El Gouna: Desert & Sea Horse Riding With Swimming Optional

Horse riding in Egypt is common. What feels special here is the mix of desert trails and Red Sea scenery, and the fact you can go one step further with a VIP swim stop with your horse in the water. It is a calm, guided experience built around comfort, safety, and real time in the open sky.

I also like the practical side, you get a proper setup before you ride, including learning how to wash, groom, and feed your horse. And because the ride options include sunrise, sunset, and longer formats, you can match your mood: quiet morning, relaxed afternoon, or a full evening with dinner and stargazing.

One thing to watch for is expectations about location and pace. Some people have noted the stables are closer to Makadi than El Gouna, and group riding means you will not be racing or galloping. If you want maximum control over the route and speed, you may prefer a private option.

Key things I’d put on your checklist

• Desert-to-Red-Sea riding with photo stops that actually change the view
• Helmet + safety briefing plus a short driving test before you mount up
• Skill-based grouping, so beginners are not shoved into the deep end
• Sunrise breakfast only at 5:00 AM, so choose your time carefully
• Sunset ride + Oriental dinner, show, and stargazing for a full evening plan
• VIP 4-hour private ride with a Red Sea swim stop (this is the only ride that includes swimming)

Why this El Gouna horse ride feels different than a typical desert outing

This is one of those activities where the setting does half the work for you. You start near the stables, then you move through sandy valleys and desert plains, with routes that can head toward the Red Sea. The change in scenery is real, not just a quick photo turn, and it makes the 2 hours feel more like a mini journey.

I like that the experience treats horse care as part of the fun, not just a ticket to ride. Before you head out, the team covers safety and horse handling, and you are taught how to wash, groom, and feed your mount. It is a hands-on moment that makes the animal feel less like a prop and more like your partner for the ride.

The other big draw is choice. You can pick a simple 2-hour ride, build in dinner and stargazing, add quad biking, or choose the VIP format that includes swimming. That means you can plan around your energy level, your timing, and how long you want to be out of your hotel routine.

Your 3-5 hour plan, from stable prep to the last photo

Even though the horseback riding itself is often 2 hours (or 4 hours for the VIP), the total time usually runs 3 to 5 hours once you add pickup, waiting, and the wrap-up. That is normal for this kind of activity, and it is why you should plan it like a half-day block, not a quick afternoon errand.

When you arrive at the base, there is a 15-minute rest before the program starts. This is not just downtime, it helps everyone settle in, hydrate, and get ready to ride. After that, the team introduces the horses and runs through safety, including what to do and what to avoid while you are mounted.

From there, you head out on the ride route. On most options, expect desert trails with scenery changes and some photo stops. If you are doing a sunset option, the evening schedule continues after the ride, with dinner and entertainment, then stargazing later when the sky is at its best.

Riding skill levels, safety checks, and why the pace stays “human”

If you are nervous about riding, this is the kind of tour that helps you relax. Riders are grouped by skill, so beginners are matched with horses and a pace that makes sense. At the same time, experienced riders are still allowed to enjoy the ride without the group falling apart.

Before you mount, you will get safety instructions and a brief practical check. They even mention a short driving test before starting, which is their way of confirming everyone understands the basics. Helmets are provided and must be worn during the ride, and the guides are professional and attentive.

This also explains why the tour is not built for speed. One review complaint was that you cannot really ride faster because it would split the group. That can be a downside if you want an adrenaline ride. But if you want smooth control, safer spacing, and a calmer experience that does not feel chaotic, that slower pacing is a feature.

Desert trails and Red Sea views: what to expect on the ground

The route can vary based on the time you go and local conditions, but the “shape” of the experience is consistent. You ride through sandy valleys and desert plains, and in some routes you head toward the Red Sea. That means you may start with dry, open desert views, then gradually feel the air change as you approach the coastline.

Photo stops are built in, so you are not expected to hold up a camera every time the view turns perfect. The guides manage the flow, and that is especially helpful for first-timers who do not want to fight the horse and the phone at the same time.

Weather and wind matter. They suggest sunglasses and a sun hat, and on windy days longer clothing can help protect you from sand. That is worth taking seriously because the desert can feel dry and dusty even when the ride is calm.

Sunrise, afternoon, or sunset: picking the mood that fits you

Your start time can completely change the vibe. The tour offers multiple departure windows, including sunrise, morning, afternoon, and sunset options. Each one carries its own atmosphere and included extras.

Sunrise rides are the quietest, and they include an Oriental breakfast only on the 5:00 AM option. If breakfast is part of your plan, do not assume it comes with every time slot. The breakfast is a big reason to choose that early departure, and it pairs well with cooler desert temperatures.

Afternoon rides tend to feel softer, with warmer light and a more relaxed mood in the desert. It is a good option if you want the scenery but do not want to wake up at sunrise.

Sunset rides are the full evening experience. You ride at sunset, then the program continues with Oriental dinner, a live performance, and stargazing under the desert sky. If you want a “two-part night out” without having to organize separate plans, this is the cleanest way to do it. It is also ideal if you are traveling with someone who likes shows and atmosphere, not just the ride itself.

Quad + horse, plus combo options that use your time well

If you are the type who hates idle time, the combo format can be a strong value play. The 1H quad + 1H horse option gives you an hour on quad bikes, then you switch to horseback riding. It is scheduled in the cooler morning hours, which helps with comfort.

This is also a good option if you want a bit more action but still want the scenic calm of riding afterward. One review mentioned two activities being brilliant, which fits the idea that the combo keeps the excitement going without making the day feel too short.

The tradeoff is simple: you are adding another activity, so you should be honest about what you want most. If you care most about the horses and the desert quiet, stick to the horse-only options. If you want variety, the combo is a smart compromise.

VIP 4-hour swim stop with your horse in the Red Sea

This is the headline feature. The VIP 4-hour private ride is the only option that includes a swim stop, and it is described as a chance to swim with your horse in the Red Sea. If that is your bucket-list item, this is the one to choose, because the standard 2-hour options do not include swimming.

Why it is worth paying attention to: swimming adds time, effort, and changing conditions. You will want to be ready with swimwear and expect the schedule to feel more “adventure” than “just a ride.” If you like water, this can turn a scenic horseback ride into something you remember for years.

Also note the rider requirements. Pregnant women are not permitted, and there are limits on people with back problems, mobility impairments, wheelchair users, and riders over 243 lbs (110 kg). The swim component makes those safety rules extra important.

Practical stuff that makes or breaks the day

The experience is designed to be straightforward, but small details matter.

First, think about transfers. You can choose shared hotel pickup and drop-off, or you can select an entry ticket only and arrive independently. Pickup timing is described as roughly 25 to 30 minutes from Makadi Bay or Sahl Hasheesh, 40 to 45 minutes from central Hurghada, and up to an hour from areas including El Gouna, Soma Bay, Safaga, or Al Ahyaa. Exact pickup times are sent the day before, so you will want to check your message and keep your phone ready.

Second, know the meeting point behavior. The guide waits at the entrance and greets you by name. If you have trouble finding the group, you can contact the team by WhatsApp or phone for quick help. This is worth doing in advance by having the correct phone number connected to WhatsApp.

Third, pack for heat and comfort. Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. If you are doing the VIP swim, bring swimwear. The tour also says no luggage or large bags, no jewelry, no pets, and no smoking in the vehicle, plus no alcohol or drugs.

Finally, wear the helmet. It is provided and must be worn throughout the ride. This is one place where you should not negotiate, even if helmets feel awkward in the desert sun.

Value at about $26: what you actually get for your money

At around $26 per person, the price can feel like a bargain for what is included. You are getting a guided 2-hour horseback ride (or a longer VIP option), a safety briefing, helmet and safety equipment, and access to desert and seaside trails with photo stops. The guide is professional, and the group is small and tailored to riding level.

The real value comes from the mix of “you ride” plus “you get guided care.” Learning how to wash, groom, and feed your horse is not something you always see in basic riding experiences. If you enjoy animals, that part makes the activity feel more meaningful than a quick mount-and-go.

Where the value can shift is in the option choice. If you pick the sunset or stargazing format, you are also paying for dinner, a live performance, and the evening atmosphere. If you choose the VIP swim, you are paying for privacy and extra time. In that case, it may be better for couples or friends who want more control and less waiting around with a group.

One balanced warning from experience: if the stables location matters to you, do not assume it is right inside El Gouna. Some people reported the riding base felt closer to Makadi. If you care about minimizing time in the car, ask your operator where the stable entrance is relative to your hotel area and plan accordingly.

Who should book this, and who should skip it

This is a great fit if you want an authentic-feeling day outdoors without complicated planning. You like guided tours that take safety seriously, but you still want freedom to enjoy the scenery and take photos without stress.

It also fits beginner riders. The horses are trained for all levels, and the guides keep an eye on you. One review even highlighted how easy it was for someone who had never ridden before.

Skip it if you fall into the explicit “not suitable” group. Pregnant women are not permitted. People with back problems, mobility impairments, wheelchair users, and riders over 243 lbs (110 kg) should not book. If any of these apply, you will be better off choosing a different activity that matches your needs.

Also be honest about group pace. This is a guided ride, not a performance. If you want a fast, high-energy riding session, this tour is more about calm control and scenic riding than speed.

Should you book? My decision guide

Book it if you want a guided horseback ride that includes thoughtful safety, a real desert setting, and the chance to add Red Sea moments. If sunset with dinner, show, and stargazing sounds appealing, you get a complete evening in one go. If you are craving a true extra thrill, the VIP swim option is the standout choice.

Think twice if you are extremely photo-focused or expecting a specific route. One critical review raised concerns about photos, so use the pictures as a hint, not a promise. If you care about whether you will reach the sea area, ask your operator what the route usually looks like for your exact time slot.

Finally, if your priority is flexibility and personal attention, consider moving up to a private option sooner rather than later. A small-group ride can still feel satisfying, and some people loved riding with just two. But if you want the maximum chance of customizing your pace and time, VIP/private is where your money tends to work harder.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding, and how long is the full activity?

The horseback riding portion is typically 2 hours for the standard options, and 4 hours for the VIP option. The overall experience time is listed as 3 to 5 hours to account for pickup, prep, and the full program.

Is swimming included?

Swimming with your horse in the Red Sea is included only with the VIP 4-hour horse riding option. The shorter 2-hour options do not include swimming.

Does the sunrise option include breakfast?

Yes. Oriental breakfast is only included with the sunrise ride, and the breakfast is linked to the 5:00 AM departure.

What is included with the sunset ride option?

The sunset ride continues with Oriental dinner, a live performance, and stargazing in the desert.

Do I need my own transfer to get to the stables?

No. You can choose shared hotel pickup and drop-off, or select entry-only and arrive independently.

Are helmets provided?

Yes. Helmets and safety equipment are provided and must be worn throughout the ride.

What should I bring?

Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes. For the VIP option, also bring swimwear.

Who can’t participate?

Pregnant women cannot participate. The activity is also not suitable for people with back problems, people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, and people over 243 lbs (110 kg).