Sea and desert on horseback sounds perfect. In Hurghada, this 4-hour outing pairs up to 3 hours of riding with time in the Red Sea, switching between beach and desert terrain. It’s the kind of tour that feels like two trips glued together into one.

I really like the mix of coast and sand because you get variety without wasting the day. I also appreciate the human touch from guide Ali, who helps with photos and videos so you can actually remember the ride, not just survive it.

One thing to plan for: you will get wet, and your legs can chafe while you’re mounted. Wear pants that won’t wreck your day, and pick clothes you’re okay with getting soaked.

Key highlights

• Beach riding plus desert riding: you switch scenery without a long transfer scramble.
• Red Sea swim included: the water time is built into the experience, not optional.
• Guide Ali on the photo/video side: you’re more likely to leave with good memories.
• Helmet provided: simple safety comfort for a fun day out.
• Small group max 15: easier to manage than a big bus tour.
• Pickup and drop-off included: you spend less time coordinating transport.

Price and what you actually get for $22

At $22 per person, this tour is priced like a solid activity value in Hurghada because the big items are already bundled. You’re getting hotel pickup and drop-off, plus up to 3 hours of horse riding that includes both beach and desert sections.

The list of included perks is also practical: a helmet, water, and coffee and/or tea. You’re not just paying for the horse. You’re paying for the whole package that gets you from door-to-ride and keeps you fueled for the experience.

Do budget for extras. Governmental taxes and VAT are listed as 10€ per person, paid cash on the spot. If you’re staying in El Gouna, Safaga, Somabay, Makadi, or Sahl Hasheesh, there’s also a 10€ cash transfer fee.

How the 4-hour schedule feels on a real day

The total duration is about 4 hours, which is a good length for most people. It’s long enough to feel like you got your money’s worth, but short enough that you’re not exhausted for the rest of the afternoon.

Also, the tour specifically notes up to 3 hours of horse ride and swimming. That distinction matters: the day is structured around riding time and water time, but the exact mix can vary based on what the team decides on the spot for safety and flow.

In plain terms, you should expect a fairly active morning-or-afternoon block, starting with pickup, then moving quickly into the riding and sea portion. You’ll want to treat this like your main activity for the half-day.

Pickup and group size: easier than you’d think

This starts with hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle. That’s a real convenience in Hurghada, especially if you don’t want to arrange your own transport and then stand around waiting.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers. That number isn’t tiny, but it’s small enough that you’re less likely to feel like you’re stuck in a slow moving crowd. You can usually keep your attention on the horse and the scenery instead of constantly watching where everyone else is.

Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate. If you have any mobility or health concerns, it’s smart to ask before booking, since this is horse riding plus a sea swim.

Horse riding on the beach: coastal time that doesn’t drag

The beach portion is where you’ll likely feel the tour’s “wow” factor early. You ride along the coastline with views across the Red Sea and that cooling sea breeze that makes the whole thing feel lighter.

Beach riding also tends to be a calmer introduction to horseback time. The terrain is usually more forgiving than loose sand, and your body gets time to adjust to the rhythm. If you’re newer to riding, this part often helps you settle in before the desert starts.

Practical takeaway: keep your hands steady and your attention on your guide. When you’re switching between motions and surfaces, it helps to stay relaxed and let the horse do its job. The included helmet gives you that extra sense of readiness for a day outdoors.

The Red Sea swim with your horse: the part you should prep for

The tour includes swimming in the Red Sea, tied into the riding experience. This is not a “watch from the shore” moment. You should plan your clothing and expectations around actually getting in the water.

A key tip comes directly from real-world feedback: wear pants because your legs can chafe while you’re on the horse. Also, make sure everything you wear can get wet, since you’ll swim the ocean with the horse.

So what should you do with that information? Pack smart. Bring a change of clothes in a sealed bag, and avoid anything you don’t want to soak. If you’re wearing something tight or friction-prone, you might feel it more during the mounted portions.

You’ll also want to pay attention when the team signals timing and positioning. In a horse-plus-water situation, moving at the right pace matters for safety and comfort.

Desert riding in Hurghada: golden sand with an active body

After the sea time, you switch to desert riding. This is where the experience leans more “adventure” and less “easy coastal cruise.”

Riding through golden sands means you’re dealing with different footing and more uneven ground. Your legs and core do more work to stay balanced. If you’re the type who enjoys movement and doesn’t mind a bit of physical effort, you’ll likely like this part.

The desert section also adds contrast to the photos and the memory of the day. You go from open coastline views to wide sand terrain, and your brain registers that as real variety—two different worlds under the same tour umbrella.

Practical consideration: loose sand can feel very different from flatter ground. Wear shoes or footwear that stay secure and don’t shift. And again, clothes that can handle friction and getting wet help you enjoy the ride instead of focusing on discomfort.

Why the guide matters more than you’d expect

This kind of tour can be great or awkward depending on the guide and how well they manage horses, timing, and rider comfort. In this experience, the guide Ali is specifically praised for getting lots of photos and videos of you on the tour.

That matters because a lot of horse tours end with blurry shots and awkward selfies. When someone helps capture clear moments, you actually leave with proof that you did something memorable—standing, riding, and moving through the beach and desert.

Your best strategy is simple: listen closely during instructions, then follow the rhythm. If you know you want photos, ask about the best moment during the ride and position yourself where the guide can film safely.

Also, since helmets are included, you’re not juggling extra items. You can focus on enjoying the ride and the scenery instead of figuring out what to bring and what’s already covered.

What to wear and pack (so the day feels fun)

Based on the most useful tips, your biggest wins come from comfort and water-readiness.

Wear pants to reduce chafing while riding. Choose fabric that won’t turn into a painful friction trap. Keep in mind you’ll be swimming, so avoid items you can’t afford to get soaked.

Pack:

• A sealed bag or waterproof pouch for valuables
• A full change of clothes for after the sea portion
• Anything you need for sun protection (even if it’s not listed, sun is real during outdoor riding)

If you’re bringing a phone, keep it protected. The tour includes water and refreshments, but it doesn’t list phone gear or waterproof bags. Assume you’ll want your own protection.

Included refreshment: small, but worth noting

This tour provides coffee and/or tea & water. That’s not just a perk. It helps you handle the energy dip that can happen with physical activity plus time in the sun.

If you ride, swim, then ride again, your body can get tired faster than you expect. Having water ready makes it easier to keep going without feeling drained.

I also like that you aren’t required to stop at a shop. The day flows as one activity, not a sequence of errands.

Who this tour is best for

This is a great fit if you want a half-day adventure that mixes scenic riding with real water time. The beach portion appeals to people who like a calmer start, while the desert riding is the fun payoff if you enjoy movement and change of scenery.

It’s also a smart choice for couples or solo travelers who want an organized experience with pickup, a small group size, and a guide that helps with photos. The max 15 travelers helps keep the day from feeling chaotic.

If you’re sensitive to friction, get wet easily, or dislike swimming, consider carefully. The ride includes sea swimming, and that means your comfort plan needs to be real, not hopeful.

Should you book the horse-and-sea combo in Hurghada?

I’d book this if you want variety in a short time. Beach riding, desert riding, and a Red Sea swim in one outing is unusual, and the $22 price makes it feel doable—even with the extra 10€ cash taxes/VAT.

I’d think twice if your ideal day is dry, low-effort, and photo-light. The tour is active, and the sea swim changes how you should dress. Plan for chafing and soaking, or you’ll spend the day counting problems instead of enjoying the moment.

One more practical reason to lean yes: pickup and helmet are included. Those details reduce stress and make it easier to show up and just ride.

If you’re deciding last-minute, also remember the tour offers free cancellation, so you’ve got some room if your schedule shifts.

FAQ

How long is the tour?

The experience is listed as about 4 hours, with up to 3 hours of horse riding and swimming in the Red Sea.

What is the price, and are there extra fees?

The price is $22 per person. There are additional governmental taxes and VAT of 10€ per person paid in cash on the spot. If you need transfer from El Gouna, Safaga, Somabay, Makadi, or Sahl Hasheesh, there’s also a 10€ cash transfer fee.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included by air-conditioned vehicle.

Do I get a helmet?

Yes. A helmet is included.

Is there swimming in the Red Sea?

Yes. Swimming in the Red Sea is included as part of the up to 3 hours of riding and swimming.

How many people are in the group?

The group size is capped at a maximum of 15 travelers.

Can I cancel for free?

Yes. There is free cancellation, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.