How to prepare for a multi-day horse trek

So you want to do a multi-day horse trek. The first thing to choose is your destination and tour operator (the former usually dictates the latter). Now for the trickiest decision: what is your skill level?

Are you a regular rider? Or did you last ride when you were a child? Find out what level of rider you need to be for the specific trip you’re interested in. Do not overestimate your skill level. Yes, a lot of operators want you to pick their trip, but the good ones won’t put you in a dangerous situation if you’re not equipped to cope with it.

Don’t choose an African wildlife safari on horseback if you’re not able to handle a horse spooking at a lion or potentially needing to gallop away from an angry charging rhino. Equally, don’t choose a mountain trip if you’re scared of heights: a narrow mountain trail is ten times scarier on horseback.

What clothing will you be taking? Which trousers, for example, will you be riding in? While jodhpurs or riding jeans (not normal jeans!) are ideal, your packing space may not stretch to a full riding-only wardrobe if riding is only part of the trip.

Walking trousers are a good replacement for jodhpurs if they have a flat seam, but you risk the trousers riding up and your leg chafing on the stirrup leathers. Men in particular will find it uncomfortable as the hairs on your legs will get caught and pulled.

The solution is to invest in a pair of chaps: leg coverings. However, if you don’t want the complete cowboy look, half-chaps (covering from below your knee to your ankle) will suffice. If you don’t want to buy a pair, double check whether chaps can be provided on the trip.

You will also need good boots with a stiff sole and a bit of a heel. If you’re not taking dedicated riding boots then walking boots will suffice – just make sure they’re not too wide for the stirrup as you run the risk of your foot getting caught if you have an accident.

No doubt you’ll want to take photos on your trip but think about the logistics first. Trying to hold a large DSLR camera while on horseback (even stationary) is not easy. It’s also not comfortable to have it bouncing up and down on your chest when trotting.

Check whether a saddlebag is provided so you can keep your camera within easy reach. Or is your phone camera good enough for any in-the-saddle shots? You’ll want an option that you can use one-handed, so you can still keep grip on the reins…

Are you covered for any mishaps? Most travel insurance companies need to be told you’ll be horse riding – especially if it’s over multiple days. Even though ‘Activities’ may be included in your policy, check exactly what is included. Horse riding tends to be seen as a high-risk sport.

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Don’t forget to relax and have fun! Doing a trip like this creates a real bond between man and beast, and you’ll get a unique perspective on your destination.


Main image: Silhouette of horse riders (Shutterstock)