Horseback Riding and yurt stay in the Puszta, 1 hour morning ride

Horseback Riding and Yurt Stay in the Puszta: A detailed review of this authentic Hungarian experience

If you’re craving a taste of Hungary’s rural charm, this horseback riding adventure paired with an overnight stay in a traditional yurt might just suit your travel style. Set in the expansive Southern Great Plain (the Puszta), this tour offers more than just a ride — it’s an immersion into Hungary’s countryside, flora, fauna, and age-old traditions.

I was particularly drawn to the promise of riding Hungarian Warmblood horses across sandy tracks, meadows, and forests, guided by multilingual experts. What makes this experience stand out are two key points: the intimacy of a private tour that guarantees peace and quiet—ideal for those seeking a serene escape—and the opportunity to stay overnight in a luxury yurt, blending comfort with authentic rustic living.

A potential consideration, however, is the price. At $241.77 per person, it might seem steep for a one-hour morning ride, but when you factor in the overnight accommodation, breakfast, and guided experience, it’s a package that offers genuine value for travelers eager for a memorable rural adventure.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Hungarian experience: Riding through the Puszta offers a rare glimpse into traditional Hungarian landscapes and wildlife.
• Guided by multilingual experts: Guides speak Hungarian, English, German, French, and Dutch, making the experience accessible and educational.
• Comfortable, well-trained horses: The horses are described as sure-footed, suitable for riders of all experience levels, including beginners.
• Overnight in a luxurious yurt: Combines rustic charm with modern comfort, and is perfect for those wanting to extend their rural experience.
• Wildlife sightings: Expect to see animals like deer, wild boar, hares, and roe deer, adding an element of natural discovery.
• Private and child-free: Ensures a peaceful, personalized adventure—ideal for couples, solo travelers, or small groups seeking tranquility.

A unique glimpse into rural Hungary: riding in the Puszta

This experience begins with an early morning arrival at Homoki Asztal in Ruzsa, where you’ll settle into a luxurious yurt at the Homoki Lodge’s glamping site. From the moment I read about the overnight stay, I was intrigued by how seamlessly comfort and authentic rural living blend here. The yurt, labeled as superior, promises a cozy, stylish retreat after your ride, and the breakfast basket filled with regional farm products adds a tasty, local touch to the morning.

The highlight is naturally the horseback ride. You’ll meet your guide, who is well-versed in multiple languages, ensuring a smooth and engaging journey. The ride, scheduled for about an hour, is designed to be accessible for all experience levels. The term “Homoki Ride LIGHT” hints at a gentle experience — perfect for beginners or those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

As you can imagine, the open countryside of the Puszta is breathtaking. Riding across sandy tracks, through lush meadows, and into small pine and acacia forests allows you to experience Hungary’s natural beauty firsthand. Plus, the guides are praised for their storytelling, sharing local history, flora, and fauna, making the ride both scenic and educational.

Many reviewers, like PierreLouis_C, mention their guide Oliver’s engaging storytelling, noting the “full of stories and anecdotes,” which added depth to the ride. I love the idea of exploring this landscape on horseback, feeling the wind in your hair and spotting local wildlife along the way.

What makes the Puszta horseback experience special

The ride itself is described as peaceful and unhurried, with a chance to see the countryside from a new perspective. Watching for deer, wild boar, or hares is likely, given the environment’s flora and fauna. The horses—Hungarian Warmbloods—are known for their sure-footedness, and many reviews highlight how kind, patient, and well-trained they are. This makes it a fantastic choice even if you’re new to riding, or if you’re traveling with someone who prefers a gentle introduction to horseback riding.

The private nature of the tour enhances its appeal—there’s no large group jostling or noisy chatter. Instead, you get an intimate connection with the landscape and the guide. It’s a quiet, reflective experience, perfect for those wanting to escape modern life for a few hours.

The overnight yurt: comfort in a rustic setting

After your ride, you settle into a luxurious yurt. Many guests find this a delightful surprise—combining rustic authenticity with high-end comfort. The yurt is equipped with superior amenities, making it a cozy retreat to relax after your countryside adventure. The breakfast, served in the morning, features regional farm products, giving a taste of local cuisine and farm life.

The lodge’s location is praised for its natural beauty, and many reviews emphasize how “very well trained horses and a specially designed tour” make the riding experience smooth and enjoyable. The overnight stay broadens this experience from a short activity to a memorable mini-escape, allowing you to soak in the rural atmosphere fully.

Logistics, price, and overall value

At roughly $242 per person, this package might seem expensive for a one-hour ride. But when you add in the overnight stay, breakfast, and guided experience, it’s a comprehensive adventure that offers more than just a quick ride. Think of it as an opportunity to step into Hungary’s countryside for a night, rather than a simple tour.

The experience is bookable a week in advance, and the company offers optional transfers—bookable 48 hours ahead—that can make logistics easier, especially if you’re coming from Budapest or nearby towns. Not included are dinner and lunch, so plan to explore local eateries nearby or enjoy a meal back at the lodge.

Is this experience right for you?

This tour suits travelers who appreciate outdoor activities with a tranquil pace, and who want a deeper connection to Hungary’s rural landscapes. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful experience, away from tourist crowds. The guided ride is friendly for beginners, so no previous riding experience is necessary, making it accessible for most.

If you love nature, wildlife, and rustic charm, you’ll find this a rewarding day. For those wanting a social, high-energy adventure, this might feel too quiet or slow. Also, keep in mind the weather — since it’s outdoors, poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Final thoughts: a genuine, peaceful escape into Hungary’s heartland

This horseback riding and yurt stay experience offers more than just a scenic ride. It’s a chance to spend a day and night in the authentic Hungarian countryside, guided by friendly experts who share their knowledge along the way. The combination of a gentle ride through sandy tracks and forests, coupled with overnight comfort in a beautifully appointed yurt, makes for an authentic and memorable rural retreat.

The experience’s quieter, private nature makes it especially appealing for those seeking a peaceful, nature-focused getaway. While the price might seem high for a short ride, the added value of overnight accommodation, breakfast, and guided insights justifies it for a special occasion or a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

If you’re a traveler who values authentic landscapes, wildlife, and the chance to slow down and connect with nature, this tour could be exactly what you’re looking for.

FAQ: Practical questions about the Puszta horseback experience

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate riders of all experience levels, including novices. The horses are described as well-trained and sure-footed, and the guided tour is gentle, making it accessible for most.

Can I book transfers to and from the lodge?
Yes, transfers are available and can be booked up to 48 hours in advance. They help make the logistics easier if you’re arriving from nearby or traveling independently.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the use of saddled horses, water for the ride, a multilingual guide, breakfast, and the overnight stay in a superior yurt at Homoki Lodge.

Are meals included besides breakfast?
No, the tour price does not include dinner or lunch. You’ll need to plan for those separately, either at local restaurants or back at the lodge.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
You might spot deer, wild boar, hare, or roe deer during your ride, especially in the forested areas. Birdlife and other animals are also common in this natural environment.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This adventure offers a memorable taste of rural Hungary, blending gentle riding, authentic landscapes, and cozy overnight lodging. Perfect for those eager for a peaceful, nature-filled journey into the heart of the Puszta.