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Horseback Riding in Brazil: Adventure on the Back of a Mangalarga Marchador

July 04, 2025
Riding group crossing a river in the green hills of Santa Catarina, Brazil

Horseback riding in Brazil is much more than just leisure in the saddle – it is a profound encounter with nature. Whether through the deep canyons of southern Brazil, along the endless beaches of Florianópolis, or across the untamed wilderness of the Pantanal: Those who explore the country on horseback immerse themselves in pristine landscapes, take in breathtaking views, and experience the land from a wonderfully natural perspective during their Brazil vacation.

The Mangalarga Marchador – Brazil’s National Horse

This Brazilian horse breed is known for its calm temperament and uniquely smooth gait – perfectly reflecting the spirit of the country. The Marchador moves in the so-called marcha, a soft four-beat gait that offers exceptional comfort, even on long rides. It is ideal for both beginners and seasoned riders. Riding a Marchador combines endurance, elegance, and a living piece of Brazil’s cultural heritage.

Top Places for Horseback Riding in Brazil

1. Riding in Florianópolis – Combining Beach and Dunes

Tour: Sandboarding & Beach Horseback Ride (4h)
Experience horseback riding like never before: Ride for two hours along the vast and wild Praia do Moçambique, then explore the dramatic sand dunes of Praia Joaquina – either on foot or with a sandboard. This tour is perfect for active travelers and offers a sporty, nature-filled adventure on the Atlantic coast. It’s an immersive way to explore this unique island – a perspective few others will have the chance to discover.

2. Trail Ride Through the Canyons of Urubici

Tour: 8 Days of Riding & Nature in Santa Catarina
This tour takes you through the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Serra Catarinense: deep canyons, dense araucaria forests, crystal-clear rivers, and sweeping highlands. It's ideal for those seeking wide-open spaces, a close connection to nature, and warm-hearted local hospitality. The perfect way to finish? A few relaxing days on the beaches of Florianópolis.

3. Riding Safari in the Pantanal

Tour: 4 to 6 Days of Wildlife and Nature Exploration in the Southern Pantanal
The Pantanal is one of the richest ecosystems in the world. On horseback, you traverse flooded plains and wetlands, spotting caimans, capybaras, hyacinth macaws, and giant otters along the way. Few places bring you this close to nature. Horseback riding here adds an extra layer of adventure to an already extraordinary destination.

4. Riding in the Backcountry of Santa Catarina

Tour: Riding in Dr. Pedrinho & Trail Riding in Santa Catarina
A true insider tip: Far off the tourist routes, you'll find vast riding trails, family-run estâncias, charming rural villages, and a traditional lifestyle deeply rooted in nature. This tour is ideal for experienced riders looking for peace, space, and authenticity.

What Aventura do Brasil Offers

At Aventura do Brasil, we offer a curated selection of horseback riding tours across various regions of the country – all individually customizable and sustainably designed. From half-day rides along the ocean to multi-day trails through the Atlantic Rainforest and safari-style tours in the Pantanal:
Our tours are locally guided and thoughtfully combine nature with culture. They can be easily integrated with other travel experiences such as hiking, snorkeling, or wildlife watching. Respect for the environment, local communities, and animals is at the core of every itinerary.

Horseback Riding as a Key to Your Brazil Journey

Whether along the coast, in the mountains, or through the wetlands of the Pantanal – horseback riding in Brazil is, as many say, a direct path to the soul of the country. It blends movement, nature, connection, and cultural exchange in a uniquely powerful way. The landscape becomes not just a backdrop, but an experience you feel deeply.
At Aventura do Brasil, we are happy to help plan your personalized horseback adventure – so that your Brazil trip becomes unforgettable not just for the places you visit, but for the emotions it stirs along the way.

Sources: https://vetsmart.com.br/be/raca/17022/mangalarga-marchador, https://www.urubici.sc.gov.br/, https://www.hotelbarramansa.com.br

Source: Aventura do Brasil