Horse Riding in Egypt
Riding in Egypt offers a true horseback adventure, with historic temples, and famous landmarks such as the Red Sea and the River Nile. This unique horse riding destination allows you to explore Egypt’s famous historic sites. Visit the site of the ancient Thebes, and the Royal Tombs of the Valley of the Kings, while enjoying some great hours riding along ancient trails.
Experience epic gallops through the desert, with the wind in your hair and sand getting stuck in your teeth as you can’t help but grin as you speed through the undulating landscape. Take your horse swimming in the turquoise waters before a delicious local lunch spread, and then later take yourself swimming with wild dolphins that roam the Red Sea! Our most common horse riding holiday in Egypt is the 7-night option below. However, we can create tailor-made trips, such as to include Cairo and the world-famous Pyramids of Giza.
Egypt’s geography, wildlife and climate
Once the Ancient Egyptian capital, Luxor is now known as the world’s greatest open-air museum with monuments that have survived from ancient Thebes-era. The setting for this horse riding adventure is spectacular. In the land of the Pharaohs, you can discover the temples of Karanak, Luxor and Deir al-Bahri as well as tomb of Tutankhamen in the sacred Valley of the Kings. Envision yourself as an intrepid horseback explorer as you ride through traditional Bedouin Villages, along the banks of the Nile and across the immense desert landscape.
Just 40km south of Hurghada, Egypt’s oldest and most famous resort city, you will find the beautiful Makadi Bay. On the outskirts of town, lies the windswept Sahara Desert complete with camel trains and traditional Bedouin tribes – A great place for a gallop! The area is famous for its everlasting beaches and turquoise waters. If you’re more Robinson Crusoe than Lawrence of Arabia, the crystal-clear sea and coral gardens will provide endless wonder. Here you can explore both sand and sea on horseback, exploring the endless desert trails and sun-drenched beaches before a well-deserved splash with your Arabian horses.
The weather in Egypt can get hot, so horseback riding to the early mornings and late afternoons, allowing for a relaxing siesta or refreshing swim during the mid day heat.
Cairo add-on to your Egypt horseback adventure
It is possible to add-on the world-famous pyramids with a visit to Cairo at the beginning or end of your trip. A stay in Cairo allows you to take in the sights and sounds of Egypt’s bustling capital city. A visit to the world famous Egyptian museum is a must. Then saddle-up and ride passed the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx – A once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Egypt’s Culture
Egypt is overflowing with vibrant and fascinating culture. On your riding holiday explore not only Egypt’s historic culture, traditions and food, but also gain insight into modern-day living. Today Egypt is a melting pot of multiple cultures, ethnicities and traditions.
There is a liberal ambiance which you will experience through their extremely friendly and hospitable behaviour towards foreigners and tourists. Egyptian’s love to show-off their country and will always share their services and enthusiasm with you.
accommodation on your Egypt riding holiday
A trip to Egypt is more than just a riding adventure. You step off the plane as a guest, but you will soon be welcomed into the family. For a really personal experience, you can choose to do a home-stay in Luxor with beautiful views of the Valley of the Kings from the roof terrace. It is here you will prep for your horse ride in the mornings with a delicious breakfast, and where you wind down with a glass of wine after a day in the saddle.
If home-staying is not your cup of tea, then there is also the option of staying at a local B&B for the base of your horse safari. You will enjoy a menu of traditional home cooked food and feast on local delights such as dates, koftas and baklava.
In Hurghada stay in 3* to 5* hotels. They tend to be more touristy but all offer great opportunities to explore the nearby beaches, restaurants and shopping.
FAQs
How safe is Egypt?
From the minute you step of the plane in Egypt you will have 24 hour support throughout your adventure. Emma, who runs these rides and is from the UK, has been living, travelling and working there for over 10 years and knows the country inside out. The main tourist areas are no more dangerous than popular places you might visit in the US or Europe.
What to wear in Egypt?
While most locals follow the strict Muslim dress code, it is not reqired for tourists. Dressing conservatively is a way to show your respect to their culture, so we recommend long loose-fitting pants and shirts that cover the shoulders when not riding. Ladies can bring a scarf to cover their hair when visiting mosques or churches, and men should avoid shorts when not at the beach.
When is the best time for a horse trail in Egypt?
Egypt can be incredibly hot in summer, so horse riding holidays run in the cooler months from October to May.
Can I see the pyramids on horseback?
Visiting the 7th Wonder of the World, the Giza Pyramids by horseback, should be on every horse riders bucket list! We suggest adding an extra 3 days to your trip, and beginning your horse riding adventure in Egypt with an exhilarating ride to explore these incredible tombs.
Do I need a visa to visit Egypt?
For the vast majority of visitors to Egypt, including visitors from Europe, Australia, Canada and the United States, you can purchase your visa on arrival. It is best to pay in cash and make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months after travel. Visa’s can also be purchased online through Egypt’s Visa e-portal and it is best to double-check your visa requirements before travelling.
