than you’d expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horse riding with hotel transfer

• Pickup from hotel
• Pre-ride safety briefing
• Learn to ride if needed
• Horseback riding on beach or desert
• Return transfer to hotel

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for horse riding tours in Sharm El Sheikh?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh are included.

Can beginners join this horse riding experience near Sharm?

Yes, professional trainers provide instruction so all levels can join safely.

Do I need to bring my own helmet for horse riding?

No, safety helmets are provided as part of the tour.

How long does the horse riding last?

You can choose between one or two hours of riding during your tour.

Is it possible to ride horses on both beach and desert trails?

Yes, you can choose to ride along the beach or into the desert—or try both routes.

Are infants allowed on this tour?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport; riding may not be suitable for very young children.

Is this activity recommended for pregnant travelers?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to safety reasons.

What should I wear for horseback riding near Sharm El Sheikh?

Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities; closed shoes are best.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from any Sharm hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, all safety equipment like helmets provided by local trainers, plus one or two hours of guided horseback riding along either beach or desert routes—you get to choose as you go.