Djerba 15 Hour Horseback Ride Review: Island Beaches & Lagoon Escapade
Picture this: a whole stretch of hours spent atop a trusty horse, with the ever stunning Djerba coastline just flashing by. You’re not just seeing Djerba, that beautiful Tunisian island; you’re, in some respects, feeling it, smelling it, really living it. Now, you may wonder, is a 15-hour horseback ride perhaps a bit too extreme? Could be. Let me tell you all regarding this one extensive outing, the sights, the sounds, plus arguably the saddle sores too it’s almost!
Setting off on a Djerba Equestrian outing: What to Expect
So, before you, like your, go off dreaming of breezy beach rides, that is something you should know. A ride this long is, in some respects, not just a relaxed trot, but something else entirely. The operators typically map out an itinerary that involves a mix of terrain, just slightly from sandy beaches to potentially rocky paths and also the shallow waters of the lagoon. Now, this, like your, sounds exciting, and it certainly can be, though a degree of physical stamina is obviously a plus. You want to get on a horse that’s suitable for this length of experience too it’s almost, so listen to the ranch people, they probably know what they’re talking about, right?
You know, one thing that always surprises folks is that weather on Djerba can change very quickly, so be prepared for possibly sun, wind, or just the occasional sprinkle. I always pack sunscreen, a hat, and, as a matter of fact, a light waterproof jacket, that way, you should be set regardless of the conditions.
The Beaches: A symphony of sand and surf
When you’re riding down Djerba’s beaches, the scenery really comes alive. The Mediterranean just sparkles beside you, and you might get a feel for a delicate sea breeze just kind of kissing your face. Now, the sand, warm and soft below the horse’s hooves, really adds to that peaceful vibe. Then you can notice the turquoise waters meet the shore in gentle waves; it is actually just picture-postcard material. At certain times, it may be that you spot local fishermen casting their nets, very old and traditional and such, or perhaps a few families just having a relaxed outing, basically.
The experience lets you witness stretches of shoreline that many travelers don’t even get to see. You might even stop in at one of those smaller, more remote beaches for a quick breather. Then the views, those beautiful panoramic views of the sea, add something really special to that ride. You may be wanting to get your camera ready; you will find that it’s virtually impossible not to click a photo or two… or maybe fifty!
Crossing the lagoon: A different world
One distinctive segment of that excursion would involve crossing Djerba’s lagoon. A lagoon crossing is almost a totally different feel as you’re getting on there. As a matter of fact, the water is typically calm and shallow, and you get to experience that sensation of your horse sort of wading just gradually through the cool water. Keep your eyes open because there are all kinds of wildlife, too it’s almost!
During that time, you’re sure to be possibly seeing flamingos gracefully wandering along the water’s edge. Then you may see several types of birds, very exotic types that use that lagoon for their own stopover during migrations. And what’s particularly nice is actually that stillness, that peaceful feeling of getting away just slightly from it all out there on the water.
The Horses: Your reliable Partners
The horses that you find in Djerba are, in some respects, mostly Barb or Arab-Barb crosses, being that those breeds are actually well-suited to the climate and that terrain. So they are, basically, known for their stamina and their sure-footedness, things that you’re gonna want and be thankful for on a long trek like that! The outfitters tend to take care of their animals, that could be something you want to have a look at. From what I saw, the horses seem, arguably, well-fed and well-cared for, which I’m sure you’d agree really says a lot of things, obviously. What I usually find is that most guides really are familiar with the animals, very carefully matching riders to horses based on ability and temperament. During a lengthy ride it’s, arguably, great being on a horse that is more or less calm and cooperative, more or less just making that ride much more of an enjoyment, obviously.
Preparing for a long day in the Saddle
A 15-hour ride needs prep, and then also some more prep for that, like your, matter. Now, wearing comfortable clothing is important. Padded riding pants or just even gel seat covers can assist you with preventing saddle sores, that is to say, really unpleasant saddle sores. Sunscreen is so important, and remember it even, when it’s not really especially sunny. Bringing water can save your comfort too it’s almost, also bring just a little healthy snacks that, could be, nuts, fruit, or energy bars. Talk it through and learn how your horse works. Also talk it through about how the guide works! A good, comfy rhythm on an outing similar to this really tends to be crucial for getting through that quite enjoyably. Obviously, a well-fitted helmet really goes a long way.
Speaking with others who’ve gone is, too it’s almost, frequently pretty beneficial. Online forums or just travel groups might give you other suggestions, things that individuals discovered essential on their journeys. Oh and you’ll feel rather confident after all this I promise!
Snacks, Breaks, and Sustenance: Keeping Your energy up
So, a 15-hour day just means you want fuel along the way, doesn’t it? Any respectable trip just usually includes planned stops for meals and also short rests. Often you can find that lunches might comprise, just slightly, of a traditional Tunisian dish, perhaps couscous or a tagine, maybe even eaten at just a local spot that just adds, very likely, an authentic feel. Just try to get any information beforehand as to what things the trip actually provides, things that it’s not providing, you understand. And I actually usually suggest bringing just a few extra of something you personally really tend to like.
During these pauses, that, could be, very essential to step off of the horse, perhaps stretch those legs a bit, and then again appreciate just slightly that nearby landscape. So just utilize that time for soaking it all in, recharging, getting prepared for just the next segment of that trek. It actually tends to go by quicker than you are expecting!
Safety considerations for a Lengthy Ride
I really should address just slightly the safety side, particularly on something as extensive as this, obviously. Now confirm that that outfitter you go with uses, maybe, proper safety gear and does then supply a complete safety rundown. Listen just very closely to any instructions the guides may give, particularly concerning just how to manage a horse across multiple terrains. Also, staying alert really tends to be extremely crucial; telling your guide actually of any discomfort you’re feeling helps, and really keeps your safety that much better. Furthermore, it is always valuable just making certain that a first-aid kit and then some sort of communication device (arguably a satellite phone out in a far-off zone) may be on you throughout.
Is a 15 Hour Horseback Ride Worth It?
Would I recommend it, you know, after all that? Should be. However a word of advice. Only actually, if you’re really in fairly decent shape, love horses and don’t mind something intense. However as I consider it, it’s difficult imagining getting to see a great place such as Djerba within this, close-up and personal a means. You are basically seeing zones tourists really cannot reach easily, all at your tempo. What it boils right down to, just arguably, would be weighing what things you’re able to perform with whatever unique advantages may result.
If you decide to give it a go, I’d really bet that you, perhaps, return just having memories of one seriously awesome trip. However at a very bare minimum, you actually go returning very, extremely weary. Don’t ignore the saddle sore issue either, or simply, just a little chaffing!
At a very brief note to say, obviously you can get less extensive trips! Like, you will thank me eventually right?
Here are some Main points concerning the Long Riding Experience:
- Get confident using Horses: Best for skilled riders given duration and rigour!
- Stamina is everything: Ensure Physical Condition allows!
- What things to Pack: Think water, snacks, garments for varying weather!
- Choose Responsible Providers: Protection protocols, creature treatment are, to mention the least, absolutely critical!