If you’re wondering what to do in Lombok beyond beaches and snorkeling, try something more peaceful and unforgettable—horse riding in the Gili Islands. From Gili Trawangan to Gili Meno and Gili Air, these small islands near Lombok offer unique horseback adventures by the sea. Whether you’re a first-time rider or experienced, there are plenty of ethical and family-friendly options where the horses are genuinely cared for. The best part? You get to ride on soft sandy beaches, often during sunrise or sunset, with calm waters and zero crowds. It’s the kind of slow travel moment you don’t forget.

1. Stud Horse Riding and Rescue – Gili Trawangan

If you’re looking for ethical horse riding in Lombok, Stud Horse Riding and Rescue in Gili Trawangan is the place to go. Since 2004, this stable has been home to rescued and retired horses, putting animal welfare first. Every ride supports their care, and the team ensures each horse is healthy, well-fed, and never overworked. You can choose a beach ride during sunrise or sunset, tailored to your skill level—whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider. All horses are accompanied by handlers for safety, and the staff is warm, professional, and passionate about what they do.

What makes this place truly special is how deeply they care. Horses are groomed daily, fed four times a day, and allowed only three rides max to prevent fatigue. Visitors often get to shower the horses post-ride and learn about their rescue stories directly from the staff. Reviews consistently praise the calm, friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with animals that are genuinely loved. Booking ahead is a must, and you can easily do so via WhatsApp. For a scenic and meaningful horse riding in Lombok experience, this spot is unbeatable.

2. Balikana Stable and Horse Riding – Gili Terawangan

For a scenic and safe horse riding in Lombok experience, Balikana Stable on Gili Trawangan is an excellent choice. Their sunrise and sunset rides are a favorite among visitors, with routes that go through quiet roads, sandy beaches, and even into shallow waters. The horses are clearly well cared for—gentle, well-trained, and matched to riders based on personality and experience. Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to canter freely, the guides like Bayu and Rizal make sure you feel secure and supported throughout. They’re patient, friendly, and go out of their way to help—one guest even completed a ride with a broken foot, thanks to their help.

Balikana also shines in customer service. Booking is easy, even last-minute, and they offer flexible payments including bank transfers. Most riders mention how thoughtful the team is in taking tons of photos and videos, so you leave with lasting memories. While each horse has its own character, guests say the rides feel safe and personal. From one-hour trips to extended two-hour sessions with instruction, Balikana consistently delivers an unforgettable time. If you’re looking to explore Gili Trawangan in a unique and peaceful way, this is one of the most trusted options for horse riding in Lombok.

3. Kings Stable Horse Riding Tour – Gili Meno

Kings Stable Horse Riding Tour is a great place to try horse riding in Lombok, especially around Gili Meno. They offer beautiful sunrise and sunset rides along the beach and through peaceful island trails. Most guests say the horses are calm, healthy, and well cared for. The guides are friendly, patient, and great with beginners and kids. Safety is a big focus—they match horses based on your weight and use proper gear.

However, one rider shared they were given a young horse that wasn’t fully trained, which made them feel uneasy. So if you’re a beginner, make sure to ask for a well-trained horse. That said, many still call this one of their favorite experiences on the island. It’s worth visiting, just be clear about your riding level. Also, the location is a bit hidden—look for a dirt path once Google Maps says you’ve arrived.

4. Ram Gili Horse Riding – Gili Air

Ram Gili Horse Riding is a great option for those seeking a peaceful Lombok horse riding experience, especially during sunrise. Guests enjoyed riding along the beach on well-cared-for horses like Arjun and Sultan. The staff are friendly, flexible, and professional—many riders appreciated how easy it was to book through WhatsApp, even last minute. The horses are small but energetic and seemed healthy and happy, making the ride feel safe and enjoyable. This place is also kid-friendly, with one young rider even getting the chance to swim with the horse in the sea.

While most reviews were very positive, one guest did mention a price mismatch—so it’s a good idea to confirm the rate clearly before your ride. Still, the overall experience seems worth it. Sunrise rides here are peaceful, memorable, and ideal for both beginners and kids. It’s a good option for animal lovers who want to ensure the horses are treated well while exploring the beauty of Lombok’s beaches.

Final Thoughts

Horse riding in Lombok—especially across the Gili Islands—is one of the most underrated yet memorable things to do. You get quiet beaches, kind guides, happy horses, and zero traffic. It’s more than just a ride; it’s a moment to slow down, connect with animals, and enjoy Lombok’s beauty in a different way. If you’re still unsure what to do in Lombok, this might just be your new favorite island activity.