First and foremost: these horses have life in their eyes and enjoy life. A lot of times I hestitate to book touristic activities with animals since they are often being exploited. But after talking to Lokoloko I decided to try this trailride. And yes: Paula takes care that the horses have a life. They visibly have social bonds, can roam around, be themselves. One horse came running towards us excitedly on our return - happy to have his best friend back on the ranch! Admittedly, the horses do look a little greasy. The horse that took me through Faial was quite old and yet full of energy. Paula is super friendly, gives valuable instructions throughout and also has some cool trivia on the area which makes the ride even more entertaining. Make sure you ask her about the horses. She clearly loves them and has a lot to say about them. I will book again when I return.

I had been recommended by a friend to have a ride out with these guys, so emailed and booked a month or two before I visited. Everything was super efficient, taxi arranged to pick me up at the hotel and nothing was too much bother. On arrival, I was met by the gorgeous horses and Beatriz, and off we went. Amazing scenery, great knowledge of the area, horses and general chatting. Lovely relaxed ride with walking/trotting/cantering. Apollo was a gorgeous gentleman who knew his job. Over too quickly but fab photos as a reminder of my lovely time.

What an amazing experience. I was dropped off by my ride an hour early and the girls working at the stable let me spend the time petting the horses. I am a beginner horseback rider and a friend gifted me the ride. Paula was so great at explaining all I needed to know and could tell I was a little nervous at the beginning and checked in with me. By the time we did a little trot I was feeling very comfortable and was able to observe the amazing scenery atop this amazing horse. I rode Junior. He was 9 and he made me laugh.

I visited Equine Village with my two daughters (8 & 7) and we are all at beginner level. Paula had organised a taxi to collect and drop us off at our hotel which made life a lot easier. Upon arrival we were greeted by her team as they readied the horses. It gave us time to get a sense of the surrounding area which was beautiful. Paula is so easy going that my girls could follow her instructions and advice easily. The horses are a herd and you can really feel a sense of their connectedness from start to finish. The trip itself took ~2.5hrs - 3hrs and there was never a moment where the experience lulled. Paula's knowledge of the area, flora and fauna, made for a really interesting ride. It was so relaxing and there was time to enjoy the magnificent views, whilst taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the place. At the end, we got the chance to mingle with all the horses which was in itself a special experience - particularly as my youngest had been (up until our arrival) hesitant of large animals. There was no issue here though, I have footage of the horses greeting her patiently and standing around her - even now, just over a month later, I can not describe the feeling I got from watching my two stand amongst these beautiful creatures. All thanks and admiration goes to Paula and her team. We still talk about this experience regularly. It has imprinted a strong memory in us all.

This was our third visit to Equine Village, over a number of years. Whilst we would not describe ourselves in anyway as experienced, we have ridden in a number of different countries with varying treks. Equine Village have by far the best treks we have been on. You don’t feel like you are following some well worn path they do every day. The treks are variable through the forest, along the lavadas and forests tracks. Paula sets a very relaxed atmosphere. There is no sense of rushing or that you are on the clock. You just get the time to take in the beautiful scenery and sounds of the forest. And some of the views are amazing! As you go round, Paula also tells you about the island, its history, flora and fauna, birds, wildlife, etc. Paula is very knowledgeable about the horses, making sure your horse is suited to you and your experience. You always feel safe and that you are in control. We were staying in Funchal and Paula arranged a taxi for us. Our driver was excellent and it made it so easy as we didn’t have a car. He waited while we rode and then took us back. He even provided his own commentary about the island! Madeira is an amazing island in so many ways; it’s geography, plant life, people (who are so friendly and proud of their home), activities you can do, food, culture, etc. We trekked on a Monday morning. Now when I’m sat in meetings on a dreary Monday I look back to that Monday trekking through the forest and dream of going back. I’m sure we will!

Had an amazing experience doing the Levada trail ride through the forest. I'm a complete novice and had no issues. I rode Venus who was so well behaved and well trained. Paula was a great leader and made sure everyone was comfortable. The horses at this ranch are mostly rescues or adopted and are clearly very loved by their caretakers. They're well trained and responsive to even a complete beginner like myself. Paula even took photos and email them to us after the trail ride - didn't even have to ask her. If I'm back in Madeira, I'm definitely doing this again.

This was our third visit to Equine Village as part of family holidays on the lovely island of Madeira. The stable is in a lovely setting and there are charming levada walks nearby if any of your party don't want to ride. The staff are very friendly and engaging and the horses are suitable for all levels of ability. The location, up in the hills, is refreshingly cooler after the heat of Funchal and makes for a nice change. As previously, this was one of the highlights of our holiday.

We loved our ride through the forest. The horses were amazing - there was a helicopter flying nearby when we were on the trail & they didn’t react at all - totally bombproof. The peace & quiet of the forest (after the helicopter!) was beautiful. Ever changing scenery with incredible view points. Our guide, Theresa, was lovely & ensured we all had a good experience. The horses are clearly well loved & cared for & impeccably behaved for the beginners on the group. Whether you are experienced or a total novice rider this is a perfect trip. Beautiful scenery, well behaved horses & a great guide made for a wonderful trip.

Had an incredible time on the Laurel Forest trail ride with Therese. She ensured our safety and the safety of the horses as we rode through a beautiful forest, along a levada, and were led to a stunning overlook. There were also a couple opportunities to trot, and we cantered as well.