Horseback Riding on the Beach and in the Desert

There are few experiences as romantic as riding a horse along an empty shoreline at golden hour, hooves splashing in the shallows, or trotting out into the vast desert as the sun sinks. On the Red Sea coast, horseback riding offers exactly this — a beautiful, soulful way to experience the landscape that suits everyone from nervous first-timers to confident riders. Here's what to expect and how to do it well and ethically.

The short answer: horseback riding on the Red Sea takes you along beaches and into the desert, often at sunset, with options for all levels. Choose an ethical, reputable stable that treats its horses well, and you'll have a magical, memorable ride.

What the experience offers

Horseback riding here comes in two beautiful flavours, often combined:

• Beach riding — following the shoreline, sometimes splashing through the shallows, with the sea on one side and the open sky above. Especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
• Desert riding — trotting out into the Eastern Desert landscape, experiencing the vast, quiet terrain from the back of a horse.

Many rides combine both, and sunset rides are particularly popular for the golden light and romance. It's a peaceful, scenic, and emotionally memorable way to take in the coast and desert.

Who it's for

Horseback riding suits a wide range of people:

• Beginners and nervous riders — many stables offer gentle, guided rides on calm horses, suitable for those who've never ridden, often led at a walk.
• Experienced riders — some operators cater to confident riders wanting a more active ride (trotting, cantering) in the open.
• Couples — sunset beach rides are wonderfully romantic.
• Families — gentle rides and pony options may suit children (check age and suitability).

Tell the operator your experience level so they match the horse and ride to you.

The crucial point: choose an ethical stable

This is the most important part. Sadly, animal welfare standards vary, and some operations don't treat their horses well. Choosing an ethical, reputable stable is essential — both for the welfare of the animals and for your conscience and safety. Look for:

• Healthy, well-cared-for horses — a good weight, clean, calm, and not overworked or in poor condition.
• Good reviews specifically mentioning animal welfare.
• Reasonable ride lengths and rest for the horses, especially in heat.
• Proper tack and safety — well-fitted equipment and helmets.
• Knowledgeable, caring staff who clearly look after the animals.

If horses look thin, sore, exhausted, or poorly treated, do not ride — walk away and choose elsewhere. Your custom rewards good operators and discourages bad ones.

Safety and comfort

• Wear a helmet (insist on one) and appropriate clothing — long trousers and closed shoes.
• Tell the operator your experience level honestly so they match the horse and ride.
• Listen to the briefing on handling the horse and basic control.
• Ride within your comfort — don't let anyone push you faster than you're happy with.
• Protect against the sun — sunscreen, sunglasses, and a layer; rides are exposed.
• Avoid the hottest part of the day for your comfort and the horse's welfare — sunrise and sunset are ideal.
• Stay hydrated.

Practical tips

Choose a stable with strong animal-welfare standards and good reviews. Ride at sunrise or sunset for the best light and cooler temperatures (kinder to the horses). Wear a helmet, long trousers, and closed shoes. Be honest about your riding ability. Bring sun protection and small cash for tips. And don't ride if the horses appear poorly treated — vote with your feet for ethical operators.

Horseback riding along the Red Sea's beaches and into its deserts is one of the coast's most beautiful and romantic experiences — peaceful, scenic, and suitable for all levels. Choose an ethical stable that cares for its horses, ride in the golden light of sunset, and you'll carry the memory of hooves on the shoreline long after the holiday ends.

Dreaming of a sunset beach ride? Find horseback riding with ethical, reputable stables on packnplan, and experience the Red Sea coast from the back of a well-cared-for horse.