ABOUT THE RIDING

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

Type of Riding: Trail Ride, Pack Ride, Expedition. This ride takes you through mountainous terrain in backcountry. The going can be extremely difficult in places and you will need to cross rivers. You may be required to dismount and lead your horse when necessary.

Type of Tack: Western saddles with saddlebags.

Hours in the Saddle: 5 to 7 hours per day.

Riding Ability Required: Novice upwards. These pack-trips are designed for adventurous riders, as they involve riding between 20 to 30 km (5 to 7 hours) per day in some very rugged country. You don't have to be an expert rider but being comfortable riding to a sitting trot and a canter is the minimum experience we recommend

Maximum Weight: 100kgs (16st)

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

Minimum/Maximum number of riders in group: 2/7 but larger groups are taken by special request.

Looking after the horse: You will be expected to assist in caring for your horse.

ABOUT THE HORSES

The horses used have been individually chosen for their temperament and suitability. The herd consists of a variety of breeds including Cayuse Mountain Horses, Arabs, Quarter Horses and Missouri Foxtrotters. They are all responsive, fit and sure footed. Here are some of the horses you will meet:

Blaze - 15.1hh, 8 year old, sorrel Quarter Horse x Arab gelding. Blaze is very forward going and loves a lot of attention He performs well under a strong rider

Emile - 15.2hh, 11 year old, sorrel Canadian gelding. Emile is a real trooper, very brave and too clever for his own good.

Fire -15hh, 9 year old, black Arab gelding. With very smooth pace, Fire never wastes too much energy and makes an excellent endurance horse.

Freepon- 15.3hh, 10 year old black Canadian gelding. A gentle giant, but has a strong mind of his own.

Fury - 15.3hh, 10 year old sorrel Canadian gelding. Fury doesn't live up to his name and is very laid back with super smooth paces and very pretty.

Gunner -15.2hh, 9 year old grey Quarter Horse gelding. Is very forward going and strong.

Honey - 15hh, 9 year old sorrel, Quarter Horse mare. A great horse for kids as nothing seems to trouble her.