There are a lot of horseback riding opportunities out there for the adventurous, equestrian-minded traveler. Most horseback riding adventures involve multi-day trips that include camping in simple accommodations, so be prepared for an outdoorsy adventure like in the Old Wild West.

Trekking. If you’re looking to adventure travel in order to see the most in terms of quantity scenery and landscape, trekking is the right choice. A few highlights from around the world include watching northern lights of Iceland, mountain trekking through Kyrgyzstan, navigating the jungles of Costa Rica, and galloping over white-sanded beaches of Brazil. No matter where you go, there’s a herd of horses waiting for you. Options range from short-and-sweet day trips to week-long trips that have riders sleeping under the stars, so check program duration and routes carefully.

Ranch Work. Volunteering or getting a temporary job on a ranch abroad allows travelers to really get to know not only their horse, but also the locals and their culture. In terms of immersion, there’s probably not a better way to do so. You can find ranch opportunities in countries that have a strong tradition of herding, such as Argentina and Brazil. Those who choose to do this should come prepared for long work days filled with hard work. It’s worth it though, and not just for the sexy tan.

Training. There are a lot of opportunities out there for equestrians who simply want to take lessons and better their skills in horseback riding. From Africa to South America, riders can find ranches and organizations that are more than willing to give lessons to polish the skills of racers or jumpers from beginners to the most advanced. These are among the most expensive types of horseback riding tours abroad, so be sure to research the price adequately.