Riding a horse for the first time is exciting. It can also be a little intimidating, a horse is a big animal and you have never guided one before. You are not alone in feeling this. Most people who come to Kerem Bey are riding for the first time.
This guide answers the most common questions and explains step by step how a first ride goes.
What happens on your first ride
Welcome. When you arrive, you meet your guide. You are asked about your height, weight and experience so the right horse can be chosen for you.
Meeting the horse. You do not get on straight away. First you go up to the horse, stroke it and learn how to approach it. These few minutes relax both you and the horse.
Preparation. You are given a helmet and equipment. The guide shows you how to mount, put your feet in the stirrups, hold the reins and stop the horse.
The ride. You set off with the guide. The pace is a walk and the horse knows the route. Your job is to sit up straight, breathe easily and enjoy the view.
Back at the farm. The guide helps you dismount. Afterwards you can relax at the restaurant if you like.
Common questions
Will I fall off?
On beginner rides the horse walks and the guide stays beside you. The horses are calm, used to people and have walked these routes many times. The risk is never zero, but it is very low when you follow the guide.
Can the horse sense that I am nervous?
Yes, horses sense tension. But the horses used on beginner rides are used to it. Taking deep breaths and relaxing your shoulders calms both of you.
Will my age or weight be a problem?
The horse is chosen by your height, weight and experience. Limits depend on the horse and route, so just mention these when you book. Children have their own starting point, explained in our guide to horse riding for kids.
Will I be sore the next day?
After a long ride you may feel some tiredness in your inner thighs and lower back. After a short ride most people feel nothing. A little stretching before and after helps.
Which ride to start with
| Ride | Duration | Price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arena ride | 4 laps | 500 TL | Young children, first meeting |
| Forest ride | 30 min | 1,500 TL | First ride, calmest route |
| Lake ride | 45 min | 2,000 TL | A bit more scenery |
| Beach ride | 45-60 min | 3,500 TL | Riders who want the sea |
If you are very nervous, start with the forest ride. If you feel ready, beach horse riding is also suitable for beginners. All routes are on the horse riding tours page.
Before you come
- Wear comfortable long trousers and flat, closed shoes. Details in what to wear horse riding.
- Tie back long hair and take off dangling jewellery.
- Avoid a heavy meal right before the ride.
- When booking, say clearly that you have never ridden and mention any fear. The plan is made around you.
If you want more than a ride
If you enjoyed your first ride and want to really learn, you can move on to one-to-one lessons. We explain how lessons progress in our guide to horse riding lessons in Istanbul.
Booking
Fill in the booking form on the site or message +90 546 414 00 89 on WhatsApp in English. Tell us the date, number of riders and that it is your first time.