Almeria: Tabernas Desert Horse Riding for experienced riders

Imagine cruising through the only desert in Europe, the striking Tabernas Desert in Almería, Spain, on the back of a well-trained horse. This 3-hour guided ride, tailored for experienced riders, offers an authentic adventure across rugged, sun-baked landscapes, where you’ll learn about this fascinating environment and enjoy the company of friendly horses from Rancho Malcaminos.

What draws us in most is the chance to trot and canter through a landscape famous for its moonscapes and movie sets, brought vividly to life by knowledgeable guides. The second highlight is the horses themselves—they’re clearly well cared for, spirited yet responsive, making the ride both safe and exhilarating. However, since this experience is geared toward seasoned riders, beginners should look elsewhere, as the pace and expectations require a solid riding background.

One possible consideration is that transportation to the ranch isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan how to get there. Also, the tour’s focus on experienced riders means newcomers might find it too challenging. Still, if you’re comfortable on horseback and craving an authentic desert adventure in Spain, this tour offers genuine value and memorable scenery.

This experience suits riders who are confident in their skills, enjoy exploring diverse terrains, and want to combine riding with learning about a truly unique landscape.

Key Points

• Designed for experienced riders with a moderate to high skill level.
• Includes a guided 3-hour ride through the unique Tabernas Desert.
• Friendly, well-trained horses from Rancho Malcaminos enhance the experience.
• Not suitable for children under 14, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues.
• Transport to the ranch isn’t included, so plan accordingly.
• Ride duration can vary slightly depending on weather and group size.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Unique Landscape of the Tabernas Desert

You’ll find yourself venturing into the only desert in Europe, a landscape that looks like it belongs on a movie set rather than in Spain’s southern reaches. The Tabernas Desert is famous for its rugged, arid beauty and has served as the backdrop for countless Western films and spaghetti westerns. This geological marvel offers a stark, sun-bleached scenery that’s both captivating and challenging.

On this ride, we loved the way the guide explained the desert curiosities—why it’s so dry, how the terrain affects the local flora and fauna, and its cinematic reputation. The landscape’s surreal quality makes it ideal for those craving an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines natural beauty with a touch of Hollywood history.

Preparing for the Ride: What to Expect

We appreciated the detailed preparation process, which begins with arriving 10 minutes early at the ranch. The friendly staff welcomes you and helps you get ready, setting up your saddle and offering tips—bring water and a small snack, especially if you want to stay energized. You can bring a saddlebag, which is handy for carrying personal items or snacks.

Before heading out, the instructor conducts a brief training session to ensure all riders are comfortable and familiar with their horses. This step is especially important to confirm everyone’s riding level, as the tour is intended for those with mid to high experience. During this time, you’ll meet your horse, get accustomed to its temperament, and learn some basic signals for control.

Once everyone is set, the guide introduces the horses and begins the about three-hour ride. The guide’s instructions are clear and helpful, with a focus on safety and enjoyment. Throughout the ride, there are small stops to rest and allow for taking in the landscape or snapping photos. The instructor will also guide you through the three gaits—walk, trot, and canter—giving you a chance to enjoy the full riding experience.

The landscape is rugged but accessible, and the guide will ensure you get the most out of the experience, explaining desert curiosities along the way. Riders can expect to enjoy moments of trotting and galloping, which are highlighted as exciting by reviews such as “We trotted and galloped every now and then, and I had a lot of fun.”

The Horses and the Guides

The horses at Rancho Malcaminos are described as friendly and happy, well-conditioned, and responsive. This is key, as confident riders will want horses they can trust to handle the varied terrain. The guide’s ability to tailor the experience to the group’s skill level ensures that even at a faster pace, safety remains a priority.

Multiple reviews mention the good condition of the horses and the care they receive, which translates into a more relaxed and enjoyable ride. The guides speak English, French, and Spanish, making the experience accessible to a variety of travelers.

The Route and Scenic Highlights

The ride takes you across the desert landscape, with its cracked earth and sparse vegetation. Stops are strategically placed to rest and appreciate the scenery, which can include views of the surrounding mountains and distant film locations. The desert’s surreal vistas make for perfect photo opportunities, especially during the golden hours of late afternoon.

The instructor provides explanations about the desert’s geology, flora, and fauna, turning the ride into a mini-lesson in natural history. The desert curiosities add educational value to an already visually stunning experience.

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End of the Ride and Optional Picnic

At the conclusion of the ride, riders return to the ranch, where there’s an area for picnicking if you bring your own food (not included). The ranch’s air-conditioned gable tent offers a comfortable spot to unwind, share stories, or simply relax after the adventure.

The tour’s price of $68 per person is quite reasonable considering the 3-hour guided ride, expert instruction, and insurance included. When you consider the cost of private lessons or the expense of visiting other scenic outdoor attractions, this ride offers notable value for experienced riders wanting to explore a landscape that’s both visually and culturally compelling.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for confident riders who are comfortable with trotting and cantering and have a demonstrated riding background. Beginners or those with limited experience might find the pace and terrain challenging. The tour is also not recommended for children under 14, pregnant women, or people with certain health issues, including back problems or mobility impairments.

If you’re someone who loves adventure, enjoys scenic outdoor rides, and appreciates the chance to see a landscape that feels almost otherworldly, this experience is a great choice. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just a sightseeing tour—they want to feel the landscape beneath their feet and experience the wild beauty of Almería.

Final Thoughts

For those with riding experience, this horseback tour in Tabernas Desert offers a rare opportunity to explore one of Europe’s most unique landscapes on horseback. The combination of stunning scenery, gentle yet spirited horses, and knowledgeable guides makes for a memorable adventure that balances natural beauty with the thrill of riding.

While transportation isn’t included, the effort to arrive at the ranch is well worth it. The price is reasonable for the length and quality of the experience, especially considering the care taken to ensure safety and enjoyment. Plus, the chance to gallop across a desert that has starred in Hollywood films adds an extra layer of excitement.

Authentic, scenic, and tailored for experienced riders, this ride is ideal for those looking to blend adventure with landscape and heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or simply a rider seeking a memorable journey through a dramatic environment, this tour in Almería promises an authentic, immersive experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this tour is designed specifically for experienced riders with mid to high riding levels. Beginners should look for less challenging options.

How long does the ride last?
The guided horseback ride lasts approximately 3 hours, including stops and instructions.

Are the horses well cared for?
Yes, reviews highlight that the horses are in good condition and friendly, with attentive care from the staff.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, water, and long pants. It’s recommended to carry a small snack if desired, and a saddlebag is optional.

Is transportation to the ranch included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to drive along a narrow road to reach the ranch, which is about 2 km from Tabernas.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes, you can bring a picnic to enjoy at the ranch’s rest area after the ride.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, and Spanish.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour route might change or be canceled in bad weather conditions, with options for refunding or rescheduling.

This horseback riding tour in Tabernas Desert combines adventure, scenery, and a touch of Hollywood magic. Perfect for seasoned riders eager to explore one of Europe’s most extraordinary landscapes, it promises a memorable day under the sun.

You can check availability for your dates here: