Santorini: Extreme Horse Safari

Exploring Santorini on horseback offers a unique way to see the island’s striking scenery. This tour, focused on experienced riders, takes you along volcanic hills, black sandy beaches, and ancient trails with panoramic views of the caldera and volcano. It’s a high-energy ride with plenty of gallops, trotting, and uphill climbs, making it ideal for those who already have a confident riding background.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines the thrill of energetic riding with the chance to take in some of the most breathtaking vistas Santorini has to offer. The guide’s attention to safety, along with the chance to see the island from a different perspective, makes this a memorable adventure.

One thing to consider is that this tour is only suitable for riders with advanced skills—if you’re new to riding, this might be a bit much. The tour involves cantering, galloping, and navigating rougher terrain, which could be challenging without prior experience. It’s best for those comfortable with fast-paced rides and uneven trails.

This experience is perfect for adventurous riders seeking a more intense and authentic encounter with Santorini’s wild side. If you’re craving a mix of thrill, scenic beauty, and a touch of adventure on horseback, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• High-Energy Experience: Designed for experienced riders, including gallops and canters across beaches and hills.
• Spectacular Views: Panoramic vistas of the caldera, volcano, and volcanic hills from high vantage points.
• Authentic Adventure: Traverses ancient trails, canyons, and beaches, offering a true sense of the island’s rugged beauty.
• Small Group: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Guided by Experts: Guides like Nickolas and others are knowledgeable, patient, and make the ride safe and fun.
• Photo Opportunities: The guide takes photos during the tour, capturing moments of the ride with stunning scenery.

In-Depth Review of the Santorini Extreme Horse Safari

What Makes This Tour Special?

This isn’t your typical horse ride along a flat trail—it’s an energetic adventure crafted for riders who already know their way around a horse. The tour starts at the Santorini Horse Riding Stables in Megalochori, a charming village known for its vineyards and traditional vibe. From here, your guide leads you through a mix of terrain that’s both scenic and challenging.

Many reviews highlight the expert guidance provided, with guides like Nickolas earning praise for their patience, safety-consciousness, and ability to reassure nerves—even for those who might feel a little anxious. The small group size (max 6) ensures attention to detail, and the guides often go the extra mile to take photos during the ride, capturing your adventure against the dramatic backdrop.

Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point in Megalochori:
The tour kicks off at the stables where you’ll meet your guide, helmets, and chaps are provided for safety. After a brief briefing, the ride begins with a warm-up walk through the village streets and vineyards, giving you a chance to get comfortable with your horse and the surroundings.

Beach Gallop at Eros Beach:
One of the most memorable parts of the tour is riding along the black sandy beach at Eros. This stretch is perfect for those who love the sensation of galloping on sand—an experience many riders mention as unforgettable. Reviewers note that the horses are well-trained, and the guide ensures everyone stays safe while enjoying the speed.

Canyons and Ravines:
After the beach, the ride continues into the canals and ravines behind the coastline, where the terrain becomes more rugged. This part of the journey offers a mix of trotting and cantering through narrow paths and scenic gorges, giving a real sense of riding through untouched parts of the island.

Ancient Trails to the Cliff Top:
The tour culminates on ancient trails leading to a cliff-top vantage point. From here, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the caldera basin, volcanic islands, and the active volcano. Many reviews mention how this spot provides the best photo ops and a true sense of connection to Santorini’s volcanic landscape.

Return to Stables:
After soaking in the views, the ride winds back down through the hills and into Megalochori, where you can relax after the energetic ride. The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, making it a perfect half-day adventure.

What Riders Can Expect

Confidence and Skill Level:
This tour is not suited for beginners. Multiple reviews emphasize that the ride involves trotting, cantering, and galopping, demanding riders who are comfortable with this pace. One reviewer even mentioned feeling nervous initially but was reassured by guides who checked on her throughout.

Physical Fitness:
Expect an energetic ride that involves uphill climbs and uneven terrain, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. It’s not a leisurely stroll—think of it more as an adventure ride that pushes your riding skills a bit.

Safety Measures:
Helmets and chaps are provided, and guides are attentive. For instance, one reviewer shared that guide Nickolas was particularly reassuring, ensuring everyone felt safe and confident, even on the faster sections.

Photo Opportunities:
The guides often take photos with their phones, capturing moments like galloping on the beach or the panoramic views from the cliff. These little touches add value, giving you lasting memories without the need to carry a camera during the ride.

The Horses and Guides

The horses are described as well-trained and majestic, carefully cared for and more than capable of handling a vigorous ride. Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their professionalism, kindness, and knowledge about the island and the horses.

One reviewer mentioned, “It was clear they really care for all their horses and they put them first,” which speaks volumes about the ethical standards of the operation. The guides are fluent in English and Greek, making communication smooth and personalized.

Pricing and Value

While the specific cost isn’t listed here, consider the value based on the reviews and what’s included. For approximately 2 hours of guided riding, photos, safety gear, and a small group setting, the experience offers excellent value for those seeking a high-quality, authentic adventure. The personalized attention and the opportunity to gallop along the beach and hilltops make it more than just a ride—it’s a memorable, adrenaline-pumping experience.

Practical Considerations

• Booking and Cancellation:
  You can reserve your spot with flexibility—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You pay only after booking, which makes planning easier.

• Meeting Point:
  The tour starts at the Santorini Horse Riding Stables in Megalochori, about 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. There’s no hotel pickup, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the stables.

• Group Size:
  Limited to six riders, ensuring a more personalized experience, and making it easier for guides to cater to varying skill levels and provide individual attention.

• What to Bring:
  Wear comfortable riding gear, and bring sunglasses or hats for sun protection. Locker facilities are not mentioned, but some reviewers left belongings at the stables, feeling safe doing so.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for confident, experienced riders who enjoy fast-paced riding on varied terrain. If you like to feel the wind on your face while galloping along a beach or climbing hills with panoramic views, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also ideal for travelers who want a more “authentic” sense of Santorini’s wild side—far from crowded towns and touristy spots. The scenery, combined with the thrill of riding, provides a genuine connection to the island’s volcanic landscape.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a rare chance to explore Santorini in a dynamic and exhilarating way. The combination of beach gallops, hilltop vistas, and ancient trails creates a well-rounded adventure that’s perfect for experienced riders craving adrenaline and scenic beauty. The guides’ professionalism and the caring attitude toward the horses add a layer of reassurance, making it a safe and enjoyable experience.

While it’s not suitable for beginners, riders with some experience will find this ride to be a highlight of their trip, offering both a physical challenge and incredible vistas. The inclusion of photos and small group size enhances the overall value, ensuring you get personal attention and lasting memories.

If you’re looking for a genuine, active way to see Santorini beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour delivers. It’s a fantastic blend of adventure, scenery, and expert guidance—that can turn your vacation into a truly unforgettable experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this tour is designed for experienced riders. It involves trotting, cantering, and galloping, which require confidence and riding skill. Beginners should look for gentler options.

What should I wear for the ride?
Wear comfortable riding clothes, and be prepared for sun exposure—sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are recommended. Helmets and chaps are provided.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, including riding time and transitions. Check the schedule for specific starting times.

Are photos included?
Yes, the guide takes photos during the ride with their phone, capturing key moments against beautiful scenery.

Is transportation provided?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You need to arrange your own transport to the stables in Megalochori.

What’s the maximum group size?
Limited to 6 participants, which allows for personal attention and a more intimate experience.

This Santaorini horse safari promises an energetic, scenic, and memorable ride for those who already have some riding experience. Expect stunning views, a friendly guide, and plenty of opportunities to feel the thrill of galloping with the volcanic landscape as your backdrop.