You trade traffic for quiet trails in Gran Canaria. This is a beginner-friendly horseback ride with sea-and-mountain views and a gentle pace that actually feels relaxing. You’ll get a real intro to riding basics, not just a quick sit-and-go.

What I like most is how they keep it small (up to 10) and how the horses are treated like partners, not props. The ride also focuses on learning at a comfortable walk, with help from your instructor. The one drawback to know up front: it’s only about 1.5 hours, so it won’t replace a full-day adventure.

Key highlights at a glance

• Helmets and a back protector are included, so you start with solid safety basics
• Beginner setup: short practice in the arena before heading into the countryside
• Canarian east coast scenery with mountain backdrops during a calm ride
• Small group feel that’s easier for kids and first-time riders to manage
• A quiet horse pace that suits people looking for relaxation, not speed
• Photo moments built into the route, so you can actually capture the views

Getting started at the main barn: helmets, back protectors, and your horse

This experience is built around one simple idea: you should feel looked after from the first minute. You’ll arrive at the riding center, or you might be picked up from the airport (not always guaranteed, but it’s offered). As soon as you’re there, they’ll get you set up with your helmet and a back protector—proper basics, not optional extras.

Then comes the part that makes the whole thing feel personal: you’re assigned your horse. That matters more than people think. If you’re a beginner, you want a horse that’s steady, calm, and used to riders who are still figuring out their balance. The tour is designed for that exact situation—first-time riders, including kids from age 5, and no experience needed.

You’ll also get a quick orientation on how to ride at a walk. Don’t worry—this isn’t a test. It’s the start of a short training cycle that moves you from standing and holding on to steering and staying comfortable.

The riding lesson: walk-only skills that won’t overwhelm kids or adults

The schedule is smart: they teach you first, then you practice. After the initial explanation, you’ll try things inside the teaching arena. That’s where you get used to the rhythm of the horse and the basic commands.

Here’s what this “walk-only” approach does for you:

• It keeps your focus on comfort and control, not fear.
• It helps you learn how to follow instructions with less pressure.
• It lets you enjoy the experience instead of white-knuckling your way through.

Your instructor speaks English, Spanish, Italian, or French (they don’t speak German). If you’re traveling with mixed languages, this usually works fine, and the explanations are geared toward beginners. One thing I’d do if you’re booking: tell them your level and the ages of everyone riding. That small detail helps the team set you up with the right pace and coaching.

You’ll learn the basics of how to mount, how to sit, and how to respond to simple riding cues. Expect help along the way—this is the kind of tour where it’s okay to ask questions, because that’s how beginners succeed.

Countryside time: sea-and-mountain views on Gran Canaria’s east side

Once everyone’s comfortable enough, you head out into the countryside. This is the part you’ll remember. The ride is designed to show you the Canarian landscape with a clear sense of direction—sea views paired with mountain scenery, all while you move at a relaxed walk.

The tour route is focused on:

• enjoying the quiet countryside
• seeing the Canarian east coast from horseback
• taking in mountain views without rushing

And yes, the view matters. When you’re on foot, you’re stuck on whatever path the land gives you. On a horse, you get a wider sense of space—hills, valleys, and coastline at a pace that’s slow enough to actually take it in.

The mood is also different from many active tours. This one is meant to feel calm. If you’re the type who likes “simple, scenic, and well-run,” you’re going to like this.

Photo stop energy: relaxing pace with a couple of chances to capture the moment

Most horse riding tours have one of two styles: either you’re mostly riding and just hoping you’ll get a good picture, or it’s a constant “look over there.” This one lands in the practical middle.

There’s time built in to stop for photos, and the small-group size helps here. When the group is limited (up to 10), you’re not stuck waiting while everyone else figures out their camera angles. You’re also less likely to feel like your horse is starting and stopping every five minutes.

Also, don’t underestimate how good the light can be on Gran Canaria’s east-facing areas. Even in cooler months, the scenery can look crisp and sharp. One practical tip: if you have a phone, keep it secure. You’ll be moving at a walking pace, but you don’t want to be adjusting gear while you’re trying to settle into riding.

What to bring (and what to avoid): long pants, comfy shoes, and wind-proof layers

The rules are straightforward, and you’ll thank yourself for following them. Wear comfortable shoes with grip (you’ll be around horses, getting on and off, and moving near the barn area). Bring comfortable clothes, and make sure you have long pants.

Shorts are not allowed—so plan for it. This is especially important if you’re visiting in warm weather and you want to wear something light. You’ll still be more comfortable in long pants than you’d think, because you’ll be sitting and moving slowly rather than doing high-impact walking.

One real-world consideration: conditions can be windy. You can bring warm layers even if the sun is out. I’d rather you show up slightly over-prepared than cold and distracted. Some riders have been helped with a jacket in colder/windier conditions, so don’t be embarrassed if you arrive underdressed—but do your best to come ready.

Also, water isn’t included. Bring it. A short ride is still a ride, and you don’t want to solve hydration after you’re already on the horse.

Safety and limits: who this tour fits best (and who should skip it)

This experience has clear suitability rules, and they’re there for a reason. It’s designed for beginners and kids, but it’s not for everyone.

Not suitable for:

• children under 5
• pregnant women
• people over 65
• people over 6 ft 6 in / 200 cm
• people over 209 lbs / 95 kg
• people with motion sickness

If any of those apply, it’s worth looking for a different activity. The tour is calm, but you’re still on horseback, moving with the horse’s natural motion.

It also pays to understand what “motion sickness” means here. Even if you’re fine in cars, horseback movement can be different. If you’re even slightly unsure, plan carefully.

If you’re a beginner, this tour is built to be gentle. But still be honest about your comfort level and mobility. Tell the team your level and age when you book, so they can match you and coach you appropriately.

Price and value: what $41 gets you in Gran Canaria

At around $41 per person for about 1.5 hours, this tour is positioned as a solid “scenic activity” value. The biggest reason it feels like good value isn’t just the price—it’s what’s included.

You get:

• helmet
• back protector
• beginner coaching
• a guided ride through the countryside with sea and mountain views
• instructor support in multiple languages
• a small group experience

Compare that to many tours where you pay extra for safety gear or feel like you’re paying mostly for the animal time, not the learning and guidance. Here, they build in instruction and practice, then let you enjoy the view.

The short duration is also part of the value story. One and a half hours is enough time to feel you did something special without losing your whole day. It’s a good “add-on” activity if you want horseback riding but you also want time for beaches, food, or a proper hike later.

If you’re traveling as a couple, it also helps that there’s a minimum of 2 people for the tour to run. When you book, check that it fits your travel window so you don’t end up with a last-minute schedule squeeze.

Logistics that matter: where to go and what to expect

Meeting point is simple once you know what to look for. You’ll enter the main gate, see a big car park in front of you, and you should leave your car there. Then walk toward the main barn, up to the right.

The instructor waits there with horses ready. After you ride, they help you get down, remove the saddle and bridles, and bring the horse back to the stables. Helmets get collected at the end too.

There may be an airport lift available if a teacher is free. That’s nice, but don’t build your schedule around it like it’s guaranteed. If you’re trying to time connections, plan on your own transportation first and treat a lift as a bonus.

Also, small group size matters again here. With fewer participants, the whole setup and ride flow tends to feel smoother.

Should you book this Gran Canaria horse ride?

Yes, if you want:

• beginner-friendly horseback riding with real coaching
• calm countryside scenery with sea-and-mountain views
• a small group tour that’s easier for kids from age 5
• an activity that fits into a half-day without exhausting you

I’d pass or switch to something else if you:

• need something longer than 1.5 hours
• have any of the stated unsuitability factors (motion sickness, pregnancy, older than the limit, weight/height restrictions)
• hate rules about clothing (long pants are required, and shorts aren’t allowed)

If you’re unsure, treat this like a gentle first step. Even if you’ve never ridden before, the format is designed to help you learn fast without rushing you.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding tour?

The tour duration is 1.5 hours.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Yes. It’s designed for beginners, and no prior riding experience is needed.

What ages are allowed?

Children must be at least 5 years old. It’s not suitable for children under 5.

What’s included in the price?

Helmet and a back protector are included.

Do I need to bring water?

Water is not included, so you’ll want to bring your own.

What should I wear?

Bring comfortable clothes and comfortable shoes, and wear long pants. Shorts are not allowed.

What languages do the instructors speak?

The instructor speaks English, Spanish, Italian, and French.

Is pickup or drop-off available from the airport?

Pickup from the airport may be available, and a lift to the airport may be offered if a teacher is free, but it’s not guaranteed.

If you tell me your group ages and your riding comfort level, I can help you decide whether this is the right fit for your exact trip style.