Riding Levels

It is always helpful to have some riding experience, but several of our beginner-friendly horse riding holidays welcome complete novices. You may still be learning how to communicate clearly with a horse using your aids and will generally be limited to walking and trotting, or have a few introductory lessons before heading out on longer rides. Novice riders are best suited to relaxed holidays with well-trained horses, shorter riding sessions and plenty of support to help build confidence in the saddle. Find out more or speak to one of horse safari specialists to find the right holiday for you.

Intermediate riders typically have some riding experience, whether from regular lessons over time or a number of shorter rides and riding holidays. You will have a working knowledge of the basic aids, including how to ask a horse to move forward, turn and stop, along with some experience trotting and cantering on well-trained horses, although your balance, confidence and contact may still be developing. Because of this, intermediate riders are generally best suited to centre-based or lodge-based holidays, shorter trail rides and relaxed riding adventures, rather than long, demanding days across challenging or remote terrain.

Intermediate Plus riders have been riding for several years and are well balanced in the saddle. You ride reasonably regularly and are riding fit, with an independent seat and soft hands that allow you to adapt comfortably to different horses. You are confident riding a sensible but fit and forward-going horse at all paces, both in an arena and out on the open trail, and can react calmly to varied terrain and changing situations. Because of this, Intermediate Plus riders are well suited to longer riding days, faster-paced holidays and more varied or challenging terrain.

You are considered an advanced rider if you have extensive riding experience, ride regularly and are confident and well balanced on a variety of horses. You are riding fit and comfortable outdoors at all paces, including on fit, responsive and forward-going horses. You can adapt your riding style easily, react quickly when needed and are happy jumping obstacles or riding across more technical terrain. Because of this, advanced riders are well suited to fast-paced and adventurous horse riding holidays, including long days in the saddle, challenging terrain and journeys where confidence, stamina and the ability to ride independently are essential.

Many of our favourite horse riding holidays are perfect for mixed groups, so there is no need to compromise if not everyone in your group rides. Some holidays can cater for riders of different abilities, while others combine riding with plenty to do beyond the saddle, from hiking and wildlife experiences to wine tasting, spa treatments and cultural visits. This means riders and non-riders can happily enjoy the same holiday, whether one person spends the morning exploring on horseback while others head out on foot, or riders tackle a challenging trail while everyone meets up later to share the day’s adventures.