Dunes to Ocean Horseback Ride

Difficulty

Easy

Weight limit

Duration

2h

Group size

1-10 tourists,
over 14 y.o.

Imagine yourself following a thin thread from land to ocean, this two-hour ride reveals the many faces of Essaouira’s coastline. What begins among trees and dunes slowly opens toward the Atlantic, where space, light, and movement take over.

The route winds through mimosa and eucalyptus groves, crosses rolling sand dunes, and reaches the beach, where the air smells of salt and the horizon stretches wide. Along the way, you pass a quiet fishing village, ride beside the ruins of an old Portuguese lookout, and see Mogador Island close enough to make out its ancient prison and mosque. The return follows the Kassob River, home to seasonal migratory birds, and the remains of Sultan Moulay Abdallah’s palace.

Well paced and carefully organized, this ride balances scenery, history, and freedom of movement. Join us for a coastal journey that feels rich, unhurried, and complete!

Time slots:
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Erika P. is the provider of this trip

5.0 4 reviews

The provider speaks: English, French, Arabic

In 2006, an enthusiastic horse-riding tourist from Italy came to Morocco to book a horse ride: Erika. Omar, one of the two brothers who ran the ranch, was her riding guide... This encounter led to a serious relationship and Erika soon left Italy to live and work as a partner on the Ranch in order to realise a shared dream: to propagate trail riding in Morocco throughout the world. Erika had previously worked in tourism and riding is her great hobby. At the Ranch, she is the organiser who takes care of the rides. She is very concerned about the welfare of the horses and contributes with many new ideas to ensure that there is always something new at the Ranch.

Tour highlights

Two Hours, Many Landscapes

Forest paths, dunes, beach, and riverbanks — all in one well-paced ride

Coastal History on Horseback

Pass a former pirate lookout, a Sultan’s palace (UNESCO heritage), and views of Mogador Island

Accessible Yet Engaging

Suitable for beginners, with flexibility for more active riding when conditions allow

Route details

This two-hour horseback ride offers a balanced way to explore the natural and historic surroundings of Essaouira. After arrival, guests receive a short safety briefing, complete the rental formalities, and are fitted with a helmet before meeting their instructor. A free shuttle is available from several points in the city, and those arriving by car can park nearby.

The ride begins inland, moving through mimosa and eucalyptus forests and across dunes before reaching the beach. Riders follow the shoreline, with possible opportunities to move at a faster pace depending on experience and conditions. On the return route, the trail passes the ruins of a former Portuguese watchtower, offers close views of Mogador Island, and continues along the Kassob River, where migratory birds are often seen. The route also includes the remains of Sultan Moulay Abdallah’s palace before returning to the starting point. Rides run daily by appointment, depending on horse and guide availability.

Difficulty

Easy

Minimal physical activity. Suitable for everyone regardless of fitness and age

Tour provider's comments

To take part in this excursion it is not necessary to have an equestrian level, even beginners are accepted, but in their case we do not guarantee the possibility of trotting and galloping, which will be examined on a case-by-case basis.

Conditions

Included

horse rental;
equestrian guides;
riding helmets;
transportation to and from the city of Essaouira.

Extras

ticket flights;
private activity available with payment of a supplement.

It's important to know

Recommended attire is long trousers and closed shoes, and the rider's weight must not exceed 90kg to preserve the health of our Berber Arabian horses.

Available dates

Select preferred date

Select preferred time

Duration 2h

Preferred time

24-hour time format

Number of individuals

1-10 tourists, over 14 y.o.

Add optional comment

Any comment regarding the tour

Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route

You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on

the forecasts for this season
the statistics from previous years’ trips

Reviews

5.0

Based on 4 reviews

K
Kaori

about provider

21 Feb, 2024

What an amazing experience! The staff was friendly, and it was evident that the horses were well taken care of. Ayoub and Khassim were fantastic; they ensured my safety and paired me with a lovely horse named Rohan. Rohan seemed a bit reserved, often gazing at the barn wall—I wondered if he was shy or simply disliked the sun/heat. Nonetheless, he was incredibly patient with me, sensing my nerves as a beginner, and walked at a gentle pace. My husband, who has more experience, rode Etoille, another beautiful horse! The route to the beach was stunning, passing through lush foliage and past an old, ruined palace. Although the quad bikes trailing behind were a bit bothersome, they remained respectful of the horse riders. Overall, a very pleasant ranch experience.
I
Irene

about provider

6 Feb, 2024

This ranch has been like family to me for many years, and I trust them with my life. I've known them since childhood but began horse riding treks with them in 2018. Since then, I've made it a point to do at least one trek per year, if not more, and spend most of my summers with them. You can rely on them completely: the treatment of horses and camels is impeccable, with thorough daily checks and care for the quad bikes. The entire ranch team is exceptionally trained for their roles. As for the treks, every option they offer is exceptional, but I recently had the chance to embark on the Sahara trek last week, in early February 2024. Words fail to capture the magnificence of the Moroccan Sahara. When you go with the team, you're assured of well-trained horses for this challenging trek (though prior riding experience is necessary), unforgettable Moroccan cuisine, ample comfort during bivouac nights (spacious tents, excellent showers with new amenities), and perhaps most importantly, a week filled with laughter and camaraderie. I still can't quite believe the incredible experiences I had during that week—the atmosphere was perfect, the horses and people were exceptional, and the Moroccan Sahara was simply breathtaking.
D
Dianora

about provider

3 Jan, 2024

2 more photos

I embarked on a 4-day trekking adventure (The Pearl of Essaouira), and it was truly incredible. The ranch was warm, tidy, and impeccably maintained. The team was attentive and skilled, readily addressing our needs. Their dedication to their horses was evident—they were all stunning, robust, and well-mannered. We explored stunning locations and rested in breathtaking spots. I'm already looking forward to another tour with them.