After completing school or university, many people decide to take a year or so to explore new horizons and get a clearer sense of themselves and their priorities before committing to a career. For many, this is the opportunity to travel to new countries and experience different cultures and people. For horse- mad girls (why are they nearly always girls?), this year is often a chance to rekindle an old passion.

Equestrian Gap Year Programmes are generally not free, but they are often a lot more affordable than keeping a horse or having regular riding lessons. The added benefit it that it gives those involved the opportunity to learn about so much more than just horses.

There are many different types of riding holidays available to people on a gap year. Some might choose to assist with teaching children to ride ponies, or even to lend a hand at a riding for the disabled establishment. Others might choose to work with horses that have been rescued after previously being abused or discover what happen behind the polo field by volunteering on a polo ranch or stud.

Some of the most popular Equestrian Gap Year Programmes are those situated in Africa. Not only does this give participants the opportunity to discover a whole new world and lots of different cultures, many of the opportunities also involve riding with game – something that is not usually available outside this continent.

Many of the trail-riding companies in South Africa offer Equestrian Gap Year Programmes and volunteer opportunities to experienced riders. This often means that volunteers will ride out with a guide and their guests, usually at the back of the ride, to ensure the safety of the guests so a fairly advanced level of horsemanship is generally required.

In many cases, Equestrian Gap Year Programmes will cover a lot of different aspects of an equine business and volunteers may find themselves involved with handling foals, brood mares and stallions as well as riding horses. As with any volunteer placement, there is a balance between the hard work and the fun stuff. While you may end up cleaning tack for a morning, the afternoon will probably be a great ride through the African wilderness.

Very few Equestrian Gap Year Programmes will expect their participants to muck out stables or do any other very heavy, manual work. However, there are always disreputable companies out there who are anxious to get their share of volunteer labour, even if they are not really in a position to offer an organised programme. To avoid wasting your time, it's advisable to speak to previous volunteers to check out the details of what they were expected to do and what their experience was like. After all, it is a big investment in terms of both time and money.

Once you secure your place at a reputable stable, be sure to brush up on your riding before you get there – otherwise your riding muscles might let you down over the first few days! a