ABOUT THE RIDING

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

Type of Riding: Expedition - The pace is dictated by the terrain. You ride in wild country and may have to ascend/descend steep and rocky passes.

Type of Tack: The saddles are locally made 'Russian' saddles with Western stirrup leathers. The bridles are basically similar to English, and the horses respond to western-style neck-reining.

Hours in the Saddle: 4 to 7 hours a day. You ride for roughly two to three hours before lunch, and the same after lunch. You need to have a well-developed sense of adventure, and be prepared to rough it when necessary. You will be driving off-road, riding over rugged terrain, camping every night and going places few westerners have ever been.

Riding Ability Required: Novice upwards. Guests should be comfortable at all paces. The horses used are very forgiving of inexperienced riders, and your guide will make sure you are matched to a suitable horse. Once you get more confidence, or for those with more experience, you will be amazed just how fast the horses can go. You will be challenging the locals to races in no time. The locals live and breathe horses and will respect you for choosing to ride rather than drive.

Maximum Weight: 100kgs (15st7lbs)

Number of Guides per Ride: 1 plus local wranglers

Minimum/Maximum number of riders in group: 4/8

Looking after the horse: You are not expected to groom or tack up but you are welcome to assist.

ABOUT THE HORSES