Horseback Riding Tour Guide Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of equestrian adventures, the role of a horseback riding tour guide is quite pivotal.

As interest in outdoor activities and unique experiences continues to grow, the demand for knowledgeable and engaging tour guides who can provide memorable horseback riding experiences also increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a horseback riding tour guide?

Whether you are:

• An individual seeking to understand the essence of this role,
• A recruitment manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by what goes into a horseback riding tour,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable horseback riding tour guide job description template, ideal for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Horseback Riding Tour Guide Duties and Responsibilities

Horseback Riding Tour Guides work in a unique environment that combines tourism, customer service, and equestrian skills.

They lead groups of tourists on horseback riding expeditions, offering insight into local flora, fauna, history, and culture while ensuring the safety of all participants.

The following are the main duties and responsibilities of a Horseback Riding Tour Guide:

• Prepare horses for the tour, including grooming, saddling, and checking overall horse health
• Provide basic horse riding lessons to beginners and ensure that all riders are comfortable and safe
• Lead horseback riding tours and share interesting facts and stories about the local area
• Monitor the horses’ behavior and well-being throughout the tour
• Ensure the safety and satisfaction of all tour participants
• Provide first aid treatment if necessary and manage emergency situations
• Maintain equipment and facilities, such as saddles, bridles, and stables
• Handle bookings, client inquiries, and payments
• Feed, water, and care for the horses, including proper stable management

 

Horseback Riding Tour Guide Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for an experienced and passionate Horseback Riding Tour Guide to lead our tourists on exciting and educational outdoor adventures.

The Horseback Riding Tour Guide responsibilities include understanding the skill level of each participant, ensuring safety measures are in place, planning and leading tours, and providing meaningful information about the tour area.

Our ideal candidate has a love for the outdoors, strong communication skills, and a comprehensive understanding of horse handling and care.

Ultimately, the role of the Horseback Riding Tour Guide is to ensure our guests have an unforgettable and safe experience exploring our trails.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead horseback riding tours for individuals or groups
• Assess the riding ability of participants and choose appropriate trails
• Ensure that all safety measures, protocols, and procedures are followed
• Provide engaging and informative commentary about the local area, wildlife, and flora
• Handle the care and maintenance of horses and equipment
• Provide basic horse riding instructions to participants as needed
• Respond to emergency situations effectively
• Maintain a high level of customer service to ensure a great experience for all guests
• Assist with marketing and promotional activities as needed

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Horseback Riding Tour Guide or similar role
• Excellent horse handling skills and knowledge of horse care
• Strong communication and people skills
• Ability to assess the abilities of individuals and adapt tours accordingly
• Knowledge of local area, wildlife, and flora
• First aid and CPR certified preferred
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Outdoor working environment

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Horseback Riding Tour Guide
• Work Environment: Outdoors in varying weather conditions. This position requires physical fitness and the ability to handle horses.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Tour Manager or Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Horseback Riding Tour Guide Do?

A Horseback Riding Tour Guide primarily works in the tourism or recreational industry, often in natural parks, resorts, or ranches.

They lead groups of tourists or individuals on horseback, showcasing various scenic routes, historical sites, or natural attractions.

Their job entails explaining safety protocols and ensuring that all participants can handle their horses with relative ease.

They also provide assistance in mounting and dismounting the horses, and adjusting the equipment such as saddles and stirrups for the riders’ comfort and safety.

Tour guides are responsible for the well-being of the horses, ensuring they are properly fed, groomed, and fit for the ride.

They may also need to assess the horses’ health and temperament before assigning them to riders.

The tour guides often share interesting facts, stories, or historical significance related to the tour route, enriching the overall experience for the participants.

They must also manage the group to prevent straying or accidents, and assist in any situations that may arise during the tour.

Additionally, Horseback Riding Tour Guides are responsible for maintaining and cleaning the equipment, and may also contribute to the marketing and promotion of the tours.

 

Horseback Riding Tour Guide Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Horseback Riding Tour Guide should possess the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong horseback riding skills to safely lead groups on various terrains and in various weather conditions.
• Knowledge of basic horse care and health for ensuring the wellbeing of the horses used on the tour.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills to connect with clients of all ages and backgrounds, facilitating a memorable and enjoyable experience.
• Effective communication skills to clearly relay safety instructions, describe the landscape and history of the area, and respond to any questions or concerns from clients.
• Customer service skills to ensure client satisfaction, handle booking and payment processes, and deal with any issues that may arise during the tour.
• Physical fitness to ride for extended periods, help clients with mounting and dismounting, and perform emergency first aid if necessary.
• Knowledge of local flora and fauna to provide informative and interesting commentary during the tour.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly and effectively respond to any issues that may arise during the tour, such as unpredictable weather or wildlife encounters.

 

Horseback Riding Tour Guide Experience Requirements

Horseback Riding Tour Guides typically require several years of experience with horses, often gained through work in stables, equestrian centers, or similar environments.

They should have a strong understanding of horse behavior, care, and riding techniques.

Entry-level candidates might have 1 to 2 years of experience, often accrued through part-time roles in stables or equestrian centers, or through volunteering or internships with horse-related organizations.

These candidates should be proficient in basic horse care and handling, and have experience in leading or assisting horseback riding tours.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their skills in horse training, handling, and care, and may have more experience in leading tours.

They should be comfortable with managing groups of varying skill levels, and may have some experience in equine first aid.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field often have substantial leadership experience and may have taken on managerial roles in equestrian environments.

They might be well-suited to roles involving the design and coordination of tour routes, training of junior staff, or managing a team of guides.

Experience in customer service or hospitality is also valuable for these roles.

 

Horseback Riding Tour Guide Education and Training Requirements

Horseback Riding Tour Guides usually have a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum educational requirement.

Individuals interested in this role often have a background in horsemanship, with comprehensive knowledge about horse grooming, feeding, and basic veterinary care.

Formal education in equine studies or animal science can be beneficial, but practical hands-on experience with horses is usually prioritized.

Tour guides also need to have safety and first aid training as they are responsible for the safety of their clients during the ride.

A certification in CPR and first aid is often required.

In some regions, licensing may be necessary, which could involve passing a written and practical examination.

It’s equally important for a Horseback Riding Tour Guide to have excellent communication skills.

Thus, experience in customer service or hospitality can be a significant advantage.

Ongoing training is common in this role to stay updated on best practices in horse care and safety.

Some guides may also pursue additional training in wilderness survival, local history, or environmental conservation to enhance their tours.

Continued education in the form of professional certifications such as Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) certification can also demonstrate a guide’s commitment to their profession and can enhance their job prospects.

 

Horseback Riding Tour Guide Salary Expectations

A Horseback Riding Tour Guide earns an average salary of $31,560 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can vary depending on the guide’s level of experience, the location of the tours, and the company’s reputation and size.

Tips and gratuities from satisfied customers can also significantly increase the annual earnings.

 

Horseback Riding Tour Guide Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Horseback Riding Tour Guide need?

A Horseback Riding Tour Guide should have excellent equestrian skills, including the ability to handle horses in all kinds of situations.

They should have good communication skills to explain safety procedures, riding techniques, and convey interesting information about the tour area.

The guide should also have strong leadership skills to control the group and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Knowledge of first aid would also be beneficial.

 

Do Horseback Riding Tour Guides need any specific qualifications?

While there isn’t a specific degree required for this role, it’s essential for Horseback Riding Tour Guides to have extensive experience handling and riding horses.

Certifications in horsemanship, first aid, and CPR are highly beneficial.

Knowledge in local geography, history, or ecology can enhance the tour experience for clients.

 

What should you look for in a Horseback Riding Tour Guide resume?

The resume should showcase the applicant’s experience with horses, including any formal training or certifications.

Any experience as a tour guide or in customer service roles would also be advantageous.

Look for skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving.

The applicant should also demonstrate physical fitness as the role requires handling horses and potentially long hours on the trail.

 

What qualities make a good Horseback Riding Tour Guide?

A good Horseback Riding Tour Guide is passionate about horses and the outdoors.

They’re patient, able to teach beginners how to ride, and able to manage group dynamics.

They should have good stamina, as the job often involves long hours on horseback.

The guide should also be knowledgeable about the local area and able to engage clients with interesting facts and stories.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Horseback Riding Tour Guide?

Hiring a Horseback Riding Tour Guide can be challenging due to the specialized skill set required.

The role requires not just experience with horses, but also the ability to manage groups and entertain clients.

It might take time to find a candidate who is a skilled horse handler, an effective tour guide, and compatible with your business’s particular needs and ethos.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an inside track into what it really means to be a horseback riding tour guide.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about knowing how to ride a horse.

It’s about creating unforgettable experiences, one trail at a time.

With our go-to horseback riding tour guide job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to saddle up.

But why halt at that?

Gallop ahead with our job description generator. It’s your next destination for expertly crafted job listings or honing your resume to unparalleled excellence.

Remember:

Every trail you guide is a part of a larger journey.

Let’s ride that path. Together.

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