Sharm El Sheikh: Horseback Riding Desert or Beach with Pickup

Summary

Horseback riding by the Red Sea, desert paths or sandy shorelines

You’ll ride through Sharm El Sheikh’s desert or along its beaches with a local guide who makes even beginners feel at ease. Hotel pickup is included, plus all safety gear. Expect sand under your boots, salty air on your face, and maybe a laugh when your horse has more personality than you bargained for.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the smell — not just horses (which I expected), but this dry, sun-warmed scent that hits you right as you step out of the car. Our driver had picked us up from our hotel in Sharm El Sheikh, and honestly, I was still half-awake until we pulled up at the stables. There were a few locals chatting quietly, one of them (I think his name was Ahmed?) handed me a helmet and gave me this patient look, like he’d seen plenty of nervous beginners before. I tried to act cool but my horse definitely knew better.

You get to pick: an hour or two, desert or beach. We went for the beach — I mean, how often do you get to ride a horse by the Red Sea? The sand felt softer than I thought it would under the hooves, and every so often there’d be this salty wind that made my eyes water a bit. Our guide kept checking in (“All good?”), sometimes pointing out little things — like how you could see Saudi Arabia faintly across the water on a clear day. At one point my horse stopped dead to sniff something invisible; Ahmed just laughed and said she was stubborn but sweet.

It’s not fancy — no showy tricks or galloping off into the sunset (unless you’re braver than me). But there’s something about moving slow enough to hear your own thoughts, with nothing but hoofbeats and waves for background noise. Afterward, they gave us water and let us hang around for a bit before our driver took us back to Sharm El Sheikh. My legs were wobbly getting off, which made everyone laugh — including me. I still think about that stretch of quiet between sea and sky.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback riding with hotel transfer

• Pickup from hotel by air-conditioned vehicle
• Briefing by professional trainers
• Horseback riding along beach and desert
• Guided safety instructions for beginners
• Return to hotel by vehicle

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for horseback riding in Sharm El Sheikh?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from Sharm hotels are included.

Can beginners join this horseback riding tour?

Yes, guides give instructions and stay with you during the ride.

How long is the horseback riding experience?

You can choose either one hour or two hours for your ride.

Do I need to bring my own helmet?

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

Can I choose between riding on the beach or in the desert?

Yes, you can pick either a desert route or beach route when booking.

Are infants allowed on this horseback riding tour?

Infants must sit on an adult’s lap during transport; check suitability before booking.

Is this activity suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from anywhere in Sharm El Sheikh, all guidance from experienced trainers (especially helpful if you’re new), use of a safety helmet throughout your horseback ride—plus time to choose between exploring desert trails or following the shoreline before heading back comfortably at your own pace.