Connect with nature in the most authentic way: from horseback.

My friend and I went to Monte Velho, Portugal, through Outside the Corral. From the very first email, Laure-Anne was enthusiastic, which was a great sign for us. She patiently answered all our questions, and the fact that she had visited herself made us feel reassured. It’s always a bit nerve-wracking the first time, but Laure-Anne made everything very personal: regular emails with updates, a clear final email with the detailed program, and even a personal card in the mail! At that point, we knew we were in good hands.

On-site, everything was perfectly organized. Monte Velho is a stunning place to completely immerse yourself in your “horse bubble.” It was amazing: beautiful rooms with even more beautiful views, delicious meals three times a day, and after an intense day of riding, relaxing in the jacuzzi while overlooking the fields with the mares. The horses were incredible: well-mannered, responsive, gentle, and well cared for. During the lessons, they never put a foot wrong, even when we were trying things we had never done before; they did exactly what was asked, with or without help from the instructors. And the instructors themselves were fantastic: enthusiastic, which sometimes took a little getting used to, as their English occasionally had a Portuguese twist, haha. All in all, we had an amazing holiday and would go back in a heartbeat, maybe even as soon as next year!

I had been dreaming of going on a horseback safari for so many years. I had already been to Africa before, but experiencing it from the back of a horse was something I longed for deeply. My trip with Outside the Corral to Zambia didn’t just fulfill that dream, it surpassed it in every possible way. From my very first call with Laure-Anne, every doubt disappeared. She immediately understood what I was looking for, and her warmth, passion and professionalism gave me complete confidence. Everything was organized to perfection, down to the smallest detail. This was my first horseback riding holiday, so I was quite excited and a bit nervous, but the moment I arrived, all of that melted away. The combination of the stunning Chundukwa River Lodge and the incredibly kind and professional team of Zambian Horseback Safaris made me feel right at home. The horses were beautifully cared for – something that matters deeply to me – and the whole team radiated love and respect for their animals, the land, and their guests. And then… the riding. Galloping across the endless Simalaha Plains, surrounded by wildlife, golden light, and pure African magic – it was everything I had ever dreamed of. I felt so free, so alive, and honestly so overwhelmingly happy. Every moment was unforgettable. The food was delicious, the stays were beautiful, and every experience felt personal and thoughtfully curated. They truly listen to your wishes and go above and beyond to make your dreams come true. Laure-Anne knows exactly where she sends you, and thanks to her I had the journey of a lifetime.

I have just returned from a really wonderful riding holiday, a horseback safari – organised by Outside the Corral with Zambian Horseback Safaris – in Zambia. I cannot recommend too highly this company. The horses were fabulous: fast and fit but well schooled and a delight to handle. Never crazy or alarming. Laure Anne has an acute eye for the details that make a holiday truly enjoyable and pays attention to them all, and to her guests. So everyone is happy. Really a joyous and life affirming adventure and I am already dreaming of the next ride that I can book with Outside the Corral.

The Best of South-West Iceland was my first ever riding holiday, and it turned out to be a dream vacation. The stunning natural scenery, the fantastic horses—everything was impeccably arranged! I simply had to relish the experience. Without a doubt, I’ll be booking my next riding vacation with OTC again. Now, the only decision is which trip to choose. A heartfelt thank you to Laure-Anne for providing this unforgettable experience!