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There's more than one way to saddle up with Ranch Rider

10th May 2011 Print
Experience Native American culture at the Tiger Mountain Ranch in Oklahoma

According to Ranch Rider, whether you’re heading to North America, Africa or South America, there’s more than one way to saddle up.

With a choice of over 60 stays, you can experience everything from mobile camping safaris in Botswana to “glamping” in Montana – the once millionaire’s homestead, beckoning to riders in search of a little more luxury. The tour operator’s portfolio also includes on and off ranch Native American excursions and challenging pack trips for the first time cowboy.

Tony Daly, Managing Director of Ranch Rider comments, “Riding holidays are not just about hitting the trails. Culture, wildlife and wilderness escapes are what we offer, our weekly ranch stays starting from only £595pp.”

1. The Bob Marshall Wilderness Ride is usually reserved for the experienced, most riders booking at least six months in advance. Less well known is the Triple J, the owners taking greenhorns across this same well-loved region of Montana. 7-nights from £1,310pp (two sharing). Departures June to September.

2. The Calgary Stampede started 100 years ago in 1912, so why not celebrate its centenary with a holiday at the Homeplace Ranch in Alberta. From 03-23 July you can saddle up for the rodeo of a lifetime as the ranch is only 35-miles from “Greatest Outdoor show On Earth”. 6-nights from £1,274pp (two sharing) including tickets & transfers to Calgary. Car hire from £285.

3. At the Island Ranch in Oklahoma you can ride out for only £595pp (7-nights, two sharing), rope the cattle, drive the herd, and if you’re looking to wed western style, marry on horseback. Departures April to November. Car hire from £239.

4. If you’re a fully-fledged rider who’s experienced the 4X4 safari, head to Botswana as the Big Five Tuli Safari is a pure adrenaline wildlife rush. 7-nights £2,100pp (no single supplement, if willing to share). Transfers extra £245pp. Departures April to October.

5. Meet Moses Little Bear at Oklahoma’s Tiger Mountain Ranch. Tomahawk throwing, storytelling and even a one-night stay in a traditionally designed teepee are on offer. 7-nights from £769pp (two sharing). Departures April to November.

6. Head to Montana this summer, camp out with the Crow Tribe and saddle up for a traditional pow-wow. Even teens can sign up for the one-night experience, part of a 7-night stay at the Lonesome Spur (save £390pp) now only £939pp (no single supplement). Departures 25 June and 30 August.

7. Camping meets “glamping” – The Ranch At Rock Creek’s half canvas, half wood cabins bring you closer to nature. Once a billionaires home, the now ranch also features its own spa, movie theatre and bowling alley. 7-nights from £4,060pp. Departures year round. Car hire from £239.

8. Cowboys were preserving the land way before the words “responsible tourism” were uttered – a claim that makes ranch stays top of the list when it comes to eco-holidays. Try the Rocking Z in Montana. Bio-fuels, organic produce and their conservation work with the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Foundation speak volumes about their commitment to the land. 7-nights from £995pp (two sharing). Departing April to November. Car hire from £239.

9. The Huechahue Ranch is situated in Argentina’s Patagonia region, the Andes making for a breathtaking backdrop. Gaucho your heart out and ride across craggy climbs and water meadows. If you’re feeling adventurous you can even take on a three to five day pack trip. 7-nights from £1,799pp (based on two sharing, if willing to share). 8-nights including 3-day pack trip £2,059pp (based on two sharing, if willing to share). Departures year round.

10. Across The Andes To Chile – the ultimate ride is reserved for the experienced, as you’ll be spending up to eight hours a day in the saddle. A photographer’s paradise – traverse the Andean Steppes, pass through Indian reservations and encounter magnificent rocky gorges before reaching the Puente Barras in Chile. 9-nights from £2,995pp (no single supplement, if willing to share). Departures year round.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices include, accommodation, meals, ranch/riding activities, taxes, transfers and gratuities.

For more information, visit: ranchrider.com

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Experience Native American culture at the Tiger Mountain Ranch in Oklahoma