Riding Through the Sands: Our First Horseback Adventure in the Dunes

Some experiences transport you to another world—riding through the vast sand dunes on horseback, with the golden light of the setting sun stretching across the horizon, was one of those moments. The rhythmic sound of hooves kicking up sand, the scent of the warm desert air, and the endless rolling dunes made it feel like something out of a dream.

For me, this wasn’t just about riding—it was about reconnecting with a childhood passion. Growing up, my family couldn’t afford riding lessons, so I’d spend hours cleaning stables just to earn time in the saddle. As a little girl, I was absolutely mad about two horses, Damasha and Fantasmo, and any chance I got to ride them felt like the greatest gift. Those memories came rushing back the moment I climbed onto my horse in the desert.

For Marc, this was a completely new experience, but from the moment he got in the saddle, he took to it like a natural.

Saddling Up for an Unforgettable Ride

We arrived at the stables in the late afternoon, just as the desert heat was starting to ease. Our guide introduced us to our horses—strong, beautiful creatures perfectly suited for navigating the shifting sands. Marc’s horse was a tall, chestnut-colored stallion with an easygoing demeanor, and as soon as Marc was in the saddle, he looked like he’d been doing it for years.

“I think I was made for this,” he said with a grin, adjusting his reins with confidence.

Into the Dunes

As we rode out, the sand stretched endlessly in every direction, the dunes rolling like waves frozen in time. There was something almost surreal about it—just us, our horses, and the vast expanse of golden desert.

The rhythm of the horses’ hooves against the soft sand was hypnotic, and the gentle swaying of the saddle made it easy to fall into a peaceful rhythm. Marc, far from being hesitant, was completely in his element, guiding his horse effortlessly as we climbed and descended the dunes.

“This is amazing,” he said, looking out over the endless horizon. “Why haven’t we done this before?”

The Magic of the Desert

As we reached a high point in the dunes, we paused to take in the view. The sky was beginning to turn shades of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the landscape. There was no sound except for the distant whisper of the wind and the occasional snort from the horses. It felt like we were in a dream, far away from the rest of the world.

Our guide shared stories about the desert—how travelers once crossed these vast landscapes on horseback and camel, navigating by the stars. The history of the land felt alive in that moment, and I imagined what it must have been like centuries ago, journeying across the sands under the same endless sky.

Riding with Confidence

As the ride continued, we picked up the pace, and soon, we were galloping across the dunes. Marc handled it effortlessly, his horse moving smoothly beneath him as he rode with ease and confidence. It was exhilarating—the rush of wind, the spray of sand, and the feeling of total freedom.

“This is incredible!” Marc called out, laughing as his horse surged forward.

It was one of those pure, joyful moments where everything else fades away, and all that exists is the adventure right in front of you.

A Ride to Remember

As the sun dipped below the horizon, we made our way back, the sky now painted in deep blues and purples. The desert had given us an experience we’d never forget—one that combined nature, history, and the simple joy of trying something new.

As we dismounted, Marc gave his horse a final pat and turned to me. “We’re definitely doing this again,” he said, already thinking about our next ride.

And honestly? I couldn’t agree more.