Frequently Asked Questions
- What is so special about riding tours? On a riding tour you have the opportunity to actively participate in a sport rather than just passively sitting in a car or a raft floating down a river. You are in control and must handle yourself accordingly. Horses are a wonderful introduction to the real heart of a country because most local people love horses and are predisposed to liking the riders. There is also the pleasure of the unique partnership between a horse and rider.
- What level of riding expertise is required? Basic riding skills are a must, but the rides do differ greatly in the amount of skill required. No matter how athletic you are, you need instruction and practice before going on a tour. Let us check with your riding instructor if you are in doubt. If you are fit and not overweight, you will be safer, ride better and you and your horse will enjoy yourselves more.
- Are the rides expensive? Compared to bike tours, walking tours and raft trips, they are generally cheaper despite the added expense of the horse.
- I am a Western rider. Can I do a ride with English tack? Not necessarily. Good riding is much the same on any saddle, but some Western riders tend to ride too far back in the saddle which can sore a horse quickly in an English saddle. Not all Western riders are used to posting and this is a necessity in English tack. A Western rider who thinks of his horn as anything except a place to dally his rope needs some lessons in riding.
- Are riding holidays in foreign countries dangerous? Everything has an element of danger. We believe these tours are comparatively safe and we certainly make every effort to keep them that way.
- How can I prepare for a riding holiday? Take lessons near your home. Try to do some trail riding as well as arena work. A good way to prepare for a tour is to enroll in lessons at a local stable, or spend a week at one of our instructional facilities. It is particularly helpful to be fit and not overweight.
- Will I be out of place as a single? Certainly not. Many of our guests come alone and they soon find friends in the group (usually 8 to 14 people). After all, these are people who already share many of the same interests like a love of horses and a spirit of adventure. Often participants have the option of sharing a room to avoid paying a single supplement.
- What are the ages of participants? Adults of any age can participate as long as they are fit and have the necessary riding skills. In general terms most rides are a mix of adults from 30 to 60 years.
- Can children participate? To do a riding holiday children need to have the weight, strength and endurance to handle a horse all day. Some rides are better choices for young riders than others.
- I have a special diet. Can I be accommodated? On most rides vegetarian and other special dietary requests can be accommodated with prior notice.
- Are there hidden costs? On most rides the price includes horses, tack, guide, accommodations, all meals and taxes. The cost of transfers to and from a major transportation hub varies. Other costs -- such as gratuities, museum entry fees, etc -- are clearly defined in the detailed ride information.
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