What to wear horseback riding
Wear closed-toe shoes (ideally with a small heel), long pants, sunscreen, and a hat that will not blow away. San Miguel de Allende sits in high desert, so bring a layer for cool mornings and evenings. Leave dangly jewelry at home.
The checklist
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Closed-toe shoes, small heel | Keeps your foot seated in the stirrup |
| Long pants | Saves your calves from the saddle and the brush |
| Sunscreen and lip balm | High desert sun is stronger than it feels |
| A hat that fits snugly | Wide brims are great until the wind takes them |
| A layer | Mornings and evenings turn cool fast |
| Water | We carry extra, but bring your own too |
What to leave behind
Dangly jewelry, flip flops, brand-new stiff jeans, and anything you would be sad to dust up. This is a real ranch. The dust is part of the experience, and honestly, part of the charm.
Season notes
June through September is rainy season: mornings are usually clear and spectacular, with brief showers in the afternoon. November through February brings crisp mornings, so gloves are not a silly idea for the 9 a.m. rides. There is no bad season, just different light.
What should I wear for horseback riding?
Closed-toe shoes, preferably with a small heel, long pants, sunscreen, and a hat that will not blow away. We mean that last part. A hat that takes off at a trot is a hat you will be walking back for. Leave dangly jewelry at home. Mornings and evenings can be cool in the high desert, so layers work well. We handle everything else.
When is the best time of year to ride?
Every season has its argument, but the rainy season, June through September, is spectacular: the high desert turns deep green, wild sunflowers grow taller than a rider, and the trails to the river and the Presa de los Torres are at their best. Winter brings crisp golden light and cool mornings. Rain usually falls as brief afternoon showers, so morning rides run year round.
Do I need riding experience?
No. Most of our guests are beginners. We match each rider with a horse that fits their comfort level, give basic instruction before heading out, and keep the pace easy. Horses like Holly and Capitán have carried hundreds of first-time riders.
