Questions

• Do I need to be an expert rider to take part in a horseback riding vacation?
• Are horseback riding vacations expensive?
• What currency are prices given in?
• What is the accommodation like on horse trails?
• I am a vegetarian. Can I be accommodated?
• Can I find out what the trails are like?
• How many hours will we spend riding each day?
• Are horse riding vacations mainly for groups or families?
• How large is the average group on a horseback tour?
• Is there an age limit on these riding vacations?
• Is it dangerous to go horseback riding in foreign countries?
• What do I need to bring?
• What riding equipment will I need to take on a horseback riding vacation?
• Will I need visas for horseback riding vacations in foreign countries?
• Will I need travel insurance?
• What if I have an accident while riding?
• Is there any danger of malaria or other diseases while on a horseback riding vacation?
• I have been on a couple of horseback vacations and I notice that some of the companies I toured with are not mentioned on your site. Can I recommend them?

Answers

Do I need to be an expert rider to take part in a horseback riding vacation?

There is a range of vacation packages on offer on our site, and there is something to suit everyone. While some trails are best for experienced riders, there are many that can accommodate even beginners. In addition, a number of tour operators offer equestrian lessons and beginner riders, and many of them offer a range of activities for non-riders, so the whole family can enjoy a vacation in a new country. However, we do recommend that, if you are a complete beginner, you take a few lessons at home before your vacation, just to make sure that you are comfortable in the saddle.

Are horseback riding vacations expensive?

In comparison to many package tours, particularly biking, hiking or rafting tours, they are very well-priced, even with the added expense of horses and riding tack.

What currency are prices given in?

Currencies vary. While most operators give the currency of the country they operate in.

What is the accommodation like on horse trails?

Accommodations vary, but your comfort is always paramount. You may overnight in luxurious guesthouses, tented camps, log cabins or gracious homes, depending on the nature of the tour and the area.

I am a vegetarian. Can I be accommodated?

Most operators can provide for vegetarian or special diets if given prior notice.

Can I find out what the trails are like?

For most operators, except those who operate specifically on day rides, we supply at least one example of their best horse riding trails. These detail the day-by-day itinerary of the trail, along with relevant information about accommodation, length of vacation, price etc. Almost all operators will be happy to create a customised trail for you if you discuss your needs in advance.

How many hours will we spend riding each day?

This varies from tour to tour. Many operators offer several short trails that take only a couple of hours or half-or full-day trails. Most horse treks are from three days to a week-long, with about five to six hours a day in the saddle. Almost all longer treks include a half-day or full-day break to give horses and riders a rest.

Are horse riding vacations mainly for groups or families?

Whether you are single, a couple, family or a group of friends, there is a horseback vacation to suit. You will meet many people from a range of backgrounds while on these vacations, and will probably make many new friends. Singles often have the option of paying a single room supplement if they feel uncomfortable sharing a room with someone they don’t know.

How large is the average group on a horseback tour?

This depends on accommodation, skill level and bookings, but most operators will take a maximum of twelve to fifteen riders per trail. Some have fewer. The minimum number is usually two, though on some of the longer treks a minimum of four is required.

Is there an age limit on these riding vacations?

Generally, adults of any age can participate, as long as they are fit and have some riding ability. Usually, young children are not allowed on the trails, but those over fourteen, as long as they can handle long hours in the saddle, are welcome unless stipulated otherwise.

Is it dangerous to go horseback riding in foreign countries?

While safety can’t always be guaranteed, we are confident that all our operators put your safety and security first.

What do I need to bring?

You will obviously need your personal clothing, toiletries and other personal equipment. Most operators provide all necessary riding and camping equipment, and saddlebags and dry bags for your belongings, though some do require you to bring waterproof clothing or sleeping bags. If there is a weight limit and/or a list of necessities for a particular trail or trek, you will be informed of it when you make a booking.

What riding equipment will I need to take on a horseback riding vacation?

Most operators supply all the necessary riding equipment. Ensure that you have a hat for the sun, or a hard hat, if you prefer, breeches or other comfortable riding pants, and your favourite riding boots. Loose, long-sleeved shirts help to keep the sun off you and also keep you cool and are highly recommended for the longer rides. We can also supply custom-made top quality chaps – contact us for prices and details.

Will I need visas for horseback riding vacations in foreign countries?

Most countries will require visas, depending on your country of origin. We suggest you contact the embassy or consulate in your country or speak to your travel agent.

Will I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance is optional, though medical insurance is a must. Please refer to the links on our site for some excellent service providers, or consult your travel agent.

What if I have an accident while riding?

All our operators consider your safety a priority. However, accidents can happen, and operators ensure that first aid kits, and usually, also radios, are carried on trails. Your medical insurance should allow you to be airlifted by helicopter to the closest hospital, in the event of a serious injury.

Is there any danger of malaria or other diseases while on a horseback riding vacation?

Certain areas, particularly in hotter countries, may have a malaria problem. We recommend checking with your local doctor before leaving. We also recommend packing an insect repellent spray or cream, along with sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat, for any horse riding tour.

I have been on a couple of horseback vacations and I notice that some of the companies I toured with are not mentioned on your site. Can I recommend them?

We welcome recommendations and feedback about excellent horseback travel operators. Equally, if you were not happy with your vacation, either with one of our operators or someone we haven’t worked with yet, we’d like to hear about it so that we can ensure that our service is the best.