How to ride a Mongolian horse

Here we introduce you to everything about Mongolian horses and important tips and rules for riding Mongolian horses.

Mongolian Horse
Mongolia has more than 4 million horses while the number of Mongolians is only 3 million. With its vast steppes and green valleys, Mongolia is a heaven for horse riders. The best Mongolian horse riding destinations are Central, Northern, and Eastern Mongolia. The Mongol horse is the native horse breed of Mongolia and the Mongol horse breed has not changed since the time of Genghis Khan. Back in the 13th century, Mongol warriors conquered more than half of the world on horseback and founded Mongolian Empire.

Today horses are very useful to nomads’ daily lives and livelihoods. Mongolian horses still have star power because we have songs, statues, races, games, and art for horses. Mongolian horses are small but not pony. They live outdoors all year at 86 F in summer down to -40 F in winter and search for food on their own. You will admire their stamina because they can gallop for 10km without a break. Mongol horses are frugal, hardy, somewhat wily, and tread safely rough terrain.

Horse riding rules
1. Only over-approach a Mongolian horse from the left side. Before mounting the horse check that the saddle is tight so that it does not slip.

2. Before mounting the horse always tighten the reins, make the horse stand still, and mount quickly.

3. Do not ever touch the horses around the head. The horses can get very agitated.

4. Always ride with a tight rein. The horses can move very quickly when they are frightened by objects, such as paper or wire, and animals e.g. marmots, hares, and birds that appear suddenly whilst in the field.

5. To avoid frightening horses, never put on or remove clothing while riding horses, and do not wear clothes that rustle. Always keep your belongings secure and out of the horse’s way.

6. During rain or snow be aware that the horses can slip, especially whilst riding on the hills.

7. To prevent your feet from getting caught if you fall off, make sure your shoes fit easily within the stirrups. Also, try to keep the pressure of the stirrup on the ball of your feet.

8. Do not leave the horses alone while you are in the field. If you have ropes then the horses must be tightly hobbled or tied. Ask the horse guide if you do not know how to do this.

9. Once you have returned from your ride, always tell the ranger you are back.