Alanya Horse Riding

• Hotel pick-up from Alanya area hotels (morning or afternoon).
• Arrival at the ranch and introduction to the horses.
• Brief training session and safety orientation for all riders.
• Horseback ride through pine forests on the Taurus Mountain trails.
• Pause at a scenic viewpoint for photos overlooking the coast.
• Visit the ruins of Syedra Ancient City and pass through a local village.
• Return to the ranch and transfer back to your hotel.

Experience Horse Riding in Alanya’s Taurus Mountains

Alanya isn’t just about beaches and nightlife – it’s also home to breathtaking mountain scenery waiting to be explored. One of the best ways to discover the natural beauty and hidden history of the region is on an Alanya horse riding tour. This Alanya mountain horse riding safari offers a unique adventure: you’ll ride through pine forests, past ancient ruins, and up scenic trails in the Taurus Mountains. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy a side of Alanya that many visitors miss.

Why Choose an Alanya Horse Riding Tour?

Explore nature up close: Horseback riding in Alanya lets you venture into the lush countryside that vehicles can’t reach. You’ll trek along narrow paths under pine trees, through fragrant orange groves and banana plantations, getting up close with the Taurus Mountain wilderness. It’s a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and summer heat.

A blend of adventure and culture: This tour isn’t just a ride – it’s also a cultural journey. Along the way, you encounter the ruins of an ancient city (Syedra) that few tourists get to see. Imagine riding the same hills ancient Romans once traversed! The mix of historical exploration and outdoor fun makes this experience truly special.

Family-friendly and beginner-friendly: Unlike extreme sports, horseback riding is a gentle activity suitable for almost everyone. Professional guides and calm, well-trained horses make it safe even for first-time riders. Children as young as 6 or 7 can join (with helmets on and under supervision), so it’s an ideal family adventure. If you’ve been searching for horseback riding tours for beginners in Alanya, this is the perfect choice.

Break from the ordinary: For many European travelers, an Alanya horse tour offers a welcome change of pace. It’s a chance to slow down and travel like people did in the past – on the back of a trusty horse. No roaring engines or crowded buses, just the sound of hoofbeats and birdsong. This natural, peaceful atmosphere often becomes the highlight of a holiday in Alanya.

Scenic Route Through Nature and History

The highlight of this ride is the journey itself. After a short drive out of the city, you’ll find yourself at a rustic ranch in Seki village (about 30 minutes from Alanya). Here, the Taurus Mountains rise gently around you, promising cooler air and panoramic views. Once you saddle up and set out, you’ll follow a trail that winds through shady pine forests and rugged hillsides, with the scent of wild herbs carried on the breeze. Don’t be surprised if you spot local wildlife like goats or see farmers tending to banana groves along the way – this is the authentic Turkish countryside.

Syedra Ancient City: Midway through the trek, you’ll reach the ruins of Syedra, an ancient city perched on a hill. Nearly 2,000 years ago, Syedra was a bustling Roman-era town. Today, you can still see remnants of its past glory: crumbling stone walls, the outlines of a temple, and even a Byzantine church mosaic hidden among the foliage. Riding on horseback among these ruins is a surreal experience – it feels as if you’ve traveled back in time. You’ll likely dismount briefly to explore on foot, giving you a chance to walk through the old city gate and snap photos of historic arches with the Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop.

Breathtaking viewpoints: As you ride further, the trees occasionally part to reveal stunning vistas. From certain points on the trail, you can gaze out at the turquoise Mediterranean Sea and even catch a glimpse of Alanya’s famous castle in the distance. Your guides know the best spots to pause for pictures. Imagine sitting on your horse with a backdrop of mountains and coastline – it’s a picture-perfect moment you won’t want to miss.

The return route takes you through a charming local village, where friendly locals might wave as you pass by. You’ll see simple village houses, small farms, and perhaps chickens scurrying across the path, giving you a taste of rural life in Turkey. After completing the scenic loop, you’ll gently descend back towards the ranch, with memories of forest trails and ancient stone ruins etched in your mind.

Horseback Riding Tours for Beginners in Alanya

No prior experience is required. Before setting off, the instructors give everyone a brief but thorough training session. They’ll show you how to sit in the saddle, hold the reins, and use basic commands to direct your horse. The horses on this tour are calm, gentle, and used to novice riders – they often follow the lead horse at a relaxed walking pace.

This makes the tour perfect for beginners and also family-friendly. Kids who meet the minimum age (around 6–7 years) can ride their own small horse or pony, led by a guide if needed. Safety is a top priority: everyone is provided a helmet, and the guides keep a close eye on the group at all times. You’ll never be asked to do anything beyond your comfort level. The terrain is mostly easy, and whenever a steeper section comes up, the guides assist and ensure each rider feels secure.

Even if you’re an experienced rider, you will enjoy this tour for its stunning scenery and unique location. It’s not a fast-paced gallop but rather a leisurely exploration. Experienced equestrians appreciate the chance to slow down, take photos, and soak in the environment. (You can always chat with the guides about a brief trot in open areas if you’re comfortable, but the usual pace is kept gentle.) In short, when it comes to horse riding in Alanya, this tour is designed so that anyone – from ages 7 to 70 – can participate and have a wonderful time.

What to Expect: Tour Itinerary

Hotel pickup: Your adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Alanya. Depending on the season, tours might start early in the morning (to enjoy cool air) or in the late afternoon (for a golden-hour ride). You’ll travel about 20–30 minutes into the Taurus Mountain foothills in a comfortable minibus to reach the horse ranch.

Arrival at the ranch: Upon arrival, you’ll meet the ranch team and get introduced to your horse. The ranch in Seki village has horses for all ages and skill levels. The instructors will match each guest with a suitable horse based on experience and comfort. First-timers often get a calm, gentle horse, while more confident riders might be paired with a slightly more energetic one. You’ll have time to pet your horse and get comfortable in the saddle. This is also when you’ll receive your riding helmet and a safety briefing if you haven’t had one already. The guides will explain the route and the rules (such as keeping a safe distance between horses).

Training session: Before heading out on the trail, everyone gets a short practice session. In an open paddock, you’ll mount up (with help if needed) and learn the basics: how to start, stop, turn, and maintain balance. The instructors make sure you feel at ease. Don’t worry if you’re a bit nervous at first – most people get the hang of it within minutes. The motto here is “no rush, no pressure.” Once all riders are comfortable, the group sets off together.

Horseback ride into the mountains: The trail leads away from the ranch into the green hills. As you follow your guide, you’ll immediately immerse yourself in nature. The pace is a calm walk. The horses know the path well and typically walk in a line, one after the other, so you can relax and take in the surroundings. Feel free to chat with the guide as you ride – they’ll point out interesting plants or landmarks. The journey to Syedra Ancient City takes roughly an hour, with gentle uphill and downhill sections. You’ll cross small creeks (fun for the horses to splash through) and traverse open meadows dotted with wildflowers in spring (or dry scrubland in summer).

Scenic break: Upon reaching a gorgeous viewpoint near the ancient city, the group will pause. This is a chance to rest your legs (and the horses’ legs!). You’ll dismount and take a break for about 15 minutes. Drink some water and capture the sweeping views of the coastline and mountains. The guides are happy to help take photos of you on your horse so you can remember the moment. It’s also a good time to ask any questions about the area or just soak up the quiet beauty of the mountains.

Exploring the ruins: Next, you’ll lead your horse a short distance on foot as you enter the Syedra ruins (giving the horses a breather on the uneven ground). Walking among the remnants of ancient baths, stone streets, and toppled pillars is a highlight of the tour. You’ll tether the horses briefly so you can wander safely among the ruins. Feel free to imagine the ancient inhabitants living here – the view of the sea from this hilltop is the same one they enjoyed centuries ago. Your guide might share a legend or two about the city as you explore.

Return ride: Back in the saddle, you’ll begin the journey home, taking a slightly different path that meanders through a quaint rural area. If everyone is comfortable, there may be a short opportunity to try a gentle trot on a flat stretch (completely optional). By now, you’re likely feeling more confident as a rider than when you started! The trail then leads downhill at a steady walk. You’ll pass by a few farmhouses and orchards as you approach the ranch, arriving with a great sense of accomplishment.

Wrap-up at the ranch: After dismounting, it’s time to thank your horse with a pat and maybe a treat (ask the staff – they often have carrots or apples available). Many guests like to stay a few minutes to chat and share their favorite moments. The ranch staff often offers a cup of Turkish tea, which is a lovely way to relax and reflect on the adventure. Once you’re ready, you’ll hop back in the vehicle for the ride back to your hotel. If you rode in the morning, you’ll be back around lunchtime; if it was an afternoon ride, you’ll return around sunset.

The entire excursion (hotel pick-up to drop-off) lasts about 3 to 4 hours, with roughly 1.5–2 hours spent on horseback. You’ll return with fantastic memories, a camera full of photos, and maybe a little soreness in muscles you didn’t know you had – a small price for an authentic adventure on horseback!

Practical Information & Tips

What’s included: The tour price includes everything needed for your ride: round-trip transportation from your Alanya hotel, an English-speaking guide/instructor (many tours also have German- or Russian-speaking guides available), a well-trained horse matched to your skill, a riding helmet and all necessary equipment, and basic insurance. Many tours also offer a complimentary Turkish tea either before or after the ride as a friendly gesture.

What’s not included: Meals or drinks (aside from that tea) are not part of the package, so it’s best to eat before you come for a morning tour, or plan a meal after. If you’d like extra beverages or snacks, bring them along. Personal expenses like souvenir photos (taken by a professional photographer, if present) are optional and extra. Also, while tips are not obligatory, a small gratuity for your guide or driver is appreciated if you enjoyed the experience.

What to wear/bring: Dress comfortably for outdoor activity. Long pants (trousers) are recommended to protect your legs from the saddle. Wear closed-toe shoes – sneakers or boots are perfect (avoid sandals). Apply sunscreen on sunny days and bring sunglasses; you can wear a hat before/after the ride, but during the ride a helmet is provided and must be worn. It’s a good idea to carry a bottle of water, especially in summer, to stay hydrated. And of course, bring a camera or smartphone for photos – just secure it well (a small backpack or waist pouch can help keep your hands free while riding).

Safety and health: This tour is designed with safety in mind. Helmets are provided for all riders and the guides will make sure it fits properly. There is usually a weight limit of about 90–100 kg (200–220 lb) per rider to ensure the horses’ well-being – if you’re above this, check with us in advance. If you have severe back or knee problems or if you’re pregnant, it’s advisable to avoid horseback riding as the motion might not be comfortable. Otherwise, the gentle pace and close supervision mean that almost anyone can participate and feel secure. Guides carry mobile phones and basic first aid for peace of mind.

Best time to go: Horse riding is available year-round in Alanya. In the peak of summer (July–August), morning or late afternoon rides are most comfortable to avoid midday heat. Spring (April–June) and autumn (Sept–Oct) offer ideal conditions – mild temperatures and beautiful scenery (wildflowers in bloom during spring, lush green after autumn rains). Even winter days can be great for riding if the weather is clear, though tours might be less frequent off-season. Whenever you go, aim to book a day when skies are clear to fully enjoy the views.

Group size and atmosphere: Groups are usually small (often 8–10 people or fewer), which creates a friendly, personal atmosphere. You’ll get to know your guide and fellow riders along the way. Don’t hesitate to ask the guide questions about the area or for riding tips – they’re knowledgeable and happy to help. Many travelers find that by the end of the tour, the group feels like a bunch of new friends sharing an amazing experience. It’s not uncommon to exchange photos or social media contacts with fellow riders after bonding over the adventure!

More Adventures in Alanya

If you loved exploring Alanya’s mountains on horseback, you might also enjoy another off-road experience: a Jeep Safari in Alanya. On a jeep safari, you’ll venture deep into the Taurus Mountains by 4x4, visiting remote villages, splashing through rivers, and climbing to high viewpoints. It’s a fun-filled day of driving adventure that complements the slower pace of a horse ride, letting you discover even more of Alanya’s breathtaking backcountry.

After an active day outdoors, a perfect way to unwind is by indulging in a traditional Turkish bath in Alanya (hamam). Treat yourself to a relaxing session where you’ll enjoy a steam bath, exfoliating scrub, and foam massage. It’s the ideal follow-up to soothe your muscles after hours in the saddle and a wonderful cultural experience to round out your trip.

**Alanya Horse Riding** offers the perfect mix of adventure, nature, and history in one memorable excursion. Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced horseman, this tour promises an amazing experience in one of Turkey’s most beautiful regions. Starting from per person, it’s an affordable, must-do activity that will likely be a highlight of your vacation. Don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable memories – saddle up and let Alanya’s natural charm captivate you!