Zakynthos: Yotomu Horseback Riding Tour

Imagine riding through quiet pine forests and along pristine beaches, then taking a refreshing swim with your horse in the clear Ionian Sea. That’s exactly what the Yotomu Horseback Riding Tour in Zakynthos offers. This tour promises a fun, intimate way to explore the island’s natural beauty, especially if you love horses or outdoor adventures.

What we love about this experience is its personalized feel—small groups and friendly guides make it easy to relax and enjoy. Plus, the chance to swim with the horses in the sea adds a memorable touch many tours simply don’t provide. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a long, deep dive into local culture or highly structured activities, this might be a bit light.

This tour is best suited for travelers aged 14 and up who want a casual, scenic, and active outing. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable around horses, enjoy nature, and are looking for a unique, hands-on experience that doesn’t require advanced riding skills.

Key Points

• Natural Beauty: Ride through pine forests, countryside, and tranquil beaches away from busy tourist spots.
• Unique Experience: Swim with horses in the Ionian Sea, a rare and charming activity.
• All Levels Welcome: Suitable for all abilities, with friendly staff and equipment.
• Small Group Size: Ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible Timing: Tours run twice daily at 10:00 and 16:00, with advance booking required.
• Age & Health Restrictions: Minimum age 14, no overweight or disabled participants, and not suitable for pregnant women or people with certain health issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Zakynthos Horseback Riding Experience

We found this tour to be a refreshing way to connect with the island’s natural environment, especially if you’re tired of crowded beaches and busy streets. The Yotomu Horses riding school, located along the Kalamaki-Laganas road in Kalamaki, serves as the starting point. From here, the journey into unspoiled parts of Zakynthos begins, offering a taste of the island’s quiet side.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, during which you’ll enjoy riding through areas where tourist crowds are minimal. The first stop at the riding school sets a friendly tone—guides are fluent in both Greek and English, and equipment is provided for all guests. The initial ride takes you through pine forests and open countryside, giving you a peaceful vibe that’s hard to find in busier parts of the island.

The highlight for many is the 30-minute swimming stop. Here, you’ll hop off your horse and wade into the Ionian Sea, swimming alongside your four-legged companion. According to reviews, this part is truly unforgettable—”driving through the mountains was AMAZING,” one visitor shared. The sea can be rough, which might cut short the swim, but that’s part of the adventure.

After the swim, the tour continues with more riding along tranquil beaches and forested patches, making it a leisurely yet exciting experience. The small group size ensures you’ll get plenty of personal attention from the guides, who are knowledgeable about the local landscape and flora and fauna.

What Makes This Tour Special?

• The natural, unspoiled setting of pine forests and deserted beaches is a real draw. These are spots that don’t typically see large numbers of travelers, giving you a more authentic feel of Zakynthos.
• The opportunity to swim with horses is rare. It’s a playful, refreshing experience and a fantastic photo opportunity.
• The friendly staff and good equipment mean no fuss—just show up ready for fun.
• The timing at 10:00 and 16:00 offers flexibility, and booking at least 24 hours in advance helps secure your spot.

The Practicalities

The tour is well-suited for beginners and those with some riding experience, but it’s not for everyone. Participants must be at least 14 years old, and weight restrictions are in place—participants over 100kg or with certain health issues (e.g., pregnancy, back problems, or disabilities) are advised against joining. The activity isn’t designed for children under 9.

You’ll need to arrive 30 minutes early so guides can fit you with equipment and brief you properly. What’s included is straightforward: the ride, the swimming stop, and friendly guidance. You’ll need to bring your own swimsuit and comfortable clothes.

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The Cost and Value

At a glance, the price reflects the experience—a small group, personalized attention, and the chance to swim with horses in a stunning setting. Compared to other island activities, it offers a unique, hands-on encounter with nature that many travelers find highly rewarding. And since you pay at booking and can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, it’s flexible and low-pressure.

What Past Travelers Are Saying

A visitor described it as “great fun,” emphasizing the amazing experience and the mountain views. The personalized guides and stunning scenery receive high praise, with some noting it’s a highlight of their trip. Although the sea was rough for one traveler, they appreciated the honesty and understood the safety considerations. Overall, reviews point to a memorable, authentic adventure that balances fun with natural beauty.

Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed, nature-focused outing that combines gentle riding, scenic views, and a splash of adventure, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for animal lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those craving a break from crowded beaches. The experience is less about challenge and more about connection with nature and the thrill of swimming with horses.

For families with teenagers (14+), couples, or solo travelers looking for something active and memorable, this offers good value. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate small, friendly groups and want to avoid the hustle of more commercialized tours.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This horseback riding tour on Zakynthos offers an authentic, scenic, and fun way to explore the island’s natural beauty. The combination of riding through pine forests, quiet beaches, and the chance to swim with your horse in the Ionian Sea makes it stand out. The small group size and friendly guides ensure a personalized experience, and the inclusion of a swimming stop adds a playful element you won’t find elsewhere.

While it’s not designed for very young children or those with certain health restrictions, it’s an ideal choice for travelers over 14 who want an engaging outdoor activity. The price is reasonable considering the unique experience, and the flexibility of booking makes it accessible.

Ultimately, this tour is best for adventurous spirits who love horses, nature, and a touch of adrenaline in the form of a sea swim. If you’re looking for a memorable, off-the-beaten-path experience on Zakynthos, this horseback riding adventure might just be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour welcomes all abilities, as long as participants are comfortable around horses and meet the age and weight restrictions.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a swimsuit and comfortable clothing suitable for riding and swimming. It’s also a good idea to wear sunscreen and a hat.

Can children under 14 join?
No, the minimum age is 14 years old due to safety and insurance policies.

What happens if the sea is rough?
If the sea conditions are unsafe, the swim might be shorter or canceled, but the guides will prioritize safety.

Is transportation included?
No, participants need to make their own way to the meeting point at Happy Horses in Kalamaki.

How long in advance should I book?
Booking at least 24 hours before your preferred time is recommended due to limited availability.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, the activity is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, disabilities, or certain health conditions like diabetes or animal allergies.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

This horseback riding tour in Zakynthos combines adventure, tranquility, and the thrill of swimming with horses—an experience that will stay with you long after you leave the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: