National GeographicJun 26, 2026
7 equestrian experiences to embrace your inner cowboy
These trips let you discover some of the world's most iconic horse-riding cultures and traditions — and explore wild landscapes straight from the saddle.
14 things in this story
- Lexington, KentuckyNeighborhoodEarned the extravagant title of ‘horse capital of the world’.
- Elsewhere
- Kazakh eagle huntersPlaceBayan-Ulgii, MongoliaAttend annual festivals to watch demonstrations across the steppe.
- Marwari horsesPlaceRajasthan, IndiaChosen companions of Rajput clans, prized cavalry horses.
- Chittorgarh fortressSightChittorgarh, IndiaExplore historical walkways from the saddle of a Marwari.
- Pushkar Camel FairFestivalPushkar, IndiaAttendees trade horses, cattle, and camels.
- Argentine gauchoPlacePampas, ArgentinaLearn cattle herding and navigating terrain at estancias.
- Icelandic horsesPlaceIcelandExperience unique movement like pacing and tölt on guided rides.
- rettirFestivalIcelandAttend annual sheep roundups in September and October.
- stóðréttirFestivalIcelandAttend annual horse roundups in September and October.
- Borders Common RidingsFestivalScottish Borders, United KingdomExperience cultural reenactments from May to September.
- Bandera, TexasNeighborhoodBandera, United StatesNicknamed the ‘cowboy capital of the world’.
- Horse Nations Indian Relay CouncilPlaceUS, United StatesCompetitors race without saddles across the US and Canada.
- Feria del CaballoFestivalJerez, SpainCelebrates elaborate horseback parades and flamenco performances.
- Camino de SantiagoTrailSantiago de Compostela, SpainRide a traditional Spanish horse along grassy mountains and coastal trails.
