A desert ride beats beach time fast. This experience takes place in the cooler evening hours, then guides you through Sharm el Sheikh’s desert on well-schooled horses—with a stop in a Bedouin village for a breather, Egyptian tea, and optional shisha.

I also like the fact that the group is kept small (up to 15), so you actually get attention from the guide. The one drawback to keep in mind: it’s weather-dependent, so if conditions are poor you may need to switch dates.

The real point here is perspective. From horseback, the desert feels bigger and quieter than it does on foot, and the village pause breaks up the ride without turning it into a long, dragged-out excursion.

Key things to know before you go

• Small group size (max 15) for closer guide attention and a calmer pace
• Evening timing for more comfortable riding in Sharm el Sheikh
• Well-trained, “schooled” horses matched to your riding level
• Bedouin village break with Egyptian tea and cultural time to slow down
• Optional shisha if you want the full desert experience
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Hurghada plus a mobile ticket for less hassle

Why Ride the Sharm Desert Instead of Staying Beachside

If your Sharm el Sheikh plans revolve around sand, salt air, and hotel pools, this ride changes the whole mood. Horseback travel puts you above the usual route and into a slower rhythm—hoofbeats, open space, and wide desert views that feel different even after the first 10 minutes.

What makes it appealing is how the day’s heat is handled. This is an evening activity in the cooler hours, which usually means less sweat, fewer red faces, and more comfort for both riders and horses.

And yes, it’s a ride, not a photo-op sprint. The experience is built around the time you spend on horseback and the calm village stop afterward.

Hurghada Pickup and the Evening Flow (What Your Timing Looks Like)

One of the biggest convenience wins is the hotel pickup and drop-off from Hurghada. If you’re already based in Hurghada, that means less stress than figuring out transport on your own.

The total outing is about 2 to 3 hours, so it fits neatly into an evening without eating your whole day. Most people find it hits the sweet spot: enough time for a real desert experience, but not so long that you’re exhausted before you even get back to your room.

You’ll want to plan for a relaxed start. Even with pickup organized, desert activities run on practical timing: horses need to be prepared, riders get matched, and the guide does quick safety checks before moving out.

The Horses and Guide: Control, Not Chaos

Horse riding in the desert can go one of two ways: either it’s a smooth, guided experience—or it turns into pure scrambling. Here, the selling point is that the horses are described as well schooled and well looked after, and the guide is experienced with riding.

In plain terms, that matters for your ride comfort. A trained horse takes cues better, stands more predictably, and gives you a steadier experience while you learn or settle in.

Also, the operator assigns horses based on experience level. So if you’re newer, you’re not just handed the “wild card” and told good luck. And if you’re more confident, you may still feel a little adrenaline—one rider described a fast, intense, unforgettable moment on a special horse. Translation: this isn’t “tractor pace” riding for everyone.

Riding Through Sharm’s Desert: The Real Experience on Horseback

Once you set off into the desert, you’ll be moving through open space that feels far from the resort scene. The big value here is the vantage point: you don’t just see the desert—you’re part of it, moving at a horse’s pace.

The ride itself is guided, so you’re not trying to interpret desert directions or worry about where the route goes. Your energy can stay on balancing, enjoying the view, and listening to the guide’s instructions.

A practical note: your “comfort level” will depend on two things—how you handle mounting and how your horse’s pace fits you. If you’re prone to feeling tense, try to relax your upper body and keep your grip steady. That reduces rider strain and helps your horse feel you’re calm.

The Bedouin Village Stop: Tea, Culture, and a Breather

The desert ride includes a break in a Bedouin village. This is not just a quick stop to grab a snack and move on. It’s a chance to slow down, reset, and get a taste of local life—at least in the form the hosts share during your visit.

You’ll be offered Egyptian tea, which is one of those simple touches that makes the experience feel human instead of strictly “activity-based.” You’re not only riding; you’re also being welcomed into a moment of local hospitality.

This break is also useful for riders. You get time to stretch legs, adjust your grip, and re-center yourself before getting back on the horse. For many people, this is the part that turns a ride into an actual evening outing.

Shisha, Optional but Very On-Theme

Some tours stop at tea. This one adds another layer: you have the chance to try shisha if you wish.

If you’re curious, it can be a fun cultural extra and part of the Bedouin village atmosphere. If you don’t want it, you can likely skip it and still get the village break and tea.

The key is to think of shisha as optional texture, not the main event. The main event is the riding and the desert-to-village shift in scenery and pace.

Small Group Size (Max 15) and Why It Matters

The group cap is 15 people, which changes the vibe immediately. In a smaller group, the guide can spend more time making sure riders are matched properly and understand what to do.

It also helps keep the ride from becoming a line of slow riders stretching into the distance. You get closer attention and less waiting around.

If you hate feeling like one number in a long chain, this small size is one of the reasons the experience scores well. It’s easier to ask questions, easier to get help, and easier to stay calm when you’re learning the basics.

Cost and Value: Why $21.64 Can Be a Fair Deal

The price is $21.64 per person, which is extremely reasonable when you factor in what’s included. You’re not just paying for time in the saddle. You’re also paying for pickup and drop-off from Hurghada, guided riding, and the village stop that includes Egyptian tea.

You also get the benefit of trained horses and group management. That kind of organization costs money, and cheap rides that skip horse care or basic safety tend to feel rough fast.

For value, I’d ask myself one question: Is it a ride that saves me hassle? Here, pickup logistics and a mobile ticket reduce the mental load. That matters because in places like Sharm and the surrounding region, a little planning goes a long way.

Price tip: because it’s popular and often booked around a month in advance, it’s smart to lock in your date sooner rather than later—especially if you want an evening that fits your schedule.

Who This Horse Ride Suits Best (And Who Should Reconsider)

This is a good fit if you:

• Want a break from beach-only days in Sharm el Sheikh
• Like guided experiences but don’t want a huge crowd
• Prefer evening activities with more comfortable temperatures
• Feel more confident when horses are calm and well trained

It may not be ideal if you:

• Have strong weather sensitivity. The experience needs good weather, and plans can change if conditions aren’t right.
• Want guaranteed total privacy by default. This is capped at 15, though you can find options through the provider if you ask.

One more angle: if you’re a first-time rider, you’ll probably appreciate that horses are matched by experience level. That simple detail can make the difference between nervous and comfortable.

What to Bring for Desert Riding Comfort

The desert can be more demanding than you expect. Even at cooler evening hours, you’ll want to dress smart.

Bring:

• Closed-toe shoes for secure footing when you handle your horse
• A light layer for the ride. Evenings can shift in temperature.
• A small towel or wipes. Horses + desert dust is a real combo.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen if the sun lingers in your schedule

Also, keep your expectations realistic. You’re riding outside. Dust and minor mess are part of the deal.

If you’re thinking about the shisha option, consider how you’ll feel afterward. If you’re sensitive to smoke, it’s easy enough to skip.

Booking, Provider Style, and Communication That Helps

The provider listed is EgyptLand Excursions, and the experience includes a mobile ticket plus confirmation at the time of booking.

One practical advantage from past riders: communication can be easy. At least one rider shared wishes and coordinated smoothly via WhatsApp, including arranging a private setup. So if you have preferences—like pacing, comfort needs, or special requests—it’s worth reaching out before you go.

For best results, message early enough that they can match you with the right horse and plan the village stop smoothly.

Should You Book This Horse Ride in Sharm el Sheikh Desert?

If you want an authentic-feeling desert evening without the hassle of sorting out transport, this is a strong option. The combination of trained horses, an experienced guide, and a village break with tea makes it more than just “sit on a horse and go.”

Book it if you value comfort, clear guidance, and a time frame that won’t ruin your day. Skip it if your plans are inflexible around weather or if you need full privacy with no group component.

My take: for the money, this is a very sensible way to see the desert. It gives you views, movement, and a human pause in the Bedouin village—without turning the trip into a long endurance test.

FAQ

How long is the horse riding experience in the Sharm el Sheikh desert?

It runs about 2 to 3 hours.

Where does pickup and drop-off happen?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are offered from Hurghada.

What group size should I expect?

The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers.

What’s included during the stop in the Bedouin village?

You get a break in the village, including Egyptian tea, and you can try shisha if you want.

Are the horses suitable for beginners?

Most travelers can participate, and horses are assigned based on experience level.

Is there a mobile ticket?

Yes, this experience uses a mobile ticket.

How much does it cost?

It costs $21.64 per person.

When will I receive confirmation?

Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount paid isn’t refunded.