Frequently Asked Questions

Riders of all ages, experience levels, and nationalities are welcome to apply for GAT tours. We offer a wide range of tours, including training, competition, and hybrid experiences, with options to suit riders at many different stages of their riding journey. While many of our tours are open to a broad range of riders, some tours, particularly our competition and hybrid tours, have specific eligibility criteria such as minimum riding ability, competition experience, or age requirements. Each tour is different, so we encourage you to review the individual tour details carefully before applying. If you are unsure which tour is the best fit, our team is happy to help guide you. Our goal is simple: to offer a tour experience for every passionate rider, whether you are looking to learn, compete, or do both.

No, bringing your own horse is not required, and for most riders, that is one of the biggest advantages of a GAT tour.A key point of difference with Global Amateur Tour is that we provide access to quality, purpose-bred horses for all of our tours. This gives riders the unique opportunity to train and compete internationally without the significant cost, logistics, and stress of travelling overseas with their own horse.Our international equestrian tours are designed to make overseas riding more accessible, allowing you to focus on improving your riding, gaining experience, and enjoying the tour rather than managing horse transport and travel arrangements.In some cases, riders may choose to bring their own horse, particularly for certain competition tours. If this is something you are considering, please contact our team and we can discuss the options and provide a customised tour package.

We currently offer the following types of tours: ​ GAT Training: The training tours (like France and Germany) do not typically involve an official show and are more geared up to focus on daily training with elite coaches, which often also involves riding different horses over the week, as well as informative seminars, physical and mental preparation for the riders, fantastic sightseeing opportunities and the chance to spectate at a major international show like CHIO Aachen. These training tours are available for all ages and levels.   GAT Competition: The GAT competition tours like Brazil and Mexico, generally run in conjunction with a CSI International show and require a minimum level of 1.10m, sometimes 1.20m plus if it is a 5-star show like the São Paulo 5*. These events typically involve several days of trialling and getting to know your horse, then several days competing with some downtime in between to sightsee and explore these amazing destinations!   GAT Hybrid Tours: The best of both worlds. These tours incorporate several days of top-quality coaching, followed by the chance to compete at a local or national show.

At GAT, we believe there is a tour for every rider. We offer a wide range of international equestrian experiences across training, competition, hybrid, showjumping, and eventing tours, designed to suit riders of different ages, experience levels, and riding goals. The right tour for you will depend on several factors, including your age, riding ability, competition experience, discipline, confidence level, and what you want to get out of the experience. Some tours are open to riders of all ages and abilities, particularly our training-focused tours. Other tours, especially competition and hybrid tours, may have minimum riding or competition requirements, such as jumping at a certain level or having prior competition experience. We are also continually developing new tours and destinations, which means there are more options than ever before for riders looking to train, compete, travel, and grow. Each tour page on our website includes detailed information about rider suitability, tour requirements, and inclusions to help you decide. If you are unsure which tour is the best fit, we recommend completing an Expression of Interest and selecting your general preferences, such as training tours, competition tours, or both. Our team will then work with you to help find the best option based on your riding background, experience, and goals.

All GAT tours can be supported in English, and all riders can expect clear communication and coaching throughout their tour. In addition, many of our tour destinations also offer the option to train in the local language with native-speaking coaches and support staff. Depending on the tour location, lessons may also be available in German, Spanish, Portuguese, or French. For example, we have native speakers and local support in Germany, Mexico, Portugal, Brazil, and France, giving riders the opportunity to receive coaching in the language they are most comfortable with. Where required, we can also assist with translation to ensure language is never a barrier to enjoying your GAT experience. Whether you prefer lessons in English or another available language, our goal is to make every rider feel comfortable, confident, and fully supported throughout their tour.

Sightseeing and other off the horse activities are a big part of the GAT experience, but the exact activities depend on the tour location, schedule, season, and major events taking place at the time. Each tour is built to combine world-class riding with a genuine travel experience. Alongside the training and competition, we aim to include memorable sightseeing, cultural activities, major equestrian events, great food, local experiences, and time to enjoy the destination. Past and current tour examples have included experiences such as visiting Paris, the Palace of Versailles, Monet’s Gardens, Euro Disney and Rouen in France; exploring the Cotswolds and attending Badminton Horse Trials in the UK; spectating at CHIO Aachen in Germany; visiting Teotihuacán, Val’Quirico and Puebla in Mexico; enjoying river cruises, wine tours, surfing, kayaking and cultural activities in Portugal; and experiencing Ocala, Universal Studios, Silver Springs and major equestrian venues in the USA. Some sightseeing activities are included in the tour package, while others may be offered as optional extras depending on timing, group interest, and availability. Riders are also welcome to bring family members or supporters, who can enjoy the non-riding parts of the itinerary and share in the travel experience. Many riders and families also choose to extend their trip before or after the tour. Where possible, the GAT team can provide tips and advice to help you make the most of your destination and enjoy more local experiences beyond the official tour itinerary. Every GAT tour is different, but our goal is always the same: to combine riding, travel, culture, and unforgettable experiences in some of the world’s best equestrian destinations.

For most GAT tours, age is not a barrier. Our training tours generally have no age restrictions and are open to riders of all ages and experience levels. Over the years, we have welcomed riders as young as 11 and riders in their 70s, proving that passion for riding matters far more than age. Some competition and hybrid tours may have age restrictions or eligibility requirements depending on the specific event, competition rules, or tour format. Riders under 18 years of age at the time of the tour must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Each tour has its own requirements, so we recommend checking the individual tour details before applying. If you are unsure, our team is always happy to help you find the right tour. At GAT, we believe international riding experiences should be accessible to riders at every stage of life.

Supporters are not only welcome on GAT tours, they are a huge part of the GAT experience. Many of our riders travel with parents, partners, spouses, family members, or friends, and for many supporters, the tour becomes just as memorable and rewarding as it is for the rider. GAT is unique in that we do not simply cater to riders, we deliver a complete, premium travel experience for supporters as well. In many ways, supporters enjoy an incredible equestrian holiday built around world-class sport, travel, sightseeing, and unforgettable shared experiences. Every tour allows riders to bring at least one official supporter, and on many tours we can accommodate additional supporters depending on availability and logistics. Official supporters pay a separate tour fee, which is listed on each tour information page. While pricing excludes flights and travel insurance, the supporter package is designed to provide a seamless, stress-free experience from start to finish. Supporter packages typically include: • Quality accommodation • Most ground transportation • Included sightseeing and cultural experiences • Selected meals • Access to major equestrian events and show tickets where applicable • Full support from the GAT team and accompanying Chef d’Équipe Supporters get to experience the excitement of international equestrian sport up close while also enjoying everything the destination has to offer, whether that is spectating at world-class competitions, exploring iconic landmarks, enjoying incredible food and wine, or simply sharing the journey with the rider. Many supporters tell us they came along to support a rider but ended up having an unforgettable holiday themselves. For families, parents, partners, and supporters, GAT offers far more than just spectating, it is a fully curated international travel experience designed to be enjoyed by everyone.

There is no fixed application closing date for most GAT tours, but availability can vary significantly depending on the destination, tour format, and demand. Most tours are listed on our website and open for applications between 8 and 15 months before departure. Some tours are highly sought after and can sell out very quickly, sometimes within just a few weeks of launch. Other tours have greater capacity, and in some cases we can accept applications right up to around 2 months before departure. There are also occasional last-minute openings due to rider withdrawals, injuries, or other unforeseen circumstances, meaning places can sometimes become available much closer to the tour date. Our advice is simple: If you are interested in a tour, do not wait too long. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of securing a place. If you think you may have missed out, still get in touch. It is always worth asking, as we may have a late availability, a cancellation, or in some cases be able to add an extra rider. If you are serious about joining a GAT tour, we always recommend reaching out or submitting your application as soon as possible.

All current GAT tours can be found on our Events page, where you can explore upcoming destinations, tour formats, inclusions, pricing, and rider suitability requirements. Once you have found a tour that interests you, the application process is straightforward. To apply, you will need to complete our application form and provide: • Your riding background and experience • An unedited riding video • Contact details for two referees, typically coaches, trainers, or other relevant equestrian professionals For training tours, your riding video does not need to be from competition and can simply show your current riding level and ability. Once we receive your application, our team carefully reviews all information provided, including your riding background, video, and references. We also carry out reference checks where required, often speaking directly with coaches or other relevant contacts. Throughout the process, we stay in touch and keep you updated as your application progresses. Our goal is to ensure every rider is matched with the right tour, horse, and experience to give them the best possible GAT experience.

Tour pricing varies depending on the destination, tour format, duration, inclusions, and whether you are attending as a rider or supporter. As a guide, rider packages generally range from approximately €6,000 to €12,500, while supporter packages typically range from approximately €3,000 to €6,500, depending on the tour. All pricing is clearly outlined on each individual tour page, including rider and supporter pricing, tour inclusions, and key details about what is covered. All prices advertised on our website are estimates based on current supplier pricing, exchange rates, and operating costs at the time the tour is launched. In most cases, final pricing remains very close to the advertised estimate, and if any changes occur, these are communicated as early as possible. To secure your place on a tour, selected applicants are required to pay a deposit of: • 2,000 in the currency the tour is priced in, per rider • 1,000 in the currency the tour is priced in, per supporter This deposit is invoiced once you have been selected and offered a place on the tour. Your spot is only confirmed once the deposit has been received. If you are comparing tours or unsure which option best suits your budget and goals, our team is always happy to help guide you.

Tour inclusions vary depending on the destination, tour format, and whether you are joining as a rider or supporter. Full inclusions for each tour are clearly outlined on the individual tour page on our website. In general, GAT tours are designed to provide a comprehensive, premium experience with most major costs included, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience rather than managing logistics. For all tours, the advertised price excludes flights, travel insurance, and personal spending. Tour pricing typically includes: • Quality accommodation • Breakfast daily, plus welcome and farewell dinners • Your dedicated GAT Chef d’Équipe and on-tour support • Included sightseeing and cultural activities • Most ground transportation during the tour • Event tickets for included shows and equestrian events • Official Global Amateur Tour merchandise package For riders, the tour price also includes all major horse-related costs, such as: • Coaching and training • Horse lease or horse access • Stabling • Required horse transportation • Competition or event entry fees where applicable In addition to the standard tour package, some tours may also offer optional extras at additional cost. These can include: • Optional sightseeing or adventure activities • Room upgrades • Extended accommodation or trip extensions before or after the tour • Additional merchandise • Other premium add-ons specific to the tour These optional extras are entirely up to you and allow riders and supporters to customise their GAT experience to suit their preferences and budget.

Once you have been selected for a GAT tour, you will receive a tour information form and deposit invoice to secure your place. Payment is flexible, and riders and supporters can choose the option that works best for them. You can either: • Pay your tour in full upfront • Pay via instalments over time (2 installments) Most tours are structured with an initial deposit, followed by a one off payment or two instalments. Payments can be made by: • Bank transfer • Credit card All invoices are issued in the currency the tour is priced in, which is typically GBP, EUR, or USD, and payments must be made in that currency. Once your deposit payment has been received, your place on the tour is officially confirmed. Our team will guide you through the payment process and make sure everything is clear and straightforward from the time you are selected right through to departure.

We understand that at first glance, a GAT tour can appear to be a significant investment. However, once you look at what is included and the standard of experience we deliver, the value becomes much clearer. GAT is a premium international equestrian experience. We do not cut corners on quality, safety, horse welfare, rider support, or overall tour delivery. A major part of the cost is access to exceptional horses. We work with carefully selected, high-quality training and competition horses that are experienced, well prepared, and suited to the level of each rider. Leasing horses of this calibre in top equestrian destinations comes at a premium. We also work exclusively with highly respected coaches, trainers, riders, course designers, and professional stables, many of whom operate at the very top of the sport. This gives our riders access to world-class training and competition opportunities that would be difficult to organise independently. Just as importantly, GAT tours are designed to be safe, well supported, and professionally managed from start to finish. Every tour is delivered by experienced GAT Chef d’Équipes and support staff who understand both the equestrian and travel demands of operating international tours. Our team works incredibly hard behind the scenes to ensure riders and supporters feel prepared, supported, and looked after throughout the entire experience. Your tour investment also covers far more than just riding. Depending on the tour, inclusions typically cover: Access to quality leased horses Coaching and training with elite professionals Off horse experiences, such as stable tours and rider fitness Competition support and horse logistics Quality accommodation Most transport during the tour Included sightseeing and cultural experiences Event tickets and behind-the-scenes equestrian access Official GAT merchandise packs Welcome and farewell dinners, plus selected meals Full support from the GAT team throughout The off-horse experience is also a major part of what makes GAT special. From visiting iconic equestrian venues and world-class competitions to experiencing incredible local culture, food, sightseeing, and unique destinations, our tours are designed to deliver an unforgettable experience both in and out of the saddle. At GAT, our goal has never been to cut corners to offer the cheapest option but to deliver exceptional value through an unforgettable, world-class equestrian experiences that are worth every dollar.

Over the years, many others have entered the market offering international equestrian tours on borrowed horses, which reflects the growing demand for these kinds of experiences. We welcome that growth, as more opportunities for riders is ultimately a positive thing for the sport. However, not all equestrian tours are created equal. At GAT, we believe the difference is in the detail, the planning, the quality of execution, and the standards behind every decision. GAT was one of the original pioneers of the international leased-horse tour model and remains one of the most established and trusted operators in the market. Since 2018, we have taken hundreds over 500 riders from every corner of the world to train and compete across some of the best equestrian destinations on the planet. What sets GAT apart is not just one thing, it is the complete end-to-end experience. We do not simply organise riding trips. We build carefully curated international equestrian experiences designed around quality, safety, support, and long-term consistency. Every GAT tour is thoroughly researched and carefully planned. We personally scout locations before launching tours and only partner with highly respected stables, trainers, competition venues, and equestrian professionals with proven reputations. We are selective about who we work with because the quality of the horse, stable, coaching, and overall environment matters enormously. We are equally careful with rider selection. Because our tours are application-based, we take the time to ensure riders are matched to the right tour, the right horse, and the right environment. This is not just about riding ability, it is also about group dynamics, rider goals, safety, and creating the best possible experience for everyone involved. This means we cannot always accept every applicant for every tour, but it helps ensure consistently high-quality outcomes. Group size also matters. We only take groups that are appropriate for the location, the horses available, and the level of support we can provide. Every tour is supported by dedicated GAT Chef d’Équipes and experienced staff whose sole focus is making sure riders and supporters are fully looked after. We also believe the best tours are about far more than just time in the saddle. The GAT experience combines exceptional horses, world-class coaching, quality accommodation, strong logistics, premium merchandise, memorable sightseeing, and incredible off-horse experiences into one seamless package. Could another provider offer one strong component, such as a good stable or a talented horse? Certainly. But delivering the complete experience at a consistently high standard, year after year, requires far more than that. It requires experience, planning, operational discipline, strong relationships, and an unwavering commitment to quality. That is what GAT has built its reputation on. Our goal has never been to be the biggest or cheapest. Our goal is to be the most trusted and to deliver the highest-quality international equestrian experiences possible.

Yes, in some cases you can bring your own horse on a GAT tour.While one of the key points of difference with GAT is our ability to source and match riders with high-quality leased horses, we understand that some riders may prefer to train or compete on their own horse.If you are able to arrange transport for your horse to the tour location, we can often accommodate this and assist with planning around stabling, logistics, and any horse-related requirements at the destination.This option is more common for certain competition tours and is assessed on a case-by-case basis depending on the tour location, venue, timing, and practical logistics involved.If you are interested in bringing your own horse, simply let us know when you apply or contact our team to discuss the options.We can then talk you through the process, outline what would be required, and provide revised pricing with the horse lease component removed from the standard tour package.

We understand that plans can change and that unexpected situations can arise. You can withdraw from a GAT tour at any stage; however, refund eligibility depends on how close to departure your cancellation occurs and what costs have already been committed on your behalf. Because we secure horses, accommodation, event entries, transport, and other major tour costs well in advance, cancellation terms are necessary to protect both GAT and our suppliers. As a general rule, tour deposits are non-refundable. However, if you withdraw early enough, some or all of your additional tour payments may be partially or fully refundable in accordance with the cancellation terms outlined in your Tour Agreement. For this reason, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance as soon as you are selected and confirm your place on a tour. Good travel insurance can provide important protection if illness, injury, family emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances prevent you from travelling. In many cases, non-refundable costs, including your deposit and other prepaid tour expenses, may be claimable through your travel insurer, subject to your policy terms and coverage. If you need to make a claim, GAT will provide supporting documentation to assist with your insurer’s claims process. Full cancellation terms and refund conditions are clearly outlined in your Tour Agreement, which must be signed before your place on the tour is confirmed.

One of the most special parts of the GAT experience is the people you meet and the friendships you build along the way. Our tours attract riders from all walks of life, with a wide range of ages, backgrounds, riding levels, and life experiences. Over the years, we have welcomed riders from every continent except Antarctica. Some riders are ambitious young athletes chasing high-performance competition goals. Others are adult amateurs fulfilling lifelong dreams of training or competing internationally. Some come with family or supporters, while many travel solo and quickly become part of the GAT community. What brings everyone together is a shared passion for horses, riding, learning, travel, and personal growth. Because our tours bring together riders from different countries, cultures, and riding backgrounds, the experience often extends far beyond what happens in the saddle. Riders gain new perspectives, form lasting friendships, and become part of a truly global equestrian network. Many of the friendships and connections built on GAT tours continue long after the tour ends, with riders staying in touch, travelling together again, and becoming lifelong friends. For many riders, the people they meet become just as memorable as the horses, coaching, and destinations themselves.

Absolutely! Most GAT tours offer places for spectators, and many people join us purely as supporters or spectators without riding at all. In most cases, spectators simply join on the supporter package listed on each individual tour page and enjoy the full GAT experience alongside our riders and support team. As a spectator, you are far more than just an observer. You become part of the tour experience and enjoy everything the destination has to offer, from world-class equestrian events and training environments to sightseeing, cultural experiences, and memorable group activities. Depending on the tour, spectators may enjoy: • Access to training sessions and competitions • Premium equestrian events and show tickets • Included sightseeing and cultural activities • Quality accommodation • Most tour transportation • Welcome and farewell dinners, plus selected meals • Full support from the GAT team throughout the tour Many spectators are parents, partners, family members, friends, horse lovers, or equestrian enthusiasts who simply want to experience the excitement of international riding and be part of the journey. For many, it becomes an unforgettable equestrian holiday and travel experience in its own right. Most tours can accommodate spectator-only places, so if you are interested in attending as a supporter or spectator, simply let us know when enquiring or applying, and we can talk you through the options.

A huge amount. GAT tours are about far more than just riding. While the horses, coaching, and competition are at the heart of every tour, some of the most memorable moments often happen off the horse. Every tour is different, but all are designed to deliver a rich and unforgettable experience both in and out of the saddle. We aim to combine world-class equestrian experiences with travel, culture, learning, adventure, and fun. Depending on the tour, activities may include: • Attending world-renowned equestrian events such as CHIO Aachen, Global Champions Tour, or major 5-star competitions • Rider fitness and performance sessions • Educational seminars on topics such as mental performance, course walking, horse management, and course design • Behind-the-scenes access to elite stables and equestrian facilities • Trail riding and unique horse experiences • Cultural activities such as cooking classes, polo, dancing, wine tasting, or local experiences • Sightseeing and iconic tourist attractions • Exploring local towns, shops, restaurants, food, and nightlife • Group dinners, social events, and unforgettable shared experiences There is also plenty of opportunity to make your GAT experience your own. Many tours include optional activities that riders and supporters can choose to add based on their interests. There is also often downtime built into the itinerary, allowing you to relax, explore independently, or enjoy the destination at your own pace. Many riders and supporters also choose to extend their stay before or after the official tour, turning their GAT experience into an even bigger international adventure. Some use this extra time for sightseeing, holidays, shopping, family travel, or simply to experience more of the local culture and destination. Whether you want a tour focused heavily on riding and performance, or one that combines horses with travel and adventure, GAT offers experiences that can be tailored to suit what matters most to you. Our team is always happy to help guide you toward the right tour based on what you are looking for, both on and off the horse.

Absolutely. Many riders and supporters choose to extend their trip before or after their GAT tour, and we highly encourage it if time and budget allow. Our tours take place in some of the world’s most incredible equestrian and travel destinations, so extending your stay can be a fantastic way to make even more of the experience. In many cases, we can arrange additional nights at the official tour accommodation before or after the tour, making your travel plans simple and seamless. Some riders choose to arrive early to adjust to the time zone, settle in, and feel fully prepared before the tour begins. Others prefer to stay on afterwards to relax, unwind, and enjoy more sightseeing once the riding is complete. Many riders and supporters also use their GAT tour as part of a larger holiday, adding extra travel before or after the official tour to explore more of the country or nearby destinations. This could include: • Visiting major cities or iconic landmarks • Beach or resort stays • Family holidays • Food and wine experiences • Shopping and cultural activities • Additional equestrian experiences or competitions Whether you want a few extra nights or a much bigger travel itinerary, we are always happy to help with ideas, recommendations, and practical advice to help you make the most of your trip.

GAT tours operate in some of the world’s best equestrian destinations, with locations continuing to grow as we develop new partnerships and opportunities around the globe. Since launching, GAT has delivered tours across a wide range of destinations including Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, France, Germany, Portugal, the USA, the UK, Argentina, New Zealand, and Morocco. Our tours include training, competition, hybrid, showjumping, and eventing experiences, depending on the location and opportunity. For 2027, we have already launched applications for two German tours, a UK eventing tour centred around Badminton Horse Trials in May, and a competition tour to Mexico. We will also be rolling out additional 2027 tours soon, including destinations such as Brazil, the USA, France, and Portugal, with more exciting opportunities currently in development. At GAT, we are always scouting new locations and working with top stables, trainers, and equestrian professionals around the world to create exceptional tour experiences. This means our tour calendar is constantly evolving, with new destinations and experiences regularly being added. To stay up to date with the latest tour launches: • Check our Events page regularly • Sign up to our newsletter • Follow GAT on social media That way, you will be the first to hear about new tours, new destinations, and future opportunities to train, compete, and travel with GAT.

We do our best to accommodate dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergies. When you apply, just let us know your requirements, and we’ll work with local suppliers and accommodation providers to ensure you're catered for as best we can.

For most GAT tours, the standard package is based on twin-share accommodation. With riders either sharing a room with their supporter/guardian or another rider. This helps keep tour pricing as cost-effective as possible while still providing quality accommodation in excellent locations. Private room upgrades are available on most tours for an additional cost, subject to availability. If you are travelling with a friend, partner, parent, supporter, or family member, we can usually arrange for you to room together. Some tours also offer additional accommodation options such as family rooms, apartments, or adjoining rooms, depending on the property and location. We have some tours where we use hotel accommodation and other where we may use guest houses or Air BnB's. In France we have used beautiful Chateau for shared living with a pool and extensive gardens. We understand that accommodation is an important part of your overall tour experience, so rooming arrangements are managed carefully to ensure comfort and a positive experience for everyone. After selection, you will complete a tour information form where we collect your rooming preferences and any special accommodation requirements. Any tour-specific rooming options, upgrade opportunities, or special accommodation details are also clearly outlined on the individual tour webpage.