ABOUT THE RIDING

Style of Riding: Basically western - the horses are schooled to neck rein.

Type of Riding: Centre Based. The rides vary according to length and terrain. Pace is walking mixed with pacing (Peruvians) and cantering, with some opportunities to go for a gallop. Polo is normally played at least once a week. Rides are normally split according to rider's ability

Type of Tack: The tack is English, polo and military saddles with sheepskins over the saddles.

Hours in the Saddle: 4 to 6 hours a day. You will usually ride twice a day, 3e to 4 hours in the morning and 1 or 2 in the afternoon. Please note that the horses are not ridden on Sundays.

Riding Ability Required: Beginner upwards.

Maximum Weight: 95kg (15st)

Number of Guides per Ride: 2 per group. 1 gaucho and 1 English speaking guide.

Minimum/Maximum number of riders in group: 1/8, but in practice rarely more than 5 or 6.

Looking after the horse: Guests are not expected to groom or tack up their horse but are more than welcome to assist.

ABOUT THE HORSES

The horses, all bred on the estancia, have exceptionally soft mouths, are well mannered and in excellent condition, they are responsive and sure-footed, and most are either "Criollos" or "Paso Peruanos" with some crossbreeds. These horses differ in that here they are used constantly on the farm, moving cattle over the terrain makes them sure footed and willing animals. They lead as natural a life as possible in a herd environment in wide-open spaces.