From Hurghada: Makadi Bay Horse Riding Tour

Desert sand meets the Red Sea. This Makadi Bay horse ride gives you two very different Egypt views in one outing: quiet desert trails and open coastal riding, with calm horses matched to your ability. I especially like the small-group approach and the chance to ride at sunrise or sunset, when the heat is kinder and the light is at its best. I also like that you can choose a simple two-hour ride or add dinner, a show, stargazing, quad biking, or a swim with your horse.

The main consideration is timing. Hotel transfers can take up to an hour from places such as El Gouna, Soma Bay, Safaga, or Al Ahyaa, and the standard two-hour ride does not include swimming. If you want breakfast, you must choose the 5:00 AM sunrise departure. Still, at about $20 per person, this is a good-value way to step away from Hurghada’s resort routine.

Key points before you saddle up

• Ride from desert to sea: Routes pass through sand valleys, open desert, and the Red Sea shore, with photo stops along the way.
• Well-matched horses: The staff choose horses according to your riding level, and the horses are described as calm, well-trained, and cared for.
• Sunrise and sunset work best: Early morning brings cooler air and breakfast, while sunset can lead into dinner, live entertainment, and stargazing.
• Several formats are available: Pick a two-hour ride, a quad bike and horse-riding combo, or a four-hour VIP ride with a swim stop.
• Guides help nervous beginners: Guides such as Mohamed, Didi, Yusuf, Hassan, Mahmoud, and Sabir have received praise for patience and personal attention.
• Bring very little: Wear sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. Leave jewelry and large bags behind.

Starting near Makadi Bay

The experience begins either with a hotel pickup or at the riding base if you arrange your own transport. Shared pickup is included only when you select the transfer option, and the precise collection time is sent one day before the ride. You should wait in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled time, though the actual pickup may be 0 to 1 hour before the selected start.

That broad pickup window is worth noting. It helps the operator coordinate several hotels, but it means you should not plan another activity tightly around the ride. Transfer times are usually about 25 to 30 minutes from Makadi Bay or Sahl Hasheesh, 40 to 45 minutes from Hurghada, and as much as an hour from El Gouna, Soma Bay, Safaga, or Al Ahyaa.

Shared transport uses an air-conditioned vehicle. Private transfers are available for an extra charge, and the entry-only ticket suits you if you already have transport. At the meeting point, your guide waits at the entrance and greets you by name. If the base is hard to find, WhatsApp or phone support is available.

A 15-minute rest period comes before the ride. This is useful after an early hotel pickup and gives you time to use the facilities, adjust clothing, and get ready without being rushed. Toilets are available at the site, and drinks and face scarves can be bought there. One rider paid 50 Egyptian pounds for bottled water and 200 Egyptian pounds for a basic face scarf, with more expensive scarf options also available.

Getting comfortable with the horses

Before setting off, you receive a safety briefing and an introduction to your horse. Helmets and safety equipment are available and helmets must be worn throughout the ride. The team also carries out a short riding test, then groups people according to ability.

That matching process is one of the strongest parts of the experience. Beginners are not simply placed on the first available horse. The horse is chosen for your confidence and skill, while more experienced riders may receive a little more freedom once the guides understand what they can handle.

This is a guided ride, not a racing session. The pace is generally relaxed, and professional guides stay with the group. One account describes a sunset group of eight or nine people with mixed ability. Two guides supported the group, with one on horseback and another on foot staying near the less confident riders. An experienced rider was tested up to a canter, while a less experienced companion received a calmer level of support.

That example gives you a useful picture of how the ride can work. If you are nervous, say so clearly at the start. The team has helped people who were afraid of horses, and guides including Hassan, Mahmoud, Sabir, and Didi have been praised for patience. Families with children have also received positive comments about the instruction and care given during the ride.

Two hours through desert and coast

The standard ride lasts two hours. Depending on your selected route and time, you may pass through sand valleys, open plains, and the coastline. The scenery changes from bare desert silence to the broad, bright Red Sea, which gives the ride more variety than a simple track around a stable.

The desert section is about space and stillness. You get a clear sense of the dry surroundings, with the horse’s rhythm providing the main sound. On windy days, sand can blow across the trail, so long clothing is helpful. Sunglasses are not just for comfort. They also protect your eyes from glare and dust.

The coastal part is the visual reward. Several riders have enjoyed riding along the beach and through shallow water, although a standard two-hour booking does not promise a swim stop. One morning ride was praised for its route along the beach and through the shallows, while another described going from desert to sea before returning as the sun lowered.

Photo stops are built into the ride. The guides and staff may take photographs and videos, which can be a real advantage if you want memories without trying to manage your phone from the saddle. Mohamed, also called Didi, has received particular praise for taking photos and videos while keeping the ride personal.

Do not expect a fast horseback trek across huge distances. The appeal is the combination of scenery, horse time, and a gentle outing. If you want speed or technical riding, this may feel too controlled. If you want to enjoy a horse without pressure, that controlled pace is a benefit.

Choose sunrise for cool air and breakfast

The 5:00 AM sunrise departure is the best choice if you dislike heat or want a quieter start. You ride as the sky brightens, when desert temperatures are more comfortable and the light changes quickly. The Oriental breakfast is included only with this early departure, so choosing a later morning slot does not provide the same meal.

A sunrise ride also works well for families. One mother described the early outing with her daughters as a memorable experience, with Yusuf receiving special praise for making the morning comfortable. You should expect an early hotel pickup, however, and the exact collection time may arrive the day before through WhatsApp.

The breakfast detail is easy to miss. If food matters to you, check that the booking specifically says 5:00 AM sunrise. Do not assume that every morning ride includes it.

Sunset, dinner, live entertainment, and stars

Sunset gives the ride a warmer, more dramatic feel. The air is often more comfortable than in the afternoon, and the low light softens the desert and coastal scenery. You can choose a two-hour sunset ride on its own, or select the version that adds an Oriental dinner, live performance, and stargazing.

The evening program turns the outing into a longer desert experience rather than simply a ride. After the horses, you eat dinner and watch a live show before looking at the night sky. The dinner has received strong praise, including from someone who went back for a second helping, but the exact menu is not specified, so you should not book expecting a particular dish.

Sunset is a smart pick for couples, families, and anyone who wants more than a short daytime activity. The tradeoff is that you return later, and your transfer schedule can stretch depending on where you are staying.

The quad bike and horse-riding combo

The one-hour quad bike and one-hour horse ride option packs two desert activities into a cooler early morning period. You begin on the quad bikes, ride into the desert toward Makadi Bay, then return to change for the horse portion.

This format is a good choice if you want variety but do not need a long ride on horseback. One group of three beginners found the guides reassuring and the horses calm. The quad section adds noise, dust, and a more mechanical feel, while the horse section is slower and quieter.

Wear sunglasses and consider a face scarf for this option. Dust can rise during quad biking, especially in bright, open areas. The site sells scarves, but bringing suitable sun and dust protection is more convenient than buying it after arrival.

The main drawback is simple: you get only one hour on horseback. If riding is your priority, book the full two-hour horse option instead.

The VIP four-hour ride with a swim stop

The four-hour VIP option is the most distinctive choice. It includes an extended private program and the chance to swim with your horse in the Red Sea. This is the option to select if the water experience is the main reason you are interested.

The swim stop is not part of the regular two-hour ride. It is included only with the four-hour horse-riding option, so read the selected package carefully before paying. The description identifies this as a private program, which should appeal to you if you want a more personal schedule and less concern about matching a large mixed group.

This is also the most demanding version physically. Four hours on horseback can feel much longer than a two-hour ride, especially if you are new to riding. Comfortable clothes and swimwear are essential, and you should protect yourself from the sun before leaving the base.

How much value do you get for $20?

At around $20 per person, the basic two-hour ride offers solid value if hotel transport is included in your chosen package. You receive a guide, safety briefing, horse introduction, helmet access, desert and seaside riding, and photo stops. That is a lot of scenery and support for a modest price.

The base price does not cover every version of the experience. Private transfers, a private guide, dinner, breakfast, quad biking, and the VIP swim option depend on the package you select. Personal expenses are also separate. Compare the final price rather than assuming that the advertised figure includes every extra.

The strongest value comes from choosing the option that fits your goal. The entry-only ticket can save money if you are already nearby and can arrange transport. Shared transfers make more sense from the main resort areas. A private transfer costs more, but it may be worthwhile if you value convenience or have a small private group.

At this price, you should think of the ride as an accessible introduction to desert and coastal scenery, not a full equestrian holiday. The horses are selected for ability, the guides offer support, and the setting gives you more than an enclosed riding circuit.

What the guides and horses add

The human side matters here. Many of the strongest comments focus on guides rather than scenery alone. Mohamed, known as Didi, has been praised for friendly guidance and excellent photographs. Yusuf helped make a sunrise ride comfortable for a family, while Hassan was singled out for supporting nervous riders and allowing more confident riders to canter when suitable.

Mahmoud and Sabir have also been praised for kindness and patience, especially by someone who overcame a fear of horses during the ride. Those details suggest that the staff pay attention to confidence, not only riding ability.

The horses are repeatedly described as calm, obedient, well-trained, and well cared for. One experienced rider specifically noted that the horses listened closely to the guide. That does not remove the normal risks of horseback riding, but it is reassuring if you have limited experience.

You should still tell the staff about your ability honestly. Saying you can ride when you are only comfortable at a walk may result in a less suitable match. The team can help most when it knows what you really need.

What to bring and what to leave behind

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes that allow easy movement. Add sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate layers. On windy days, long sleeves and trousers help protect you from blowing sand.

Bring swimwear only if you select an option with water access, especially the four-hour VIP ride. Leave large bags, luggage, jewelry, and valuables at the hotel. Pets are not allowed, and smoking is not permitted in the vehicle. Alcohol and drugs are prohibited.

The 243-pound, or 110-kilogram, weight limit applies, and the activity is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. These restrictions are important because mounting, riding, and dismounting require physical movement and balance.

The activity is offered with an English-speaking guide. If you need another language, the available information does not promise it, so confirm before booking.

Who should book this ride?

I would recommend it to you if you want a gentle outdoor activity with strong scenery and clear support for beginners. It also suits families with older children who can follow instructions, couples looking for a sunset outing, and confident riders who want the option of a canter within a supervised setting.

The sunrise version is best for cool temperatures and breakfast. Sunset works well if you want dinner, a show, and stargazing. The quad combination suits anyone who wants two different activities in one morning, while the VIP option is for people who specifically want a private four-hour outing and a swim with the horse.

I would think twice if you have back problems, limited mobility, are pregnant, or dislike dust, heat, and early starts. I would also skip the basic ride if swimming is your priority, since the normal two-hour option does not include a swim stop.

Should you book the Makadi Bay horse ride?

Yes, if you want an affordable, well-supported way to see the desert and Red Sea coast from horseback. The horses, ability-based grouping, helpful guides, and strong photo support give this experience more care than its low price might suggest.

Choose your timing carefully. Pick 5:00 AM for cooler air and Oriental breakfast, sunset for the best atmosphere, the combo for variety, and the four-hour VIP package for a private ride with swimming. If you make that choice clearly, this can be one of the more memorable ways to break up a Hurghada beach holiday.

FAQ

How long does the Makadi Bay horse-riding experience last?

Available options last from two to five hours, depending on the selected activity. The standard horse ride lasts two hours, the VIP horse ride lasts four hours, and dinner, entertainment, or transfer time may make the overall outing longer.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included when you choose an option with shared transfer. The entry-only ticket does not include transport, and private transfers are available for an additional fee.

How long is the transfer from Hurghada?

The transfer from Hurghada usually takes about 40 to 45 minutes. Travel time varies by hotel and traffic, and the exact pickup time is sent one day before the activity.

Is breakfast included?

Oriental breakfast is included only with the 5:00 AM sunrise departure. Later morning rides do not automatically include breakfast.

Can beginners join the horse ride?

Yes. The staff organize groups by riding ability and select horses to suit each person. Guides provide instructions, a short riding test, and support throughout the activity.

Is swimming with the horse included?

Swimming is included only with the four-hour VIP horse-riding option. It is not included in the standard two-hour ride or the quad bike and horse combination.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable shoes, comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a sun hat. Long clothing is useful on windy days because it helps protect you from sand. Bring swimwear for an option that includes swimming.

Are helmets provided?

Yes. Helmets and safety equipment are available, and helmets must be worn for the entire ride.

Can children participate?

The activity information does not give a specific minimum age. Children who participate receive instruction, and the staff match horses and groups to ability, but you should confirm age requirements before booking.

Can I cancel the booking?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. A reserve-now-and-pay-later option is also available, depending on the booking selection.