If you've never ridden a gaited horse before, your first ride on a Peruvian Paso is quite an experience. Instead of bouncing along at the trot, you glide - it's often described as feeling like you're floating. Here's what makes these horses so special and what it's like to ride one at Los Potreros.
So What Exactly Is a Peruvian Paso Horse?
The Peruvian Paso is a gaited breed that developed in Peru over hundreds of years, descended from horses brought over by the Spanish. They're famous for their naturally smooth four-beat gait, called the paso llano, which lets riders cover long distances in real comfort.
They're also known for their "termino", a graceful outward swing of the front legs as they move, and for their proud, spirited character.
How Riding a Gaited Horse Feels Different
On most horses, the trot has a moment where you're thrown up out of the saddle - hence rising to the trot. A Peruvian Paso's gait is completely different. There's no bounce at all, just a smooth, rhythmic glide, so you can sit quietly while the horse moves along at a good speed.
It takes a little getting used to, and it's a lovely skill to learn. Many riders find they can't stop smiling the first time they feel it!
Meet Our New Herd of Peruvian Paso Horses
Over the last year we've been sourcing Peruvian Pasos from right across Argentina, chosen for their bloodlines and awards across the Americas, as the foundation of a brand new herd.
There's Coplero, a real sweetheart with a fantastic paso, Pequeño Bambi, the biggest horse on the farm and an award winner, and Juan, who came to us from Tucumán and has energy to spare. Each of them has a big personality, and they've settled in beautifully.
Who Our Peruvian Pasos Are Best Suited To
Our Pasos are energetic horses with plenty of character, so they're best suited to experienced, calm riders who are comfortable both in and out of a corral. To keep them happy and sound, we use them on shorter gaited rides with less galloping, as a special part of a stay rather than every day.
That means rides on the Pasos aren't guaranteed on shorter stays. If you're coming especially for them, let us know when you book and we'll do our best to fit them in.
Riding Criollos and Pasos During Your Stay
Even if gaited horses are what draws you to us, we really encourage you to ride our Criollos too. They're the heart of our herd and perfect for our rocky hills, cattle work and long picnic rides.
Riding both breeds is a wonderful way to see the contrast between Argentina's traditional working horse and the smooth, elegant Paso - and to find out which one steals your heart.