El Salobre: Horse Riding Adventure with Transfer Options

If you’re considering adding a touch of adventure to your trip to Gran Canaria, a horse riding tour with El Salobre might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally saddled up ourselves, the reviews and details paint a picture of a well-organized, scenic, and welcoming experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned rider, this activity offers a chance to see the island’s volcanic landscapes in a relaxed, intimate way.

What really catches the eye is the combination of beautiful scenery and friendly guides, as many reviewers highlight how knowledgeable and caring the staff are. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy views of the Maspalomas sand dunes from the top of a hill provides that perfect photo backdrop — no need for a camera crew to capture your moment. One potential snag is that the experience isn’t suitable for children under 3 or for individuals over 243 lbs (110 kg), so it’s worth keeping those limits in mind if you’re planning for family or larger groups.

This tour seems especially suited for those who love nature, appreciate gentle outdoor adventures, or want a memorable way to connect with Gran Canaria’s landscape without strenuous hiking. If you enjoy animals, scenic vistas, or simply want a laid-back activity that combines nature and culture, this is a solid pick.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: Suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. Guides are patient and knowledgeable.
• Stunning views: Expect panoramic sights of volcanic landscapes, tropical plantations, and the iconic dunes of Maspalomas.
• Flexible options: You can choose between 1 or 2-hour rides, with optional hotel transfers for added convenience.
• Well-cared-for horses: Consistently praised for the health and gentle nature of the animals.
• Safety first: Helmets and safety vests are provided, and guides are fluent in multiple languages to ensure clear instructions.
• Good value for money: Considering the quality of the experience, many reviews say it’s worth the price, especially with the optional transfers included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Horse Riding Adventure

The experience kicks off with a warm welcome at the ranch, where you’ll meet your horse — carefully matched to your riding ability, as many reviews note. Whether you’re a total novice or have some experience, the team at El Salobre is skilled at making everyone feel comfortable. Helmets are provided for all, and safety vests are available for younger riders, emphasizing the importance of a secure environment.

Once you’re familiar with your steed, you’ll set off on the trails that wind through Gran Canaria’s rugged volcanic terrain. The guides do a great job of sharing insights about the landscape and local flora, making the ride both scenic and educational. Expect to see lush tropical plantations, rocky paths, and distant views of the famous Maspalomas sand dunes.

The route is usually leisurely, focusing on enjoying the scenery rather than requiring advanced riding skills. For those with a little more confidence, some reviews mention the opportunity to trot or gallop, though most rides tend to be peaceful walks. The terrain can be rocky or uneven, so comfortable footwear and sun protection are wise choices. Many visitors highlight the breathtaking vistas from the top of the hill, perfect for photos.

At the end of the ride, you’ll return to the ranch, where some stops offer the chance to buy drinks or snacks. Kids and animal lovers will enjoy the onsite farm animals, which add a charming touch to the experience. If you’ve opted for the transfer, the pickup and drop-off process is typically smooth and punctual, making the entire day more effortless.

The Horses and Guides: The Heart of the Experience

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the quality of the horses and the professionalism of the guides. Reviews often mention how well-looked-after and friendly the animals are, which is reassuring for nervous riders or families. Many riders note that their assigned horses quickly became trusted companions, and guides are always ready to accommodate different needs or comfort levels.

The guides, fluent in Spanish, English, and German, seem to strike the perfect balance between providing helpful instructions and sharing engaging stories about the island. Their patience and clear communication make even first-timers feel at ease, as several reviews highlight. For instance, one reviewer said, “The instructors made me feel so at ease, and the horses were lovely and well cared for.”

Guides also play an important role in ensuring safety throughout the trail, adjusting the pace as needed and stopping for photos or breaks along the way. The presence of multiple guides in some tours contributes to the feeling of security, especially when riding in a mixed-ability group.

The Scenic Routes and Key Stops

The highlight of this experience is the access to breathtaking views—from the volcanic mountain trails to the hilltop vista overlooking the Maspalomas dunes. Riders often mention the spectacular scenery as a defining feature, with some describing the ride as “the perfect way to see the island without exhausting hikes.”

The trail takes you past tropical plantations, which add greenery and contrast to the volcanic browns. The ascent to the hilltop offers a panoramic view of the sand dunes, the ocean, and the surrounding landscape—many say this is a photograph-worthy moment. Some reviews mention stopping halfway for a quick photo or a chance to give apples to the horses, which adds a personal touch to the riding experience.

While most rides are primarily walking, some experienced riders can ask for a trot or gallop if the guide deems it safe. The terrain varies from rocky to grassy patches, and the pace is generally relaxed, making it accessible to most.

The Experience Length and Flexibility

You can select between a 1-hour or 2-hour ride, which allows flexibility depending on your schedule and stamina. The 1-hour tour offers a quick taste of the landscape, perfect for those with limited time or nervous riders. The 2-hour option delves deeper into the terrain, allowing a more immersive experience.

Many travelers appreciate the option for hotel transfers, which simplifies logistics, especially since the ranch is located outside the main resorts. Pickup times are generally punctual, and the process is smooth, adding comfort to the adventure.

The activity lasts between 1 and 2 hours, including transfer time if booked. The actual riding time is usually quite close to what’s advertised, with some reviews mentioning that the total experience, including transportation, can take around 5 hours.

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Pricing and Value

At around $45 per person, this tour offers a decent value, considering the quality of guides, the care of horses, and the scenery. Many reviewers feel it’s worth the price, especially given the high praise for the guides’ friendliness and professionalism. If you opt for the transfer, it adds convenience but also increases the overall cost, which many find worthwhile to avoid the hassle of navigating rural areas.

Compared to other activities on the island, this horse riding experience is competitively priced for the length and quality of the tour. Plus, many reviews mention the value of the experience relative to the cost, describing it as “great value for money” and “an activity I would definitely do again.”

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits a variety of travelers. It’s especially popular among those who want a scenic, relaxed outdoor activity without the physical demands of hiking or biking. If you’re a horse lover or curious about riding for the first time, the gentle, well-trained horses and patient guides make this a perfect choice.

Families with children over 3 might enjoy it, but keep in mind the weight restrictions and the fact that it’s mainly walking—so it’s less about adrenaline and more about scenery and connection with animals. Solo travelers, couples, and small groups will all find this experience easy to enjoy, especially with the optional transfer for added comfort.

In short, if you’re after a peaceful way to see some of Gran Canaria’s most beautiful landscapes and don’t mind a bit of tacky tourism, this tour fits the bill nicely.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
You can choose to include hotel pickup and drop-off, which is usually seamless and adds to the convenience. If not, you’ll meet at the ranch in Maspalomas.

How long is the total experience?
The riding itself lasts 1 to 2 hours, with the entire experience including pickup, safety briefing, and return lasting around 5 hours depending on options.

Are helmets and safety gear provided?
Yes, helmets are included for all riders, and safety vests are available for young participants, emphasizing safety during the ride.

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight that complete novices are well cared for. Guides are patient, and horses are chosen to match your experience level.

What’s the maximum weight allowed?
Participants over 243 lbs (110 kg) are not suitable for this activity, so check weight limits if relevant.

Is it suitable for children?
Children over 3 are generally allowed, but parents should consider the length and terrain of the ride, as it may be more suited to older kids or teenagers.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, and bring sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen. Closed-toe shoes are recommended.

Are there options for more experienced riders?
Yes, some reviews mention the opportunity for trotting or galloping if the guide deems it safe, especially on the longer or more advanced trail.

Final Thoughts

The horse riding experience at El Salobre offers a genuine glimpse into Gran Canaria’s volcanic landscape, guided by passionate and professional staff. It’s a well-priced, scenic activity suitable for a broad range of abilities, making it a solid choice if you want to combine nature, animals, and a touch of adventure on your trip.

While not suitable for those with very young children or extremely heavy riders, it excels in providing a relaxed, safe, and memorable day out. Expect breathtaking views, gentle horses, and friendly guides who ensure everyone feels comfortable and cared for.

If you’re looking to get a different perspective on the island — away from beaches and busy streets — this riding tour is easily one of the more enjoyable ways to connect with Gran Canaria’s natural beauty. It’s a peaceful, scenic ride that many reviewers say they’d happily do again, and if you’re an animal lover or simply crave some outdoor tranquility, it might just become a highlight of your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: