Porto Santo Island: Horse Riding

Imagine exploring Madeira’s charming Porto Santo Island on horseback, with the wind in your hair and breathtaking landscapes unfolding around you. This horse riding tour is an inviting way to see the island’s natural beauty from a fresh perspective, whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete beginner. With a high rating of 5 stars from just four reviews, it’s clear that this experience hits the mark for many travelers.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the calm, well-trained horses are suitable for everyone, including those with no prior riding experience or children. Second, the expert guides like Paulo Ornelas ensure safety while sharing interesting tidbits about the scenery. Lastly, the scenery itself — from mountain trails to coastline views — offers a memorable backdrop that keeps guests coming back for more.

A potential consideration? The hilly terrain might not appeal to those looking for an entirely flat ride, but this adds a touch of adventure rather than discomfort. This tour suits travelers seeking a mixture of relaxation, adventure, and authentic scenery, especially those eager to try something out of the ordinary.

Good To Know

• Suitable for all levels: beginners, children, and experienced riders.
• Stunning scenery: mountain views, coastline, and island landscapes.
• Expert guides: knowledgeable, patient, and safety-conscious.
• Value for money: competitive price considering the scenic experience and quality horses.
• Flexible durations: options from 1 to 3 hours.
• Convenient meeting points: multiple options around Porto Santo.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This horse riding tour is a charming way to see Porto Santo’s diverse landscapes. The tour is led by Paulo Ornelas from Passeios a Cavalo Porto Santo, who has garnered praise for his friendly demeanor and thorough explanations. Whether you’re riding for the first time or are a seasoned equestrian, Paulo’s guidance ensures you feel comfortable and informed throughout.

The Itinerary

You’ll start at one of three possible meeting points, all conveniently located around Porto Santo: Passeios a Cavalo, Centro Hípico do Porto Santo, Est. Cmdt. José de Castro Vasconcelos 9400. The flexibility of multiple start locations makes it easier to fit the ride into your day.

The core of the experience is a horseback walk around the island, lasting between 1 to 3 hours depending on your choice of tour. The ride takes you through terrains that are often described as a little adventurous, with some inclines and uneven paths — a feature that adds to the thrill rather than detracts from comfort.

The Horses and Equipment

The horses are described as super docile and well-trained, making them perfect for riders of all skill levels. Reviewers like Rúben appreciated the friendly, well-behaved horses that allowed them to focus on the scenery rather than worrying about the ride. Helmets and other equipment are included, ensuring safety and comfort during the trek.

Scenic Highlights

What sets this tour apart is the stunning views. From mountain trails to coastlines, you’ll experience Porto Santo’s diverse terrain. Marine and mountain vistas blend seamlessly, and some guests loved the sunset ride, which provides a magical, relaxed end to the experience.

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The Guides and Staff

Guests often highlight the knowledge and patience of the guides, particularly Paulo, who seems to make first-timers feel at ease. Such personalized attention helps ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, especially for those nervous about riding.

Price and Value

At $56 per person, this tour offers excellent value, given the inclusion of horses, helmets, and equipment. When you consider the quality of the scenery and the personalized guidance, it’s a worthwhile expense for an unforgettable memory.

Additional Practical Details

• The tour duration varies from 1 to 3 hours, so you can tailor the experience to your schedule.
• The meeting point may differ based on the booking option, so check in advance.
• Bring comfortable, sporty shoes and a water bottle, especially for longer rides.
• Children need an ID or passport, and the tour is not suitable for those over a certain weight limit or with mobility issues.

Sightseeing and Photography Opportunities

This ride is perfect for those who love capturing scenic moments. Reviewers mention that the views on the trail are spectacular enough to rival any postcard. Riding along the coast or mountain slopes allows for fantastic photo opportunities, especially during sunset.

What to Expect During the Ride

Expect a relaxed pace with plenty of stops for photos and to soak in the scenery. While some parts of the trail are a bit uneven, the overall ride is designed to be accessible, with a focus on enjoyment rather than adrenaline.

Authentic Experiences

Unlike some tours that focus solely on sightseeing, this experience offers a personal connection with Porto Santo’s landscapes. Guests feel like they’re truly exploring the island, not just ticking off a sightseeing list.

The Review in Context

Reviewers consistently praised the knowledgeable guides, with Marine from France mentioning that she loved how the guide showed her the island in a different way. The scenic trails received glowing remarks, with Markus from Germany calling it a “nice & relaxed horseback tour towards the sunset.”

The appeal is not just the scenery but the personalized service — guides like Paulo and staff members who are patient and attentive create a welcoming atmosphere that turns a simple ride into a memorable adventure.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This horseback riding experience is ideal for families with children, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to try horseback riding for the first time. It’s also a charming option for those seeking a relaxed yet scenic activity that showcases Porto Santo’s natural beauty.

If you enjoy gentle outdoor adventures with a dash of exploration, this tour fits perfectly. However, if you’re looking for a high-adrenaline ride or have mobility restrictions, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

This horse riding tour on Porto Santo offers a harmonious blend of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and suitability for all experience levels. The well-trained horses and manageable routes make it accessible for beginners and children, while the stunning vistas keep seasoned travelers engaged. The tour’s affordability and the personalized touch of guides like Paulo make it a valuable addition to any Porto Santo itinerary.

Whether you’re after a peaceful ride at sunset, a morning adventure through mountain trails, or just want to see the island from a different perspective, this experience delivers. It’s perfect for those who want more than just a quick glance at Porto Santo — you’ll leave with a genuine connection to its landscapes and a handful of memorable photos.

For travelers who appreciate authentic, scenic experiences and personalized service, this horse riding tour is a standout choice. It’s a leisurely, scenic adventure that captures the essence of Porto Santo’s natural charm without breaking the bank.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the horses are described as well-trained and suitable for all experience levels, including beginners and children.

How long does the ride last?
The tour duration varies from 1 to 3 hours depending on your booking choice.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meeting points may vary depending on the selected option, but common locations include Passeios a Cavalo or Centro Hípico do Porto Santo.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, ideally sports or hiking shoes, a water bottle, and a passport or ID for children are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children with proper ID or passports are accepted, and the horses are friendly and calm.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are helmets and equipment provided?
Yes, helmets, saddles, and other necessary equipment are included in the price.

Is the tour available in different languages?
Guides speak both English and Portuguese, accommodating most travelers.

Are there weight restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for people over certain weight limits (e.g., over 287 lbs or 130 kg), so check specifics before booking.

In summary, this Porto Santo horse riding tour combines scenic landscapes, expert guidance, and accessibility at a fair price. It’s a fantastic way to add a touch of adventure to your island stay, especially if you’re eager to see Porto Santo from a different angle while enjoying a relaxed, scenic ride.

You can check if your dates are available here: