For many people, horseback riding is an enjoyable way to connect with nature. This experience becomes even more incredible when it takes place amid stunning scenic backdrops. To have an unforgettable horseback riding experience unlike any other, book a ticket to one of these best horseback riding destinations in the world.
Cappadocia, Turkey
Known as the “Land of Beautiful Horses,” it’s no surprise that Cappadocia, Turkey, made our list of the best horseback riding destinations. While riding one of the native Arabian or Barb horses, you’ll have the chance to saunter by incredible scenery—from the region’s famous fairy chimney rock formations to expansive orchards and Byzantine churches. Many trails also pass by ancient Turkish villages, underground cities, and monasteries.
Banff National Park, Canada
No vehicles are allowed in Canada’s oldest national park, Banff. As such, horseback is one of the best methods of transportation to experience this expansive natural beauty. Located in the Canadian Rockies, the park offers incredible views of snow-capped mountain peaks, hot springs, turquoise lakes fed by glaciers, and dense woods. In addition to the breathtaking scenery, the park also has a host of wildlife such as elk, deer, and black bears, which can be seen along its many rivers and mountainside trails.
Reykjavik, Iceland
For a truly unique horseback riding experience, head to Iceland. Picturesque trails winding through stunning lava fields are enough to make this city an incredible horseback riding destination, but what sets it apart are the horses themselves. The horses in Iceland, isolated to the country for over a millennium, can’t be found anywhere else in the world. As a result, they are some of the healthiest and most purely bred horses in the world, as they haven’t been exposed to outside diseases or species. What makes these horses truly incredible is their wide variety of distinct gaits. While most horses are only capable of performing four gaits—walking, trotting, cantering, and galloping—Icelandic horses can also skeið and tölt, in which the horse always has a foot on the ground, making the gait extremely smooth.
Gulf of Chiriquí, Panama
Panama’s lush, biodiverse jungles and pristine beaches make for an incredible horseback riding experience for people of all skill levels—from experienced equestrians to beginning riders. Wildlife enthusiasts will especially enjoy horseback riding in the Gulf of Chiriquí. While traversing through indigenous forests, they’ll get the chance to see exotic wildlife such as howler monkeys, sloths, iguanas, red-eyed tree frogs, parrots, toucans, and many other vibrant species. If your trail leads you closer to the beach, you’ll enjoy the cool sea breeze while watching the turquoise waves of the Pacific Ocean crash against the soft sand beaches.
Loire Valley, France
You’ll feel like you’ve been transported into the pages of a fairy tale while horseback riding in Loire Valley. Located in central France, the riding trails through this World Heritage Site offer incredible views of vineyards, rolling hills, castles, and château-inspired architecture. On your trip, you may also pass through historic towns and lush green forests.
