Experience the Atlantic coast of Morocco on horseback with Dream Getaway Morocco. Ride healthy and happy Barb x Arabian horses through Sidi Kaouki’s rugged terrain, explore quiet villages, and immerse yourself in local culture.
Written by Hanna Rogers
Back in September, I travelled to North Africa and landed in Morocco, making my way to the tranquil coastal village of Sidi Kaouki, just a 30-minute drive from Essaouira. Windswept beaches, wide open skies, and the steady rhythm of the Atlantic set the tone for what turned out to be something truly special for horse lovers. Tucked away in this quiet corner of the coast is Dream Getaway Morocco, a newly established equestrian trail-riding destination run by the wonderfully warm and hospitable couple, Mohamed and Gillian
From the moment I arrived, that sense of care was clear. Gillian had organised a taxi to collect me from Essaouira airport (transfers from Marrakesh can also be arranged) my driver was waiting at arrivals with my name and a warm, welcoming smile. He chatted easily as we set off and waited for me whilst I bought a SIM at arrivals. There are a few network options to choose from, Maroc Telecom, which is rated best for more remote areas, Orange for coastal and urban coverage, and Inwi, a popular and budget-friendly option. The little shop only had Inwi so I went with that! It was patchy on the trails but did the job!
I was dropped right at the door of the guesthouse where Gillian was waiting, with a big smile. With both of us being from Northern UK, we instantly bonded over the rubbish UK weather, and of course our shared love for horses. After settling in, we wandered through the village, there were free-roaming donkeys everywhere and we gave one little foal some scratches who was very sweet and friendly, before making our way to a little seaside café where we had some tea whilst we waited for Mohamed.
My first Moroccan tea was a revelation. I’ve never been a tea person... Herbal at a push. I certainly don’t need caffeine on a normal day, and I just generally don’t like the taste (terrible Brit, I know!). But Moroccan mint tea? A whole different world. Sweet, fresh, uplifting, and the perfect amount of caffeine to perk me up after a big travel day.
Mohamed arrived just in time to show me the special way to pour Moroccan tea — a small but very important ritual. In Morocco, the higher the pour and the bigger the bubbles, the better the tea is considered to be. The tall pour isn’t just for show either; it aerates the tea, softens the strong sweetness, and is seen as a gesture of hospitality and care. In many Moroccan homes, learning to pour tea well is almost an art form, a sign of pride and respect for guests. It was lovely to witness the sense of community in Sidi Kaouki as well. Everyone knew one another, sharing tea, surf sessions, stories, and laughter. I always adore visiting places where that kind of deep connection is part of everyday life. After a couple of cups of tea, we decided to take it easy, enjoy a slow afternoon, and then head out for a gentle sunset ride. Mohamed and I jumped on the back of a couple quad bikes which carried us to the stables, where I finally got to meet the horses!
I want to start off by sharing how Mohamed is a true horseman. What makes Dream Getaway Morocco stand out is simple: there is no greed here. No pushing horses hard. No rushing, no pressure, no shortcuts. Many of us have seen those dramatic videos online, I’m sure you know the ones... beautiful horses galloping full speed on the beach, carrying riders in flowing dresses. It’s magnificent we can all agree, but often tourists want to recreate these epic scenes, often barely knowing how to rise to the trot, or more importantly don't know how to sit smoothly for the gallop. The video may still look impressive to the outside world but in reality, it can be hard on the horses and incredibly unsafe. All I'm really saying is, be careful, do your research with who you choose to ride with and always remember the welfare of the horses. There are some great horsemen out there, and that’s what this blog is about. Mohamed has a beautiful approach... he wants travellers to connect with the soul of his homeland, through its horses, its landscapes, and its people. Slowly. Respectfully. Properly.
Arriving at the stables felt calm, with around 8 or 9 horses who were mostly stallions and a couple mares, all stabled facing each other in a horseshoe shape and everyone as cool as a cucumber. These stallions didn’t give two hoots that there was a mare next-door to them. You could see the calm energy in Mohamed and his team transmits to his horses. We got two of the horses ready and made our way out to explore the area for a wonderfully calm sunset ride. Each day I rode a different stallion from Mohameds small herd, plus a couple of Arabian horses he uses from the stable he rents. Walheim, Etri (Star), Ayour (Moon), Midnight and Spirit (the newest family member at four years old, golden dun, newly backed, and as sweet as his name suggests) were our noble steeds for the week. I appreciated being able to experience a different horse each day, so I could really get a feel for each personality and understand the character of them all. Which helps when recommending a place on. Mohamed has trained them all himself over the past six to twelve months, and you can immediately feel the calm, steady confidence he has instilled in them.
Horses in this region are often a beautiful blend of Barb and Arabian bloodlines. The Amazigh people have a long history with Barb horses, known for their balance, strength, and incredible sure-footedness. The Arabian adds refinement and endurance. Together they create forward intelligent horses who are brave without being reckless and sensitive without being sharp. These horses feel like true partners who understand the landscape beneath them and are proud to show it to you.
Sidi Kaouki’s rocky terrain does make grazing difficult, so keeping horses healthy here requires effort. Yet every horse I saw was in great condition - fit, well-fed, exercised daily, and mentally relaxed. Gillian also sources high-quality tack from the UK, meaning comfortable leather saddles and bridles for long days out.
Throughout the trek, we rode through Argan forests, sandy tracks, narrow rocky paths, fishing villages, Amazigh hamlets, desert-like stretches, dunes, and of course the endless coastline. The variety of terrain was incredible: gravel paths, steep rocky climbs, deep sand dunes, and long open beaches where the horses could stretch out into beautiful canters. Along the way, we passed quiet villages where people smiled and waved as we rode through. A few had tiny wooden shacks selling sugary drinks — I don’t normally indulge in fizzy drinks, but after hours of riding in the heat, with our water warming in the saddle bags, an ice-cold sugary drink was absolute bliss.
When the sun was at its hottest, we walked alongside the horses to give them a rest. Covering many kilometres in the heat could be exhausting, yet this was another reason I deeply respect Mohamed — he works with the horses, not for them to work for us. Back home, I often take my own horses for walks, and people often question why I’m not riding. Horses aren’t just there to carry us; we are a team. Seeing Mohamed approach it this way, always considering their wellbeing, really resonated with me.
Along these trails, we picnicked under the shade of trees while the horses rested nearby. On narrow tracks, we passed extremely close to camels... literally shoulder-to-shoulder, and the horses didn’t bat an eyelid! When the tide was out, we explored hidden sea caves, discovering corners of the coastline that felt entirely untouched. All the while, a young dog trotted alongside us with endless energy. He was supposed to be watching sheep, but clearly decided his true calling was life as a trail dog. He ran next to the horses with such confidence, and the horses were completely unfazed by him — it became a highlight of every ride, watching him bound along, proudly taking up his new role.
Mohamed also shared his knowledge of local plants. At one point, we came across what looked like tiny watermelons scattered across the ground — only for him to explain they were actually poisonous. They looked tempting enough to slice open, but definitely not something to snack on! These are called Citrullus colocynthis, also known as ‘Bitter Apple’. Highly toxic if ingested, it has nevertheless been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments.
Something I was truly grateful for was that Mohamed took lots of photos and videos of me during our rides, a rare treat, as I’m usually the one creating content for guests. It was wonderful to come away with images capturing me fully immersed in the experience, rather than just being the one documenting it, although that is something I do truly enjoy doing ... it’s nice to have a few of yourself! And Mohamed was great at capturing them.
Sidi Kaouki isn’t only for riders. It’s an ideal destination for mixed trips: surfing, riding, yoga.. You could combine them and make a personalised retreat. Dream Getaway Morocco can arrange luxury guesthouse stays or full camping expeditions depending on what you’re after. Food was a huge part of the experience too. Each day we were treated to comforting Moroccan dishes — fluffy couscous (so nice they named it twice), vegetable tagines simmered with all the good spices, and plenty of freshly baked bread to compliment it all.. Breakfasts were just as delicious with warm bread, homemade jams and honey, omelettes and endless mint tea.
Traditionally you eat with your hands, tearing pieces of bread into little scoops and sharing the meal from the same pot it was cooked in. It feels homely and communal in the best way… simple food made with care. But don’t feel obliged to do this, you can also use cutlery and not be judged. There are many benefits found in eating with your hands, so I encourage you to give it a go!
We also spent a day exploring Essaouira, wandering through the bustling markets, chatting with local artisans, and admiring their incredible craftsmanship. I brought home some Amlou — the dreamiest almond, honey, and argan paste — which you’ll see being made everywhere, and it tastes delicious! I also picked up a pair of beautifully hand-embroidered trousers. Often, it’s not just the item itself that makes these moments special, but the conversations with the people who create them, hearing their stories and understanding the skill and care behind each piece gives the experience true value and meaning. Dream Getaway Morocco can also arrange day trips to Marrakech, and next time I’m adding that on… along with a side quest to Chefchaouen, the legendary blue city. Van road trip pending!
My few days here were just a glimpse of everything Sidi Kaouki has to offer, and I’m already planning my return. Riding in Morocco with Mohamed and Gillian felt honest, adventurous, and deeply human. Evenings were spent with their friends, playing music, sharing stories, constant laughter with their traditional songs and instruments echoing late into the night.
If you want an equestrian experience that values the horses, honours the landscape, and welcomes you into a community with open arms, Dream Getaway Morocco in Sidi Kaouki is one you’ll carry with you long after you leave. Early September was still hot, so for cooler, more comfortable riding, October to March would be ideal. For those looking to experience it themselves, you can book your trail ride through Dream Getaway Morocco here.
For any questions about this destination, please feel free to drop me a dm on Instagram - @nomadichorserider.
Happy Riding!
Han x
