You can trade the resort pool for hoofbeats. This Sharm El Sheikh ride takes you along the sea or desert (your choice) with guides, safety gear, and hotel pickup.

What I like most: you get paired with a horse that matches your comfort level, and the guides tend to keep things calm and fun—so beginners don’t feel lost. One thing to keep in mind: a small number of people report timing hiccups and photo/presentation pressure, so plan to stay flexible.

I also love that this isn’t a big, chaotic operation. Groups are capped (up to 15 people), you’ll have helmet and safety support, and you can often spot the “good” setup details like getting help for mounting (some horses come with benches for easier getting on).

If you’re coming with a nervous friend or a mixed-skill group, this style of guiding can work well.

Possible drawback: the experience can feel less like a rough-and-remote adventure than the photos suggest, especially if you’re expecting totally quiet, far-off desert. Also, don’t assume photo services are included for free—some people felt the selling and delivery process wasn’t smooth, so check before you pay.

Key things to know before you saddle up

• Hotel pickup and drop included in Sharm El Sheikh
• Sea or desert ride for about 2 hours total
• Safety gear and helmet provided, plus guide support on the trail
• Max rider weight 150 kg and a group size capped at 15
• Photo packages cost extra and can be pushed at the site, so ask questions up front
• Government fees: 5 euro per person are not included

Getting picked up in Sharm El Sheikh: what “transfer included” really means

This is one of those tours where logistics matter more than people expect. You’re picked up from your Sharm hotel area and returned there after your ride. That matters because you don’t want to spend your limited vacation time hunting for the equestrian center.

Timing is usually straightforward, but a couple of reports mention late pickup or the ride starting later than expected. My advice: don’t schedule anything tight right after. Give yourself a buffer, especially if you have dinner reservations or a late-night flight. Even with a short 2-hour experience, delays can shrink the time you’re actually on horseback.

Also, you’ll get a mobile ticket. That’s convenient, but I always suggest having the ticket accessible offline (in airplane mode situations, Wi‑Fi can be spotty).

Sea ride vs desert ride: choosing the mood you want

The listing-style choice is simple: horse riding by sea or in the desert. In practice, the big difference is the vibe.

Sea option: coastal sand and water wading

When the ride goes toward the coast, it’s often described as a protected area near the sea. You may see horses wade into the water at low levels. Some riders mention going into the water more, if you want it, so your comfort level should guide how far you go.

Desert option: “desert” with roads and activity nearby

The desert version is still a real desert-ish ride, but there are hints that it’s not mountains-in-the-distance remote. If you’re picturing a totally empty, far-off wilderness, adjust expectations. You may notice other activity nearby, like quad bikes around the area.

The good news: even if the setting isn’t silent solitude, the feeling of riding still wins. Hooves in sand change your whole rhythm. And you’ll get a fresh angle on Sharm beyond the usual viewpoints and beach loungers.

Meet your horse and guide: how the experience stays beginner-friendly

You arrive at an equestrian center, then you’re paired with a proficient horse for your skill level. The key word here is pairing. This is not just “hop on and hope.” Your guide helps you match your comfort to the horse.

A couple of named guides show up in the feedback: Mustafa and Muhammed are mentioned for being helpful, patient, and supportive. That’s not a guarantee, but it’s a useful signal: the guiding style tends to focus on control and reassurance, not just speed.

If you’re a beginner, watch for the way the guide works with your group:

• Often, a less-experienced rider stays with more direct guidance.
• More confident riders may be allowed to trot sooner, depending on how the group settles.

If you’re intermediate and your partner is nervous, this setup can be a relief. You’re not forced into the same pace or the same riding plan.

On the trail: pace changes, water moments, and how it feels

This trip is designed for fun rather than training. That means you’ll likely spend your time on a mix of steady riding and short pace changes, with the guide ready to adjust based on rider comfort.

If you want speed, ask for it

Some riders describe getting the chance to go faster when the guide gives the command and keeps an eye on everyone. That’s the sweet spot: controlled excitement, not chaotic racing.

If you’re worried about water: start small

For sea rides, you might be told what depth you’ll reach (often low water). If that sounds perfect, you’re good to go. If you’re uncertain, ask to begin at a comfortable depth and move up only if it feels right.

Mounting help and rider comfort

You may find there are practical supports for getting on—some reports mention benches. That matters if you’re larger, or if you just don’t want to wrestle with the saddle at awkward angles. Also, no stables in the classic “horse barn” sense is mentioned—horses may be waiting at a spot ready to go, so expect a more straightforward, go-time setup.

Gear and safety: what’s provided and what you still need

The tour includes safety equipment and a helmet, plus guide assistance. That’s a strong foundation, especially for first-timers.

Still, you should dress for real outdoor riding:

• Wear sturdy shoes or trainers. Some riders specifically mention trainers plus jeans.
• Bring insect repellent. In coastal desert-adjacent areas, bugs can be intense.
• Bring a small drink. Some people say it’s helpful to have water on hand.

Weather plays a role too. If it’s hot, horses can look tired and warm, and the ride can feel longer. Plan your timing for when the sun is kinder if you can.

One more safety note: a very small number of people mention feeling unsafe. You can’t “prove” anything from a distance, but you can reduce risk:

• Tell the guide you’re nervous at the start.
• Ask what pace to expect.
• If something feels off, speak up immediately before you head out.

Photos, water, and the extra costs that can surprise you

Let’s talk photos, because this is where expectations often clash.

Some riders love photo moments by the sea and say photo results can be excellent. Others report feeling hit with persistent selling or not getting photos they paid for, including cases of paying extra and not receiving what was promised. There’s also a mention of a paid photo package being pushed repeatedly.

So here’s the practical approach:

• Ask what photos cost before agreeing.
• Ask how you receive them (right away vs later download).
• If you want your own photos, bring your phone/camera and take them right away when you’re most comfortable.

If you’re the type who hates sales pressure, you’ll still get great memories just by doing your own quick photo run at safe stops. And if you do want the professional shots, treat it like a transaction: clear price, clear delivery.

Price and value: the $7 feeling vs the real total

The published price is $7 per person, which is unusually low for a transfer plus guided horseback riding. The catch: government fees are not included, listed as five euro per person.

So your rough idea of the real cost should include:

• the tour price
• the government fee (5 euro)

Even after that, the value is often strong if you truly get the full ride time and a calm, supportive guide. Where value can slip is when timing gets messy or the experience turns into a shorter ride than expected. So your best “value move” is to show up ready, confirm pickup time expectations the day before (through your organizer), and keep your schedule loose.

Also, group size matters. With a maximum of 15, you’re more likely to get attention and pacing choices than on a huge cattle-call operation.

Who should book this horseback ride (and who should rethink it)

This tour tends to suit:

• Beginners who want a guided experience with helmet/safety support
• Mixed groups (a nervous rider + a confident rider) if you communicate your comfort
• People who want a short, easy-to-plan 2-hour outdoor break from Sharm routines

It might not be the best fit if:

• You want totally remote desert silence and no nearby activity at all
• You’re extremely photo-sensitive and hate any pressure around add-ons
• You’re very concerned about water depth and want guaranteed deep-water wading (depth levels aren’t guaranteed in the data; low water is mentioned)

If you’re a heavier rider, note the maximum weight of 150 kg. That’s clear and helps you plan.

Practical packing checklist (so your ride feels easy)

Bring:

• Jeans (or comfortable long pants)
• Trainers or closed shoes
• Insect repellent
• A drink
• Your own phone for quick photos

Also, consider wearing:

• Light layers if it’s warm
• Something that won’t snag on tack

If you’re thinking about photos-on-top, decide your budget ahead of time. It’s easier to say yes or no once you’re not dealing with excitement and adrenaline.

A quick reality check on expectations

A few elements are consistent: hotel pickup/drop, guided horseback time, and safety gear. The biggest variables seem to be:

• ride timing (sometimes shorter if logistics drift)
• photo add-ons (sometimes smooth, sometimes not)
• setting intensity (sea can be calm and scenic; desert can be less remote than expected)

When you treat it like a guided adventure with a friendly chance of surprises, you’ll enjoy it more. When you treat it like a guaranteed “perfect storyboard,” you might feel let down.

Should you book Horse Riding Beach or Desert with transfer from Sharm El Sheikh?

If you want a low-stress, guided horseback experience in Sharm with hotel transfer and safety gear, it’s a solid pick—especially for beginners and mixed-skill groups. The overall rating is strong, and the repeated praise for patience and guide support is exactly what matters when you’re on a horse for the first time.

Book it if:

• you’re flexible on timing
• you can communicate comfort level clearly
• you’re okay with possible photo upsells (or you plan not to buy)

Skip or rethink if:

• you’re set on totally remote desert scenery
• you absolutely need deep water guaranteed
• you hate any add-on selling and want zero pressure

If you do book, do one thing that pays off fast: ask about photo costs and delivery at the start, and keep your schedule open for smooth pickup.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Pickup and drop service from Sharm hotels is included.

How long is the horseback riding experience?

The ride is listed as about 2 hours.

Do I get to ride on the beach or in the desert?

Both are offered: horse riding by sea or by desert. Your option depends on how the experience is run on the day.

What’s included in the tour?

Included items are horse riding (sea or desert), pickup and drop service, safety equipment, guide assistance, and a helmet.

Are government fees included in the price?

No. A government fee of five euro per person is not included.

What should I know about cancellation?

Cancellation is free. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; within 24 hours, the amount paid isn’t refunded.