1.- OVERVIEW OF SACRED VALLEY HORSEBACK ADVENTURES
Many people know that the Sacred Valley is considered one of the best places in the Peruvian Andes where experiences take on an authentic meaning for world travelers, among these is a special activity such as Horseback Riding Sacred Valley, this is possible thanks to the great proximity to the city of Cusco that for centuries has been considered the center of the Inca culture, for this reason is an activity that has been integrated on a daily basis for some Andean villages and making it a tradition of which can be part to this day during your next visit.
2.- Sacred Valley Horseback Riding History
When we think about the activity of the Horseback Riding Sacred Valley we must undoubtedly go back in history to the time when the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the city of Cusco, from that moment the horse as such obtained a very important role in daily activities such as agriculture, transportation and especially commercial. For the Inca culture the horse animal was completely unknown and when it was introduced by the Spaniards it imposed a superimposition of power that easily adapted to the mountains and the diverse geography that exists in Peru. In many of the communities of the extensive valley you can enjoy the Horseback Riding Sacred Valley since the villagers have become accustomed to these animals can be docile with visitors and thus the technique of riding began to have relevance for the high Andean populations that exercise activities such as livestock or agriculture.
This relationship that exists between animals and people in the Andes has been strengthened thanks to the activity of Horseback Riding in the Sacred Valley Peru, as well as being a functional activity has also become a key moment of celebrations and cultural festivities. Also called horseback riding, it has gradually evolved from a leisure activity to an experience of cultural and traditional exploration with a unique way to be enjoyed.
3.- Why Horseback Riding Sacred Valley is right for you
The Sacred Valley Horseback Riding experience is a unique way to enjoy this incredible place in the Peruvian Andes, it is also a respectful and intimate way to venture into the vast valley to appreciate the high snow-capped mountains of the Andes, ride the trails beside the Urubamba River. When Horseback Riding Sacred Valley you can feel a unique connection between the animal and the rider, which also creates a sense of serenity and at the same time a complete immersion.
Each of the horses that are used in the Horseback Riding Sacred Valley activity, have been adapted to be able to travel through the diverse geography that exists, from trails that lead you to the heights to other rural roads that allow you to reach even ancient traditional villages that are considered inaccessible to reach with a car. Together with professional guides you can enjoy an experience full of tradition and culture, but the best thing is that you don’t need to have experience in the activity of Horseback Riding Sacred Valley since an instruction is provided before starting the activity and this way you can gradually adapt to the experience.
4.- PLANNING YOUR SACRED VALLEY HORSE TREK
4.1.- The best time to do Sacred Valley Horseback Riding
One of the main aspects that you should consider to enjoy the Sacred Valley Horseback Riding Sacred Valley is the weather and temperature. For this reason the best time to experience this adventure is during the dry season that occurs between May and October, during this time of the year it feels like the rains are really minimal and thus the trails are dry so there is no risk of having slippery terrain, also the presence of mud or mud is also minimal. It is also common to feel that the temperature can be more pleasant since the base of the Horseback Riding Sacred Valley is an outdoor experience, having a cool sensation during the day but the nights become cold.
| “With each hoof beat, you merge deeper into the timeless wilderness, where the rhythm of your horse’s gait writes your story across the untamed landscape“ |
4.2.- Peak vs. off-peak seasons
During the year there are also 2 seasons that are marked and distinguished mainly to the influx of visitors.
- Peak season
This season is considered the favorite of many world travelers because it also coincides with the dry season (May to October), time of the year when the temperature is much more pleasant so activities such as Horseback Riding in the Sacred Valley Peru become ideal options for travelers looking to immerse themselves in a natural environment but at the same time traditional. This also occurs because the roads are dry and accessible where the horses can travel the trails in a comfortable and safe way at the same time allowing for long and comfortable rides. It is common to see how in this season the number of visitors is much higher so the options and versions that exist of Horseback Riding in the Sacred Valley Peru are varied so that each traveler can choose the one that best suits their planning.
- Off-peak Season
Considered as a really challenging season due to the extreme weather, the low season also coincides with the rainy season (November to April). This time of the year is characterized mainly by frequent rainfall, which can often change your planning and directly affects outdoor activities such as Horseback Riding Sacred Valley. However it also has a benefit, the natural part is greener and lusher which gives a fresher and at the same time natural experience. Naturally during this time it is common to see how the amount of people is much less on the trails as in the tourist destinations so it is also a great time if you are looking to enjoy a more personalized experience without so many travelers around.
4.3.- Cultural festivals
The vast Sacred Valley is not only considered one of the most incredible places in Cusco for its natural beauty, in fact one of the most essential aspects of the Sacred Valley is the extensive collection of cultural traditions and festivals that occur throughout the year. The high season of visit to Peru also coincides with several of the festivities that are traditional within the Sacred Valley as the feast of the Virgin of Carmen (July) or the festival of the Pachamama (August) where many of the populations are dressed in colors, between music and dance homage to their beliefs, as well as ancestral customs. Fortunately, during the Horseback Riding Sacred Valley you can also see and participate in these activities.
4.4.- Experience Levels
The Sacred Valley Horseback Riding has a variety of options and difficulty settings for travelers to choose from giving them the opportunity to explore one of the most incredible places in the entire region. Whether you are an experienced rider or just an amateur, you will always find an ideal option for you.
- Routes for beginners
This is the ideal route for world travelers who are looking to enjoy an experience on a horse but have no previous experience in the activity. Inside the Sacred Valley you can find several routes, trails that are easy to ride and do not require much effort, the main routes are near Ollantaytambo, Urubamba and Moray. The particularity of this area is that the geography that is presented in this place are flat and accessible roads where there is no presence of obstacles making the practice for novice riders easier. This also helps the horses to feel more comfortable during the ride and makes them feel more docile so they do not present any type of resistance, this is the best way to familiarize the novice traveler with this kind of activity.
- Route for experts
Experienced riders are always looking for a new challenge and the Sacred Valley has ideal options from which they can choose and achieve a new accomplishment. This happens mainly in the areas that are farther away or are remote, among them are Lares or Chinchero as well as other mountains that are close to the cordillera. These options are more challenging as they have more demanding elements such as a steep altitude, varied terrain and many obstacles that often test the rider’s skills making it a great experience full of adrenaline. This kind of more advanced experiences also include parts where you must walk and even camp making the experience a more complete version of cultural immersion.
4.5.- Safety Considerations
The safety aspect is undoubtedly one of the things you should prioritize when doing a Horseback Riding Sacred Valley, for it is considered measures and parameters that you use throughout the tour, this will ensure maximum safety and the opportunity to enjoy the trip.
- Horse Selection
All horses used during the activity have been properly trained and accustomed to the extensive trails of the Sacred Valley, this also implies being friendly with the travelers. For the beginner travelers we assign docile horses and on the other hand for the more experienced travelers we assign horses with more energy.
- Safety equipment
Each passenger is assigned a special helmet that should always be carried, as well as gloves and boots if necessary, this is a preventive measure in case of any event that involves falling off the horse.
- Specialist guides
Local guides are the best alternative to enjoy this experience because they can be a means of interpretation of the culture and tradition, and in case of any eventuality they can assist you immediately and help if necessary. During the tour they are the leaders of the group who should be consulted in case of any doubt or event.
5.- A BENEFICIAL ACTIVITY FOR THE BODY
“During the horseback riding activity, you can get more toned muscles, better oxygenation and blood circulation. At the same time it combats stress and there is no age limit to learn how to ride. This connection is something unique that you can enjoy in the Sacred Valley of the Incas..”
6.- FAQs
- Do I need riding experience to go horseback riding in Sacred Valley?
No, there are options for this activity that are intended for beginners so it will be easy to tailor an experience for your trip.
- What is the best time of year for horseback riding in Sacred Valley?
During the dry season you can enjoy this activity in a better way, besides the natural part you can also enjoy some of the traditional events that are celebrated inside the Sacred Valley.
- How long are the typical riding tours?
There are options from half day to extensive versions of 3 or 4 days, if you want a more personalized adventure you can tailor it with a travel consultant.
- What should I wear for horseback riding in Sacred Valley?
It is best to wear light clothing, since being on the horse’s back it is inevitable to perspire. Long pants, long sleeve polo shirts, hat and cap. However, consider having a rain poncho handy at all times to prevent any unexpected rain.
There are many ways to enjoy your adventure in Peru and adding adventure options and Horseback Riding Sacred Valley are the best alternative to complement it. Auri Peru is a responsible company that seeks the welfare of travelers but also of animals for this reason we are committed to the safety aspects at all times, contact us now and start designing your next experience.
“The connection between rider and horse is a language without words, a dance of confidence and courage.”
