Horseback Riding in Sochi

Horseback riding is more than just a way to see Sochi from a new perspective—it’s a quiet yet powerful method to restore balance: physical, emotional, and even spiritual. Across Russia, an increasing number of people are embracing this popular and engaging activity, especially in regions blessed with stunning natural landscapes.

Scientifically, this is known as hippotherapy—therapy through interaction with horses. While its effects aren’t always quantifiable, they are deeply felt: the calm that settles in as you sit in the saddle, the animal’s rhythm gently drawing you into a state of flow. Time slows down. Thoughts grow quieter. Breathing deepens. This kind of connection with horses brings a sense of harmony that you’ll surely remember for a long time.

But the benefits go beyond emotions.

Physiologically, horseback riding is a gentle yet comprehensive full-body workout. A horse moves with an amplitude similar to the human gait, and your body instinctively engages core, back, hip, and pelvic muscles to maintain balance. This isn’t like gym exercises—it’s natural stabilization that improves posture, strengthens deep muscles, and gradually corrects imbalances accumulated over years of sedentary living. These sessions are especially helpful for those seeking natural recovery and renewed vitality.

A horse’s body temperature is higher than a human’s, and as it walks, warmth transfers through the saddle, gently heating your tissues. This promotes better microcirculation—particularly in the pelvic and lower back areas—making it especially valuable for those suffering from stagnation, tension, or chronic fatigue. Many riders notice the difference after just their first ride.

Your heart and lungs also get a steady, sustainable workout—not as intense as running, but consistent and effective. Constantly adapting to the horse’s rhythm boosts endurance, increases blood oxygen levels, and trains the vestibular system, reducing dizziness and enhancing coordination. This is particularly important for those planning to ride along challenging routes, including ascents to caves or magnificent mountain trails.

For those aiming to maintain a healthy weight, horseback riding is one of the most enjoyable ways to burn calories. In terms of energy expenditure, it’s comparable to brisk walking or light jogging—but without the feeling of exertion. You’re not running—you’re gliding over the earth.

This kind of experience is especially wonderful for travelers with family or friends—it’s a chance to share unique impressions and create lasting memories together. And you’ll surely want to return, just to feel once again how horses gently carry you through forests and mountains, offering peace and renewed strength.

Horseback riding is not just a ride—it’s a journey where your comfort and safety depend on what you wear, what you bring, and how you attune yourself to the horse’s rhythm.

Clothing

Choose comfortable trousers or long pants—they protect your legs from saddle friction and prevent chafing. Shorts, even in summer, are unsuitable: even the calmest horse can accidentally brush your leg against the saddle edge.

If your route goes into the mountains, dress in layers. The climate here changes quickly: it may be hot in the valley but cool at higher elevations—even in the middle of the day. A rain jacket or lightweight windbreaker is a far better choice than trying to change clothes en route.

A head covering is essential. A cap, sun hat, or wide-brimmed hat isn’t just a fashion accessory—it’s protection from the sun. Ideally, it should have a chin strap to keep it from blowing away as you ascend a slope.

Footwear

Sandals, Crocs, open-toed shoes, and open boots are strictly prohibited. Even if the horse seems calm, a single misstep from a hoof can lead to serious injury.

Don’t have riding boots? No problem. Comfortable sports sneakers with a closed toe and thin sole are an excellent alternative. They provide stability in the stirrups, allow for better control, and prevent slipping. Most importantly, they fully protect your feet.

What to Bring

• Water. Even a short ride can get hot—especially in May or September. It’s better to carry a bottle than to search for water along the trail.
• A light snack. An apple, energy bar, or dried fruit—if your route lasts over two hours, you’ll need the energy.
• A backpack or waist bag. A waist bag is more convenient—your hands stay free, and essentials like sunscreen, wallet, and phone remain within reach.
• Gloves. Even if you’re not planning to gallop, reins can rub your palms. Thin cotton or cycling gloves are a simple yet effective solution.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses. Reflection from the ground and mountain slopes intensifies UV exposure. Protection isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
• A basic first-aid kit. Blisters, scrapes, or small cuts can happen. Bring bandages, gauze, cotton, and antiseptic—even if you’re confident everything will go perfectly.
• Dry horse treats. A carrot, apple, or dried hay isn’t just a snack—it’s a way to bond with the animal, ease tension, and build trust. Never feed directly from your fingers; place the treat flat in your palm and press your hand gently against the horse’s muzzle. This prevents the horse from jerking its head up and startling you.

The Golden Rule
Don’t aim to be “tourist-ready”—aim to be as calm as a rider. The horse is your companion and senses your readiness—even if it’s your first time in the saddle. Being properly dressed, composed, and attentive is already half the success.

Horseback riding is not just about riding—it’s a dialogue with a living being that can weigh up to 800 kilograms. A horse is not a machine; its behavior depends on the calmness, rhythm, and respect of those around it.

Your instructor will always explain how to safely approach, mount, and move near the horse—but it’s important to understand in advance that horses have blind spots directly in front of and behind them. Never approach a horse from behind. If you need to pass behind it, go around the side, speak calmly, and place your hand on its hindquarters so the horse is aware of your presence. This reduces stress and prevents sudden, startled movements.

When standing near a horse’s hooves, avoid pressing too close. Even the calmest horse may make a sudden step or reflexive kick if startled. Always maintain a safe distance—remember, a hoof is not just a foot; it’s a natural defense mechanism.

Horses are highly sensitive to human emotions. They can sense tension in your body, rapid breathing, or anxiety in your voice. If you’re nervous, the horse knows. That’s why it’s essential to breathe deeply, speak softly, and move smoothly. Children, especially young ones, must be under direct adult supervision at all times—running, shouting, or throwing objects near a horse is strictly prohibited. Even the gentlest-looking horse can panic at a sudden noise or movement, potentially leading to serious consequences.

The best way to earn a horse’s trust is not through force, but through quiet presence. Gently stroke its neck—if the horse doesn’t pull away, you’re on the right track. Speak to it in a calm, warm tone. The horse doesn’t just carry you—it chooses whether to trust you.

A tour operator and aggregator of travel services, integrating hotel, entertainment, and excursion infrastructure.

Years of experience in the tourism industry have enabled the creation of a curated selection of engaging routes in Sochi, Sirius, and surrounding areas, as well as unique excursions in Abkhazia.

Part of the MANTERA group, whose assets include:

• Mountain resorts (Krasnaya Polyana Resort, Arkhyz Resort)
• Theme parks (Sochi Park, the enchanting village of "Mandrogi")
• The Krasnaya Polyana gaming zone
• Hotels (Sochi Park Hotel, Mantera Resort & Congress, Bogatyr Castle Hotel, Mantera Supreme Seaside)
• Château Talu winery, a trout farm, and restaurants

This extensive partner network enables the creation of package tours that combine key elements of tourism and entertainment infrastructure, allowing guests to visit top attractions under special conditions or stay at premium hotels with exclusive discounts!