Antalya Horse Riding On Beach And Through The Forests For 2 Hours

Antalya Horse Riding On Beach And Through The Forests For 2 Hours: An Honest Look

If you’re considering a horseback riding adventure in Antalya, the Antalya Horse Riding On Beach And Through The Forests tour might catch your eye. It promises a scenic escape combining the sandy shores of Lara Beach with the tranquility of pine forests, all within a manageable 2-hour ride. While it’s a popular choice—booked on average 19 days in advance for $60—there are some important things to know before you hop on a horse yourself.

What we like about this experience? First, the breathtaking views of both sea and forest are genuinely appealing. Second, the small-group setting and guided approach help keep things safe and manageable, even for riders with little or no experience. On the flip side, a couple of reviews raise concerns about safety and cleanliness, which are worth considering. This tour is best suited for those looking for a fun, scenic ride that doesn’t take itself too seriously—ideal if you’re craving a relaxed outdoor activity rather than a polished, luxury experience.

Key Points

Beautiful scenery: You’ll get to ride along Lara Beach and through pine forests, giving you a nice mix of coastal and woodland landscapes.
Guided experience: A knowledgeable guide shows you the basics and leads the way, making it accessible for beginners.
Flexible timing options: You can choose to ride at sunrise, sunset, or during the day, depending on what kind of atmosphere you prefer.
Hassle-free transfers: The tour includes pickups from most Antalya and Lara Beach hotels, making it convenient.
Variable reviews: While some travelers rave about the views and guides, others have expressed safety concerns and disappointments regarding the beach environment.
Price point: At $60 per person, it offers an affordable way to enjoy Antalya’s natural beauty, though some reviews suggest the actual riding time and experience may feel limited.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point and Pickup

Your adventure kicks off at a central location near McDonald’s Antalya, where the tour organizer, Payless, arranges hotel pickups. This part of the experience is pretty seamless if you’re staying in Antalya or Lara Beach. The group is small—up to 12 travelers—which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Antalya and Surroundings
After meeting your guide, you’ll head out towards Lara Beach and the nearby forests. The guide is there to introduce you to the horses and explain safety procedures, which is helpful whether you’re a first-timer or have some riding experience.

The Beach Ride
The main highlight is the ride on Lara Beach’s sandy shores. You can expect a relaxed pace, with the opportunity to soak up the ocean views and feel the sand beneath your horse’s hooves. The experience is largely about enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty—no intense riding here. As some reviewers noted, the beach can sometimes be cluttered with debris, and safety issues were raised—so don’t expect pristine conditions. If you’re lucky, you’ll ride during sunset or sunrise, adding a magical glow to your photos.

Through the Pine Forest
Next, you’ll venture into the pine forests that surround Lara Beach. The cooler shade and scent of pine trees add a fresh dimension to the ride. It’s a peaceful trail that balances out the open beach experience with some shaded woodland.

The Duration and Pace

The total riding time is about 70 minutes—enough for a decent taste without feeling rushed. The tour lasts roughly 3 hours from start to finish, including transfers and briefings. The pace is gentle, ideal for beginners or casual riders. However, some reviews mention that the actual riding felt shorter than expected, and the tour might lean more towards a leisurely sightseeing activity than a full-on equestrian adventure.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Positive feedback:
Many enjoyed the views and the friendliness of the guides. One reviewer, Hamida, shared, “A very fun experience! The people were very friendly and accommodating.” They appreciated the chance to take photos with the horses and felt it was good value for money.

Concerns and criticisms:
On the flip side, a few reviews point out safety issues. Sharon expressed her disappointment, saying, “The beach was disgusting full of rubbish and debris. Really dangerous.” She also mentioned a loose girth causing a rider to fall off, which is worrying. Another traveler, Hamzah, was upset about feeling scammed regarding the trip duration and being told they couldn’t take photos with their own phones—something disappointing for those wanting more personal memorabilia of their ride.

Safety and cleanliness:
These mixed reviews serve as a reminder that conditions can vary. The tour includes safety equipment and guidance, but experiences of debris, safety hazards, or unprofessional behavior have been noted. It’s worth keeping expectations in check if cleanliness and safety are top priorities.

The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and Group Size

Cost vs. Value:
At $60, this tour is fairly priced for a scenic outdoor activity in Antalya. Compared to other experiences, it offers a reasonable balance of riding time and sightseeing. That said, some reviews suggest the actual riding might be shorter or less engaging than expected, so manage your expectations accordingly.

Group size:
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour keeps things manageable and friendly. If you’re traveling solo or with a small group, this is a plus, as it allows for more personalized attention from the guide.

Duration and timing:
The tour is about 3 hours total, with roughly 70 minutes of riding—so it’s a half-day adventure. The flexibility to ride at sunrise or sunset can really enhance the experience, adding a special atmosphere that photos and memories will capture beautifully.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for beginners or casual riders who want a relaxed ride with beautiful scenery. If you’re after a quick, scenic horse ride in a natural setting, it fits well. It’s also good for those staying in Antalya or Lara Beach who want an easy, hassle-free outdoor activity without needing to travel far.

However, if you’re highly particular about safety, cleanliness, or professional riding conditions, this might not meet your standards. The mixed reviews about debris, safety issues, and the limited riding time suggest it’s more about the experience and views than a polished, top-tier equestrian tour.

The Sum Up

The Antalya Horse Riding on Beach and through Forests offers a lovely way to enjoy some of the area’s best scenery at a reasonable price. The combination of beach and forest rides provides variety and a chance to connect with nature, all within a relaxed, guided setting. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a gentle ride with memorable views, especially during sunrise or sunset.

That said, it’s not without its flaws. Some travelers have experienced less-than-ideal safety conditions and cleanliness, so it’s worth going in with that awareness. If you’re open-minded and seeking a laid-back outdoor activity, this trip can add a special touch to your Antalya holiday.

For those who want a straightforward, scenic horse ride and don’t mind some unpredictability, this tour could be a memorable part of your trip. But if you’re very particular about pristine conditions or detailed riding experiences, you might want to explore other options or verify recent reviews before booking.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free transportation from most Antalya and Lara Beach hotels.

How long is the actual horse riding?
The riding session lasts approximately 70 minutes, with the overall tour about 3 hours including transfers and briefing.

Can I ride during sunrise or sunset?
Yes, you can upgrade to ride during sunrise or sunset, which many find adds a magical quality to the experience.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guide will show you the basics and lead the way, making it accessible even for first-time riders.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Safety equipment is provided.

Are there safety concerns I should know about?
There have been some reviews citing safety issues like debris and loose girths, so keep an eye on your surroundings and follow the guide’s instructions.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and manageable experience.

Can I take photos with my phone?
Officially, personal phone photography isn’t allowed during the ride, but some reviews mention that guides provide opportunities for photos afterward.

Is this activity family-friendly?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention children or family features, so if you’re traveling with kids, check if they meet the physical fitness requirements and are comfortable around horses.

What is the weather policy?
The experience relies on good weather—if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxed horseback ride in Antalya and enjoy natural beauty, this tour could be worth a try—just keep your expectations aligned with the mixed reviews and be aware of safety concerns. It’s a simple, approachable way to add some equestrian fun to your trip, especially if you’re happy to go with the flow.