Azores - Green Island Trail

Transcription

Open all year
Arrive/depart any day
7 nights / 6 days riding
3 - 6 hours riding per day
Price from £1,018
The Riding
You should be a competent rider in
control of your horse at walk, trot
and canter across sometimes
rugged terrain.
There is also a Relaxed Riding
option for those who want less
hours in the saddle and the time to
see more of the island. Lessons
are also possible. (See p 21).
Nearest Airport
Ponta Delgada.
Transfers included.
The Azores are a stunning archipelago of nine
islands in the Atlantic Ocean, almost midway
between Portugal and North America. The
islands are volcanic in origin, with a
spectacular natural beauty of vast craters,
glistening blue lakes, black cliffs, lush green
valleys, rugged mountains and hot mineral
springs and geysers.
The fertile terrain is uneven and rocky, making
for small, intensely green fields divided by
stone walls and edged with vibrantly blooming
flowers. São Miguel has a network of tracks
perfect for riding, built throughout the centuries
and still used by farmers. The highlight for
many is a day ride to Sete Cidades, an extinct
volcano crater with two magnificent lakes, one
deep blue in colour and the other emerald green.
The Green Island Trail includes three full day
rides and three half day rides with time for non
riding excursions to explore the island. Most
people opt for an exciting whale watching trip
since the Azores is one of the best places in
the world to see dolphin and sperm whale.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, itinerary,
reviews and photo galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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EUROPE
Explore the lush green landscape of São Miguel, a
volcanic island in the middle of the Atlantic
Azores - Learn to Ride in a Week
Open all year
7 nights/15 hours riding
Price from £905
The Riding
This ride is suitable for all abilities,
including complete beginners, with
lessons tailored to individual
experience. The lower age limit is
11 years.
Nearest Airport
Ponta Delgada.
Transfers included.
Your base for the week is Quinta da Terça on
the south of the island, close to the main town
of Ponta Delgada. The Quinta is one of the
oldest homes on the island and dates from the
17th century.
Over seven days you can learn to ride or
improve your skills with lessons, either in the
riding arena or out on trails. The aim by the
end of the week is to join the spectacular full
day ride to Sete Cidades.
The riding programme is flexible and it is
possible to increase the number of hours of
lessons or trail rides. Less experienced riders
or families with mixed levels of ability may
prefer to have a combination of lessons and
trail rides. More experienced riders may prefer
the Green Island Trail (p 19) which is based at
the same centre but has more riding.
You may wish to extend your holiday and enjoy
‘island hopping’ and whale watching around
the other islands of the Azores.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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EUROPE
Improve your riding amidst the exotic vegetation of
São Miguel, the largest of the Azorean islands
Bulgaria - Balkan Rides
Open April to November
Set departures & private groups
Price from £928
The Riding
You should be a confident rider
capable of all paces and confident
at a fast canter over rough terrain.
The horses are Shagya Arabs,
pure Arabians and cross breeds of
Shagya, Akhal Teke and East
Bulgarian horses. They are ridden
in Western and English saddles
made by Ortho-Flex and Podium
(from Italy). Some of the horses
are ridden in bitless bridles.
Nearest Airport
Sofia.
Transfers included.
Tel: 01299 272 997
The Balkan Mountains run for over 600 km and
divide Bulgaria into two distinct halves. Lush
meadows with all shades of green lie below
high, inaccessible cliffs and alternate with
dense old forests. There are many interesting
features – rock formations, caves, ancient
forests and breathtaking high waterfalls.
The land in Bulgaria is perfect for riding
because there are almost no fences or gates.
Wide open spaces and gently undulating
terrain provide the opportunity for long canters
and interesting riding.
Our riding guides are Alexander Tonev and his
daughter Maria. Alex has competed in show
jumping and endurance. Maria has been riding
since she was young and is responsible for
training the young horses. Both are licensed
riding instructors. Alex’s wife Rumiana (Rumi)
is very knowledgeable about Bulgarian history
and will enjoy taking you on the non-riding
visits, which are part of the itinerary.
See inthesaddle.com for itinerary, trip reviews,
route maps and photo galleries.
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EUROPE
Ride through the open pastures and wooded valleys
of the Balkan Mountains
France - Cerfcheval
Runs April to November
Arrive Saturday
Price from £823
The Riding
These rides are suitable for
intermediate riders confident at all
paces. Depending on the terrain
there is a mixture of walking with
some trots and canters. You should
be fit enough for the sometimes
long hours in the saddle.
Nearest Airports
Limoges or Poitiers. Transfers
available from either at extra cost
or self drive.
Discover the rural landscapes, country paths
and pretty views synonymous with this part of
France. On these holidays you will clatter
through sleepy villages, ride through shady
woodland and pause for a river side picnic.
There are a range of itineraries to choose
from, depending on your riding level and what
you wish to do whilst on holiday.
A horse is selected for you for the week and it
then becomes your responsibility to tack up
and care for it during the ride; your guide is on
hand to help if required.
The journeys take you along miles of
"randonnées" (bridlepaths) with
accommodation along the way to cater for both
rider and horse. Most of the overnight stops
are small farmhouses and gîtes owned by
French families who will cook traditional
farmhouse food for you and maybe join you for
supper to give an insight on their country life.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, itineraries,
Tel: 01299 272 997
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EUROPE
Meander through the French countryside exploring
the valleys and hills of the Vienne
France - Chateau de Chazelles
Open June to September
Set departures
Price from £986
The Riding
The horses at Chateau Chazelles
are forward going, responsive and
enjoyable to ride. Riders should be
able to control a well schooled
horse in open country at all paces.
The pace is varied with
opportunities for trot and canter
where the terrain permits.
Nearest Airport
Lyon. Transfers included at set
times from the airport
or train station.
Tel: 01299 272 997
The large network of trails, long temperate
season and beautiful scenery make the
Auvergne a popular area for riding in France.
Heading out each day from the chateau you
ride through wooded valleys past Roman and
Medieval villages to open pasture and gorges
with spectacular views over the surrounding
countryside.
As you would expect in France there is an
emphasis on good quality food. Lunches are in
an auberge or picnics provided by the support
vehicle. At dinner there are regional specialities
with ingredients sourced from local suppliers.
The Chateau is also ideal for non riding
partners especially walkers as there are many
miles of well marked routes.
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EUROPE
A winning combination of magnificent scenery warm hospitality, great food and riding
France - Chateaux of the Loire
Runs April to October
from 3 nights / 2 days riding
Price from £941
The Riding
You should be confident and in
control in the open at walk, trot and
canter. Some routes involve long
canters and require a good degree
of fitness; on others the pace is
more gentle with only
occasional canters. On some
routes non riders can join by car.
Nearest Towns
Either self drive or take the train to
Blois, Amboise or Saumur
(depending on which route).
The Loire valley and its châteaux have charmed
visitors for centuries. Their ornate architecture,
elaborate decoration and lavishly planted
gardens were designed to impress. They
became the playgrounds of the French nobility
and ultimately contributed to their downfall.
Riding from château to château takes you back
to the 16th century when the surrounding land
was reserved as royal hunting grounds.
Highlights include the Grand Chateau de
Chambord constructed like many others in the
distinct French Renaissance style that blended
traditional medieval and classical Italian forms.
Your guide, Anne-France, brings history to life
with stories of the political and royal intrigues
that have been linked with these magnificent
estates from the time of Richard the Lionhart
and the Knights Templar, through to Joan of
Arc and the Valois and Bourbon Kings.
Overnight in elegant small family run hotels
converted from chateaux and ancestral homes.
Enjoy gourmet picnics of local delicacies and
elegant candle-lit dinners with fine cuisine.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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EUROPE
A ride through the Loire valley staying in beautiful
chateaux while enjoying fine French cuisine
France - Gardians of the Camargue
Runs May and June
Set departures
Price from £1,648
The Riding
This holiday is best suited to
confident riders. The pace is
mixed, with some extended canters
along the sandy beaches. As you
will be riding alongside livestock it
is important to have a good level of
riding experience. You must also
be used to riding in open spaces
and varied terrain.
Nearest Airport
Montpellier.
Transfers included at set times.
Tel: 01299 272 997
Experience a unique blend of landscapes from
salt-marsh and lagoons to farmland and
seashore. The Camargue covers over 360
square miles and is western Europe's largest
river delta. The vast plains are made up of
large saltwater lagoons that are cut off from
the sea by sandbars and encircled by reedcovered marshes.
Staying at a delightful guest villa, set out each
day to explore the wonders of this magical
land. Once you have mastered the
Camarguais style of riding, amazing rides
await along deserted beaches. You will be
offered an intriguing insight into the Camargue
way of life - from tours of local Manades
(estates) to helping the Gardians gather the
famous black bulls.
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EUROPE
Explore one of Western Europe’s last remaining
wildernesses on horseback
EUROPE
A high quality Western Riding centre
in the centre of Europe
Hungary - El Bronco
Open all year
Arrive Sunday
4 hours riding per day
Price from £693
The Riding
The pace is mixed and there are
plenty of opportunities for jogging
and loping, but generally you won't
gallop. The riding groups are split
according to ability, but even
novice riders will usually have the
chance to try cantering before the
end of their stay.
Nearest Airport
Budapest.
Transfers available at extra cost.
El Bronco was founded in the 1980's and has
become a renowned ranch breeding Quarterhorse, Appaloosa and Paint horses. The ranch
lies within the Kiskunsági National Park which
consists mainly of saline plains and sandy
lowlands. This makes it ideal riding country. A
rather unusual feature of this area are the sand
dunes, which stretch along for miles and offer
great views of the park when you reach the top.
The riding is varied and interesting; during a
ride out you may start out along sandy tracks
through the forest, then wind your way past the
lake and end up negotiating the sand dunes,
which is great fun!
As well as the trail rides, you can choose to have
Western riding instruction. There are indoor and
outdoor arenas as well as round pens.
If you are a non-rider or would like a break
from riding there are a range of activities
including visits to local attractions, wine tasting
and jeep safaris.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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Hungary - Homoki Riding
Open April to November
Arrive / depart any day
Price from £935
The Riding
You may find yourself trotting or
cantering for several kilometres at
a time so you must be riding fit and
an experienced rider. The Relaxed
Ride in summer has fewer hours in
the saddle and the riding is
not so fast.
Nearest Airport
Budapest.
The southern Great Plains of Hungary is a
landscape criss-crossed by a myriad of rural
tracks. There are no fences to hinder your route
and no gates to open, so the powerful Hungarian
warmbloods are able to travel at speed over long
distances. This must be one of the best places in
Europe to explore on horseback.
Your base is Homoki Lodge, a traditional
house with thick adobe walls and a reed
thatch roof. The house has been completely
renovated and the rooms decorated with
antiques sourced from all over Europe.
The pace is fast and the riding is challenging
at times, so only experienced and confident
riders are accepted. In July and August, the
Relaxed Ride features fewer hours in the
saddle and the riding is not quite as fast; ideal
for those looking for a less intense summer
riding holiday.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, itinerary, trip
Tel: 01299 272 997
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EUROPE
A real immersion in traditional Hungarian
equestrian culture
EUROPE
A ride through southern Iceland visiting
magnificent waterfalls and hot springs
Iceland - Golden Circle
Runs June to August
Arrive Saturday
Price from £1,433
The Riding
Much of the riding is at a tölt, which
can be fast so you need to be a
confident rider able to adapt to
different riding styles. General
fitness is as important as riding
experience due to the long hours in
the saddle.
Nearest Airport
Keflavik (Reykjavik).
Riding in Iceland is a unique experience - an
opportunity to ride strong, willing horses over
exciting and adventurous terrain. Riding an
Icelandic horse is not only tremendous fun, it's
also a great way to experience the natural
beauty of Iceland; snow topped mountains, the
largest glacier in Europe, volcanoes, thundering
waterfalls and striking lunar landscapes.
The Golden Circle takes you through the lovely
countryside of southern Iceland. As you ride
towards the magnificent waterfall at Gulfoss
and the hot springs area of Geysir your guides
lead spare horses for you. The last two days of
the ride are more challenging as the spare
horses will now travel with you as a loose herd
as you cross the highland moor of Hrunaheði.
This tour is ideal for families and for those who
do not have the required riding experience for
the highland tours.
See inthesaddle.com for the prices, itinerary,
Tel: 01299 272 997
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Iceland - Home at Hestasport
Price from £503 (4 nights)
The Riding
The riding is adjusted to the
abilities of the group. Ideally you
should be fit enough to spend up to
five hours in the saddle but novice
riders can have shorter rides.
Nearest Airports
Akureyri and Keflavik (Reykjavik).
Transfers available from either at
extra cost.
Iceland is like no other place on earth. It is a
country of enormous, unspoilt natural beauty,
sometimes called the land of ice and fire with a
hugely diverse landscape; snow topped
mountains; volcanoes; geysers and mud pools.
The Icelandic horse is a pure-bred descendant
of those brought to Iceland by the Vikings over
a thousand years ago. Horses remain an
important part of Icelandic culture and the area
of Skagafjörður in northern Iceland is famous
for its horse breeding.
Home at Hestasport is a relaxed lodge based
ride. You stay in a private cottage and enjoy
riding out from the centre each day. You also
have time to explore the local area.
Visit inthesaddle.com for prices, the itinerary
and photo galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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EUROPE
A centre based ride in the north-west; the famous
horse breeding region of Skagafjörður
Iceland - Kjölur
Runs June to August
Arrive Saturday
Price from £1,559
The Riding
Much of the riding is at a tölt, which
can be fast so you need to be a
confident rider able to adapt to
different riding styles. General
fitness is as important as riding
experience due to the long hours in
the saddle.
Nearest Airport
Keflavik (Reykjavik).
Famed for the natural beauty and varied
landscape of the highlands, this tour follows
the ancient Kjölur route across the heart of
Iceland to the summer parliament at Þingvellir.
Ride through remote desert-like areas and
cross wild glacial rivers. Pass extinct
volcanoes and glacier lakes. Scattered areas
of grassland are a surprise in this landscape
which has been shaped by glaciers, ice and
snow. Enjoy the experience of bathing in
natural hot springs in the heart of the country.
On the trail you change horses once or twice a
day and as you ride, the herd of up to sixty
loose horses travels with you.
Sleeping bag accommodation on the trail is in
simple mountain huts. These are comfortable
but with limited facilities and hot water is not
always available.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, the itinerary,
Tel: 01299 272 997
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EUROPE
A classic trail ride through the highlands on an
ancient route across the heart of the country
Namibia - Namib Desert
Runs April to September
Set departures
Price from £3,350
The Riding
You should be a fit and
experienced rider. The pace
depends upon the terrain and
temperatures but there are many
long fast trots, canters and gallops.
There is a rider weight limit of 92kgs
with a surcharge for
riders over 85kgs.
Nearest Airport
Windhoek.
This famous ride is a 400 km adventure which
takes you through some of the most remote
and spectacular parts of Namibia. The
expedition starts near the famous dunes of
Sossusvlei passing through gentle undulating
hills and mountain escarpments out onto rocky
desert and finally to Swakopmund and the
sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast.
Luggage is transported by truck and a simple
camp is set up each evening. Tents are
provided, although a highlight for many is the
opportunity to sleep out under the spectacular
stars of the African sky.
The horses are strong and fit. You are
responsible for grooming and tacking up your
horse throughout the expedition and you will
continually marvel at their willingness and
sure-footedness.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, detailed
itinerary, trip reviews and photo galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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AFRICA
An expedition on horseback across the desert from
Sossusvlei to Swakopmund on the coast
Namibia - Okapuka
Open all year
Price from £1,568 (7 nights)
The Riding
capable of handling a responsive
forward going horse in open
country across varied terrain. The
pace includes walk, trot, canter and
faster riding on tracks and dried up
river beds. Children who are
experienced riders may be
accepted on private rides. Rider
weight limit is 85kgs (14 stone).
Nearest Airport
Windhoek.
Explore one of the best private game reserves
in Namibia. Game is plentiful with animals
including white rhino, zebra, giraffe, baboon
and many species of antelope. There are also
leopard, although they are very elusive and
seldom seen.
The riding trails traverse an area of more than
85,000 acres of savannah and mountains.
Ride along open sandy tracks and dried-up
river beds, fantastic for faster riding. Another
day climb high into the mountains for
spectacular views over the plains below. All the
horses are purebred Arabians, super fit and
responsive. Many compete to a high level at
endurance rides within Namibia. It is possible
to combine a riding safari at Okapuka with
competing at an endurance ride (p 139).
Accommodation is at Okapuka lodge in
spacious en-suite rooms. Non riders are
welcome and have game drives and walks in
the reserve.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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AFRICA
A lodge based riding safari near Windhoek on
endurance trained Arabian horses
Namibia - Okapuka Endurance
Runs February to October
Set departures
Price from £2,391
The Riding
capable of handling a responsive
forward going horse in open
country across varied terrain. The
pace includes walk, trot, canter and
faster riding on tracks and dried up
rivers beds. Rider weight
limit is 80kgs.
Nearest Airport
Windhoek.
Tel: 01299 272 997
Your guides Ingeborg and Sacha are advanced
level endurance riders and regularly compete
the Okapuka Arabians at endurance races
throughout Namibia. Join them and compete at
an official endurance ride. The race distance
you enter will depend on whether you have
competed at endurance before, your fitness
level and the local conditions. It can range
from 30 kms up to 100 kms. You will be
accompanied throughout the ride by either
Ingeborg herself or one of her staff who will set
the riding pace to help guide you.
To prepare for the endurance event you have
three days training at Okapuka (p 137) to
become accustomed to your horse, the pace of
riding and have time to learn about the horse
vetting process. You will also be able to
explore the game reserve on safari rides.
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AFRICA
An opportunity to compete on a fit Arabian horse in
an endurance ride in Namibia
Namibia - Sossus to Wild Horses
Runs in May
Set departures
Price from £3,500
The Riding
With long distances to cover and
some difficult terrain to cross, this
is a challenging ride for fit and
experienced riders only.
Nearest Airport
Windhoek.
Tel: 01299 272 997
An exciting ride with many unique experiences
along the way. Set off from the Wolwedans
reserve and journey on horseback through
unspoilt desert terrain. You may be lucky
enough to see oryx, springbok or zebra along
the way.
As the ride progresses, the scenery changes
and you head out on to open sandy plains.
When the terrain allows, there should be the
chance for some faster-paced riding.
Your adventure ends with a sunset excursion
in search of the Wild Horses near Garub.
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AFRICA
A challenging ride from Sossusvlei to
the rugged Aus Mountains
Namibia - Sossus Wolwedans Lodges
Runs April and September
Set departures
Price from £2,610
The Riding
Suitable for intermediate riders and
above, you should be confident in
the saddle at walk, trot and canter
and be used to riding in open
spaces. Expect to cover up to
30km on each riding day.
Nearest Airport
Windhoek.
Featuring sand dunes, wide open plains and
remote desert landscapes, this is a truly
breath-taking ride. Ride along the end of low
dunes and amongst enchanting fairy circles.
Then cross the southern part of the
Wolwedans reserve and on to a landscape
dotted with ancient Camelthorn trees and
reminiscent of the Kalahari. Here you may be
lucky enough to spot plains game such as oryx
or springbok.
You stay in a collection of comfortable lodges,
some with swimming pools. Each has been
specially chosen for its dramatic location,
allowing you to enjoy panoramic vistas and
incredible desert scenery during the ride.
After your ride you may like to stay on at
Sossusvlei Lodge to explore the famous red
dunes or travel north to Etosha for gameviewing.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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AFRICA
Ride through the dramatic scenery of the Namib
Desert, staying each night in comfortable lodges
South Africa/Botswana - African Explorer
Runs February to November
Price from £1,569
The Riding
The pace is walking for game
viewing with possible faster riding
along the dry riverbeds and longer
canters in between. You are riding
in areas of dangerous game and
the terrain is often demanding so
this ride is only suitable for
experienced riders who are
confident and secure in the saddle.
Nearest Airport
Johannesburg.Transfers
available at extra cost.
Tel: 01299 272 997
The first half of this safari is based at Camp
Davidson in the Waterberg of South Africa
where you stay in decked canvas tents
perched on sandstone ridges. Morning and
afternoon rides explore the valleys below,
which are home to zebra, giraffe and other
plains game.
The second half takes you north to the more
remote and wild Limpopo Valley in the Tuli
Block of Botswana. The riding trails here cover
both the riverine terrain and the mopane
bushveld, including the famous sandstone
formations of the Tuli. The area is well known
for its elephant, but you should also see eland,
impala, giraffe, hyena and hopefully also
leopard, lion and perhaps cheetah and wild
dog. At Limpopo you stay at Two Mashatus
(see page 113), a semi-permanent tented
camp.
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AFRICA
A two centre safari combining Camp Davidson
with Two Mashatus
South Africa - Ant’s Lodges
Open all year
The Riding
The length and pace of rides is
tailored to suit ability and
experience. The well-schooled
horses range from Thoroughbreds
and Arabs to Boerperd crosses.
There are also steady ponies for
children. Even those who have
booked as non-riders may be
encouraged to ride at least once
during their stay since one of the
best ways to get close to game is
on horseback.
Nearest Airport
Tel: 01299 272 997
Ant and Tessa Baber have perfected the art of
the luxurious and personal safari. Activities are
tailored to suit each person and non-riders are
welcome. Both lodges are beautiful and set in
their own private game reserve surrounded by
a diversity of game including rhino, buffalo and
the iconic sable.
For families or groups with non-riders there is
a range of activities including guided bush
walks, vehicle game drives and mountain
biking. Groups are typically limited to a
maximum of six riders and different abilities are
not mixed on the same ride.
The horses live out so the game are not
nervous when riders come close, allowing for a
unique opportunity to observe them in their
natural habitat. Equally thrilling are fast canters
on long sandy tracks.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, trip reviews
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AFRICA
Luxurious lodges on their own private game
reserves offering a very personal safari experience
South Africa - Blakeney
Open all year
The Riding
The horses are well trained,
forward going Boerperd crosses.
Riding is suitable for all abilities
and tailored for each safari. The
pace is dictated by the terrain and
the group’s level of riding
experience. For experienced riders
there are opportunities for long
trots and canters.
Nearest Airport
Your base is the beautifully renovated farm
house, Blakeney, set in a gorge on the banks
of the Tambotie river. The surrounding private
reserve lies on the edge of the Waterberg
Biosphere. Tracks weave through the Bushveld
of the mountains down to the more open
Sweetveld where the nutritious grasses and
acacia thorn attract a range of wildlife including
giraffe, zebra, kudu, waterbuck and many other
species of antelope. Canters and trots
alternate with slower rides when you encounter
wildlife or where the bush is thicker.
The number of guests is limited to six. Your
guide Corne is extremely knowledgeable. He
and his wife Pam have many years of
experience and together they provide a very
personal yet professional safari with great
attention to detail.
A real treat is to spend a night or two out in the
bush with Corne and his horses. The support
team travel ahead to set up a simple yet elegant
fly camp with beds under mosquito nets, a
camp fire and a table for dinner under the stars.
See inthesaddle.com for itinerary and photo
galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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AFRICA
Enjoy your own little bit of Africa on these small
group personal safaris
South Africa - Cape Winelands Riding
Open all year
Price from £1,120
The Riding
You must be competent at all
paces. The pace is varied to
include canters along the sandy
tracks and through the vineyards.
All riders should be confident and
secure in the saddle.
Nearest Airport
Cape Town
Tel: 01299 272 997
Explore the winelands of the Western Cape
around Paarl where rugged mountains form a
dramatic backdrop to lush vineyards and
gabled Cape Dutch homesteads. With its
magnificent natural beauty, rich cultural
heritage and world-renowned wines, the
winelands is synonymous with the best that the
Cape has to offer. Combining the pleasure of
riding great horses with wine tastings and fine
cuisine makes for an unforgettable holiday.
Choose to stay onsite in comfortable rooms at
the stables or upgrade to a nearby spa hotel.
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AFRICA
A ride through the vineyards of the Western Cape
South Africa - Endalweni
Runs all year
Set departures
Price from £1,172
The Riding
You should be comfortable at walk,
trot and canter. There are
opportunities for some long trots
and canters on the beaches and
grassy tracks.
Nearest Airport
East London.
On this centre based safari you stay at
Endalweni lodge situated in its own reserve in
the Eastern Cape. This private game park
overlooks the Kei River Valley and is home to
nyala, kudu, red hartebeest, waterbuck, blue
wildebeest, Burchell’s zebra and giraffe as well
as abundant birdlife.
Endalweni really is a hidden gem. Many areas
are unreachable by vehicle so horseback
safaris are definitely the best way to explore
the reserve.
You typically ride each morning in the reserve
and change to a different horse for an
afternoon on the Wild Coast. These coastal
rides cross the Kei River to the Transkei
revealing a world of rolling green hills where
rural African village life goes on much as it has
done for centuries. Once you have reached the
sea you discover the long sandy beaches and
dramatic cliff top pathways which characterise
this part of the coast. See page 159 for the
Wild Coast Trail.
Tel: 01299 272 997
153
www.inthesaddle.com
AFRICA
Combine beach rides along the Wild Coast with
horseback safaris in a coastal game reserve
South Africa - Horizon
Open all year
The Riding
Horizon is suitable for novice to
experienced riders. There is a wide
selection of horses to suit all
abilities. The pace of rides is varied
to suit the rider with plenty of
challenging riding for the
experienced rider.
Nearest Airport
Our rides at Horizon are some of our most
popular. The horses and riding are great, the
climate is good all year round and you receive
a welcome and hospitality second to none.
Horizon is based on Triple B ranch in the
Waterberg. You have a variety of riding options
to choose from which include polocrosse,
western games and hacking out along sandy
tracks and through the bush with the chance to
see wildlife.
For a real adventure there is also the
opportunity to stay for a night or more at Camp
Davidson, a luxury tented camp deeper in the
wilderness.
The daily activities are organised to suit
everyone and all abilities are catered for, so
this makes for a wonderful riding holiday whatever your level.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, trip reviews,
magazine feature and photo galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
155
www.inthesaddle.com
AFRICA
One of our most fun and returned to rides, with
excellent horses, variety and flexibility
South Africa - Moolmanshoek
Open all year
The Riding
To make the most of the riding at
Moolmanshoek you should be a fit
and competent rider, confident at
all paces. However, less
experienced riders can be
accommodated on shorter rides
from the lodge.
Nearest Airport
Situated in the shadow of the Witteberg
Mountains near the border with Lesotho, this
game reserve and conservation area has been
converted from farmland and is now home to a
wide variety of wildlife and over 230 bird
species. But it’s the horses that are the real
highlight at Moolmanshoek. They are some of
the best you are likely to come across on a
riding holiday. In total there are over 300
horses at two studs based at the farm, one
Boerperd and the other Arabian endurance.
The breeding programme over the past 15
years has produced some of South Africa’s top
endurance horses. Enjoy long canters, either
on the plains amongst the wildlife or on tracks
climbing into the mountains. You also ride
through the herds of young horses which are
raised wild on the mountain sides, resulting in
characteristic sure footedness.
For non-riders there is some great hiking, game
drives, excellent offroad tracks through
mountain passes and fly fishing.
Tel: 01299 272 997
157
www.inthesaddle.com
AFRICA
Ride top level endurance horses through some of
the most scenic parts of South Africa
South Africa - The Wild Coast
Open all year
Price from £1,173
The Riding
trot and canter. There are
opportunities for some long trots
and canters on the beaches and
grassy tracks.
Nearest Airport
East London.
The Wild Coast has to be the most spectacular
beach ride in the world. Explore mile after mile
of deserted sandy beaches and rocky
headlands sculpted by the crashing surf of the
Indian Ocean.
This mobile trail ride travels north along the
coast, riding either on the beach (tides
permitting) or on the cliff tops. Inland, into the
Transkei there is a world of rolling green hills
where rural African village life goes on much
as it has done for centuries. At night you stay
in simple beach hotels, by day you ride along
this spectacular coastline, sometimes cantering
along the water’s edge, at other times
meandering along the hills overlooking the
ocean.
If you like the idea of this ride then also look at
the Endalweni Safari (page 153) which is a
centre based ride in the same area, mixing
beach and wildlife viewing rides.
Tel: 01299 272 997
159
www.inthesaddle.com
AFRICA
A trail ride along some of the most dramatic
coastline and unspoilt beaches in South Africa
South Africa - Wait A Little
Open all year
Arrive Saturday
Price from £2,520
The Riding
This is a challenging ride. You must
be an experienced and fit rider
comfortable at all paces. You are
riding in an area of dangerous
game and it is important that you
are secure on your horse. There
are some long canters on the
sandy tracks with the possibility of
jumping. You should be riding fit for
up to six hours in the saddle.
Nearest Airports
Hoedspruit or Phalaborwa.
Tel: 01299 272 997
Riding through large private game reserves
near to Kruger National Park, this safari offers
excellent potential to see the Big Five elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo. The
rivers that run through the reserves are the
lifeline of the region, supporting an impressive
array of wildlife.
Your guide Philip Kusseler leads an exciting
and, where the terrain permits, fast safari.
The itinerary is usually split into morning and
late afternoon rides to avoid the heat of
midday. The horses are beautifully schooled,
brave and responsive to ride. On safari you
stay four nights at a luxury tented camp, two
nights at Phiva Lodge and one night in a
simple bush camp.
On select dates throughout the year there are
safaris of up to nine nights into the Makalali
Reserve with the highlight of staying three
nights at Garonga Safari Camp.
161
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AFRICA
A safari on two private game reserves with the
chance to see the Big Five from horseback
Tanzania - Kaskazi
Open all year
The Riding
You must be a fit and experienced
rider. It is important to be
comfortable and secure in the
saddle at speed and to be able to
stay on your horse should you
need to react quickly. The pace can
be fast and challenging at times.
Safaris can be tailor-made for less
experienced riders in areas where
the terrain is more open and where
big game is rarely seen.
Nearest Airport
Kilimanjaro.
Transfers available at extra cost
These horse safaris are based in the north of
Tanzania near Arusha with magnificent views
of Mount Meru and on clear days Kilimanjaro
in the distance.
We offer a number of alternative safaris into
some of the most wildlife rich and spectacular
areas of the country. The terrain varies from
open savannah, acacia forest, and palm trees
to thick scrubland. Depending on the time of
year you may cross riverbeds and ride along
lake shores.
The savannah is best suited to long, thrilling
gallops; where the bush is thicker all ears and
eyes need to be alert for any game you might
encounter.
The horses are a mix of local breeds and
thoroughbreds, all trained for safaris to give
you a great ride. Accommodation is in a
combination of mobile camps (dome tents each
with their own bush loo and bucket shower)
and permanent camps which are comfortable
and spacious.
See inthesaddle.com for itineraries and photo
galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
163
www.inthesaddle.com
AFRICA
A horse safari where Mount Kilimanjaro rises from
the grassy plains and towers over the land
Tanzania - Singita Grumeti Safari
Open May-Oct and Dec-Mar
The Riding
You should be a confident and fit
rider, capable of controlling a horse
at all paces over variable terrain.
The riding pace is moderate with
the opportunity for faster paced
canters in places. The horses are
mainly Thoroughbreds and
Boerperds and there is a choice of
English, Western or South African
trail saddles.
Nearest Airports
Kilimanjaro.
The Singita Grumeti Reserve offers an
unparalleled horseback safari teeming with
magnificent wildlife encounters on the western
corridor of the Serengeti. On this vast private
concession you stay in exclusive luxury lodges,
ideally positioned on the epic migratory route
traversed annually by two million wildebeest.
The first night is at Singita Sasakwa Lodge
offering pure luxury, where exquisite views of
the Serengeti dominate every setting.
From Sasakawa you ride on to Singita Faru
Faru Lodge. Here, open-style suites, each with
an outdoor shower or bath, allow you to view
game without even leaving your suite, and a
Swahili-inspired 'beach'
offers the opportunity for
pure rest and relaxation.
This is an ideal safari for
non-riders who can enjoy
game drives morning and
afternoon, meeting up with the riders for lunch.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, itinerary and
photo galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
165
www.inthesaddle.com
AFRICA
Ride with the herds of wildebeest and zebra as they
move between the Serengeti and the Mara
A resort ranch near Tucson, ideal for
families, with plenty of activities besides riding
Open all year
The Riding
Lessons in Western riding are
available for all levels. Beginners
and novice riders will ride at a
walk. More experienced riders can
join the lope rides. Children aged
between four and eleven have their
own kids’ club with a
riding programme.
Nearest Airport
Tucson. Transfers included
at set times.
Tanque Verde is one of the top resort ranches
in America. Activities include horse riding,
mountain biking, hiking, tennis, fishing,
swimming and La Sonora spa.
Located in the rolling foothills of the Rincon
Mountains the ranch has over 200 horses. The
riding trails explore the rugged and unique
Sonoran desert with towering cacti all around.
There are morning or afternoon rides plus
some day rides and breakfast rides. Private
rides, at extra cost, and team penning are also
available. Western lessons are offered in the
afternoon.
The air conditioned spacious rooms each have
beautiful desert views. The ranch has a well
deserved reputation for delicious food and a
varied menu.
Tanque Verde combines well with a visit to
Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon and Las
Vegas.
Tel: 01299 272 997
167
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
Arizona - Tanque Verde Ranch
A charming, family owned and run ranch that really
gives you the feeling of the Old West
Open all year
Arrive any day
Price from £726
The Riding
White Stallion has a herd of welltrained ranch horses. The riding is
suitable for all levels and children
from the age of five.
Nearest Airport
Tucson. Transfers included
at set times.
At White Stallion Ranch you find 3,000 acres of
wide-open land at the foot of the ruggedly
beautiful Tucson Mountains. Miles of scenic
horseback riding and hiking trails offer ranch
guests the opportunity to explore the rugged
and unique Sonoran desert.
With a herd of well-trained ranch horses there
is plenty of variety of riding throughout the
week including mountain rides, slow walking
rides, faster loping rides and all day rides.
There is also informal Western riding
instruction.
The ranch is ideal for families and groups
looking for fun riding for all abilities and a mix
of activities.Children aged five years and over
are welcome on the slower rides, whilst those
aged eight years and over may qualify for the
fast rides, mountain rides and all day rides.
Weekly rodeos, team penning and hayrides
are also part of the programme.
Tel: 01299 272 997
169
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
Arizona - White Stallion Ranch
Ride superbly fit endurance horses along the coastline beaches and Redwood forests of northern California
Runs April to September
Price from £1,425
The Riding
You should be a competent and
confident rider. There are plenty of
opportunities for long trots and
canters on logging tracks through
the Redwood forests and on the
long sandy beaches.
Children and less confident riders
are welcome as part of private
groups.
Nearest Airport
San Francisco.
Self drive to start of ride.
Owner and manager Lari Shea has competed
extensively in endurance for many years.
Her horses include such breeds as AkhalTeke, Arabians, Appaloosa and Quarter
Horses and many have won high placings at
endurance races.
On a set departure week, there are an average
of twelve riders making for a highly sociable
affair. On most days the group is split
according to experience level with riders taking
shorter or longer routes and meeting up a few
miles further on.
Ride on miles of sandy beaches; on coastal
headlands with the waves crashing on the
shore way in the distance; and twist and turn
through the huge Redwood forests.
You stay all week in beautiful Mendocino and
travel out each day to meet your horses which
are transported separately to the trail head.
Tel: 01299 272 997
171
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
California - Redwood Coast
A working ranch just south of Calgary in the
foothills of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains
Open May to October
Arrive Sunday
Price from £896
The Riding
The ranch can take all levels of
riding ability. The gentle pace of the
riding is set by the terrain and
respect for the horses. Children
over twelve years old are welcome.
Nearest Airport
Calgary. Transfers available
at extra cost.
Established in 1881, Lucasia Ranch is a 4,000
acre family owned and run working ranch. Join
the cowboys as they ride around the ranch,
checking over the 600 head of cattle and the
breeding horses.
The ranch has a herd of over 80 horses, many
of them homebred. A stay during the branding
week or one of the cattle drives will give you
an insight into the modern rancher's life and
offer more challenging riding.
The ranch accommodates an average of six to
eight guests.
We can arrange for you to combine your ranch
stay with a visit to the Calgary Stampede in
July, or to visit Banff or Lake Louise high in the
Rockies or to journey by train through to
Vancouver.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, details of the
accommodation, trip reviews and photo
galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
173
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
Canada - Lucasia Ranch
Follow the paths of moose and caribou through a
pristine wilderness of glacial valleys and lakes
Runs June to September
Set departures
Price from £1,877
The Riding
The riding is Western style, which
is an easy style to adapt to. For
this trail you should be comfortable
at all paces on varied terrain and fit
enough to spend long hours in the
saddle. This horse adventure will
be at a walking pace due to the
pack horses and, at times, difficult
terrain.
Nearest Airport
Whitehorse.
Transfers included.
Yukon’s jaw-dropping natural features are what
set this place apart. The southern part of the
state is covered by vast coniferous forests
rugged mountains, and a network of rivers and
lakes. In the north, rolling arctic tundra
stretches to the Arctic Ocean.
Originally from Quebec, your guide Pierre
Fournier has lived here for the last 18 years.
He runs horse expeditions in the summer and
dog-sledding during winter. Trained as a
trapper, he has developed a great knowledge
of the land and animals, and is always
enthusiastic to share these wilderness skills.
On the Shine Valley trips everything is carried
by pack horses and you stay in simple two
man dome tents or trapper cabins.
You will be responsible for the care of your
own horse (saddling, grooming etc) and
involved in learning the techniques of horse
packing. You are also expected to help with the
camp chores
Tel: 01299 272 997
175
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
Canada - Shine Valley
Explore the mountain peaks and alpine meadows of
the Coast Mountains of British Columbia
Open June to October
Arrive Sunday
Price from £1,771
The Riding
The riding is Western style and
suitable for riders confident at walk,
trot and canter. There are some
long hours in the saddle so you
need to be reasonably fit. Pace is
dictated by the terrain which is very
mountainous; however there are
trots and canters where the ground
permits.
Nearest Airport
Vancouver. Transfers
included at set times.
Tsylos (pronounced “sigh loss”) lies in the
British Columbia wilderness at the northern
end of Lake Chilko. Chilko is one of Canada’s
largest lakes and is also one of its most
beautiful; surrounded by a panorama of
jagged, snow-capped peaks with the dissolved
minerals giving the water a vivid aquamarine
colour.
Tsylos Park Lodge was established in 1957 by
Bud and Corinne McLean as a fishing and
hunting lodge. It is now owned by their
youngest daughter Karen McLean. The Lodge
offers excellent fly fishing, horseback riding,
hiking and hunting but the focus is on the
riding adventures available, which includes
pack trips (page 179).
From the main lodge explore the hidden
valleys, waterfalls and roaring creeks of the
Coast Range.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, details of the
accommodation, trip reviews and photo
galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
177
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
Canada - Tsylos Lodge
Explore the pristine wilderness of British Columbia
Runs July and August
Set departures
Price from £1,518
The Riding
All levels of rider are welcome on
the pack trips. Although the riding
is slower than at the lodge you still
need to be fit and a confident rider
as you will be venturing far from
civilisation. The riding is Western
style, and the guides are
experienced horse people who take
pride in matching horse and rider.
Nearest Airport
Vancouver. Transfers
An hour north from Vancouver on a charter
plane over the Coastal Mountain Range brings
you to Chilko Lake. Fed by glacial streams and
surrounded by majestic peaks, this is the
largest, natural, high-elevation freshwater lake
in Canada.
The area around Chilko Lake forms the Ts'il-os
Provincial Park, 233,000 hectares of snow
capped mountains, clear blue lakes, glaciers,
alpine meadows, and waterfalls.
The Tsylos Pack Trips explore this wilderness
and you will get to valleys where few have
ventured. To enjoy these rides you need to
have an adventurous spirit but you don't need
to be a particularly experienced rider as the
pace will not be as fast.
Everything is carried by pack horses and you
stay in simple two man dome tents, or, on mild
summer nights, sleep out under the stars. A
guide and cook accompany each trip
Tel: 01299 272 997
179
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
Canada - Tsylos Pack Trip
A working ranch where you can learn from real
cowboys - skills such as roping and cutting cattle
Open May to October
Arrive Sunday
Price from £1,340
The Riding
Beginners will start on steady
horses and as their experience and
confidence grows may move onto
more challenging horses. There
are lots of hours in the saddle and
you will need to take responsibility
for yourself when riding in a group
of other riders.
Nearest Airport
Denver. Transfers available at set
times at extra cost.
Colorado Cattle Company in the north-east of
the state is an authentic working ranch which
is now organised to take guests and teach the
skills of the cowboy. No matter what your riding
experience they can take you from raw
beginner to roping from horseback in a week!
Rise early to work with the cowboys as every
horse is checked and fed. After breakfast the
job to be done will depend on the time of year.
In spring the ranch will be busy with branding
and moving pairs to summer pastures. From
July to September you might be moving cattle,
gathering bulls, checking water, salt and
fences, as well as looking for strays and
driving them back where they belong. In
autumn there are several cattle drives a week
as cattle are shipped to winter feedyards.
Throughout the year the afternoons are an
opportunity to learn the correct way to handle a
rope from a horse and how to read and work
cattle. Even cowboys deserve some time off so
the roping and cattle work only takes place
during the week.
Tel: 01299 272 997
181
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
Colorado - Cattle Company
A working cattle ranch in a remote setting between
the Castle and Crazy mountains in central Montana
Arrive Sunday
Price from £1,232
The Riding
All riders must be comfortable in
the saddle, able to control a horse
and ride at a trot. On the Advanced
Rider weeks you must be able to
safely gallop in open country.
Experienced Rider weeks are for
those who know how to ride and
are comfortable at a canter in open
country but prefer a more leisurely,
scenic ride. Children eight years or
over are welcome on certain
weeks, see web site for dates.
Nearest Airport
Bozeman. Transfers available at
set times at extra cost.
This is big sky country with beautiful open
scenery and high wooded valleys. Bonanza
Creek is owned and run by the Voldseth family
who have been ranching here for over 100 years.
The ranch is suited to guests who prefer to ride
every day. The ranch horses are well schooled,
responsive and enjoy their work. Explore the
wonderful Montana landscape on horseback,
taking in breathtaking views across meadows,
wooded mountainsides and past sparkling
lakes. Rides are split according to ability and
Western lessons are available. There are
morning and afternoon rides, cattle herding
and team penning plus wagon rides and
evening cook outs. In June and late August/
September, the ranch accepts Adults only.
Accommodation, for an average of 10 guests,
is in very comfortable log cabins and guests
eat together in the main lodge.
A stay at the ranch combines well with a visit
to Yellowstone National Park or Glacier
National Park.
Tel: 01299 272 997
183
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
Montana - Bonanza Creek Ranch
A working ranch in the foothill of the Rockies
where you can pan for gold
Open May to August
Arrive Sunday
Price from £1,086
The Riding
Suitable for all levels of rider. There
may be opportunites for faster
riding depending on the experience
of the group. Weeks solely for
experienced riders are available in
May and June. There is no set
minimum age for children to ride;
they can have lessons in the arena
and join the trail rides if capable.
Nearest Airport
Bozeman. Transfers available at
set times at extra cost.
Hidden Hollow is rich in history from the early
gold rush years of the 1860s. After working in
the gold mines, Kelly Flynn’s ancestors settled
this land and developed it into a successful
working ranch.
Taking only a few guests each week, the riding
is tailored to the group with short half day or
longer full day rides through cattle pastures
and higher into the forested mountains.
There is cattle work to do every week from
driving the cattle between grazing to checking
the stock and replacing mineral licks.
Hidden Hollow is ideal for families and singles
alike and there is fishing, archery, target
shooting, elk spotting and plenty of other
activities including panning for the remaining
gold on ranch streams.
This is a peaceful place to relax and unwind.
We recommend extending your stay in
Montana with a visit to Yellowstone or Glacier
National Parks.
Tel: 01299 272 997
185
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
Montana - Hidden Hollow Hideaway
A family owned and run guest ranch with the
emphasis on natural horsemanship
Open all year
The Riding
There are horses to suit all riding
abilities. The pace is varied from
walk on the steeper slopes to a
faster pace on the open spaces.
Western riding instruction is
available. Children from the age of
six years can learn to ride in the
corral and go on trail rides if capable.
Nearest Airports
Helena and Great Falls.
The ranch has over fifty horses, all much loved
and well mannered. Most are trained using
Parelli Natural Horsemanship techniques.
You are encouraged to be involved in
grooming and saddling your horse and the
wranglers will show you the Western reining
and Parelli approach.
The itinerary is flexible with a mixture of half day
and all day rides. Explore the beautiful Montana
valleys, or ride up into the Rocky Mountains,
where on a clear day there are views of up to
250 miles. Try your hand at moving cattle, barrel
racing and roping. Non riding activities include
archery, fishing and hiking. Massage treatments
can also be arranged.
Accommodation is in one of eight spacious ensuite rooms at the ranch. Stay for two weeks
and use the ranch as a base to explore the
local area. In July and August there are a
number of local rodeos nearby.
Tel: 01299 272 997
187
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
Montana - Rocking Z Ranch
A wonderful remote ranch in its own valley at the
base of the Crazy Mountains
Arrive Sunday
Price from £1,069
The Riding
The ranch has over forty horses to
suit all kinds of riding experience.
The pace is set by the terrain
which ranges from high alpine
meadows to the foothills and out
into the lower rolling country of the
winter ranch. There is a choice of
long all-day rides, as well as
morning and afternoon rides.
Nearest Airport
Billings. Transfers available at set
times at extra cost.
Guests at Sweet Grass are welcome to take as
active a part as they like in all aspects of ranch
life. There is cattle work on most weeks,
moving cows between pastures. In June the
land is lush and green and the meadows are
literally blue with forget-me-nots. July is time to
drive the cattle to the higher mountain summer
grazing. In August there are long all day rides
into the high mountains and in September the
cattle need bringing back to their winter
pastures.
When you are not riding there is good fishing
in the creek, ponds and lakes around the
ranch. Trout fishing in the rivers fed by the
snow-melt from the mountains is especially
good. You can swim in the creek or try out
some of the many hiking trails. There is no TV
and there are no organised activities other than
riding.
Accommodation ranges from rooms in the
main ranch house to traditional log cabins.
Many of the cabins have their own fireplace or
wood burning stove.
Tel: 01299 272 997
189
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
Montana - Sweet Grass Ranch
Challenging rides in the foothills of the
Big Horn Mountains
Runs May to July
Set departures
Price from £1,229
The Riding
You should be a fit and
experienced rider, confident to
canter and gallop in a group of
horses over rough terrain. You are
also expected to brush and saddle
your own horse. You ride Western
style with a loose rein at all times.
These rides are demanding in
terms of distance, pace and terrain
and are not for the timid or
inexperienced rider.
Your guide, Belinda Daugherty, is full of
knowledge of the area and will lead you on a
fast, fun ride through this rough and rugged
land. Be prepared to lope through knee-deep
sagebrush and gallop through grassy
meadows.
Each week with Belinda is different. On most
dates there will be some training of young colts
and others will give you the opportunity to take
part in an Endurance Ride if you wish. During
one week there are three nights camping whilst
you help the local ranchers with their cattle,
another sees you visiting the Hyatteville
carnival, and there is also Ten Sleep Rodeo
week! The last ride of the season is a pack trip
to the high alpine region.
Guests (maximum of six) are encouraged to be
'hands on' around the farm, and this is very
much a working homestay. Your wranglers
have a wealth of experience in all aspects of
horsemanship and are keen to share their
knowledge with you.
itineraries, trip reviews and photo galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
191
www.inthesaddle.com
NORTH AMERICA
Wyoming - Renegade Rides
A fascinating adventure in the steppes of Argentina
and the Valdivian forests in Chile
Runs November to February
Set departures
Price from £3,163
The Riding
and in control at all paces. The
terrain is challenging so much of
the ride is at a walk. You should
be fit to cope with the number of
hours in the saddle.
Nearest Airport
Bariloche and Peurto Montt.
The route of this Andean adventure starts near
the popular ski town of Bariloche in Argentina
journeying south and west to finish at Puerto
Varas in Chile. During the first half of the ride
in Argentina you ford rivers and climb high
mountain passes with panoramic views as you
ascend ever higher into the Andes. Early
settlers came to this area to find gold; others to
establish estancias and you get a feeling for
how tough their life must have been.
Leaving behind the Argentine Criollo horses,
the border crossing into Chile is by boat across
the vivid blue Lago Puelo.
Meeting fresh horses on the Chilean side, the
landscape becomes much greener and the
forests more dense. There are some exciting
river crossings where the riders travel by boat
and the horses swim. The ride continues for
six days in Chile as far as Tagua-Tagua Lake,
famous for its floating islands of vegetation.
Accommodation on the Argentinian side is a
combination of camping and guest houses
while in Chile you stay in farmhouses that take
in guests as well as on the remote island of
Las Bandurrias.
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LATIN AMERICA
Argentina/Chile - Across the Andes
Fun and fast riding in northern Patagonia in the
foothills of the Andes
Argentina - Estancia Huechahue
The Riding
The Criollo horses are forward
going and most suited to
intermediate or experienced riders.
The cattle work can be particularly
fast and demanding. The riding on
the pack trips is slowerl
Nearest Airport
Bariloche. Transfers included
at set times.
Become part of life on a working Argentinian
estancia. Explore on horseback the foothills of
the Andes, venture into Lanin National Park or
try your hand at helping the gauchos as they
work cattle.
Ride through the open rolling hills and narrow
rocky gorges or take the trail to the Cheque
Hills where the Andes rise up behind you and
the vastness of Patagonia stretches out before
you.
The amount and type of cattle work depends
on the season - in January you can help the
gauchos move the cattle to their summer
grazing and again in April, help bring them
home for the winter.
There are also pack trips deep into Lanin
National Park. In the heart of the Andes this is
an area virtually inaccessible other than by
horseback. Within sight of the snow-capped
Lanin volcano you ride through the only
indigenous Monkey Puzzle forest in the world.
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LATIN AMERICA
Open October to April
A lovely estancia with great hosts - fabulous horses
and the chance to play a few polo chukkas
Open all year
The Riding
Riding on the estancia is suitable
for novice to experienced riders.
With a herd of over 80 well loved
riding horses there is something
for everyone. Experienced riders
may enjoy riding the Paso
Peruanos which have a fifth
gait; a running walk.
Nearest Airport
Cordoba.
Transfers included.
This 6,000 acre working cattle estancia and
stud farm, dating back to 1574, lies in the
Sierras Chicas, a beautiful area north of
Cordoba. Guests are welcomed by the Begg
family who have lived on the estancia for four
generations. The beautifully restored
farmhouse is steeped in family history with
many references to the Jesuits who first
organised farming in the area.
Each day on the estancia is different; canter
along rugged hills covered in 'paja brava'; take
a dip in natural rock pools; visit local churches
on horseback; help the gauchos round up the
young horses; during the summer take an
overnight trip north into the sierras; watch the
horse-trainer at work; try your hand at lassoing
or polo.
There are trail rides through the Sierras
starting and ending at Los Potreros as well as
specific polo weeks throughout the year for
those who want a more intense polo
experience.
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Tel: 01299 272 997
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LATIN AMERICA
Argentina - Estancia Los Potreros
Canter along palm fringed beaches with turquoise
sea glistening beside you.
Brazil - Bahia Beach Ride
The Riding
You should be a competent rider,
capable at all paces and used to
riding in open spaces. The horses
are well mannered, forward going,
sure footed and very obedient. You
ride at walk, jog (sitting trot)
and canter.
Nearest Airport
Porto Seguro.
transfers included.
Brazil is best known for its beaches, the
excitement of Carnival and the vibrant city of
Rio de Janeiro. But when Brazilians
themselves go on holiday, they head for the
golden sands and sparkling seas of Bahia.
With its warm climate and natural beauty,
Bahia makes for the perfect exotic getaway.
The ride begins and ends at Pousada do
Outeiro, a lovely hotel situated atop cliffs with
stunning beaches below. Ride to the
captivating village of Trancoso, one of the
earliest settlements founded by the Portuguese
in Brazil. Colourful guesthouses line the wide
main street and at night the trees are lit by
hundreds of lanterns. Stay at the remote and
pretty village of Caraiva. Only a dozen or so
shops and restaurants line the sand streets,
but if you want to see the village from a
different perspective, then hire one of the taxicabs which are pulled by donkeys.
Consider combining this ride with one of our
other exciting rides in Brazil or a visit to the
Amazon Rainforest.
photo galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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LATIN AMERICA
Open March to November
Price from £1,535
This trip has some of the most spectacular scenery
of any riding holiday anywhere in the world
Brazil - Canyons and Waterfalls
The Riding
You should be confident on a
horse at all paces. The pace is
varied to include walk, jog (sitting
trot) and canter. This trail might
not be enjoyable if you are very
afraid of heights.
Nearest Airport
Porto Alegre.
Transfers included.
A journey on horseback in the state of Rio
Grande do Sul in southern Brazil, staying at
comfortable mountain lodges along the way.
You ride on a high plateau through quite
amazing scenery of open pasture which is
suddenly interrupted by canyons up to 900m
deep. From the edge of the escarpment you
can see for miles. The land is crisscrossed
with rivers which sometimes create sparkling
rapids and then disappear off the cliffs in
dramatic waterfalls.
You ride on fine Brazilian Criollo horses which
are forward going and fit. This is the land of
the gaucho who will greet you in the morning
with their "chimarrão", a gourd of hot maté tea.
The ride would combine well with the Bahia
Beach Ride (p 199) or the Pantanal
Experience (p 205).
itinerary and photo galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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LATIN AMERICA
March to November
Price from £1,046
Marvel at the bird and plant life of the rainforests
visited by Charles Darwin
Brazil - Darwin’s Trail
The Riding
You ride at walk, canter and
“travelling pace” which being
similar to a Western jog, is very
comfortable. There are some steep
ascents and descents with narrow
trails.
Nearest Airport
Rio de Janeiro.
Rio de Janeiro State has some of the best
preserved parts of the Atlantic Rainforest in
Brazil. In 1832 this Atlantic Rainforest
overwhelmed Charles Darwin with its beauty
and biological diversity. Ride through these
exuberant forests of ancient trees and see a
little of what enchanted the young Darwin.
Birdwatchers will discover an enormous variety
of birds; the rainforest is also rich in reptiles,
amphibians and butterflies. The vegetation is
thick, lush and fantastic. Many trees are thick
with epiphytes and there is an enormous
variety of orchids and bromeliads.
During the week you ride a well trained
Mangalarga Marchador horse on narrow tracks
through the rainforest, over pastures, crossing
rivers and following winding mountain trails.
You will most likely wish to extend your holiday
by staying a couple of nights in glorious Rio de
Janeiro.
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LATIN AMERICA
Runs May and September
Price from £1,707
Ride through Brazil's unique wetlands, famous for
their animals and birdlife
Brazil - Pantanal Experience
The Riding
For the two centre ride you should
be confident at walk, trot and
canter and open to a different way
of riding. Due to the terrain and the
cowboy culture of slow riding when
working cattle, much of the riding is
at a walk with occasional canters.
There are also centre based
versions of this trip suitable for
families, beginners
and novice riders.
Nearest Airport
Campo Grande.
Transfers included.
Tel: 01299 272 997
The Pantanal is a low lying plain which floods
annually to create the largest wetlands of the
Americas; an area the size of Portugal. The
land is mainly privately owned fazendas (cattle
ranches) with the culture of the cowboy
dominating this frontier land.
Cattle are still worked and moved in the
traditional way so horses and mules are
indispensable partners to the Pantaneiro
(Pantanal cowboy). You are likely to take part
in some cattle work on the fazendas and
experience a little of their gritty lifestyle.
The Pantanal is most famous for its rich variety
of flora and exuberant fauna. Be amazed by
exotic birds such as the fabulous hyacinth
macaw and huge tuiuiú (jabiru stork); fish for
piranha and look for the capybara. Catch a
glimpse of the feathery tail of a giant anteater
or see the sandy coloured back of an armadillo
disappear down a hole.
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LATIN AMERICA
Runs February to October
Price from £1,402
Journey through the coffee growing highlands
staying at historic plantation houses along the way
Brazil - The Coffee Trail
The Riding
You ride at walk, canter and
“travelling pace” which being
similar to a Western jog, is very
comfortable. Private groups of
mixed ability may be accepted.
Centre based rides, with instruction
if desired, are also possible.
Nearest Airport
Sao Paulo.
Transfers included.
Ride through one of the main coffee growing
regions of Brazil in the northeast of Sao Paulo
state. Visit and stay at some of the historic
plantation homes, ride through rolling
meadows, along woodland paths and splash
through clear streams.
There are still areas of the state that have not
given way to coffee growing. In these pockets
of land the Atlantic rainforest still remains and
here you can find the Jequitiba tree. A giant of
the forest, this species can grow to over 40
metres tall and three metres in diameter.
The horses are bred and trained at Fazenda
Nova from where the ride begins. They are
mainly Arab and Mangalarga crosses. Some are
pacers, some are trotters, but all are very
comfortable, well mannered and easy to handle.
Since most international flights to Brazil are to
Sao Paulo, there are plenty of options for
extensions after this ride or to combine with
one of the other Brazilian rides.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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LATIN AMERICA
Runs January to October
Price from £1,272
A trail ride through Torres del Paine
camping in often remote locations
Chile - Glacier View
The Riding
You should be a competent rider, fit
and confident riding outdoors. The
horses are willing and forward
going Chilean Criollos and Criollo
crosses. There are opportunities
for fast riding where the terrain
permits with slower riding in the
steeper sections.
Nearest Airport
Punta Arenas.
Tel: 01299 272 997
This ride in and around the Torres del Paine
National Park in southern Chile is in some of
the world's most spectacular scenery. The
Glacier View ride is suited to those who enjoy
camping and the outdoors and who will feel
privileged to enjoy a glass of wine in some of
the most beautiful campsites on earth.
The ride follows a similar itinerary to Torres
Vista (p 213) except that you have the
opportunity to ride to Glacier Dickson, one of
the rarely visited glaciers in the Park due to
its remoteness.
The overnight stops have been chosen with
care and all are different. Some are official
campsites in the Park whilst others are
wilderness sites with no facilities.
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LATIN AMERICA
Runs October to March
Price from £2,296
Trail ride through the remote Puelo Valley of the
Chilean Lake District
Open November to March
Price from £1,682
The Riding
Riders need to be balanced and in
control at all paces. The riding is
technical in places with steep
ascents and descents which limit
the pace. The Criollo horses are
sure-footed for this mountainous
terrain yet still keen to canter when
you reach open meadow.
Nearest Airport
Puerto Montt.
Transfers included from hotels in
Puerto Montt or Puerto Varas.
Tel: 01299 272 997
This trail ride follows the Puelo River as it
twists through this remote valley south of
Puerto Montt. The slopes of the Andes are
covered with dense forest and the trails carve
their way through this unspoilt landscape - the
people who live here still rely on horses for
transport and as there are few roads your
belongings are carried by packhorse. Snowcapped mountain peaks reflect in the crystal
clear lakes and the glacial rivers are a startling
blue. During the week you cross these rivers
many times, both on horseback and by boat
with the horses swimming alongside.
The Puelo Valley ends at Lago Inferior and
Lago Puelo where you cross the border to
Argentina by boat and are transferred by road
to Bariloche. From there you can either
continue your holiday in Argentina or return
across the Andes to Chile.
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LATIN AMERICA
Chile - Lake District
A trail ride through Torres del Paine
staying in estancias and guesthouses
Chile - Torres Vista
The Riding
You should be a competent rider, fit
and confident riding outdoors. The
horses are willing and forward
going Chilean Criollos and Criollo
crosses. There are opportunities
for fast riding where the terrain
permits with slower riding in the
steeper sections.
Nearest Airport
Punta Arenas.
This trail takes you through the Torres del
Paine National Park in the extreme south of
Chile, where you experience towering peaks,
glacial rivers, azure lakes and huge glaciers.
With slow riding on the mountain paths and
fast riding across the open pampas, each turn
of the trail affords a more breathtaking vista
than the last.
Weather permitting, you should see the
impressive Torres from both the south and
north side of the massif.
Accommodation in the estancias is comfortable
and welcoming. All have been chosen for their
beautiful locations and unsurpassable views.
At the end of the season guests are welcome
to join a special horse moving ride, but for this
ride you really need to be an experienced rider
The Glacier View (p 209) follows a similar
route but is under canvas.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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LATIN AMERICA
Runs Octomber to March
Set departures
Price from £2,668
Explore the coastal rainforest, mangroves and
Pacific coast of Costa Rica
Costa Rica - Rainforest Adventure
The Riding
The horses are the deceptively
sturdy Criollo, ranging from 14hh to
15hh. You should be open to a new
style of riding and be confident on
a horse at all paces. The pace is
varied to include walk, jog (sitting
trot) and canter. We can
accommodate more novice riders
in a private group.
Nearest Airport
San Jose.
Transfers included.
Explore the coastal rainforest, mango
plantations, lowland mangroves and the Pacific
coast of Costa Rica. From horseback you will
discover an exhilarating diversity of flora and
fauna, contrasting landscapes, beautiful vistas
and plenty of local culture.
Guests stay at Cerro Lodge, close to the
Carara National Park and one of the main
refuges for the scarlet macaw. Ride out from
nearby Maravilla, which is located on a
hacienda encompassing over 1,500 acres.
Explore routes that were once the Spanish
“Conquistador” trails into the inner part of a
then unknown land - the true backcountry of
Costa Rica.
You are accompanied by a professional guide
who will help you identify the birdlife and
wildlife such as parakeets, scarlet macaws,
toucans, monkeys, coatimundis, iguanas and
anteaters. A number of exciting non-riding trips
are possible such as a crocodile boat safari,
ocean kayaking and canopy trail for a unique
opportunity to view birdlife in the tree tops.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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LATIN AMERICA
Open all year
Price from £1,055
A trail ride taking in three distinctly different areas
of the country
Costa Rica - Riding Odyssey
The Riding
Your horses are the study Criollo,
ranging from 14hh to 15hh. You will
find them eager, strong and
amazingly sure footed. You should
be open to a new style of riding,
confident on a horse at all paces
and fit enough to ride for long hours
in the heat.
Nearest Airport
San Jose.
Transfers included.
With its varied terrain, intriguing wildlife and
diverse landscapes, Costa Rica is an ideal
country to explore on horseback. The Riding
Odyssey allows you to see the highlights of
this magical place.
Ride two sets of horses and transfer by vehicle
between three key regions. Begin your
adventure at the rustic Maravilla hacienda, with
rides through the lush coastal rainforest, deep
velvety green mango plantations and along
winding mountain trails. Next, spend time
exploring Arenal and its majestic volcano and
nearby, visit a thermal spa to relax in the hot
springs. Finish the ride by discovering the
rolling pastures and grasslands of Guanacaste.
Extend your stay with a visit to the lush
rainforest and secluded beaches of Manuel
Antonio, or relax on the wide, white sandy
beaches of Tamarindo.
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Tel: 01299 272 997
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LATIN AMERICA
Runs all year
Set departures
Price from £1,241
A ride between Ecuador´s historic haciendas among
the snow-capped peaks of the Andes.
Ecuador - Colonial Hacienda
The Riding
confident rider in control of your
horse at all paces in open and
difficult terrain and also prepared to
ride on steep slopes. The ride is at
high altitude and so it is important
that you have good overall physical
fitness as well as riding fitness for
the long hours in the saddle.
Nearest Airport
Quito. Transfers included. We
recommend you arrive two days
prior to the ride in order to
adjust to the altitude.
Ride along ancient Inca highways and
Spanish colonial routes in two stunningly
beautiful, yet very distinct areas of the
Ecuadorian highlands. Nights are spent in
historic haciendas, homes of the noblest
Ecuadorian families and dating back to the
17th and 18th centuries.
Begin the week riding between the patchwork
fields of the green valleys of the northern
highlands. On the fifth day make a short
journey by vehicle through the stunning
scenery of the 'Avenue of Volcanoes'. Meet
fresh horses and ride south into very different
scenery. Continue towards the perfect conical
shape of the Cotopaxi Volcano and ride up into
the gently undulating grasslands, across the
Cotopaxi foothills and towards the National
Park. End the ride galloping across the arid
plains below the snow-capped Cotopaxi peak.
A trip to Ecuador would not be complete
without visiting the Galapagos Islands. Motoryacht cruises with experienced naturalist
guides can be added as an optional extra.
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LATIN AMERICA
Runs June to March
Price from £1,942
Tough but exhilarating riding high up
in the remote Andes
Ecuador - Cotapaxi Adventure
The Riding
Nearest Airport
Tel: 01299 272 997
Leave civilisation behind as you cross the wild
open spaces of the high Andes. Journey over
seldom visited plains at the foot of Cotapaxi
volcano. With tricky terrain to negotiate and
some long days in the saddle this ride is best
suited to fit experiened riders with a sense of
adventure.
Stay in a mixture of comfortable haciendas
and farmhouses; some are built of adobe with
thatched roofs, others contain original Inca
stone. The trail takes you along old Inca routes
and past tiny fields farmed by ladies in their
brightly coloured skirts and traditional hats.
reviews, route maps and photo galleries.
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LATIN AMERICA
Runs June to March
Price from £1,362
A colonial hacienda nestled in the heart of the
Andes, with fabulous horses and great riding
Ecuador - Hacienda Zuleta
The Riding
Explore the hills and meadows
surrounding the hacienda, or if you
are more experienced head into
the communities of Zuleta and up
into the paramo beyond.
Depending on your riding level, you
may be invited to help bring in the
herd on horseback before breakfast!
Nearest Airport
Quito. Transfers available
at extra cost.
Tel: 01299 272 997
Dating back to the 16th Century, Hacienda
Zuleta is a colonial working farm in the
spectacular northern highlands of Ecuador.
Belonging to the family of former Ecuadorian
President Galo Plaza Lasso, Hacienda Zuleta
is as rich in history as it is beautiful.
Horses are closely entwined with the
hacienda's history and traditions so it comes
as no surprise that the horses are top-quality.
They are Andalucian cross Quarterhorses,
known as 'Zuleteño' and are strong, willing
mounts who handle the varied terrain
extremely well.
Tracks radiate from the hacienda in numerous
directions. Ride out into the surrounding
valleys for a glimpse of rural life, or ride up into
the mountains for fabulous views of the
Cayambe volcano. There are lakes, snowcapped peaks, waterfalls and dramatic views
to discover.
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LATIN AMERICA
Open all year
Price from £1,195
A challenging route encompassing very varied
terrain with faster paced riding across the plains
Ecuador - Volcanoes and Vistas
The Riding
Nearest Airport
This exciting ten night journey begins in the
verdant valleys of the Andes, where you ride
close to the glacier-topped Cayambe Volcano.
Wind your way through the Zuleta Valley, past
pre-Inca pyramids and into the San Pablo
Valley, with views of the lake and the jagged
peaks beyond.
Continue on to the foothills of Antisana, prime
condor country and with superb views across
the ridges and valleys to Quito. Here you will
find Jesuit haciendas, cobbled roads, rocky
outcrops and wetlands.
The ride then continues on to the Cotopaxi
National Park, where you ride across vast
grasslands below the snow-capped Cotopaxi
Volcano. Experience breathtaking wild
highlands and seldom-visited open plains high
in the Andes.
Nights are spent in a wonderful mixture of
historic haciendas, working farms, inns and
remote farmhouses.
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LATIN AMERICA
Runs June to March
Price from £1,936
Explore the fabulous scenery of the Sierra Madre
Mountains on high quality horses
Mexico - Cabalgatas La Sierra
The Riding
The horses are Trakehner,
Thoroughbred/Quarterhorse
crosses and Mexican Criollos
ranging from 15hh to 17hh.
You should be a confident and fit
rider, able to control a horse at all
paces in the open.
Nearest Airport
Mexico City. Transfers
Your base in this remote and beautiful part of
central Mexico is Finca Enyhe, a lovely
hacienda surrounded by lush gardens with an
amazing variety of plants, flowers and fruit
trees. The picturesque town of Valle de Bravo
with its cobbled streets and many small
restaurants and bars is a short walk away.
You ride at heights of between 1,800m and
3,000m through wooded valleys with
panoramic vistas of the Sierra Madre
Mountains. Experience a wide variety of
microclimates with different flora and fauna;
from the high pine forests to the sugar cane
fields below and all that lies in between.
A real highlight between November and midMarch is a visit to the Monarch Butterfly
sanctuary. Here millions of butterflies that have
migrated from eastern Canada survive the
winter by clinging to the fir trees.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, itineraries, trip
Tel: 01299 272 997
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LATIN AMERICA
Runs October to June
Set departures
Price from £1,117
A ride through breathtaking landscapes on
beautifully trained Peruvian Pasos
Peru - The Sacred Valley Ride
The Riding
experienced rider, capable to ride a
forward-going horse and happy to
try out a new way of riding. There
are some steep slopes to negotiate
and you should be fit enough to
hike at high altitudes. The pace is
dictated by the terrain and altitude;
much of it at a walk or the fabulous
paso llano, a four beat lateral gait.
Nearest Airport
Cusco. Transfers included
at set times.
Our ride in the Sacred Valley is at the heart of
the Andes between Cusco and Machu Picchu.
This is one of Peru's most beautiful and
atmospheric landscapes. The scenery is
dramatic with snow-capped mountains, deep
blue lagoons and spectacular flora and fauna.
Ride through villages and across farmland
where the people you meet will have a smile
on their face. And so will you - the beautiful
Peruvian Paso horses can keep up the "paso
llano" for hours on end and you will be
astounded at how quickly you cover the ground
without ever cantering.
The itinerary allows time to explore Cusco and
to visit Ollantaytambo's impressive Inca ruins
and the extraordinary Machu Picchu. During
the trail you stay in comfortable hotels.
Consider extending your holiday in Peru by
visiting the Peruvian Amazon or Lake Titicaca.
Tel: 01299 272 997
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LATIN AMERICA
Runs April to October
Price from £2,793
Ride through stunning coastal scenery in one of the
least known countries in South America
Runs October to April
Set departures
Price from £1,893
The Riding
You should be a strong
intermediate or experienced rider
happy at all paces including gallop
and fit enough for up to six hours
riding a day. There are
opportunities for faster riding on the
grassy pastures and firm beaches.
Nearest Airport
Montevideo. Transfers
This ride takes place in the province of Rocha
and crosses the Banados del Este Biosphere
reserve, a UNESCO site. It is a unique place
with a diverse landscape perfect for riding.
Within a relatively small area you find
wetlands, hills, native forest, palm groves,
sandy and rocky beaches, rivers, coastal
lagoons, savannahs and some of the largest
expanses of inland water in South America.
The horses are the local Uruguayan Criollo
breed and Criollo crosses which are ideally
suited to the terrain. The Criollo is a strong
horse with an excellent walk and good
character. There will normally be three
changes of horses during the ride as you move
onto different estancias.
Centre based itineraries, staying at estancias
such as El Charabon, can also be arranged for
parties of two or more.
This ride combines well with a few days at one
of the many beach resorts at Punte del Este or
for more riding continue to Los Potreros in
Argentina (p 197) or Brazil (p 199-207).
Tel: 01299 272 997
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photo galleries.
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LATIN AMERICA
Uruguay - Coastal Estancias
Ride on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra amid
the lush tea gardens of Assam
India - Assam Tea Gardens Ride
The Riding
confident rider on a forward going
horse. Riding through the tea
gardens is at a walk; however
there are opportunities for trot and
canter when you explore the
countryside.
Nearest Airport
Dibrugarh.
Transfers included.
The holiday starts at Mancotta, a beautifully
renovated estate manager’s home set in the
midst of the tea estate. From your veranda and
over morning tea, you will hear the jingle of
bicycle bells and the chatter of the tea workers
as they walk or cycle to work. The trails
explore the surrounding Brahmaputra plain,
rain forest and tea gardens.
After four nights at Mancotta, head north to the
Limbuguri Tea Estate and Dibru-Saikhowa
National Park for two days of exploring, one
day with the horses and one day without.
The trip includes a two day safari in the
Kaziranga National Park. This world heritage
site boasts the largest population of the onehorned rhinoceros as well as elephant, buffalo,
tiger and swamp deer. Sightings are relatively
common and you should be able to see these
amazing animals from your vehicle and also
from the back of an elephant.
Northeast India has some fascinating distinct
tribal groups. We can arrange extra days after
the ride to allow you to meet with them and
experience their traditional way of life.
Tel: 01299 272 997
233
www.inthesaddle.com
ASIA
Open November to April
Price from £1,208
A ride through Rajasthan in the famous golden triangle,
Delhi-Jaipur-Agra
India - Fairs and Festivals
The Riding
The Marwari horses are spirited
and forward going. You should be a
competent rider, confident on a
horse in the open at all paces.
There are some long stretches of
canter and you need to be able to
keep your distance.
Nearest Airport
Delhi. Transfers included
at set times.
Tel: 01299 272 997
Travelling by horseback is surely the best way
to experience rural Rajasthan. Whilst riding
through the ancient kingdoms of Shekhawati
you experience the complete spectrum of life
from subsistence farmers who maintain a very
simple existence to the privileged life of the
maharajas. During the day you pass through
small villages and farmland and are greeted
enthusiastically by local families. Between
villages the terrain opens out allowing for
plenty of faster riding.
Combine your riding trip with a visit to
Ranthambore where you can see tigers in their
natural habitat. There are also extensions to
Jaipur, the bird sanctuary at Bharatpur, the
horse fair at Bateshwar and the glorious Taj
Mahal at Agra.
235
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ASIA
Runs in October to March
Price from £1,704
A ride through the Great Indian Desert and on to
the enormous Nagaur Camel Fair
India - Nagaur Fair
The Riding
keep your distance.
Nearest Airport
at set times.
Few tourists visit the Nagaur Fair in northwest
Rajasthan and it is mainly for local people and
those who travel hundreds of miles to visit and
trade. You travel from Delhi to Bikaner by
overnight sleeper train and then ride for seven
days through the spectacular desert landscape
of the Great Indian Desert. The terrain is open
so there are good opportunities for long
canters.
Accommodation is a combination of
comfortable hotels with plenty of character and
camping in style in the more remote areas.
Following the ride you have the option to visit
the great cities of Jaisalmer and Jodhpur with
their magnificent forts and palaces. If this is
your first trip to India, don't miss out on the
magical Taj Mahal. We can make the additional
arrangements for you.
Tel: 01299 272 997
237
www.inthesaddle.com
ASIA
Runs in January and February
Price from £2,354
A ride centered around India’s most famous horse,
camel and cattle fair.
India - Pushkar Fair
The Riding
keep your distance.
Nearest Airport
at set times.
Tel: 01299 272 997
The Pushkar Fair in Rajasthan is one of the
world’s largest camel fairs. This ride is run in
two halves with the Pushkar Fair in the middle.
You can choose to do just one half or both.
The first half - the Pushkar Shekhawati Ride is
through the ancient kingdom of Shekhawati, a
desert area interspersed with small villages.
The Marwari horses used on this part of the
ride come from the stables at Dundlod Castle,
home to Kanwar Raghuvendra Singh, known
to everyone as Bonnie.
The second half - the Kumbhalgarh Ride
moves west of Pushkar and south of Jodhpur.
The terrain changes to more fertile ground with
more mountainous scenery. The days can be
longer and the pace slower due to the terrain.
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ASIA
Runs in October and November
Price from £2,359
Tailor made rides through colourful Rajasthan on
striking Marwari horses
India - Shekhawati Rides
The Riding
keep your distance.
Nearest Airport
at set times.
Tel: 01299 272 997
The Indian state of Rajasthan was once known
as Registhan, "land of desert". You can ride
over a wide variety of terrain, including not only
desert but farmland, rocky gorges, acacia
forests, jungle scrub and the fertile Aravali hills.
Historically this is one of India's richest regions
littered with magnificent forts and palaces that
were once home, and in many cases still are,
to royal princes. Some of these are now hotels
where you stay during the ride.
On pages 235 - 239 you will find the rides
scheduled to coincide with specific festivals.
Other rides take place during the winter
months so please ask for details or we can
tailor make an itinerary for groups of two or
more.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, suggested
itineraries, trip reviews and photo galleries.
241
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ASIA
Runs October to February
From 13 nights / 9 days riding
Price from £2,508
A ride in the fertile Galilee area and Jordan Valley
Israel - Land of Galilee
The Riding
This trip is suitable for confident, fit
riders, who are capable of
controlling a horse at walk, trot and
canter in the open across rugged
country. There is a mix of paces
and speed is determined by the
terrain. The horses are mainly
Quarterhorses ridden in Western
tack and with a loose rein.
Nearest Airport
Tel Aviv.
Tel: 01299 272 997
The Land of Galilee itinerary takes you through
the Galilee’s rolling natural landscapes, along
the tributaries of the Tabor Stream and through
almond orchards and fields. You also ride in
the Sirin Heights with views over the Jordan
Valley to the Golan Heights and down to the
Jordan River, then through the majestic Carmel
region and down into the Jezreel Valley.
This is a stunning part of Israel and the going
allows for some great riding. There are some
lovely tracks through the fertile fields of the
'Land of Milk and Honey'. This, combined with
visits on foot to some of the well-known
historical sites including Mt. Tabor and the
Church of Transfiguration, makes for a
fascinating itinerary.
Accommodation is in country lodges on a
kibbutz or a moshav.
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ASIA
Runs September to June
Set departures
Price from £1,210
An exhilarating and captivating tour of Israel - its
history - people and nature
Israel - Tour Israel
The Riding
This trip is suitable for confident
riders, who are capable of
controlling a horse at walk, trot and
canter in the open across rugged
country. There is a mix of paces
and speed is determined by the
terrain. The horses are mainly
Quarterhorses ridden in Western
tack and with a loose rein.
Nearest Airport
Tel Aviv.
Starting near Nazareth this ride takes you
through the mountains of Galilee to the Jordan
River, the Sea of Galilee and the Sirin Heights.
Later the horses are transported southwards
where you ride across the Judean Desert and
climb to the ancient ruined forts and UNESCO
world heritage site at Masada.
There is tremendous variety of terrain from the
beautiful Jordan valley to the bleak, haunting
scenery of the southern desert. As well as a
journey through changing and dramatic
landscapes, this is a cultural experience.
Characters and places from the Old and New
Testaments will be brought to life as you ride to
the sites of Roman battles, follow ancient
trading routes and visit places mentioned in the
Bible. You also have guided walking tours of
the important holy sites in the old parts of
Nazareth and Jerusalem.
Accommodation is a mix of basic camping and
simple kibbutz lodges. Towards the end of the
trip there is the opportunity to take a dip in the
healing waters of the Dead Sea.
Tel: 01299 272 997
245
www.inthesaddle.com
ASIA
Runs September to June
Set departures
Price from £1,769
A trail ride through the Wadi Rum on Arabian horses
with nights camping under a clear star-filled sky
Jordan - Footsteps of Lawrence
The Riding
The horses are all Arabians. They
are active, forward-going and fun to
ride so you need to be a confident
rider, able to control a horse at all
paces in wide open spaces. There
are some long trots and canters so
riders also need to be fit.
Non riders can follow the group on
camel or on the support vehicle.
Nearest Airport
Amman. Transfers included
at set times.
Tel: 01299 272 997
This trip starts with a visit on foot to the
fascinating ruins of the "rose red city" of Petra.
You then head south to ride in Wadi Rum. To
the Arabs, Wadi Rum is known simply as The
Valley of the Moon. The pink sands stretch as
far as the eye can see, broken only by the
near vertical cliffs which have been scuplted by
the wind over millions of years. The scale of
the rock formations combined with the colours
and awe-inspiring shapes create a landscape
that is out of this world.
For six days, guided by local Bedouin, you ride
beautiful Arabian horses through this
spectacular landscape, staying each night in
simple desert camps.
At the end of the ride there is a visit to
experience the bouyant salty water and
mineral rich deposits of the Dead Sea.
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ASIA
Runs September to May
Set departures
Price from £1,334
A long trail ride across the mountains and valleys
of central Kyrgyzstan staying in camps and yurts
Kyrgyzstan - The Great Trek
The Riding
The horses are Kyrgyz mountain
horses ranging from 14.2hh to
15.2hh. They are strong, stocky
and used to living in a herd.
You must be a confident rider and
in control at all paces. You should
also be fit enough to cope with the
number of hours and days in the
saddle. The pace is dictated by the
terrain and includes occasional
canters in open flat country.
Nearest Airport
Bishkek.
Transfers included.
Tel: 01299 272 997
This adventurous trail ride follows part of the
ancient silk route and takes you through a real
contrast of landscapes. There are deep fertile
valleys and arid canyons separated by high
mountain passes. Reaching the high
grasslands, home to nomadic families in
summer, the route takes you over open
pastures with a stunning backdrop of snow
capped mountains.
Welcoming travellers is central to Kyrgyz
culture and the opportunity to spend some time
with the herders who live their life on
horseback is a once in a lifetime experience.
You stay in a combination of family homes,
yurts and simple dome tents with a backup
crew transporting the camp luggage by vehicle.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, itinerary, route
maps and photo gallery.
249
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ASIA
Runs July and August
Price from £1,382
Ride in Mongolia and experience the nomadic life
with a touch of comfort
Mongolia - Big Skies Horse Trail
The Riding
You should be a fit and competent
rider capable of riding forward
going horses over varying terrain
for up to seven hours a day. The
riding includes long trots and
canters. There is a rider
weight limit of 90kg.
Nearest Airport
Ulaanbaatar. Transfers
Joining a Mongolian ride means choosing to
experience the life of the nomad and glimpsing
a way of life so different from our own. The
Mongolian people are famous for their
hospitality and to spend some time with them
is a privilege.
This trail ride takes you through the Khan
Khentii Special Protected Area, north-east of
Ulaanbaatar towards the northern wilderness.
You experience two strikingly different areas as
you ride through the treeless steppes and into
the Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, which is
mountain taiga forest.
Supported by yak carts, accommodation is in
spacious gers with made up beds and is ideal
for those who enjoy simple comforts and a
stove for warmth on cold nights!
The main Naadam Festival is held in
Ulaanbaatar in July and we can arrange for
you to visit this before your ride.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, itinerary, photo
gallery and ideas for add-ons to your ride.
Tel: 01299 272 997
251
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ASIA
Price from £2,173
A ride across the Bogdkhan mountains and sand dunes
to the giant rock formations of Zorgol Hairhan Uul
Mongolia - Gobi Steppe Ride
The Riding
rider capable of riding spirited,
forward going horses over varying
terrain for up to seven hours a day.
The riding includes long trots and
Nearest Airport
The vast, treeless steppes of Mongolia were
the homeland of the largest herds of horses
the world has ever seen. In the early days of
mankind, somewhere in these steppes,
nomads invented riding and opened up vast
new horizons.
The Gobi Steppe ride takes you south of the
capital Ulaanbaatar beyond the Bogdkhan
Mountains, through grassland steppes, sand
dune areas and the giant rock formations of
Zorgol Hairhan Uul. There are no rivers or
forests in these semi-arid areas, although you
may be lucky enough to see a variety of birdlife
and animals. This is the area of the best horse
trainers in Mongolia.
The simple camp is moved on each day by
camel carts.
The main Naadam Festival is held in
Ulaanbaatar in July and we can arrange for
you to visit this before your ride.
reviews, photo galleries and ideas for add-ons
to your ride.
Tel: 01299 272 997
253
www.inthesaddle.com
ASIA
Set departures
Price from £1,335
A trail ride through the treeless steppes and into the
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park
Mongolia - Mongol Horse Trail
The Riding
rider capable of riding spirited,
forward going horses over varying
terrain for up to seven hours a day.
The riding includes long trots and
Nearest Airport
Riding in Mongolia is an experience that
cannot be compared with anywhere else on
Earth; the high elevation of Mongolia creates
unusually clear air and gives a real sense of
emptiness and vastness.
Your journey on horseback is a close encounter
with Mongolian horsemen and their horses - a
nomadic people who to date have survived
modern pressures and lifestyles. You ride
through the homelands of your horse guides,
where there are no fences, no tracks and no
telegraph poles. The only signs of life are the
nomadic herders you meet along the way.
The trail starts in the treeless steppes and
gradually the scenery changes to the forest
steppe mosaic and southern taiga of the
Gorkhi-Terelj National Park.
The guiding team are all local and include an
English translator. Support crew travel by yak
cart and set up camp each day to await the
arrival of the riders.
reviews, photo galleries and ideas for add-ons
to your ride.
Tel: 01299 272 997
255
www.inthesaddle.com
ASIA
Set departures
Price from £1,210
An inspiring through the high summer pastures
of eastern Tibet
Tibet - High Plateau Ride
The Riding
The pace will be dictated by the
terrain but there will be
opportunities for some canters.
The horses are local Tibetan
mountain horses: small (12.3hh –
14.3hh), sturdy and surefooted.
These are working horses, used on
the open grassland for herding.
There is a rider weight limit
of 85kgs.
Nearest Airport
Chengdu. Transfers included
at set times.
Ride on the 'Roof of the World', through the
vast grasslands of the highest plateau on earth
and experience the untouched nomadic culture
in eastern Tibet. Visit some of the remote
Buddhist monasteries and gain a glimpse of
Tibetan Buddhism.
Tibet became part of China in the late 1950s
and you will be riding through what is now
Sichuan Province. The lush rolling hills of the
Tibetan High Plateau are framed by the snow
capped peaks of the Min Shan and Anye
Machin mountains.
The ride takes you along the great divide
between the Yangste and Yellow Rivers, home
to herds of yaks and their nomadic shepherds.
There should be plenty of opportunities to
spend time with the people you meet.
You stay in a combination of guesthouses,
hotels and at the purpose built riding centre in
Amchok.
reviews, route map and photo galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
257
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ASIA
Runs July to September
Price from £1,847
A trail ride along the Sunshine Coast of Queensland
Australia - Bush & Beach
The Riding
The horses are Australian stock
horses famous for their all round
ability and temperament. Riders
need to be confident and
comfortable at all paces on a well
mannered forward going horse.
Nearest Airports
Sunshine Coast and Brisbane.
Transfers included from Sunshine
Coast and available at extra cost
from Brisbane.
The route takes you into the Australian bush,
across rolling farmland, through tropical
rainforest and finishing on the beach at
Noosa.
There are some great canters over the wide
open fields and an opportunity to muster cattle.
You ride in the morning leaving the afternoon
free to relax, explore the local towns or go for
a swim. At night you stay in comfortable B&Bs,
full of Aussie character.
The variety of scenery and wildlife is amazing
and you are likely to see kangaroos and koalas
as well as hundreds of native Australian birds
including many species of colourful parrots.
After the ride you may wish to continue north
along the coast to the Great Barrier Reef.
Snorkelling or diving on the reef for a few days
makes a great extension to this riding vacation.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, itineraries and
photo galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
259
www.inthesaddle.com
AUSTRALASIA
Runs March to November
Arrive Sunday
Price from £1,550
A camping ride through the Kosciuszko National
Park in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales
Australia - Snowy Mountains
The Riding
The rides are suitable for all levels
of rider. Due to the terrain much of
the riding is at a walk, though there
may be some opportunities for
more experienced riders to
have a canter.
Nearest Airport
Cooma.
Experience riding through Australia's
magnificent Snowy Mountains alpine country,
home to picturesque Kosciuszko National
Park. Rides cover a distance of up to 150 km.
This alpine wilderness has a history rich in
legends of mountain horsemen. Find yourself
meandering through carpets of wildflowers,
around mountain lakes, across open plains,
over mountain ranges covered in eucalypt
forest with stunning views. Take a swim in
crystal clear streams to refresh in the
afternoon. This area is home to kangaroos,
emus and wombats, birdlife as well as herds of
wild horses (brumbies).
For first and last nights you stay at the
homestead. On other nights you camp in
roomy tents with comfortable mattresses. All
riding and camping gear is supplied with
sleeping bags and oilskin coats available for
hire. Luggage is transported between camps
by vehicle.
Tel: 01299 272 997
261
www.inthesaddle.com
AUSTRALASIA
Runs November to April
Set departures
Price from £664
Experience the rugged beauty of the high country
of South Island
New Zealand - Explorer Trails
The Riding
Due to the nature of the terrain and
the fact that you have pack horses
on the trail, the pace is at a walk.
However, it is important to be
physically fit and able to mount and
dismount unaided.
You will be expected to get off and
lead your horse down the steep
hills. Due to the terrain these rides
are not suitable for nervous riders
nor for those who suffer from vertigo.
Nearest Airport
Christchurch.
Tel: 01299 272 997
These rides are incredible adventures
exploring the magnificent scenery and station
life of the remote high country of New Zealand.
Pack horses are used for carrying luggage and
supplies although a support vehicle will meet
the ride every few days on longer trips.
Your guides have lived and worked in this area
most of their lives and have mustered sheep
on many of the farms you ride over. Their local
knowledge is vast and they are well equipped
to show you this part of their world. You stay in
basic shearers’ huts and get an understanding
of how life works on sheep stations.
The horses are the famous station-bred
Thoroughbred Clydesdale crosses of at least
16hh which can be ridden or used as pack
horses. They know their jobs well and will
surprise you with their ability to climb hills like
a mountain goat.
See also the Tekapo Expedition on page 267
Visit inthesaddle.com for prices, itineraries and
photo galleries.
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AUSTRALASIA
Runs October to May
Set departures
Price from £813
A perfect opportunity to share the hospitality and
lifestyle of a New Zealand farming couple
New Zealand - South Kaipara
Open all year
The Riding
trot and canter. You should also be
fit enough for long canters
on the beaches.
Nearest Airport
Auckland.
South Kaipara lies on the coast not far from
Auckland in the North Island. Much of the
riding is on the Muriwai Beach, known locally
as the 30 mile beach, along which the horses
just love to gallop. Venturing inland you ride
over some dramatic sand dunes and through a
patchwork of farmland, forests and lakes.
Your host and guide, Rod Hedley, is a
descendant of the first European settlers in
the area. He is a farmer by profession and
first started riding on the family horse to
school. Rod has extensive knowledge of local
history, fauna and flora. Meals are prepared
by his wife Bev, who takes great care to
provide delicious menus.
Tel: 01299 272 997
265
www.inthesaddle.com
AUSTRALASIA
The house has two guest bedrooms and there
are normally just one or two riding visitors.
An expedition ride through the Southern Alps to
parts of the country that few people get to see
New Zealand - Tekapo Expedition
The Riding
This ride is suitable for any level
of rider although you will be
spending long hours in the saddle.
It is more important to be
physically fit and able to mount
and dismount unaided. You will be
expected to get off and lead your
horse down the steep hills,
sometimes for up to an hour. Due
to the terrain this ride is not
suitable for nervous riders nor for
those who suffer from vertigo.
Nearest Airport
Christchurch.
This is our longest pack trip in New Zealand.
Once a year the ride heads south from the
horse base near Hawarden to Lake Tekapo.
After a few days rest the reverse journey is
done with a new group of riders. The scenery
is spectacular and varies dramatically along
the way. From snow capped peaks and open
tussock pastures to wide flowing rivers and
beautiful mountain lakes.
The horses are homebred, surefooted
Thoroughbred Clydesdale crosses. The
accommodation can be very basic and
sometimes everyone sleeps in a one room
musterers' shack; other nights are spent in
more comfortable shearers’ quarters or at
farms. Everything is carried on the pack
horses, although a support vehicle does meet
you every few days with fresh supplies.
You may need a few days to recuperate after
this ride or if you feel like more excitement
head to Queenstown, the adventure capital of
New Zealand for bungy jumps, white water
rafting and jet boating.
See inthesaddle.com for prices, itinerary, route
maps and photo galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
267
www.inthesaddle.com
AUSTRALASIA
Runs November
Set departures
Price from £2,920
A trail on the north-east coast of the North Island
following routes set by Maori warriors in days gone by
New Zealand - Warrior Trail
Open November to May
Set departures
Price from £1,601
The Riding
You need to be comfortable at all
paces and able to mount and
dismount unaided.
Nearest Airport
Auckland. Transfers available from
Wellsford at extra cost or self drive.
This ride takes you along ancient trails of the
Maori warriors. They did these trails on foot so
you will appreciate their stamina and courage
as you cover the same ground on horseback.
Your host Sharley is of Maori decent. The
Maori people are very proud of their heritage
and enjoy sharing their culture and history.
Sharley has a riding centre and horse base
from where she also breeds beautiful grey
Arabians for showing, riding and endurance.
The horses for the trail ride are a mixture of
breeds and Sharley has chosen them over the
years for their kind temperaments and
surefootedness. They love their work and are a
pleasure to ride.
AUSTRALASIA
photo galleries.
Tel: 01299 272 997
269
www.inthesaddle.com
A - Z of Useful Information
ACCOMMODATION
There is sometimes confusion over the
terminology of bed arrangements. “Double” is
recognised as meaning a room with a double
bed (this may be two beds pushed together);
“Twin” as having two separate beds. We will
always pass on requirements for a double
bed but we cannot guarantee this, particularly
as many of the hotels and lodges we use
take only a small number of guests and
choice of accommodation is limited. In
Shared Accommodation, for example in
Iceland, you may be sharing your room with
several other people of both sexes. A
bathroom means a toilet and shower or bath
tub. Bathrooms are shared unless specified
as “en suite” or “private”. Private bathrooms
may not be adjoining your room.
BOOKING YOUR HOLIDAY
See page 17of this book for details of how to
book your holiday. Our booking conditions
are on www.inthesaddle.com or we will post
or email these to you. The useful information
on pages 270 - 274 of this book form part of
our booking conditions.
CHILD RATES AND FAMILY GROUPS
Discounted child rates where available are
shown on www.inthesaddle.com. Usually it is
assumed that the family will wish to ride and
enjoy their holiday together and so if you
would like a child minding service for part or
all of a day, this needs to be specially
arranged. Where a child rate is offered, then
it is presumed that the child will be sharing
the same accommodation as the parents.
If there is no child rate offered, then we may
Tel: 01299 272 997
be able to offer a group discount for your
family.
There may also be discounted flight rates for
children under 12 at the time of travel.
DATA PROTECTION
Before you confirm your booking please read
the booking conditions which are included on
the booking form or on our website at
www.inthesaddle.com. The booking
conditions set out our policy on how we
manage the personal information you provide
us with when we arrange your holiday.
FLIGHTS
If you are making your own flight
arrangements you must not confirm a flight
booking until your riding holiday has been
confirmed by us in writing. You must also
ensure the flight times will coincide with the
transfer times for the rides, which may be at
a set time.
If you have asked us to book flights, please
note that we are not always in a position to
confirm the airline, aircraft type and
destination airport which is to be used. When
this information is provided at the time of
booking or subsequently, it is subject to
change. The flight times given on booking are
for general guidance only and are subject to
change by the airlines. The actual flight times
will be shown on your final itinerary which will
be sent to you approximately two weeks
before your departure. You must accordingly
check your itinerary very carefully
immediately upon receipt to check you have
the correct flight times. It is possible that flight
times may be changed even after the final
270
www.inthesaddle.com
itinerary has been sent and we will contact
you as soon as possible if this occurs. You
must also ensure you observe any
instructions for reconfirming your return flight.
booking onto a riding holiday.
PASSPORTS
Many of the holidays can be booked by
private groups, some from as few as two
people. In these cases the itinerary can be
tailored for your group. We offer discounts
depending on the size of group.
A full passport, valid for at least six months
beyond the date of your return travel, is
essential for all the holidays in this brochure.
If you expect to need to renew your passport
you should leave plenty of time for it to be
processed. Information on how to apply for or
renew a passport can be obtained by calling
the UK Passport Office on 0870 521 0410 or
online at www.passport.gov.uk. All children
under 16 who are not already included on a
valid ten year passport will need to hold their
own passport since it is not now possible to
add children onto British passports. If you are
16 or over and have not yet obtained a
passport, our recommendation is that you
should apply for one at least six weeks
before your holiday.
If you have any medical problem or disability
which may affect your booked arrangements
you must advise us in writing at the time of
booking giving full details. If we feel unable to
properly accommodate your particular needs,
we must reserve the right to decline/cancel
your booking.
RANCH HOLIDAYS
FOREIGN OFFICE TRAVEL ADVICE
From time to time the British Foreign Office
(0845 850 2829 or www.fco.gov.uk) issues
Travel Advisory Notices giving advice
regarding travel to a particular destination,
which you should consult before making a
booking. If the FCO advises against travel to
the country, then following the advice of our
insurers, we may have to cancel your holiday.
GROUPS
MEDICAL PROBLEMS/DISABILITY
Any medical or physical condition that is not
disclosed at the time of booking but which, in
the opinion of the guide, could affect your
ability to ride safely, will result in you being
refused to ride.
If you have a pre existing medical condition
which could be worsened if you fall off a
horse then you should think carefully before
Tel: 01299 272 997
PHOTOGRAPHS
We are always interested in seeing
photographs of your holiday and the best
may be printed in a future brochure. We also
reserve the right to use in our brochure any
photographs taken during your holiday which
may include you.
Ranch holidays are a highly personal affair.
You may dream of being a cowboy and
rounding up cattle, galloping across the
prairies, camping out under the stars or riding
into the mountains. We will do our best to
help you choose a ranch to fulfil your dreams.
However, it is important that you tell us what
it is you really want to do. For example, if you
want to meet other people and have quite a
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sociable holiday, then you will not wish to
pick a ranch where you might be the only
guests. If you want to work cattle, then it is
important that you visit at certain times of the
year. It is not possible to guarantee a specific
activity, since ranch work is dependent on the
weather and local conditions.
At many ranches you are a guest of the
family. They welcome you into their lives and
take great interest in sharing their lifestyle
and knowledge of the mountains and ranch
life. The vast majority of people find the
ranchers totally charming; however, we
cannot guarantee that you will find them so
and occasionally there are personality
clashes. The ranchers are characters and
they may have different beliefs and attitudes
to you.
RIDING EXPERIENCE
When completing the Booking Form, please
provide us with detailed information regarding
your riding skills and experience to help us
establish that you have the appropriate ability
for the holiday. This information will be
forwarded to our partners overseas to ensure
that you are matched with the right horse.
If you have overstated your ability the guide
may refuse to take you on the ride if he/she
considers it would be unsafe to do so.
SAFETY WHEN RIDING
We recommend for your own safety that you
wear a hard hat that meets current PAS and
BSEN safety standards. Some
establishments may have hats to hire but you
must not rely on these hats and you should
always take your own. It is important that
Tel: 01299 272 997
your hat fits properly. Some riders choose to
wear a lightweight endurance style hat, such
as those made by Troxel or Champion.
Alternatively, wide brimmed covers in a range
of materials which are designed to fit over a
skull cap are available to purchase in the UK.
We would be pleased to advise you on where
to obtain either.
Whilst riding or in the vicinity of horses, you
must comply with the instructions of your
guide. It is a condition of your booking that
you accept that the guide is entitled to
require you to dismount or to refuse to allow
you to ride if for any reason, such as ability,
behaviour or health, they consider that you
may endanger the safety or welfare of the
horses or any person.
There are inherent risks involved in horse
riding. The best trained horse can put a foot
in a hole, or be startled by a bird flying out.
You may fall off and you may get injured. If
you have a pre-existing medical condition
which would be worsened if you fell off then
you should think carefully before booking a
riding holiday. At many of the riding holidays
you may be required to sign a separate
acknowledgement of the risks associated
with riding and acceptance of personal
liability. If you are not allowed to ride because
you refuse to sign this disclaimer or to wear a
hard hat, you will have no claim against In
The Saddle and will not be entitled to any
refund or compensation.
SINGLE ACCOMMODATION
On some holidays a limited number of single
rooms are available at no extra charge. On
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others, paying a single supplement will
guarantee you a single room and in some
cases, if you are willing to share then no
single supplement is charged. On other
holidays single accommodation is not
available and you will be expected to share.
For further explanation please look at the
explanations of the symbols used throughout
this book on pages 14 and 15.
SPECIAL REQUESTS
Special requests should be noted on your
booking form. It is unrealistic to expect
special diets to be effectively catered for in
many of the locations we feature; some
cannot be accommodated and you must be
prepared to compromise. Whilst we will
advise our suppliers of such requests, we
can never guarantee their availability.
TIPPING
Where tips to overseas staff are obligatory
we quote the amount. Otherwise tipping
guides, wranglers or other staff is at your
discretion. We give guidelines along with your
booking confirmation.
TRANSFERS
Transfers from the nearest airport are
sometimes included in the price of the
holiday and sometimes they are quoted
separately. The web site
www.inthesaddle.com, states exactly what is
and what is not included for each ride. The
transfer may be at a specified time so if you
are making your own flight arrangements you
must ensure that the flight times coincide with
the times of the transfers.
Tel: 01299 272 997
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is obligatory for all clients
and you must confirm to us in writing that you
have cover for the riding activities to be
undertaken.
You are responsible for arranging your own
insurance with protection for the full duration
of your vacation in respect of at least;
medical expenses, injury, death, repatriation,
cancellation and curtailment. Protection of at
least £50,000 emergency medical evacuation
plus £50,000 medical expenses is mandatory.
In The Saddle reserves the right to cancel the
booking if you have not taken out appropriate
insurance.
VACCINATIONS
You should familiarise yourself before
departure with the precautions recommended
by health authorities. If travelling directly from
the UK, no vaccinations are legally required
for any of the countries featured in this
brochure, but most medical experts will
advise precautions against tetanus, hepatitis,
typhoid and polio for travel to Africa, Latin
America or Asia. Malarial protection is
strongly recommended if visiting India or
Africa, however our rides in Namibia and
South Africa are in areas considered to be
non-malarial, except for Wait A Little.
Full information about health requirements for
travellers is available from ‘MASTA’ (Medical
Advisory Service for Travellers Abroad) at the
London School of Hygiene and Tropical
Medicine. Tel: 0906 822 4100 or www.mastatravel-health.com.
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VISAS AND PERMITS
If you are a British Citizen you will need to
obtain a visa in advance of travel for
Australia, India, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia and
Tibet and Turkey. Visas are issued on arrival
for Jordan, Kenya, Mauritius and
Mozambique.
You must have a machine readable passport
to visit the USA. All travellers to, or via, the
United States must complete a Visa Waiver
Form (known as ESTA) at least 72 hours
prior to departure. Other countries featured in
this brochure do not currently require British
Citizens to purchase a Visa; however
regulations can change so you should check
with the relevant consulate or embassy prior
to travel. The cost of the visa is not included
in the price of the holiday but we will supply
full details and the relevant application forms
on request. Visas need to be applied for
around two to three months prior to departure.
It is important that non-British citizens check
with the relevant consulate or embassy as
visa requirements may differ.
We regret we cannot accept any liability if
you are refused entry onto any flight or into
any country due to failure on your part to
carry the correct passport, visa or other
documents required by any airline or
authority.
WEDDINGS AND HONEYMOONS
Please ensure that you let us know when
booking that this is your honeymoon so we
can notify your hosts on the ride. A number of
African lodges have honeymoon suites but it
is essential to reserve these early as there is
Tel: 01299 272 997
usually only one at each lodge. We also
operate a guest gift service where instead of
buying you a traditional wedding present your
friends and family can contribute to your once
in a lifetime holiday by giving you a
honeymoon voucher.
WEIGHT LIMITS
On most rides there is a weight limit of 15
stone (approx. 100kgs or 220 pounds) and
on some rides it is less than this.
Furthermore, there may only be one or two
horses suitable for this weight but since it
does depend on your experience and riding
ability you must check with us before
booking. Please inform us if your weight
changes significantly prior to your holiday
since this may affect horse allocation.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are
in possession of all necessary travel and
health documents before departure. All costs
incurred in obtaining such documentation
must be paid by you. We regret we cannot
accept any liability if you are refused entry
onto any transport or into any country due to
failure on your part to carry correct
documentation.
If you or any member of your party is not a
British citizen or holds a non British passport,
you must check passport and visa
requirements with the Embassy or Consulate
of the country(ies) to or through which you
are intending to travel. If failure to have any
necessary travel or other documents results
in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty
being imposed on us, you will be responsible
for reimbursing us accordingly.
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Argentina/Chile - Across the Andes
Argentina - Estancia Huechahue
Argentina - Estancia Los Potreros
Arizona - Tanque Verde Ranch
Arizona - White Stallion Ranch
Australia - Bush & Beach
Australia - Snowy Mountains
Azores - Learn to Ride in a Week
Botswana - Best of Botswana
Botswana - Kujwana
Botswana - Macatoo
Botswana - Makgadikgadi Pans
Botswana - Motswiri Camp
Botswana - Tuli Trail
Botswana - Two Mashatus
Brazil - Bahia Beach Ride
Brazil - Canyons and Waterfalls
Brazil - Darwin's Trail
Brazil - Pantanal Experience
Brazil - The Coffee Trail
Bulgaria - Balkan Rides
California - Redwood Coast
Canada - Lucasia Ranch
Canada - Shine Valley
Canada - Tsylos Lodge
Canada - Tsylos Pack Trip
Tel: 01299 272 997
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195
197
167
169
259
261
19
21
101
103
105
107
109
111
113
199
201
203
205
207
23
171
173
175
177
179
Beg
inn
Inte er
rm e
diat
Exp
e
e ri e
Cen nced
tre
Ba
Tra
il R sed Rid
i
e
Gam de
e
Bea Viewin
g
ch
Idea Riding
l for
Fam
Inst
ilies
ruct
ion
Wo
Ava
rkin
ila
Suit g Ranc ble
able
h
for
Sing
Non
les
Rid
Sho
e rs
rt b
r
e
aks
New
fo
Acc r this e
o mm
di
oda tion
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Index
275
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Tel: 01299 272 997
Page
209
211
213
181
215
217
219
221
223
225
25
27
29
31
33
35
37
39
41
43
45
233
235
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241
47
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Ireland - Castle Leslie Estate
Ireland - Clare Burren Trail
Ireland - Mount Juliet
Ireland - Ring of Kerry Trail
Israel - Land of Galilee
Israel - Tour Israel
Italy - Castellare di Tonda
Italy - Chianti Castles
Italy - Cilento Ride
Italy - Discover Tuscany
Italy - I Due Laghi
Jordan - Footsteps of Lawrence
Kenya - Borana
Kenya - Maasai Mara
Kenya - Ol Donyo Lodge
Kyrgyzstan - The Great Trek
Mexico - Cabalgatas La Sierra
Mongolia - Big Skies Horse Trail
Mongolia - Gobi Steppe Ride
Mongolia - Mongol Horse Trail
Montana - Bonanza Creek Ranch
Montana - Hidden Holloway Hideaway
Montana - Rocking Z Ranch
Montana - Sweet Grass Ranch
Morocco - Desert Trails
Morocco - Horses, Dunes & Nomads
Morocco - Terres d’Amanar
Tel: 01299 272 997
Page
49
51
53
55
243
245
57
59
61
63
65
247
115
117
119
249
227
251
253
255
183
185
187
189
121
123
125
Beg
inn
Inte er
rm e
diat
Exp
e
e ri e
Cen nced
tre
Ba
Tra
il R sed Rid
i
e
Gam de
e
Bea Viewin
g
ch
Idea Riding
l for
Fam
Inst
ilies
ruct
ion
Wo
Ava
rkin
ila
Suit g Ranc ble
able
h
for
Sing
Non
les
Rid
Sho
e rs
rt b
r
e
aks
New
fo
Acc r this e
o mm
di
oda tion
tion
Chile - Glacier View
Chile - Lake District
Chile - Torres Vista
Colorado - Cattle Company
Costa Rica - Rainforest Adventure
Costa Rica - Riding Odyssey
Ecuador - Colonial Hacienda
Ecuador - Cotopaxi Adventure
Ecuador - Hacieda Zuleta
Ecuador - Volcanoes and Vistas
France - Cerfcheval
France - Chateaux de Chazelles
France - Chateaux of the Loire
France - Gardians of the Camargue
Hungary - El Bronco
Hungary - Homoki Riding
Iceland - Golden Circle
Iceland - Home at Hestasport
Iceland - Kjölur
Iceland - Round Up
Iceland - Snæfellsnes
India - AssamTea Gardens Ride
India - Fairs and Festivals
India - Nagaur Fair
India - Pushkar Fair
India - Shekhawati Rides
Ireland - An Sibin
Index
Beg
inn
Inte er
rm e
diat
Exp
e
e ri e
Cen nced
tre
Ba
Tra
il R sed Rid
ide
e
Gam
e
Bea Viewin
g
ch
Idea Riding
l for
Fam
Inst
ilies
r u ct
ion
Wo
Ava
r ki n
il
g
Ran able
Suit
ch
able
f
or N
Sing
on R
les
ider
Sho
s
rt b
r
N e w e a ks
fo
Acc r this e
o mm
di
oda tion
tion
Index
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www.inthesaddle.com
Tel: 01299 272 997
Page
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129
131
133
135
137
139
141
143
263
265
267
269
229
67
69
71
73
75
77
145
147
149
151
153
155
157
278
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South Africa - The Wild Coast
South Africa - Wait a Little
Spain - Catalan Coastal Trails
Spain - Costa Brava Rides
Spain - Los Alamos
Spain - Pyrenean Adventures
Spain - Sierra Nevada
Spain - The Andorra Trail
Spain - Train and Ride
Sweden - Explore Winter
Sweden - Ratekjokk Trail
Tanzania - Kaskazi
Tanzania - Singita Grumeti Safari
Tibet - High Plateau Ride
Turkey - Cappadocia Trails
Turkey - Great Anatolian Trail Ride
Uruguay - Coastal Estancias
Wyoming - Renegade Rides
Tel: 01299 272 997
Page
159
161
79
81
83
85
87
89
91
93
95
163
165
257
97
99
231
191
Beg
inn
Inte er
rm e
diat
Exp
e
e ri e
Cen nced
tre
Ba
Tra
il R sed Rid
i
e
Gam de
e
Bea Viewin
g
ch
Idea Riding
l for
Fam
Inst
ilies
ruct
ion
Wo
Ava
rkin
ila
Suit g Ranc ble
able
h
for
Sing
Non
les
Rid
Sho
e rs
rt b
r
e
aks
New
fo
Acc r this e
o mm
di
oda tion
tion
Morocco - Toubkal Trail
Mozambique - Tropical Sands
Namibia - Damara Ride
Namibia - Greater Fish River Canyon
Namibia - Namib Desert
Namibia - Okapuka
Namibia - Okapuka Endurance
Namibia - Sossus to Wild Horses
Namibia - Sossus Wolwedans Lodges
New Zealand - Explorer Trails
New Zealand - South Kaipara
New Zealand - Tekapo Expedition
New Zealand - Warrior Trail
Peru - The Sacred Valley Ride
Portugal - Alcainça
Portugal - Dolphin and Alentejo Trails
Portugal - Kingdom of the Lusitano
Portugal - Monte Velho
Romania - Equus Silvania
Romania - Transylvania Trail
South Africa/Botswana - African Explorer
South Africa - Ant's Lodges
South Africa - Blakeney
South Africa - Cape Winelands Riding
South Africa - Endalweni
South Africa - Horizon
South Africa - Moolmanshoek
Index
Beg
inn
Inte er
rm e
diat
Exp
e
e ri e
Cen nced
tre
Ba
Tra
il R sed Rid
ide
e
Gam
e
Bea Viewin
g
ch
Idea Riding
l for
Fam
Inst
ilies
r u ct
ion
Wo
Ava
r ki n
il
g
Ran able
Suit
ch
able
f
or N
Sing
on R
les
ider
Sho
s
rt b
r
N e w e a ks
fo
Acc r this e
o mm
di
oda tion
tion
Index
279
www.inthesaddle.com
United Kingdom Office
In The Saddle
Reaside, Neen Savage
Cleobury Mortimer
Shropshire DY14 8ES
01299 272 997
email [email protected]
www.inthesaddle.com
Overseas partners
Belgium | Vakantie te Paard | 09 362 5384
Brazil | Ride in Brazil | 011 97562 8884
Denmark | Rid og Rejs | 22 418 418
Ireland | In The Saddle | 1 800 550 490
Italy | Il Mondo a Cavallo | 333 949 3337
Netherlands | Paardenpas | 6 47310175
Norway | XXL Adventure | 48 25 47 33
USA | In The Saddle | 888 732 7505
Rest of World +44 1299 272 997
Introduced by

Azores - Green Island Trail

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