The Outer Banks is a vacation destination that’s truly one-of-a-kind when it comes to nature, wildlife, and history alike. The proof is most evident across Corolla and Currituck counties where you’re likely to see herds of Wild Spanish Mustangs roaming free. These wild horses are unique to this area, and many believe they were first brought to the region on Spanish ships as explorers came ashore in the 1500s. In these areas of the Outer Banks, wild horses have full permission to roam at will. You’ll see them grazing the shorelines, sea oats, and on the oak tree leaves too. Wild horses in Corolla are easy to identify thanks to their stockier build as compared to domesticated horses. The best time of year to view wild horses in the Outer Banks is mid-April through May but because human interaction with the horses isn’t permitted, the only way to get a close look safely and securely is to book a horse tour while you’re here.
If you want to discover more ways to make the most of your Outer Banks getaway, be sure to download our complimentary Vacation Guide!
Find 5 of the Best Horseback Riding Tours in Outer Banks
The North Carolina coast is home to many incredible things to do and places to see. But few things are more unique than one of the Outer Banks horse tours in the area. These exciting excursions offer a glimpse into one of the most interesting and odd groups of wildlife in the OBX.
1. Wild Horse Adventure Tours
Situated at 610 Currituck Clubhouse Drive in Corolla, Wild Horse Adventure Tours is yet another great option when you’re looking for a guided experience that gives you a closer look at the amazing creatures that roam this area. Tours with this company typically cover 20 miles of terrain at a time over 2 hours and there are options to view the Currituck Beach Lighthouse along the way too. Wild Horse Adventure Tours now offers Hummer tour options for guests to enjoy, and tickets start at $69 for adults and $49 for kids ages 12 and under.
2. Corolla Wild Horse Tours
Located at 1159 Austin Street F in Corolla, Corolla Wild Horse Tours has been safely leading family wild horse tours in the area since 1996. Most tours last 2-hours at a time and cover 25 miles of terrain using off-road cruisers. Your tour guide will narrate as you roll along and of course, point out horses as soon as they’re in view. Tours start at $54 for adults and $39 for kids. No matter when you book, it’s an incredible opportunity to connect with nature at its very best.
3. Back Country Safari Tours
When you’re looking for an ultra family-friendly horse tour in Corolla that’s led by an expert naturalist, Back Country Safari Tours has what you’re searching for. These tours are designed to be upbeat and insightful at the same time. Back Country Safari Tours is located in Light Town Center and tours can be booked daily between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm. There are 2-hour tour options as well as 3-hour wild horse tours that include a kayak adventure on the end of the trip in the Currituck Sound.
4. OBX Horseback
OBX Horseback provides a different kind of horse tour in the Outer Banks. Instead of touring the beach searching for wild horses, you can ride your own (a trained horse) along the sandy shores of the North Carolina coast
5. Bob’s Wild Horse Tours
You can choose from a collection of tour options when you book with Bob’s Wild Horse Tours. They offer morning, afternoon, and evening trips as well as a 4×4 wild horse tour.
Book Your Pirate’s Cove Rental 
Pirate’s Cove Realty has the ideal vacation rental for you and your family. We offer condos and homes at a variety of locations around Roanoke Island, including our private gated community and Shallowbag Bay Resort. We even have properties in downtown Manteo that are steps away from the lighthouse! Whether you need a large house for the entire family or a cozy condo for two, you’ll find it with us! Don’t forget to check out our blog for more things to do and places to see in the area.
Start planning your Outer Banks getaway by booking one of our accommodations. We look forward to welcoming you to our coastal oasis.
