Top 5 Horseback Riding Destinations Around the World
Horseback riding is one of the most exhilarating and peaceful ways to explore nature. Whether you’re trotting through ancient landscapes, galloping across vast open plains, or trotting along the beach, horseback riding offers a unique perspective on the world. For equestrian enthusiasts or those looking for an unforgettable adventure, here are five of the best horseback riding destinations around the globe.
1. The Mongolian Steppe – Mongolia
For those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path horseback riding experience, the vast, untamed Mongolian Steppe is the ultimate destination. This vast, grassy plain, where horses roam freely and still play a vital role in the nomadic culture, offers an unparalleled riding adventure.
Riders can join guided treks across the rugged terrain, visiting traditional Mongolian yurts (ger camps) and interacting with local herders. The landscape is dramatic and stunning, with wide-open spaces, rolling hills, and distant mountains. The Mongolian horses themselves are sturdy and sure-footed, bred to thrive in the harsh environment. Expect a once-in-a-lifetime journey through an ancient land where horseback riding is still deeply woven into the fabric of daily life.
Best for: Adventurous travelers and those interested in cultural immersion.
2. Patagonia – Argentina & Chile
The remote and rugged region of Patagonia, spanning southern Argentina and Chile, is a dream for horseback riders who want to explore breathtaking landscapes of mountains, glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes. Riding in Patagonia gives you access to some of the most dramatic scenery on Earth, with panoramic views of the Andes mountains, remote valleys, and stunning wildlife.
Whether you’re exploring the national parks of Torres del Paine in Chile or trekking through the Argentine pampas (grasslands), horseback riding here allows you to experience the region’s untouched beauty up close. Patagonia offers everything from relaxed rides through tranquil landscapes to thrilling canters across wild, windswept plains.
Best for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for stunning vistas.
3. The American West – USA
The American West, with its rich cowboy history and rugged landscapes, is an iconic horseback riding destination. From the open plains of Wyoming and Montana to the red rock canyons of Arizona, the American West offers a variety of terrains and experiences for all levels of riders.
In Wyoming’s Jackson Hole or Montana’s Big Sky Country, riders can enjoy scenic trail rides with views of the Rocky Mountains, pristine rivers, and abundant wildlife like bison, elk, and bald eagles. For a more authentic Wild West experience, you can stay at a working ranch, where you can learn cowboy skills, help round up cattle, and ride across vast ranch lands, just as cowboys have done for centuries.
Best for: History buffs, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a true cowboy experience.
4. The Black Forest – Germany
The dense, enchanted forests of the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) in southwestern Germany offer a peaceful and scenic horseback riding adventure. With its rolling hills, picturesque villages, and scenic trails, the Black Forest is perfect for a relaxed, nature-filled ride.
Riders can explore charming medieval towns, ride through dense woods, and follow ancient trails that have been used for centuries. The area’s natural beauty, with its deep green forests, sparkling streams, and gentle hills, makes it a serene location for a riding holiday. Plus, riders can take advantage of the great hospitality and stay in cozy, traditional guesthouses.
Best for: Beginners and those looking for a more relaxed and scenic ride.
5. The Atacama Desert – Chile
For an extraordinary and surreal riding experience, the Atacama Desert in Chile offers a completely unique landscape to explore. This vast, arid region is one of the driest places on Earth, with stunning salt flats, ancient volcanoes, and colorful rock formations. Horseback riding in the Atacama allows you to explore these otherworldly landscapes at a leisurely pace.
Guided rides often take you through the Valley of the Moon, the salt flats, and the remote oases that dot the desert. The strong, sure-footed Chilean horses are perfectly suited to the desert terrain, making the rides both thrilling and safe. Whether you’re riding at sunset or exploring the desert under a star-filled sky, the Atacama Desert provides an unforgettable horseback riding adventure.
Best for: Those seeking an adventurous and unique landscape, experienced riders