Santorini Sunset Horse Ride & Caldera View from Megalochori

Summary

Evening Horseback Journey from Megalochori to the Caldera

This is your chance to ride from Megalochori village through Santorini’s vineyards and black sand paths all the way to the caldera at sunset. With a local guide leading and stories along the way, you’ll take in volcano views most travelers only see from afar — plus those small moments (like laughter or salty air) you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to lean forward a bit,” Yannis said, adjusting the strap on my helmet with hands that smelled faintly of hay and coffee. The stable in Megalochori looked older than any building I’d ever seen back home — rough white walls, horses shifting quietly in the dusk. I could hear someone’s radio playing something soft in Greek, and for a second I wondered if I was actually ready for this. The horse (her name was Artemis) snorted like she knew I wasn’t.

We set off through narrow lanes where old men nodded from doorways, then out into fields that smelled like wild thyme and dust. Our group was small — just me, two other travelers, and Yannis’ cousin Maria who rode ahead, calling out little stories about the vineyards we passed (“That one’s owned by my uncle — best vinsanto on the island, but he never sells it”). The sun was already low, throwing long shadows over everything. There’s something about moving slowly on horseback that makes you notice things: the crunch of gravel under hooves, how cool the breeze gets as you near Vlychada black beach. I kept brushing my hand along Artemis’ neck just to feel her warmth.

The path to the caldera felt almost unreal — white cliffs rising up on one side, black sand stretching out on the other. We stopped at a spot where you could see straight across to the volcano; Yannis handed us bottled water and pointed out how the light hit the rocks (“This is why people paint here,” he said). It was quiet except for distant waves and someone laughing behind me because I couldn’t get my horse to stand still for a photo. Honestly, I didn’t mind missing the shot — sometimes it’s better just to watch.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset Horse Riding in Santorini

• Start at Megalochori village
• Ride through fields and vineyards
• Admire Caldera volcano view

Top questions

How long does this Santorini sunset horse riding tour last?

The ride usually takes about 2 hours from start to finish, including stops for photos and water.

Is previous horseback riding experience needed?

No experience is required; guides will match you with a suitable horse and help with basics before starting out.

What should I wear for this horse riding tour?

Wear comfortable clothes (long pants are best) and closed shoes; helmets are provided at the stable.

Where does the tour start?

The tour begins at a traditional stable in Megalochori village on Santorini island.

Are children allowed on this sunset horse ride?

Yes, but children should be able to follow instructions; check with your guide for age recommendations.

What’s included

Your evening includes all riding equipment (helmet provided), bottled water during your journey, guidance from local riders who know every vineyard path by heart, and plenty of time to pause for photos or just take in those caldera views before heading back as night falls.