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Almeria: Tabernas Desert Horse Riding for Experienced Riders
Travelers with a passion for horseback riding and a taste for adventure will find this tour in the Tabernas Desert a compelling option. Designed specifically for those with middle-high riding experience, this three-hour guided ride takes you through one of Europe’s most unique landscapes—Spain’s only desert. You’ll be led by friendly instructors and well-cared-for horses from Rancho Malcaminos, making it a memorable experience for seasoned riders looking to explore beyond typical tourist trails.
What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on authentic riding in a stunning, less-visited environment. The desert scenery offers a dramatic backdrop, and the chance to trot and gallop across the sands feels genuinely special. However, a key consideration is that this experience demands a high level of riding skill—it’s not suitable for beginners or those with limited experience. If you’re an experienced rider craving a challenging ride in a striking landscape, this tour is worth considering.
This tour suits riders who trust their riding ability, enjoy nature and wide-open spaces, and want an active, immersive experience. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate small group sizes, as this activity limits participants to just four, ensuring personalized attention.
Key Points
- Designed for experienced riders with middle-high riding skills.
- Explores Europe’s only desert, offering a unique landscape and scenery.
- Includes a guided, 3-hour ride with stops for rest and terrain appreciation.
- Led by bilingual instructors who provide safety instructions and insights.
- Horse care and condition are emphasized, with reviewers noting the horses’ good health.
- Limited group size (up to 4 people), enhancing the personal experience and safety.
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A Closer Look at the Experience
When booking this tour, you’re signing up for more than just a ride—you’re stepping into a carefully curated adventure. The meeting point is at Rancho Malcaminos, approximately 2 km from Tabernas, accessible by a narrow road that adds to the sense of escaping into nature. It’s recommended to arrive about 10 minutes early, giving you time to settle in, prepare your gear, and meet your instructor.
Preparation and Briefing
Once at the ranch, you’ll be welcomed warmly and given a brief introduction to the horses and safety instructions. This initial step is crucial, especially since the activity is explicitly for experienced riders. The instructor will assess your riding level during a short training session—this ensures that everyone is comfortable and ready before setting off into the desert.
Participants can bring water and a small snack—saddlebag optional—and are encouraged to wear long pants and comfortable shoes. Sandals, flip flops, and backpacks are not allowed for safety reasons, and bringing along drinks or sprays is prohibited.
The Ride Itself
The three-hour journey covers a variety of terrains and is led by a bilingual instructor fluent in English, French, and Spanish. Throughout the ride, the guide will give instructions to help you enjoy the experience to its fullest, explaining desert curiosities and the history of the landscape.
The desert’s landscape is stark and striking, with endless sands punctuated by rugged hills and distant mountain views. Expect to trott and gallop at points, as the instructor will suggest the appropriate gaits to maximize your enjoyment. Small stops for rest will be made, giving you opportunities to take pictures, hydrate, or simply soak in the scenery.
The Horses and Their Care
The horses from Rancho Malcaminos receive high praise from riders. One reviewer noted, “The horses seem to be in good condition,” which speaks to the quality of care and training provided. Riders can expect friendly, well-trained horses that are suitable for those with intermediate or higher riding skills.
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Post-Ride Options
After the ride, you’ll return to the ranch, where you can opt to have a picnic if you bring food—although meals are not included in the price. The ranch offers a comfortable, air-conditioned rest area, perfect for relaxing and recounting the adventure.
Pricing and Value
At $68 per person, this experience offers a competitive price point considering the length, guided aspect, and the opportunity to ride in a rare landscape. The small group setting and the involvement of professional guides add to the value, ensuring safety and a personalized touch.
Authentic Feedback: What Riders Love and Consider
A typical review from riders highlights the stunning scenery and the fun of running through the desert. One rider mentioned, “We trotted and galloped every now and then, and I had a lot of fun. It can be exhausting in the heat, but a lot of care is taken.” The emphasis on horse well-being and rider safety is evident, making it clear that the guides prioritize both.
Another review praises the beautiful landscapes and the large gaits (“de beaux paysages et des grands galops”), confirming that experienced riders will enjoy the freedom to canter and gallop across the sands. Such feedback suggests that the tour delivers on its promise for advanced riders seeking an exhilarating ride.
Practical Details and Considerations
- Duration: 3 hours, including preparation and stops.
- Start Time: Check availability for specific timings.
- Group Size: Limited to 4 participants, ideal for personalized guidance.
- Price: $68 per person, a good value for a niche adventure.
- Inclusions: Guided ride, instructor, insurances.
- Not Included: Transport, food, and drinks.
- Meeting Point: Rancho Malcaminos, 2 km from Tabernas.
- Bring: Long pants, comfortable shoes, water, and a small snack (optional).
- Not Allowed: Sandals, flip flops, pets, drones, selfie sticks, backpacks, alcohol, and aerosols.
Important Notes
- Participants must be between 14 and 65 years old with demonstrable riding experience.
- The tour may be postponed or canceled due to weather—full refunds or rescheduling options are available.
- The company reserves the right to accept or reject riders based on skill during the initial contact.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for experienced horse riders who want an authentic ride in a dramatic, sun-drenched landscape. If you enjoy longer rides with opportunities for trotting and galloping, this is your chance to do so in a setting unlike any other in Europe.
It’s ideal for travelers who value small group experiences, want to learn about the desert’s features, and aren’t bothered by the physical demands of a three-hour ride. Those seeking a calmer, scenic horseback ride might find this tour too intense, but for riders confident in their abilities, it’s a remarkable way to connect with nature.
The Sum Up
This horseback riding tour in the Tabernas Desert offers a rare opportunity for experienced riders to explore one of Europe’s only deserts on horseback. The personalized, small-group setting ensures a safe and engaging ride through a landscape that’s as striking as it is unique. The focus on well-conditioned horses and expert guidance makes it a reliable choice for riders seeking a genuine adventure.
While it’s not suitable for beginners or those with limited riding skills, experienced riders will find this tour a memorable blend of nature, challenge, and stunning scenery. The price point offers good value considering the length and quality of the experience, and the optional picnic at the end provides a relaxing way to wind down.
If you’re craving a dynamic ride in a breathtaking landscape, this tour could be your perfect fit. Just ensure your riding skills are up to the challenge, pack appropriately, and prepare for a thrilling desert adventure in sunny Spain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this ride is specifically designed for experienced riders with middle-high riding skills. Beginners should look for less demanding options.
What should I wear for the ride?
Comfortable, long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Sandals or flip flops are not allowed for safety reasons.
Can I bring snacks or water?
Yes, you can bring water and a small snack. It’s advisable to stay hydrated, especially in the heat.
How long does the tour last?
The guided horseback riding itself lasts about 3 hours, including preparation, instruction, and stops.
Are there any age restrictions?
Participants should be between 14 and 65 years old, with proven riding experience.
What language are the guides fluent in?
Guides speak English, French, and Spanish.
What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour may be rescheduled or canceled. In case of cancellation, you can opt for a full refund or an alternative date.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging ride through a dramatic desert landscape or simply want to experience Spain from horseback, this tour delivers a compelling mix of adventure and natural beauty—perfect for seasoned riders ready to explore more.
