FAQs

For first-timers, we highly recommend joining one of our World on Horseback retreats! We offer hosted retreats for experienced riders as well as those that cater to beginners and riders of all levels. Our retreats cover a range of disciplines, including dressage combined with cultural activities and site seeing (with lessons available for all levels), such as our Italy retreat, as well as more adventurous expeditions like those in Iceland. Our holidays in Mexico also provide great opportunities for riders of all levels to join—and even bring a non-rider along if they wish!

If you’re an experienced rider who hasn’t been in the saddle for a while and is looking for a relaxed experience, Atlantic Coast Trails in Morocco is a fantastic option. It offers a slower pace where you can take in the scenery and culture while enjoying a few canters throughout the day and even some fun beach gallops!

If you have a budget, a specific type of riding in mind (trail rides, dressage, jumping, etc.), preferred travel dates, or a riding level, feel free to contact us on WhatsApp at +34 633 409 160 or by email at contact@worldonhorseback.com, and we’ll help you find the perfect destination!

Our World on Horseback hosted retreats are designed to bring together passionate horse riders and travelers. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a small group, these retreats offer a great opportunity to connect with others and create unforgettable memories.

Non-riders are also welcome and can enjoy various activities in the surrounding area. Joining a WoH retreat means you’ll be part of a group hosted by a WoH team member, who will ensure everything is well-organized. Before arrival, you’ll get to connect with fellow riders via WhatsApp, making the experience even more seamless and enjoyable. For World on Horseback hosted retreats, we create a WhatsApp group a month before the trip to help guests connect, coordinate logistics, and share itineraries, photos, and videos.

Click here if you want to see the upcoming WoH-hosted retreats.

Yes! Many destinations cater to non-riding guests, offering activities like sightseeing, cultural experiences, and wellness options while you enjoy your time in the saddle. Some great destinations for mixed groups include Spain (Friesian Riding Holiday), Mexico, and Egypt.

Many of our partner destinations require guests to have their own travel medical insurance in case you get injured, and some may ask for insurance details before arrival. It’s essential to ensure your insurance covers horseback riding as an activity.

We also strongly recommend getting cancellation insurance in case you cannot travel due to injury, illness, or other circumstances.

Be sure to carefully review your policy to understand what’s covered, including medical expenses, trip cancellations, and emergency evacuation.

Have a look at our blog for some tips on how to pick the right travel insurance for your riding holiday:

https://www.worldonhorseback.com/blog/travel-insurance-for-your-horseriding-holiday

Most of our riding holiday destinations cater to intermediate and advanced riders. However, some locations—such as Il Paretaio in Tuscany, Italy, and our partner in Lesvos, Greece—welcome beginners for lessons and beginner packages. Our rides in Mexico can also accommodate beginners (you will be put in a group to accommodate your riding level).

We define riding levels as follows:

• Beginner: Little to no experience on horseback, having ridden only a handful of times or never before.

• Intermediate: Consistently riding for a couple of years or more, confident at a canter on a well-schooled horse, and comfortable riding outdoors in a group setting.

• Advanced: Has an independent seat, soft hands, and does not rely on reins for balance. Can confidently ride at all paces in a group and handle a spirited horse in open environments.

Age: Most of our partners welcome riders of all ages. Some destinations are kid-friendly, allowing riders as young as 12 to join with an adult.

While the majority of our guests are between 25 and 45 years old, we also have clients in their 60s who are physically fit and have an absolute blast!

Weight: Regarding weight restrictions, most of our partners have a weight limit of 90kg. However, there are some exceptions: in Mexico, riders up to 100kg are accepted if they are experienced and have good balance, as larger horses are available. In Iceland, and due to the nature of our itineraries, which involve changing horses regularly, riders up to 100kg are also accepted. Please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding the limit.

Most of our partners can cater to special dietary needs, but some remote locations may have limited access to specialist foods. Please inform us in advance on the booking form if you have any specific requirements or allergies. This will help ensure that your needs are met during your stay.

This really depends on the destination, as each time of year offers ideal locations to visit. For example, summer is a fantastic time to visit Iceland, as some terrains are accessible only in the warmer months, and Greece is also a great summer destination where you can swim with horses. Fall is ideal for our Fairytale Friesian Retreat or a guest ranch stay in the Mexican Highlands. Spring is perfect in Provence and Tuscany, while winter is an excellent time to visit Morocco or Egypt.

Click here to Browse riding holidays by month.

If you need help choosing the best time for your trip, let us know—we’re happy to assist!