Salty Cowboy Horse Riding

Salty Cowboy runs horse rides from a stable just under a kilometre from Kedungu Beach in Tabanan, west of Canggu. The rides link quiet rice-field tracks with a long stretch of volcanic black sand, giving you two of Bali’s most photogenic landscapes in one outing, far from the busy beach clubs further east.

The operation puts clear emphasis on responsible riding. Indonesian horses are smaller than European breeds, so the team caps rider weight at 70 kg per horse. Every ride is privately guided, which means the pace is set to your experience, whether it is your first time in a saddle or you are an experienced rider hoping for a canter on the sand.

What to expect

You arrive at the stable for a short introduction, are fitted with boots and a helmet, and meet your horse. Guides lead you out through the paddies and down to the beach, where you ride along the shoreline as the light changes. After the ride there is coffee and water, and you get to feed the horses carrots. Photos and videos taken by the team are included, which is the whole idea of the longer Insta Ride.

The Kedungu coastline is much quieter than the beaches further east, with long empty stretches of dark sand, fishing boats and temple shrines along the shore. The pace of the ride depends on your ability: beginners stay at a walk, while confident riders can ask to trot or canter where the guide judges it safe.

Packages & prices

• Beach & Rice Field Ride, 60 minutes – IDR 1,600,000.
• Beach & Rice Field Ride, 90 minutes – IDR 2,200,000.
• Insta Ride, 2 hours – IDR 2,700,000, focused on photography.
• Included – boots, helmet, coffee, water, photos and videos, carrot feeding.

Safety & requirements

The maximum rider weight is 70 kg; this is firm and exists to prevent injuries to the horses. Rides are suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, with private guiding throughout. Age limits are not published, so ask when booking if you plan to bring children. Wear long trousers to avoid chafing, and follow the guide’s instructions near the water, where horses can be startled by waves.

Tips

• Book the 16:30 slot for golden-hour light on the sand, or 08:00 for cooler temperatures.
• Wear long, stretchy trousers; boots and a helmet are provided.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat for the walk back through the fields.
• Plan the Insta Ride if photos are a priority; the crew handles the shooting.
• Pair the ride with a meal in nearby Pererenan or Canggu.

The team shares clips and photos after the ride, so you can leave your phone safely in your bag and just enjoy the experience.

Book at least a day or two in advance, especially for the popular afternoon slot.