Horse Riding in the Tabernas Desert

About Horse Riding in the Tabernas Desert

The Desierto de Tabernas is a protected natural area of eroded marl hills, gullies and dry riverbeds, or ramblas, between the Sierra de los Filabres and Sierra Alhamilla, often called Europe's only desert. It stood in for the American West in many films. Private motor vehicles are banned inside the natural area; visitors may walk or cycle on authorised paths or go with an authorised company.

Malcaminos, a licensed active-tourism company (AT/AL/00011), rides out from its ranch north-east of Tabernas. After fitting helmets and a short session in a closed arena, the group spends about two hours with a monitor riding the ramblas and paths of the desert, stopping for photographs. One of two itineraries is chosen on the day. Beginners stay at a walk; more advanced riders may trot or canter at the instructor's discretion. Confirmed riders can book a three-hour ride and, from October to May, rides of one to six days.

The two-hour ride costs €45 per rider (2026) and runs in daytime all year; book online. It is for riders aged 14 to 70 weighing up to 90 kg, and not for people with back or mobility problems. Long trousers, closed shoes and water are required; helmets are compulsory and provided. Drones and selfie sticks are banned.

The best months are October to May. From June to September take the earliest slot, as the desert is very hot by late morning. Bring sunglasses, sun cream and 1 litre of water; film-set visits are separate.

Horse Riding in the Tabernas Desert in pictures

What you’ll find

• Circular routeLoop trailFree
• Guided activityGuide or instructor (€45)Book
• HikingWalking routeFree
• Horse ridingGuided ride (€45)Book
• Mountain bikingMTB trailFree
• ViewpointScenic viewpointFree

Nearby places to visit

The ranch is close to the western film set of Fort Bravo Texas Hollywood (2 km), still used for shoots and open to visitors, and the olive mill Almazara Oro del Desierto (3 km), which runs tastings. The Tabernas Desert (5 km) viewpoints show the badlands from above, and Oasys MiniHollywood (5 km) combines a western town with a zoo and pool. Road cyclists can tackle the Calar Alto Road Climb from Gérgal (14 km) on the Filabres skyline to the north, finishing among observatory domes.