Saddle Up! Tips for Horseback Riding on Vacation

Last week I was back in lovely Los Cabos, where I saddled up to one of my favorite pastimes – horseback riding. I grew up with horses, so riding comes natural to me; however I know it can be daunting to first time riders – a 1,000lb animal can be a little intimidating! That being said, horseback riding is a great way to see a destination. Slow enough pace to take pictures, but still cover a lot of ground while having an unique experience. Wondering how to make the most of your ride? Here are some tips to stay safe and enjoy an equestrian adventure whether it be in Egypt or L.A.:
1.    Speak up about your experience. If you are new to horseback riding, let the staff know, they can pair you with an easy going steed. Conversely, if you are an experienced rider you aren’t going to want 20 year old Bessie to take you trodding along.

Horseback in the desert near Los Cabos.
2.    Get your gear right. Wear closed toe shoes, preferably boots. Chunky sneakers can get caught in stirrups in the (rare) case you fall off, you could get dragged behind your horse. Trust me on this, you don’t want to find out what it feels like to get stepped on by these big guys in flip flops. Wear long pants with a flat inseam to avoid uncomfortable rubbing.
3.    Approach your steed with care. Avoid petting your horse's ears, and always keep an open hand when feeding your equine. Also, take care when walking behind a horse, always keep a safe distance. A good bet is to pet your horse’s the neck after a good ride.

Beautiful horse on the beach near Los Cabos, Mexico
4.    Listen to the instructor. Every horse is trained differently, so make sure to pay attention to the cues they tell you, don’t assume that you know, no matter how experience you may be!
As with any outdoor activity don’t forget water and a camera to soak it all in! After you have your basic cues down you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

One of the knowledgable guides