Experience Egypt from a different perspective on one of our horse riding holidays: turn right at the sarcophagus and left to follow the Nile River! Egypt is a country that boasts year-round sun, fantastic beaches, the Nile River, desert rides, and a chance to explore one of the most historically rich countries on earth. The itineraries are designed to take in all the unmissable highlights from the Great Pyramids of Giza to the tombs of ancient rulers. And what better way to experience this country than on the back of an Arabian horse, the oldest recognized breed in the world? Beyond its historical sites, visitors can also discover modern Egypt in its bustling cities, vibrant markets, and villages. Egypt is also blessed with the mighty Nile River which drives agriculture all along its banks. The country has long been a tourism destination that is easy to reach and welcoming to visitors.
Equestrian Culture in Egypt
Egypt is the true home of the Arabian horse, one of the founding horse breeds of all todays warm-blooded breeds. Although the Arabian horse, and the local breed the Baladi, an Arabian cross breed, are stunning, strong and nimble creatures, they do not always receive the care and attention that they ought to. Unscrupulous and sometimes desperate locals use horses to pull caleches (horse-drawn carriages) during the strongest heat of the day, bringing tourists to the major landmarks then failing to provide them with adequate shade, water and feed.
This is a situation that saddens us deeply, so we only partner with providers whose horses are treated as is common in Western society - as members of the family. Our equine companions are looked after with the utmost respect and compassion, carefully trained, well cared for and only ridden in well fitting tack on mornings and evenings during the hottest parts of the year (May to September) to avoid being outside unnecessarily during the hottest part of the day.
In addition, we work with the Brooke Charity, one of the best equestrian charities which was founded in Egypt by the English equestrienne in 1930, and now operates worldwide to improve the lot of working horses in poor countries.
We Offer a Great Range of Equestrian Vacations in Egypt
We currently offer three equestrian vacations in Egypt, and we can confidently assure you that the horses are beautifully looked after and treated as we would at home. We have taken the time to carefully design these tours, ensuring that they prioritise horse welfare and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for both riders and horses.
Our Ancient Egypt Trail ride is an adventurous holiday that provides a unique opportunity to explore ancient Egypt on horseback. Highlights include galloping around the Pyramids of Giza, visiting the Egyptian Museum, riding through deserts to ancient temples, and exploring the Valley of the Kings. You'll also enjoy a boat ride on the Nile, galloping through fields of sugar cane, and watching hot air balloons take off at sunrise. Accommodations range from boutique hotels to Bedouin-style tents, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience.
Another popular option is our Luxor Express trail ride, which combines horseback riding with sightseeing in the tranquil west Luxor area, formerly the ancient city of Thebes. Explore the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, visit ancient temples, and ride through lush, irrigated farmland with plenty of opportunities for trotting and cantering. Venture into the desert to discover more temples and the foothills of the Theban Mountains. Experience a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings, a serene felucca boat journey on the Nile, and a delightful BBQ accompanied by Egyptian music to complete your holiday.
Our Desert and Beach vacation is the perfect escape for both riders and their non-riding companions. With a variety of exciting activities to choose from, including snorkelling, parasailing, and beach volleyball, there's something for everyone to enjoy. And for those who do come for the riding, they won't be disappointed. The trip combines 5-star hotel accommodation with beach and desert rides on spirited Arab horses. Rides are scheduled to avoid the hottest part of the day, ensuring the horses and riders are comfortable at all times. The programme also includes camel riding and a full day boat trip to Mahmya, where visitors can take a tour of the city, dive or snorkel in the clear waters, and enjoy the sunshine on the beach.
The Best Time of Year to Book a Horseback Riding Vacation in Egypt
As with many African countries, Egypt has two seasons. The temperatures in summer (May to September) can reach the high 30°Cs, particularly during the middle of the day. Many Western visitors will find these temperatures uncomfortable, but those who relish the thought of relaxing in a luxury hotel pool, visiting underground tombs or enjoying a spot of scuba diving during the heat of the day and leaving riding for early morning or late afternoon may be enticed by the thought of these temperatures.
For those that are deterred by sweltering heat, the winter months of October to April herald much cooler temperatures, with 18°C being a standard day-time temperature and sunshine most days. Sandstorms are common in March and April which can disrupt riding, although our experienced guides will always ensure visitor and horse safety and plan activities accordingly.
Getting to Egypt
Traveling to your horseback riding vacation in Egypt is straightforward, with numerous direct flights from major cities in the UK and the US. You can fly directly from London to Cairo, followed by an internal flight to either Luxor or Hurghada, depending on your destination. When internal transfers are needed, Unicorn Trails will handle all arrangements, streamlining your itinerary and providing peace of mind.
Book your Horseback Riding Trail in Egypt from Unicorn Trails
Our horseback riding vacations in Egypt provide an unparalleled way to experience the beauty and culture of this ancient land. Whether riding through the desert, along the coastline, or meandering along the banks of the Nile, the stunning landscapes and rich history of Egypt come alive in a whole new way when viewed from horseback. As the ancient proverb states, "The wind of heaven is that which blows between a horse's ears," and nowhere is this more true than when you are seated on a fit, forward-moving Arabian horse in its desert homeland. The experience is nothing short of majestic, with your horse's head held high, proud and ears pricked.
If you're interested in booking one of our Egyptian horseback riding tours, please do not hesitate to contact a friendly member of the Unicorn Trails team. We can also create a bespoke horseback vacation in Egypt for you, combining riding with sightseeing across both north and south Egypt. Our expert team ensures that your every desire is satisfied and that you are delighted with the standard of horse care you witness while visiting this incredible country.
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