Almeria: Horse Riding Tour Through the Tabernas Desert

Almeria: Horse Riding Tour Through the Tabernas Desert
Location: Andalusia, Spain
Price: $46 per person
Duration: 2 hours
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (based on 304 reviews)

Quick Overview

If you’re looking to combine stunning desert scenery with a dash of film history, this horseback riding experience near Almeria should be on your list. For just $46, you get a two-hour guided ride through the only desert in mainland Europe, complete with views of iconic geological formations and sites that have starred in movies like Indiana Jones and Game of Thrones. The tour is suitable for all levels, and with small groups limited to six participants, it feels intimate and personalized.

What we love most is how accessible and engaging this experience is — whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete beginner, the friendly guides ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable. Plus, the opportunity to see real filming locations makes it a fun, memorable adventure beyond just riding horses.

A potential consideration is that for those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or people over 220 pounds, this might not be suitable. The activity emphasizes a relaxed, pleasurable pace, so it’s perfect if you’re after a gentle but scenic ride.

This tour appeals especially to travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity, cultural insights, and cinematic history — ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a unique experience in Andalusia.

Key Points

• Accessible for All Levels: Suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, with options to trot or gallop for those who are comfortable.
• Stunning Desert Scenery: Ride through unique geological formations and enjoy views of the Llano del Búho and La Tortuga.
• Film Location Highlights: Visit spots used in blockbuster movies and TV series, adding a cinematic twist to your ride.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are praised for their friendly attitude and deep knowledge of the area’s natural and cinematic history.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to six participants, ensuring personalized attention and safety.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind with your plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Ride Through the Heart of Andalusia’s Only Desert

Imagine riding a calm, well-cared-for horse across a vast, sunbaked landscape that feels like stepping onto a movie set. That’s exactly what this horseback tour offers. It’s much more than just a ride — it’s an introduction to a unique landscape that’s both visually striking and historically significant.

Located about 2 km from Tabernas, the starting point involves a scenic drive along a narrow road that hints at the adventure ahead. Once you arrive, a welcoming guide greets you, provides your helmet (mandatory for all riders), and introduces you to your horse. The horses are described as well-behaved and adapted for all levels, making this experience accessible even for those new to riding.

The tour begins with a brief training session — a smart move to help everyone feel comfortable. Once ready, the group heads out onto the “Desierto de Tabernas” route, which is designed to suit all riders’ paces. Even the most nervous rider will find reassurance thanks to the patient guides and the gentle, animal-friendly horses.

What Does the Route Cover?

During the ride, you’ll stop at several key points to learn about the natural environment, geology, and cinematic history of the area. You’ll cross open desert landscapes, where geological formations like Llano del Búho and La Tortuga dominate the horizon. These formations are not only stunning but also tell stories of millions of years of earth’s history.

One highlight is the chance to see where hundreds of movies and TV shows, including Indiana Jones and Game of Thrones, have been filmed. Guides are known for their storytelling, filling the ride with interesting tidbits about these famous scenes and filming locations, which adds a layer of excitement and context.

The Experience for Different Riders

The ride is described as “pleasured and quiet,” making it perfect for those who want a relaxed outing. The pace is set to the group’s comfort level, but for the more experienced or adventurous, there’s an optional opportunity to trot or gallop at the end if the guide deems it safe.

The experience is praised for its knowledgeable guides, with reviewers mentioning guides like Theo and Sara by name. Their friendliness and expertise help build confidence, especially for first-timers. As one reviewer put it, “Theo was super patient with a group of six complete beginners, really enjoyed it.”

The Practicalities

Included in the tour are helmets and optional body protectors, plus interpretative material to help you better understand what you’re seeing. In the late afternoon or winter months, headlamps are provided, ensuring safety at all times. The activity lasts just two hours, which is perfect if you’re short on time but want a meaningful experience.

The small group size (up to six participants) guarantees personal attention and safety, making it less intimidating for newcomers. The tour is offered in several languages including English, French, Dutch, German, and Spanish — so language barriers are unlikely.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Reviewers Say

The glowing reviews highlight the quality of the horses, the friendliness of the guides, and the incredible scenery. One reviewer said, “The horses are well cared for, and the scenery is great,” while another shared, “The guide explained everything well and took photos at prominent locations.”

Many mention how the experience exceeded expectations — especially for first-time riders. As one said, “It was better than I expected, and the guide was very friendly.” The opportunity to ride in an authentic desert setting, combined with the cinematic history, makes this tour stand out.

The Value of a $46 Horseback Ride in the Desert

At just $46, this experience offers excellent value considering the scenery, expert guiding, and the chance to see a landscape unlike any other in Europe. When you factor in the small group setting, safety measures, and the interpretative content, it’s clear this isn’t just a ride — it’s a carefully curated adventure.

The inclusion of helmets and optional body protectors means you can focus on enjoying the ride without worry. The optional trot or gallop at the end, for those who want a bit more adrenaline, adds a personal touch to the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers craving a gentle outdoor activity that combines natural beauty with cinematic history. Families with teenagers over 14 will find it accessible, and it suits those who prefer a more relaxed pace over adrenaline-filled rides. Because of its small group size and knowledgeable guides, it’s also ideal for solo travelers seeking a friendly, guided experience.

Anyone with mobility issues, pregnant women, or travelers over 220 pounds should note it might not be suitable. Also, if you’re looking for a deep dive into the area’s history or want to visit western villages, this tour focuses primarily on the desert and film locations.

The Sum Up

The Horse Riding Tour through the Tabernas Desert delivers a memorable mix of scenic beauty, cinematic intrigue, and relaxed riding. It’s a fantastic way to see the wild, rugged landscape of Andalusia without needing prior riding experience. The friendly guides, well-cared-for horses, and stunning geological formations make it a worthwhile addition to any Almeria itinerary.

If you’re after an authentic, low-stress way to explore the desert, learn some film trivia, and enjoy a peaceful ride, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who value the personal touch of small groups and the chance to connect with the landscape in a relaxed, enjoyable manner.

For a modest price, you gain access to one of Europe’s most distinctive environments — a landscape that’s as beautiful as it is cinematic. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned equestrian, this experience offers a genuine taste of Andalusia’s unique charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate all levels, including beginners. Guides provide a short training session and supervise the ride to ensure everyone feels comfortable.

How long is the horseback ride?
The ride lasts approximately 2 hours, including stops to learn about the environment and filming locations.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the guided horseback riding tour, helmets, optional body protectors, interpretative material, and headlamps if needed in winter or late afternoon.

Can I ride faster or gallop?
If the group and guide agree that it’s safe and appropriate, experienced riders may have the chance to trot or gallop at the end of the tour.

Are there any age restrictions?
Guests must be at least 14 years old to participate. Younger children with high riding levels can inquire, but a guardian’s signature is required.

Are food, drinks, or other activities included?
No. The tour focuses solely on the horseback ride and learning about the landscape and filming history.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and long pants are recommended. Sandals, flip-flops, backpacks, drones, and sprays are not allowed for safety reasons.

Is the activity suitable for people with health issues or disabilities?
This experience is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or mobility impairments.

What happens in bad weather?
The route may change or the tour could be postponed or canceled. You can opt for a full refund if canceled.

In essence, this horseback riding tour in the Tabernas Desert offers a perfect blend of scenic exploration, cinematic history, and gentle adventure. It’s a memorable way to experience the rugged beauty of Almeria’s landscapes without needing prior riding experience. Whether you’re a film buff, nature lover, or just seeking a peaceful outdoor activity, this tour delivers a genuine taste of Andalusia’s unique environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: