There are two excellent horse-riding ranches in Vanuatu - the French owned l'Hippocampas (Sea Horse Ranch) and Club Hippique Adventure Park (CHAP), both about 15 minutes from Port Vila town.

CHAP offers a unique opportunity for all horse riders. The diverse countryside and ease of access make it perfect for recreational riding. Rides can accommodate beginners, intermediate and experienced riders with jungle trails and beach/lagoon rides.

The club itself has been in operation for over twenty years. CHAP is fully insured however, they advise riders to have their own personal travel/medical insurance. CHAP is fully equipped but for comfort, experienced riders sometimes take their own helmet and boots.

The original horses in Vanuatu came with the plantation owners in the late 1800's and the original bloodlines were probably French. Over the years the bloodlines have been mixed with Quarter horse, Arab, Thoroughbred, Clydesdale, and Appaloosa. What makes the island horse so unique is its temperament. We don't know whether it's the climate or the Melanesian lifestyle or the mixed bloodlines but you can be sure your horse will be quiet, sure-footed and forgiving.

Here's a sample of some of the rides:

Beach Ride (full day)

The ride to Erakor Beach starts out at CHAP and takes you through beautiful plantations to an isolated pristine sandy beach where you can ride and swim yourself and your horse. A steak and salad buffet lunch is served with wine, beer or soft drink.

Cultural Village Ride (half day)

Ride through the plantation to a traditional Melanesian Cultural village and enjoy stories and dancing before returning to CHAP for lunch.

Sunset Ride (2 hours)

This is a ride for lovers and lovers of unforgettable sunsets. Leaving CHAP at around 4pm ride through the plantation to the look out and enjoy a glass of wine or beer while watching the sun sink from the sky. Enjoy a sauntering return journey in the afterglow and finish your wine back at the club.

Rainforest Ride (2 hours)

Ride through spectacular tropical rain forest to the look out and return through the plantation. Included is a swim with your horse in the lagoon after your ride, weather and rider permitting.

Lololima Cascades Ride (full day)

Ride out of CHAP along local roads and bush land to beautiful cascading water falls hidden away up in the hills. Take a swim in the river and enjoy a packed lunch returning to CHAP by mid-afternoon.

Volcano Ride (4 days)

A special mention must be given here to the jewel in the crown of all riding in Vanuatu. It is the ride from Lenakel Cove to Mount Yasur Volcano on Tanna Island. This ride is an event like no other. You will come away from Tanna having been touched by something truly magical. Tanna is a remote and primitive island one hour's flight south of Port Vila. It has a strong traditional culture that is immediately felt on arrival. The island is alive with ancient custom and an ever-present rumble in the earth. Your Tanna Island experience will be even more remarkable if you come equipped with an adventurous, accommodating and flexible spirit as it is truly a very different time and place.

For more info, current prices and specials and accommodation/flight packages, email us.