Riding Levels

It’s always an advantage to have some riding experience, but several of our beginner-friendly rides welcome complete novices, who can happily “learn on the job” alongside experienced gaucho guides. Generally, beginners have not yet learned to correctly guide a horse using their aids, so on a riding holiday they will typically be limited to walking and trotting, or will need a few introductory lessons before longer trail rides. Find out more or speak to one of our consultants to find the right riding holiday for you.

Intermediate riders typically have some riding experience, whether from regular lessons over time or a number of short, gentle rides. You’ll have a working knowledge of the basic aids, including how to ask a horse to move forward, turn and stop, along with some experience trotting and cantering on well-trained horses, though your balance and contact are likely still developing. Because of this, intermediate riders are best suited to lodge/estancia rides that mix riding with time off the saddle, rather than long days of varied terrain in the wilder, more remote regions.

Intermediate Plus riders have been riding for many years and are well balanced in the saddle. You ride semi-regularly and are riding fit, with an independent seat and soft hands that let you adapt easily to different horses. You’re confident controlling a sensible but fit horse, such as a Criollo or Thoroughbred, at all paces out on the open trail, and able to react calmly to whatever the terrain brings. Because of this, Intermediate Plus riders are well suited to longer days in more varied and challenging terrain.

You’re considered an advanced rider if you have been riding for 10+ years, own or lease your own horse, and compete or hunt seriously. You’re riding fit, ride three or more times a week, and are confident outdoors at all paces on almost every horse. You’re able to adapt your riding style easily and are happy jumping obstacles or riding across more technical terrain. Because of this, advanced riders are well suited to fast-paced, adventurous journeys on fit, forward-going horses.

Many of our favourite stays are perfect for mixed groups, so there’s no need to compromise if not everyone in your group rides. Traditional estancias are especially well suited to this, with flexible schedules and plenty to do beyond riding, from hiking and wine tasting to wildlife spotting and cultural experiences. Because of this, you can happily combine riders and non-riders on the same holiday, whether that means a morning riding with gauchos across the grasslands while others explore a local village, or riders taking on Patagonia’s landscapes on horseback while others enjoy the walking trails.