Meet our Guide: Paulo
Bahia Beach Ride, Brazil , Canyons & Waterfalls, Brazil , Pantanal, Brazil
Paulo Junqueira Arantes is one busy man, running all three of our rides in Brazil – Pantanal, Canyons & Waterfalls and Bahia Beach. An incredibly skilled horseman, Paulo takes great pleasure in seeing his clients enjoy their horse riding holidays. Here we find out what else he LOVES about helping globetrotters discover the wonders of South America.
How long have you been running your horse riding holidays?
Since 2005 – 11 years at the time of writing.
And what was the background, history or reason for starting?
I always wanted to live with horses and this opportunity came when I found out that Brazil has the third highest quantity of horses in the world. Even though it has excellent horses and trails, it wasn’t a destination for international rides because there weren’t any proper guides for the rides (with the safety, quality and experience necessary).
How many guest horses do you have?
We have 25 divided between Bahia and Rio Grande do Sul.
Describe your herd of horses in four words.
Reliable, comfortable, beautiful and brave.
What is the philosophy or ethos behind your riding holidays in Brazil?
Turn the holiday into an unforgettable experience, an experience of a lifetime.
What do you love most about your job?
The recognition I receive from clients at the end of the ride is priceless.
What is the most challenging part?
Being able to understand a client’s profile quickly and find the perfect match for client and horse.
Why should globetrotters sign up for your rides?
We have horses everywhere in Brazil, more than 5 million across the country, including 10 different breeds. We are also recognised as a country with very friendly people. You are guaranteed an authentic and memorable experience.
A tip that every globetrotter must know before signing up for a ride in Brazil.
Come with an open mind, you will be surprised at what you find.
What has been the most memorable or significant moment of your guiding career?
I can’t single out a specific one, but a number of clients on their first rides have told me that their life expectancy changed after that holiday and experience.
Anything else you would like to add?
My Plan B if I hadn’t become a riding guide – I would have lived in the countryside with my horses. I would also like to study horse ethology (their behaviour with other horses and humans) and write about my experiences.
Want to experience Brazil in all its raw beauty with Paulo? Check out these three rides: Pantanal, Canyons & Waterfalls and Bahia Beach.