Rocha
is the state in Uruguay were ocean beaches go as far as our eyes can see,
also famous for it´s wet lands, palm trees and wild life. The feeling
of freedom while galloping through such vast, lonely and wild beaches is
above all words. The visit to ranches, wildlife natural reservations and
fishing villas complement the trip in Rocha, a magnificent untouched area
in Uruguay, South America.
Their strong bones and rustic comformation make them very suitable for riding at the beach and hostile grounds.
Criollo horses are not fast horses, but what makes them excellent for everyday work is their gentle caracter, their adaptability and great disposition for work.
The tack used is all leather made, the saddle is called "recado" and consists of several wool clothes under a kind of saddle with sheep leather on top. It is a very comfortable tack for long rides. Stirrups hang from the saddle sides.
A real gaucho is always in company of his best friend: the horse. They wear the tradditional hat called "panza de burro", very comfortable riding trousers called "bombachas", boots and spurs.
Early in the morning and in the afternoon they gather together to drink "mate", a kind of tea served in a cup and sipped through a silver straw.
