Experience the quiet beauty of Turkey’s Aegean coast with a horseback adventure just outside Icmeler. For only $25 per person, you’ll spend about 2 hours riding tranquil horses through lush pine forests, fragrant orange groves, and along wild riverbeds. This experience is designed to be accessible—even if you’ve never been on a horse before—and offers a peaceful escape from the busy resort town.
What we love most is the chance to see authentic village life up close while exploring unspoiled natural scenery. The friendly, well-behaved horses are gentle and calm, making this suitable for beginners and kids alike. Plus, the chance to enjoy the scenery without a car, on the back of a steady horse, is a real treat.
One consideration: the activity isn’t suitable for those with limited mobility, major health issues, or pregnant women, due to the nature of horseback riding. It’s also important to note that pickup isn’t available from Adakoy and Turunc, so plan your transportation accordingly. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and family fun.
Key Points
- Affordable Price: At $25, this offers great value for a half-day nature adventure.
- Family-Friendly: Kids can ride if supervised by an adult, making it suitable for families.
- All Skill Levels Welcome: No previous riding experience needed; guides provide instructions and support.
- Authentic Scenery: Enjoy pine forests, orange groves, and riverbeds away from tourist crowds.
- Optional Non-Riders: Friends or family who don’t want to ride can relax at the ranch.
- Photo Opportunities: Professional photographer on-site captures your adventure.
A Gentle Ride into the Turkish Countryside
For travelers staying in Icmeler or nearby Marmaris, this horseback riding tour offers a refreshing way to connect with Turkey’s natural landscape. It’s a short drive of about 20 minutes from Icmeler to the ranch, which sits quietly amidst the countryside. The ride is structured for ease, with guides taking time to instruct and familiarize guests with their horses, making it accessible even for absolute beginners.
You’ll start with a friendly meet-and-greet with the horses, which are described as calm, obedient, and affectionate. It’s reassuring to know that these are well-trained animals used to attention, providing a relaxed environment for all riders. Once you’ve been assigned your horse and received some basic guidance, you’ll be ready to set off through pine forests and along riverbeds, with scenery that shifts from fragrant orange groves to shaded forest paths.
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The Scenic Itinerary: What to Expect
The journey begins at the ranch, where you’ll be introduced to your horse and given instructions by experienced guides like Ahmet or Mehmet—names that often crop up in reviews. This initial step sets the tone for a safe, enjoyable ride. Those new to riding will appreciate the patience and professionalism of the guides, ensuring everyone feels comfortable.
Once mounted, the “easy-riding” experience takes you through a variety of natural landscapes. Expect to pass through pines and orange groves, which provide a fragrant backdrop perfect for photos. The trail also ventures into riverbeds and meadows, where the horses walk along gentle streams that add a sense of adventure to the ride. Many find this peaceful, slow pace ideal for soaking in the surroundings.
Throughout the tour, guides remain close, prepared to assist if needed. They are also fluent in English and Turkish, making communication smooth and friendly. The entire ride takes about an hour, but the overall experience, including transfers and preparation, lasts approximately 2 hours.
Guests often comment on the horses’ behavior; they are described as placid, shy at first but affectionate once familiar. Kids can ride their own horses, provided a parent is present. Non-riders can simply relax at the ranch, enjoying the scenery or snapping photos.
The Photographer and Keepsakes
A highlight for many is the arrangement of a professional photographer who captures you during the ride. This added service allows you to focus on the experience while someone else handles the camera. Afterward, you have the chance to purchase your favorite photos or videos, creating lasting memories without the hassle of taking selfies while on horseback.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know
Transportation is included, with pickup from hotel security gates—note that it’s not from the lobby or inside the hotel. If your hotel isn’t listed, a special request can arrange pickup. Be aware that no pickups are available from Adakoy and Turunc.
What to bring includes comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, a change of clothes, towel, drinks, and sunscreen. Since the activity involves outdoor exposure, these essentials help ensure your comfort. Alcohol or drugs are not allowed, emphasizing that safety comes first.
Age and health restrictions are in place: children under 8 need to ride with a family member, and the activity isn’t recommended for anyone over 110 kg, pregnant women, or those with mobility or health issues. The tour lasts about 2 hours total, with 1 hour of riding, making it manageable for most.
Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility makes it easier to plan around your itinerary.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat Sets This Tour Apart?
Compared to other outdoor activities in Marmaris or Icmeler, this horseback ride offers a unique, authentic approach to experiencing rural Turkey. It’s not a high-adrenaline adventure but rather a peaceful, scenic ride perfect for nature lovers and families. The inclusion of a professional photographer and the small group feel add a special touch.
Many reviews mention the friendly guides and horses, which contribute significantly to the relaxed atmosphere. We also appreciate how the tour respects the environment—only well-shod hoof prints remain—making it an eco-conscious choice for travelers wanting a nature-focused outing.
Who Is This Best For?
This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a gentle outdoor adventure in Turkey’s countryside. It suits families with kids, beginner riders, or anyone looking for a peaceful escape from the bustling resort areas. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic rides, animal companionship, and authentic village scenery.
If you’re after a thrill or have mobility or health limitations, this may not be the right fit. But if you value a relaxed, scenic journey with a touch of local culture, this ride should be on your list.
Final Thoughts
The Icmeler Horse Riding Through The Rivers and Forest tour offers a delightful way to explore Turkey’s natural beauty at a gentle pace. The combination of calm horses, lush scenery, and friendly guides makes it a memorable experience for all. The price is very reasonable for what you get: an authentic, scenic adventure with the bonus of professional photos.
Whether you’re a family looking for a fun outing, a nature lover wanting to see the countryside, or someone eager to try horseback riding for the first time, this tour provides a balanced mix of relaxation and discovery. It’s a straightforward, value-rich experience that leaves you with lasting memories—and a few photos to prove it.
FAQ
Is prior horse riding experience required?
No, this tour is designed to be accessible for beginners. Guides provide instructions, and the horses are well-trained and calm.
How long is the actual riding?
You will enjoy about one hour of riding. The entire experience, including transfers and instructions, lasts around 2 hours.
Can children participate?
Yes, children over 8 can ride if accompanied by a parent. Kids under 8 need to ride with a family member or can watch from the ranch.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, change of clothes, towel, drinks, and sunscreen are recommended.
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup from specific locations is included. If your hotel isn’t listed, you can make a special request.
Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, individuals weighing over 110 kg, pregnant women, or those with mobility or health issues should consider whether this activity is suitable.
Can non-riders come along?
Absolutely, friends and family can stay at the ranch, enjoy the scenery, and take photos. They can also join as non-riding guests for an extra fee.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Booking now allows you to reserve without immediate payment.
This horseback riding experience near Icmeler offers a peaceful, authentic taste of Turkish countryside, perfect for travelers yearning for a relaxed day immersed in nature.
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