Since horses are a nomadic herder’s most prized animal, it’s important that you show respect when horse riding in Mongolia.

Here are a few things to keep in mind before mounting a Mongolian horse:

• Always approach slowly from the left side and never walk behind a horse.
• Don’t wear clothing that makes loud noises, like a rain jacket, or loose flapping jackets or backpacks that may accidently scare the horse. Never try to take off a jacket when you’re on the horse, always dismount to do these things.
• When saddling up, a Mongolian horse may feel shorter compared to a Western horse. Sit in your saddle slowly and with caution and always be conscious of keeping your feet barely in the stirrups in case they start bucking. Basically, always be cautious and respect their spirited nature.
• Steering with one hand is common here, but using both hands will work too. The key is to be decisive and confident and to never let go of your reins. If you feel uncertain about riding, ask your horse riding guide to pony you until you feel comfortable enough to ride on your own.
• If your horse starts to go to the bathroom, stand up in your stirrups. Doing this takes pressure off their kidneys.
• If your horse starts to lay down while you’re on it, try to dismount as quickly and safely as possible. Don’t let the horse roll over with the saddle on its back. Try to get it to stand up as quickly as possible.
• Our horses won’t respond to harsh whippings and rough handlings. As you guessed by now, they haven’t gotten much training throughout their lives. Locals lean more on horse whispering techniques rather than taming them. The command “chu” or a gentle kick is usually sufficient to prompt them to start moving.
• Never wear boots with spurs when riding in Mongolia. The horses don’t like it and neither do the herders, and these are their animals. Please show respect for that.
• Mongolian horses know the land better than anyone. When herders ride them, there’s a level of trust, with riders not needing constant control, and acknowledging the horse’s instincts. In fact, trying to control Mongolian horses too much can sometimes make them more stubborn. The magical part about horse riding in Mongolia is the bond you create with these fearless and free animals.
• These horses know when they’re getting close to home and they get eager to do so as quickly as possible. This is when most accidents happen, as your confidence is high and the horses start to quicken their pace. Remain calm and never let the horse go faster than you feel comfortable with. If you need to, have your guide go ahead of you to keep your horse at a manageable pace.
• Last, but certainly not least, ALWAYS wear a riding helmet and appropriate riding footwear. I also like to wear a pair of thin gloves when riding. This helps with handling the reins and also keeps my hands cleaner.

With all that said, rest assured that upon your arrival, local horse guides will warmly greet you, ensuring your safety throughout. These experienced guides will carefully match you with the most suitable horses based on your level of skill and personality. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, no matter how stupid you think they might be, and don’t assume you know everything about riding here, even if you’re an experienced equestrian.

As you finally start bonding with your horse and grow a little more comfortable on it (and stop sweating from the fear, like I did when I started), take a moment to look up and appreciate what’s in front of you. Truth be told, I was so nervous I don’t remember much from my first horse trek!

The beauty of the landscapes, endless skies, and encounters with nomadic families along the way, who warmly welcome you with food and milk tea, basically everything they have, will undoubtedly give you a sense of peace, appreciation, and presence.