ABOUT THE RIDING

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

Type of Riding: Trail Ride - plenty of trotting with some long extended canters and gallops. You can expect to ride up to 32 kms a day. The terrain is extremely varied. Ancient forests, rocky pathways with some steep ascents and descents and wide-open plains designed with a gallop in mind.

Type of Tack: Normally Chilean, although the tack used on the horses will be determined by the horse and the rider's level of experience

Hours in the Saddle: Up to 8 hours a day.

Riding Ability Required: Intermediate upward. In addition to being a reasonably experienced rider you need to be physically fit and capable of riding for up to 8 hours a day. Riders over 70 will need to complete a medical suitability questionnaire

Maximum Weight: 105kgs (16st 7lbs)

Number of Guides per Ride: 1 English speaking guide plus the wranglers (baqueanos)

Minimum/Maximum number of riders in group: 2/8 (please note that there is a supplement if the group size falls below 4)

Looking after the horse: Saddling up and the horses' general welfare is the responsibility of the baqueanos. You will not be expected to help look after your horse unless this is something you specifically require.

ABOUT THE HORSES

The horses are Chilean Criollo and vary in size with the majority being between 14.2hh and 16hh. They are all well schooled, strong, fit, willing and sure-footed. Your horse will be allocated to suit your level of riding experience. Each day before departure the horses are thoroughly checked for any signs of fatigue or injuries, when necessary the horse will be changed. It's worth noting, that Estancia Travel are the only horse riding specialists in Patagonia that use their own horses.

William 15.3hh, liver-dun Criollo with a little Breton. William is a big, cuddly teddy bear of a horse. He is forward going and likes to be in front. He is very responsive and a comfortable ride.

Siriaco 16.1hh, bay TB x Criollo. Can be lazy in the wrong hands but in general is a real gentleman

Fueguina 15.3hh, chestnut TB x Criollo. A smooth ride who is perfect at endurance rides. Doesn't like to lead but has plenty of energy when not in front.

Jupiter 16hh, liver chestnut Criollo. Lots of energy and a very comfortable ride. However although easily controllable, Jupiter is not a novice ride

Canaria 14.3hh, palomino Criollo. Ideal for children or light adults. A very pretty, forward going ride.

Yuma 15.1hh, dark bay Anglo Arab. Heidi's personal ride. Heidi is a typical Anglo Arab and a real lady. Can be tricky but once weighed up a lovely ride.

Ruisenor 16.3hh dun, Holstein x Criollo. Only 6 but very sensible. Needs a strong rider.

Amadeo 16.1hh dark bay, TB x Criollo. An ex military horse Amadeo is a really comfortable ride. He likes to be caught and to jump.

Martha 16.1hh. grey, Criollo x Andalusian. Martha is Gustavo's personal ride. Not for a novice rider, she has never ending energy and is good at endurance.

Borracho 14.3hh, light bay Chilean. Borracho (which means drunk) is a registered rodeo horse. However despite his name he is well mannered and sensible.