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. You are welcome to help with leading the packhorses, but often they follow along on their own or are herded, rather than being led

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