Imagine gently guiding a calm horse through the peaceful Canarian countryside, with the sea shimmering in the distance and mountains providing a stunning backdrop. For those seeking a serene introduction to horseback riding, this 1-hour relaxing tour in Gran Canaria offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and gentle adventure. It’s suitable for beginners and kids over 5, with no prior experience needed. We found the experience to be accessible, scenic, and filled with genuine moments of connection with the horses.
What makes this tour stand out is how it combines stunning views with a laid-back pace, making it an ideal option for families, travelers with little riding experience, or anyone simply wanting to enjoy nature without the rush. The instructors are friendly and keen to teach you the basics, ensuring you feel comfortable on your horse. Plus, the overall vibe is calm and quiet, allowing you to fully appreciate the landscape and unwind.
A potential consideration for some might be the limited duration—at just an hour of riding, it’s more about the experience than a lengthy trek. Also, water isn’t included, so bringing a bottle might be wise. This tour suits those wanting a gentle, authentic encounter with Canary Islands scenery and horses without any fuss or complexity.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic activity that appeals to all ages and skill levels, this horseback tour could be just the ticket. It’s particularly good if you appreciate friendly guides and stunning vistas but don’t want to spend hours in the saddle.
Key Points
- Suitable for beginners and kids over 5 years, no experience needed.
- Beautiful views of the Canarian east coast, mountains, and sea.
- Includes helmet and back protector for safety and comfort.
- Small group size (limited to 10 participants), ensuring personalized attention.
- Flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
- Optional airport transfer may be available if guides are free.
An In-Depth Look at the Horse Riding Experience in Gran Canaria
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Starting Out: From Meeting Point to Meeting Your Horse
As you arrive at the riding center, you’re greeted by a friendly team ready to make you feel at ease. Whether you’re being dropped off or picked up, the process is straightforward. Upon arrival, helmets and back protectors are provided—crucial for safety, especially for those new to riding. The meeting point is easy to find: enter the main gate, park in the large lot, and walk toward the main barn on the right side, where your guide will be waiting with the horses.
The initial stage is all about getting comfortable. The instructor—often multilingual, speaking English, Spanish, Italian, or French—gives a brief explanation of how to walk and ride, perfect for beginners or children. Even if you’ve never been on a horse before, the guide’s calming tone and clear instructions help you feel more confident. The focus here is on learning the basics, rather than complex riding techniques, making it more about enjoying the moment.
Practice in the Arena: Building Confidence
Before heading out into the countryside, you’ll practice riding inside a designated arena. This is a good chance to get a feel for the horse, try gentle commands, and learn how to sit securely. It’s a relaxed environment designed to support first-timers, and guides are attentive to individual needs. As one reviewer noted, “It was a fun ride with the instructor and the lovely horses,” which really captures the friendly, approachable atmosphere.
This initial practice is key for those nervous about riding, and it prepares you for the scenic portion of the tour. The guides take their time, ensuring everyone understands how to steer and stop before heading out onto the trail.
Out in the Countryside: Scenic Views and Peaceful Strolls
Once comfortable, the tour leads you into the tranquil Canarian countryside. The path winds through lush terrain, with views of the sea and the mountains, providing ample photo opportunities. The horses are described as “lovely and quiet,” perfect for a peaceful ride. This part of the tour isn’t about speed or endurance but about soaking in the serenity of nature.
We loved the way the guide shared insights about the landscape and local flora, enriching the experience beyond just riding. The scenery is especially striking if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to see the Canary Islands from a less touristy perspective. The combination of mountain and ocean views offers a unique sense of place—an authentic taste of the island’s natural beauty.
More Great Tours NearbyReturning to the Stables: Ending the Ride
After about 45 minutes of riding, the group heads back to the stables. The guide helps everyone dismount safely, then assists in removing the saddle and bridle. Watching the horses calmly return to their stalls underscores how well-trained and gentle these animals are. The whole process is smooth, casual, and respectful of the horses’ well-being.
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Additional Details That Matter
The entire experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with about an hour on horseback. The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere. The cost covers helmets and back protectors, but you’ll need to bring your own water—a small but noteworthy detail, especially on warm days.
You can check availability for specific start times, which vary, so planning ahead is advisable. The activity accommodates a wide range of ages and skill levels, making it a flexible option for families or groups of friends. The guides speak multiple languages, making communication easy for international travelers.
What Real Travelers Say
One reviewer, Diana, shared, “It was a fun ride with the instructor and the lovely horses and ponies. However, at the last minute, the time slot was changed and suddenly there was no English-speaking instructor available. But all in all, it was a fun experience for me and my 8-year-old son.” This highlights the importance of confirming details beforehand but also reflects the generally positive, friendly vibe.
Another point worth noting is that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, children under 5, or people with certain physical restrictions. The maximum rider height is 6 ft 6 in (200 cm), and weight limits are in place, so it’s best to check before booking if you have specific concerns.
Practical Tips for Participants
- Wear comfortable shoes and long pants—shorts aren’t recommended for safety.
- Bring water, especially on warm days, as it’s not included.
- Be sure to specify your experience level and the ages of participants when booking.
- If you’re concerned about language barriers, note that guides speak English, Spanish, Italian, and French—no German though.
The Real Value of This Experience
This horseback riding tour isn’t about conquering long trails or mastering advanced riding. Instead, it’s about enjoying gentle, scenic strolls in a peaceful environment with minimal fuss. For a reasonable price, you gain access to beautiful landscapes, friendly guides, and calm horses—all in a small-group setting that encourages personal attention.
The fact that it’s suitable for children over 5 and beginners makes it a fantastic choice for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a memorable, stress-free activity. Plus, the optional airport transfer adds a layer of convenience, especially for those with tight schedules.
While the ride itself is relatively short—about an hour—the views and the authentic connection with the horses leave a lasting impression. It’s a genuine way to slow down and appreciate what makes Gran Canaria special beyond its beaches.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a gentle introduction to horseback riding, especially if they’re traveling with children or prefer a laid-back pace. It’s perfect for those eager to enjoy breathtaking coastal and mountain scenery without a strenuous hike or long ride. If you value small groups, safety gear, and multilingual guides, this tour delivers those essentials.
However, it might not suit those seeking a longer or more challenging ride. If you’re over 65, over 6 ft 6 in, or over 209 lbs, you’ll need to consider the physical restrictions. Those with motion sickness or pregnancy are also advised to skip.
FAQs
Is prior riding experience required? No, this tour is designed for beginners with no experience needed. The guides will teach you the basics before heading out.
What should I wear? Comfortable clothes and long pants are best. Closed-toe shoes with a small heel are recommended—shorts are not allowed for safety reasons.
Are helmets provided? Yes, helmets and back protectors are included in the price.
Is water included? No, you should bring your own water bottle, especially on hot days.
How many people participate in each tour? The small group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.
Can children participate? Yes, children from 5 years old can join, provided they’re comfortable riding and meet height/weight requirements.
What languages do guides speak? Guides speak English, Spanish, Italian, and French. German is not available.
This 1-hour relaxing horse riding tour in Gran Canaria offers an authentic, scenic escape into the island’s countryside with minimal fuss. It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature, enjoy expansive views, and gain a gentle introduction to horseback riding. The emphasis on safety and small group size makes it particularly appealing for families or solo travelers looking for a peaceful activity.
Although it doesn’t satisfy thrill-seekers or those wanting a lengthy ride, it excels in providing a calm, scenic, and memorable experience. If you’re seeking a peaceful way to see Gran Canaria from a different perspective—one that emphasizes comfort, natural beauty, and friendly guides—this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Whether you’re a first-timer or simply looking for a quiet moment amidst your island adventures, this horseback ride offers a lovely, authentic slice of the Canaries’ rural charm.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Horses in Gran Canaria
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