California: The legendary wild Mustangs

Jour 1: River Springs Lakes Ecological Reserve

RIVER SPRINGS / PIZONA (-/L/D)
We begin our journey in search of the wild mustang, one of the few truly untamed horses still roaming free! The English word mustang derives from the Spanish mesteño, meaning "unbroken" or "feral." The first mustangs descended from Spanish horses brought to Mexico in the 16th century. Some escaped or were captured by Native Americans, spreading quickly throughout the northwestern regions of America.
Starting in the mid-1800s, the mustang’s gene pool was enriched by horses belonging to pioneers, many of which fled into the wild. Mustangs are known for their endurance, grace, speed, and independence. They are now a protected species in the USA, and the penalties for harming them are extremely severe.
We’ll ride along the border between California and Nevada, within the Inyo National Forest, which spans parts of the eastern Sierra Nevada and the White Mountains in both states. Our rustic camp will be set up in a scenic clearing, from where we’ll follow the tracks of the wild mustangs in their natural habitat.
Like a true safari, we’ll adapt our route to the movements of the herds. Witnessing these horses in complete freedom is an extraordinary experience, offering a rare insight into their social lives and communication methods. Expect unforgettable sunsets over the Sierra and White Mountains while the camp cook prepares a hearty dinner over the fire — a true cowboy-style adventure!

Flight to Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) and independent transfer to River Springs to meet our guides at 8:00 AM. If needed, we can arrange a quote for a pre-night stay and car rental. You’ll receive a map of the area and an introduction to the fascinating history of these beautiful horses. Once ready, we’ll saddle up and head toward the Pizona Springs area.

Jour 2:

3: PIZONA (B/L/D)
After breakfast, we’ll set off on horseback to explore the surrounding areas, where we may observe the mustangs in their natural habitat. Our guides will offer ethology lessons, explaining herd behavior and social structures.

Jour 4:

PIZONA / RIVER SPRINGS (B/L/-)
Morning ride followed by lunch. In the afternoon, return to River Springs by vehicle around 4:00 PM.

Note:
The itinerary above is indicative and may change due to weather conditions or circumstances beyond our control, depending on the movement of the herds.

Details
(B/L/D): B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner
Difficulty Level: From ° to °°°°°

DURATION: 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS (or 2 or 4 nights)
DIFFICULTY: °° (EASY / INTERMEDIATE)
ACCOMMODATION: MOBILE TENTED CAMP, BIVOUAC
EQUIPMENT: WESTERN
HORSES: QUARTER HORSES
PACE: 2 to 6 HOURS PER DAY IN THE SADDLE – mostly walking pace due to the pack animals accompanying the caravan.
WHAT TO BRING: Luggage weight limit: 14 kg (30 lbs) per person. A surcharge of $3 to $10 will apply if exceeded. Soft bags only — we recommend packing items inside plastic bags for extra protection. Label your luggage clearly. Alcohol is permitted (transfer to plastic bottles). Bring layered clothing, waterproof gear, a riding helmet, sleeping bag, inflatable mattress, camping cup, Swiss army knife, headlamp, towel, biodegradable soap, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, swimsuit, basic first aid/meds, spare batteries, and a solar power bank.
MINIMUM AGE: 6 years
MAXIMUS WEIGHT: 100 kg (220 lbs)
TYPE: Basic mobile camp with mules and pack horses

ACCOMMODATION:
Various tent sizes available. The bivouac is basic, with no electricity or running water. Camps are set up near lakes and/or streams (soap use prohibited). No chemical toilets — only a dug latrine a short distance from camp. Meals are made with fresh ingredients — simple but tasty. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated upon request.
A B&B upgrade is available for an additional fee upon request.

Guaranteed Group Departures from Italy (minimum 1 participant):
May 16–20 – 4 nights
May 24–27 – 3 nights (Memorial Day special)
June 6–8 – 2 nights
Other dates available year-round on request with a minimum of 6 participants
GROUP SIZE: MIN 6 – MAX 20 PARTICIPANTS

SUPPLEMENTS & REDUCTIONS
B&B upgrade: on request
2-night itinerary per person: €1,110
4-night itinerary per person: €1,340