Descended from North African and Spanish stock, caballos de Paso are mid-sized horses bred for sure-footedness and comfort, not for speed.
Unlike trotting breeds, Paso horses pace smoothly with little up-and-down movement, resulting in an exceptionally comfortable ride. As a result, they are tough and well-suited to demanding trips into the rough, dry, and expansive western Andes.
Today, they are considered the smoothest saddle horses in the world.
Peruvian Paso horse showing off its unique gait, Trujillo.
The National Association of Owners & Breeders of Peruvian Paso Horses proudly claims that the breed has its roots in the 20 steeds brought by Christopher Columbus on his second voyage in 1493.
Originally bred on the islands of the Caribbean, Paso horses soon appeared in Central America … and then in Peru with Francisco Pizarro in 1532.
Today, the nation’s centre for Paso horses is in and around Trujillo, where horse riding exhibitions - often combining their skill with the dance and music of the marinera - can be enjoyed.
Horsemen & dancers at ALCOR show, Trujillo.
On the outskirts of the city, in a slightly unprepossessing field with (currently) few amenities, ALCOR offer a 45-minute show (in Spanish) featuring horsemen and dancers.
Further north, inland from El Brujo archaeological site, Paijan Hacienda can offer groups a delicious lunch, along with a colorful display of the skilled Paso horsemanship.
If your itinerary does not include Trujillo, then you have the option of trail and beach riding on Peruvian Paso horses near the ruins of Pachacamac, 30 km (18 miles) south of Lima, with Cabalgatas. And like in Paijan, you also have the option of a meal and show in a traditional hacienda setting.
We can arrange any of the above. Just ask us how.
Peruvian Paso horses & horsemen at Pachacamac, Lima.