It’s Year of the Horse: Swim With Horses, Go on Horseback Safari, or Ride to Castles on These Adventures

Equestrian travel is having a moment. The “Year of the Fire Horse” has seemingly inspired everyone’s inner Horse Girl to take the reins on a horseback riding excursion.

As a former collegiate equestrian and horserider for more than 20 years, I recommend looking past the typical Yellowstone-inspired ranch stay and instead embark on a lesser-known adventure. Whether it’s African safaris, multi-day adventures across the Pantanal wetlands of Brazil, or luxe European riding holidays, there are plenty of off-the-grid getaways worth saddling up for.

Gallop along herds of wildebeest across open savannas, jump over fallen logs in Spain, ride bareback on your horse in the Indian Ocean—these are the most unexpected horseback-riding adventures worth taking this year.

Ride up to caiman crocodiles in Brazil

Courtesy of Wildlife & Wetlands Pantanal Safari

One of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on the planet, Brazil’s Pantanal is paradise for spotting flora and fauna. Based out of Fazenda Baia das Pedras, a small eco-lodge set on a cattle ranch, this safari takes you through part of the world’s largest tropical wetland system on Pantaneiro horses born and bred in the area.

You’ll ride through tropical jungles and verdant marshland as you spot tapirs, capybaras, toucans, and—if you’re lucky—an elusive jaguar. Two nights are spent camping from the comfort of a traditional Brazilian gather-end-style hammock (with mosquito nets, of course).

Trot to a fairy-tale castle with tapas breaks in Spain

Experienced riders who dream of galloping under the Spanish sun between tapas and glasses of sangria—this tour is for you. The Segovia Short Break is an equestrian dream vacation that blends ample time in the saddle with luxury accommodations.

Over three designated riding days, you’ll trot through the pine forest of Valsain, canter along the serene Río Eresma, and see the inspiration for the queen’s castle in Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: the Alcázar. The experiences continue long after you dismount for the day; tour royal gardens, dine at local restaurants, or soothe sore legs back at the hotel spa.

Try horseback hunting with eagles in Mongolia

Photo by Tinus Meier

Horses outnumber people in Mongolia, so it’s apropos that you saddle up while you’re there. This 10-day tour through western Mongolia’s Altai Mountains will give you quality time with your trusty steed as you explore some of the country’s most remote landscapes. You’ll ride with local nomadic Kazakh guides through glacial-fed rivers, alpine valleys, and high-mountain passes.

Along the way, you’ll get a taste of the country’s rich history and culture as you connect with nomadic Tuvan families, scout for Bronze Age petroglyphs, and experience the region’s famous hunting with eagles.

Canter past castles, causeway coast, and the countryside in Ireland

You’ll feel like you’re in another realm as you canter past 13th-century castles, moss-covered cliffs, and windswept shores. This six-day ride along Ireland’s north coast blends dramatic scenery with cozy charm, taking you through rolling countryside, seaside trails, and storybook villages.

Expect long beach breakways, sweeping views of the Causeway Coast, and plenty of pub stops along the way. Nights are spent in welcoming B&Bs, where hearty meals and warm fires cap each adventure-filled day.

Go on a wildlife viewing safari on horseback in Botswana

Courtesy of Equitours

Ditch the Jeep and see African wildlife from the saddle with Equitours. This traditional, point-to-point safari takes you 120 miles across the Mashatu Game Preserve to see elephants, giraffes, big cats, spotted hyenas, and more.

Set in the eastern corner of Botswana, the aptly named “land of giants” preserve spans more than 90,000 acres of protected wilderness for prime wildlife viewing amid grassy savannas, baobab forests, rocky rivers, and sandstone cliffs. You’ll end each day in one of three permanent camps, eating dinner cooked over an open flame and gearing up for tomorrow’s next ride.

Swim with your horse in the ocean in Australia

Sandy beach gallops, vineyard lunches, and bushland rides—this Margaret River escape packs a lot into a few idyllic days. You’ll ride four to six hours daily, in landscapes ranging from eucalyptus forests and karri groves to rocky coastline, with chances to canter along the beach and even swim your horse in the ocean.

Afternoons bring winetastings, games of polocrosse, and long-table dinners, while nights are spent glamping in bell tents complete with comfy bedding.