The Carreras de Caballos normally takes place in Sanlúcar de Barrameda as close to the second and fourth weekends of August as the tides permit.
By Nick Nutter | Updated 8 Jul 2024 | Cádiz | Events |
Login to add to YOUR Favourites 
or Read Later
Carreras de Caballos at Sanlucar de Barrameda
Carreras de Caballos in iSanlúcar de Barrameda is traditionally held on the Friday to Sunday on the second and fourth weeks of August. Some years they move forward one week due to the tides.
In 2024, the Sanlucar horse races are scheduled to take place on 14 to 17 August 2024 and 28 to 30 August 2024.
20,000 square metres of beach
Shortly after 6.30pm on the Friday, the tape goes up on one of the most spectacular, and unusual, horse races in the world.
At low tide, the 20,000 square metre Atlantic beach at Sanlucar de Barrameda is the scene of a series of horse races that date back to 1845, the ‘Carreras de Caballos’. Thousands of spectators pack the stands set up on the beach whilst horses and riders thunder past on the firm sand. In the background the estuary of the Rio Guadalquivir and the banks of the Donana National Park provide a scenic setting.
After the races are finished for the evening, you can hopefully enjoy a magnificent sunset and then join in the celebrations in the town. The restaurants are known for their crustaceans and fish, washed down with a bottle of the local Manzanilla.
The start times of the races are not confirmed until the day because they depend on the tide and the number of horses running.
The Sanlucar horse races is a ticketed event and you can buy tickets online on the official website. Entry is free for children up to 12 years old.
The races have been declared an Andalucian fiesta of national and international tourist interest.
Learn more about Sanlucar and explore the town during your visit with our guide to Sanlucar de Barameda. You may also be interested in exploring the Sherry Triangle, which Sanlucar is part of.
Sanlucar de Barrameda is a lovely spot for a seaside getaway. With a mix of hotels and apartment rentals at affordable rates, you can’t go wrong with a stay here.
Or check out the latest deals below!
Booking.comTravelling to/around Spain and need some help? Here are my favourite travel resources.
I usually use Booking.com to look for hotels or apartment rentals. Lots of choice & you can unlock more discounts with their Genius loyalty programme!
To research transportation options around Spain, I like using Omio. It’s an easy way to compare different modes of transport and prices in one place. To search train routes, schedules, and prices, I recommend using Trainline.
Renting a car gives you the ultimate freedom to explore Andalucia at your own pace. Click here to compare car rental prices. (You’ll be surprised at how affordable it is in Spain!)
Looking for tours & activities in Andalucia? I usually use Get Your Guide to get tickets and book tours. Viator also has a huge catalog of activities and tours across many cities in Spain. Our Viator Shop has my top recommendations, all in one place!
Guruwalk is my favourite platform to find the best free walking tours in a city.
For last-minute holiday deals, check out Expedia UK.
For money transfers or spending overseas in foreign currency, Wise is my favourite borderless banking service. I love their debit card that's without fees and always use it when I travel.
Travel insurance is a must to protect against emergencies and unexpected incidents. I personally use SafetyWing and you can get a no-obligation quote from SafetyWing here.
For an easy way to stay connected on the road, get an eSim from Airalo. It's affordable and, best of all, you'll be connected the moment you arrive!
For more information and the latest updates on Carreras de Caballos, click here
© Visit-Andalucia 2015 - 2024
Chiquito Carnival of Cádiz 24th and 25th February 2024
Concha Fina Carnival 13th - 18th February 2024
Chipiona Carnival 17th - 25th February 2024
