This trip was one of the deepest and most beautiful experiences of my life. The space held is profoundly safe and joyful for anyone seeking time and space to process grief, trauma, or simply an awakening to the gift of life itself. Riding Wild was an answer to a call to live more openly connected to my unique spirit. The heart healing energy of the land, the horses, and the intimate group of brave women was more than enough to invite personal magic but Aneila masterfully guided us into realms of gentleness I couldn't imagine finding any other way. I have come away with newfound strength, stillness, and softness necessary to be most receptive to the miracles present in each and every small moment. I highly recommend this adventure. read more

I recently returned from my first Riding Wild retreat with Aniela in South Africa and I am already looking forward to my next one. There are so many different positive things to touch upon but I will keep it short and sweet. First, the small and intimate size of the group was extremely pleasant to experience. We all were able to connect with each other easily and get to know one another quickly. This made the group flow with such ease and allowed us all to pivot whenever needed. The location of the retreat was absolutely gorgeous. Aniela selected such a beautiful lodging space for us all. It was remote and quaint but beautifully decorated and on par with the theme of the surrounding lands. The staff at the lodge went above and beyond to take care of our every need. The meals were all delicious and super nourishing. And the little details from the table settings to the accommodations to everyone's dietary needs did not go unnoticed. We had some really gorgeous adventures that showed us the area and allowed us to explore beyond the rides. And then of course the rides themselves were in different settings (some in the bush/safari area and the other in the forests of Africa on the trails) which kept things fresh and exciting. The horses were amazing - super gentle, sweet, and easy to ride even though we were experienced riders. The staff working with Aniela and the horses were all extremely nice and you could tell they really cared about their animals and were treated very well. Aniela teamed up with Candice Webster on this retreat which was the cherry on top. We each got a healing session with Candice and her herd that was an experience I will remember for the rest of my life. Aniela and Candice both created such a safe and accepting container for us all and it was not hard at all to relax and really take the entire experience in. I already have another ride in the works and cannot wait to see what Aniela puts together for us on this next one. read more

I joined Aniela and Taren for a horse-packing trip deep into the Eastern Sierras in August of 2024. I can say, without a single doubt, it was the experience and trip of a lifetime. And I am chomping at the bit to join another adventure. Embarking on any journey into the wildness that is Nature, you can almost always guarantee that you will be confronted -- in one way or another. As with most things in life, I believe what you put in to any experience is what you get out of it. This trip definitely echoed that truth back to me. Having done a number of solo camping expeditions in the past, this felt like stepping into a deeper space of reverence. This ride became an invitation -- challenging me to surrender the habitual pattern of needing to control everything around me to feel safe. I went into this experience intentionally wanting to let go, and to foster resilience and trust within myself -- to move through any discomfort or situations my mind has historically feared I could not overcome. Allowing me to come out the other side with a deeply rooted, unshakeable faith in myself, my body and my mind. Was this trip more challenging than I had expected? Definitely. But was it absolutely, positively rewarding? You better believe it. The terrain was more technical than I had anticipated. It was a bit confronting for me personally, as I have a fear of heights. There were a number of times we traversed steep mountainside, switch backs, slick rock, and landslides or fallen trees. That said, there were consistent stops to allow the horses (and humans) a break, as well as double-check that our gear was properly tightened. Aniela and Taren also made it a point to check in regularly with every rider to gauge our feeling of comfort/safety. I felt continually supported to take my time and guided to stay calm and grounded in my body. Aniela and Taren helped cultivate a container for us to navigate what we were moving through physically *and* emotionally. In the event that any participant voiced their concerns and questions regarding what terrain we would be facing, they acknowledged and honored each rider -- as we were all having our own unique reality in this shared experience. They also took initiative to communicate with our packing team to confirm our route and made sure our horse line-up was reflective of everyone's comfort level. (ie., having beginner riders or anyone needing more time up front to set the pace, with the more advanced riders in back.) This entirely women-led team was exceptional -- and my faith in each one's ability and leadership only deepened as our journey unfolded. Any bubbling fears that surfaced at the start, lessened as I settled more into my body, and leaned into trusting my connection with my horse, my Self and the safety created by our collective. The packing team was highly trained and skilled, knowledgeable, and incredibly inspiring. Seriously -- what a group of powerhouses! These women led us safely from each location and then immediately set up camp and a kitchen to feed us (which by the way, were some of the best meals I've ever had) and tended the horses til morning for us to do it all over again... these women are literally my heroes. If you love horses, camping, being in Nature, crave deep connection, want to see some of the most stunning, wild places in Nature that your heart and eyeballs have ever seen AND are open to expanding outside your comfort zone... then this is the trip for you. Worth. Every. Single. Penny. And I'd do it all again in a heartbeat... read more

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Riding wild gave me the trip of a lifetime! I had the opportunity to go on a week long trip in the northern Yosemite mountains led by an all women group of packers! The trip took me out of my comfort zone and was challenging but in the best way. I have been riding horses my whole life and found the trail to be challenging, and certainly I would not recommend this trip for beginner riders. That being said the ride was all walking with some steep inclines, declines, and challenging terrain. The horses were expert navigators and the packers guiding us were excellent at leading. They were some of the most capable horse women I've ever met. I had full faith in the team. The landscape was jaw droppingly beautiful. The food was surprisingly amazing as there was an entire kitchen packed in and healthy and satisfying meals were made daily! I found so much joy and freedom while getting back into nature, connecting with horses and being off the grid for the first time in my adult life. I would 100% recommend and go again! read more

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It's truly impossible to describe the magic of a Riding Wild experience, but I'll give it a try. I just returned from my third trip with Aniela and somehow she continues to blow me away with the energy and love she pours into creating such an incredible space for women. From the start you feel held and safe, free to show up however you need to each day. For me, it's such a therapeutic journey, bonding with women from all over the world, making meaningful, deep connections that will last forever. And the horses... the time we get to spend in the saddle, riding in the most breathtaking landscapes- so much consideration into making sure everyone is matched well and comfortable on their horses. I can confidently say I am changed for the better after every journey with Riding Wild. I feel closer to myself, I feel more connected with the world and I have processed some heavy emotions that have brought me true healing. I have gained sisters across the globe and I honestly have to remind myself these trips were real because often they feel like a dream. Aniela has a gift and if you are lucky enough to be around her, you will feel it! A reflection from Riding Wild: Patagonia. "stripped down to our rawest selves, noticing every feather in the wind, hearts cracking wide open, sinking into freezing waters, holding hands of the bravest women, redefining home, and tapping into a wildness only found on horseback. a love letter to @riding.wild - you've done it again. I leave behind an old version of myself and hear my mamas voice louder in my ear everyday. what happens out here is something unexplainable, words could never even try. pushing myself in a way that's not always comfortable, but ultimately so freeing. thank you seems inadequate" read more

Our ride through the Sierra Nevadas to see the Wild Mustangs was nothing short of magical and life changing. There is something very personal you share with your horse or mule when you travel for days and miles in quiet meditation on horseback. The trip was perfectly curated to ensure no break in complete immersion with nature, healthy food and yoga to keep you able to continue the ride pain free. The breathwork ceremony was beautiful and proved to be a pivotal moment in my overall spiritual journey. I cannot recommend this ride enough. I came home refreshed, engulfed in my feminine spirit, feeling brave and ready for more! read more

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It's hard to put into words the magic of a Riding Wild trip, hence the longer-than-usual review. If I could give more than five stars, I absolutely would. I had the joy of joining a six-day journey through the Sierra Nevada in Northern California, and I have zero complaints and countless praises. Even now, more than a month later, I find myself thinking about the trip daily with a smile on my face and love pouring through me. It's the kind of experience that leaves a lasting mark on your mind, body, and soul. Aniela has curated something truly extraordinary; an adventure unlike anything I've ever seen, heard of, or experienced. Where else can you embark on a monumental journey with an all-women group? From the exhilaration of riding horses--or in my case, a sure-footed mule named Bart (the best, most trustworthy companion!)--through breathtaking terrain, to beginning each day in meditation around the campfire, every detail felt intentional. Evenings closed with somatic yoga and yoga nidra, grounding us and helping our bodies absorb the day's adventure. Each day brought beauty and joy, as well as challenges that pushed us to face fears and stretch beyond comfort. Yet I always felt safe and supported by Aniela, co-guide Taren, Emma (our wonderful wrangler and cook), and by the group itself. Together, they created an environment where our nervous systems could learn: we are capable, we can face fears, and we are stronger than we realize. Lessons like that only arise when you step outside your comfort zone, and they require the right people to hold space. Aniela chooses the right people. She radiates love, light, and wisdom, striking the perfect balance between holding space, checking in, and encouraging us to lean into growth when the moment is right. One of the highlights was our layover day at Benson Lake, a spectacular alpine lake, where Taren led a powerful breathwork session. I have attended several group sessions with Taren before, and in full honesty, her presence was one of the main reasons I joined this trip. She brings such groundedness and care that true release feels inevitable, not just for the individual, but for the group as a whole. That day deepened our connection to ourselves, to each other, and to the realization that some experiences truly transcend words. I could write endlessly about this trip. It's taken me weeks just to begin to process the growth, emotions, and healing it stirred. Aniela has created something breathtaking from beginning to end, an adventure that blends wilderness, community, and soul work seamlessly. For anyone considering this trip: I recommend having some horseback riding experience, as the terrain can be technical. But don't worry, you don't need to be an expert. The guidance, support, and encouragement from Aniela, Taren, and the entire team make it possible for anyone with an open heart and a willing spirit to step into the magic of Riding Wild. read more

My experience with Riding Wild was nothing short of extraordinary, and I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on a journey with Aniela. I joined the Hekluhestar ride in Iceland this May, and it was without a doubt one of the most meaningful investments I've made in myself in a long time. Words hardly do justice to the depth and beauty of this experience. It was special, transformative, and far exceeded my expectations. We stayed on a multi-generational, family-run farm that was cozy, clean, and peaceful. We were nourished with delicious, hearty meals made with love, surrounded by free-roaming animals and picturesque landscapes that invited rest and reflection. The horses were gentle, intuitive, well-trained, and clearly cherished. Over five days, we rode across breathtaking terrain at various gaits, and every moment was calmly invigorating. Our group quickly found a natural rhythm, and the days flowed with a beautiful balance of adventure and restoration. Each day included meditation, yin yoga, and intentional time to connect. We were also guided through a cacao ceremony and powerful breathwork led by Aniela and her gifted co-facilitator, Heidrun. What made this trip even more profound was the group of women who felt called to be there. We formed deep, soulful connections and friendships that I hope will last a lifetime. Aniela's presence was the heart of it all. She holds space with such grace, compassion, and attentiveness. She somehow manages to lead with strength while being vulnerably present and fully engaged, all while juggling the many facets of her nonprofit and planning several other treks. She is a rare and radiant soul, and it was an honor to get to know her on this journey. This experience was deeply healing and heart-expanding. It invited us to slow down, reconnect with the present, and soothe our nervous systems. It offered a much-needed reset for the soul amid the chaos of the times we're living in. A return to the self, to the heart, and to the healing power of nature, held in the safety and strength of an intentional, supportive group. If you're considering a trip with Riding Wild, I truly cannot recommend it enough. The experience was priceless, dare I say life-changing, and crafted with such care, intention, and integrity. read more

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Unforgettable Riding Wild Experience in Iceland Joining Riding Wild with Aniela at Hekluhestar Farm in Southern Iceland was one of the most soul-nourishing experiences of my life. From the moment we arrived, Anita and her family welcomed us with open arms and incredible home-cooked meals made from fresh, local ingredients. The Icelandic horses--calm, beautifully trained, and a dream to ride with their signature smooth gaits--made every moment on horseback pure joy. Aniela and her co-facilitator skillfully blended yoga, meditation, and breathwork into our daily rhythm, deepening our connection with ourselves, the group, and these magical animals. Galloping across lava fields, drinking from glacial springs, and taking in Iceland's raw beauty created memories I'll carry forever. I've followed Aniela's journey for years, and this retreat exceeded every expectation. Already planning my next Riding Wild adventure for 2026! read more

I had the privilege of joining the 2024 Sierra Nevada trip led by Aniela, and it was truly a life-changing experience. This journey is designed for those ready to stretch and grow--mentally, physically, and emotionally. A backcountry horse trip isn't for people who are seeking comfort or unwilling to push their limits. But if you are open to challenge, the rewards are beyond anything you can imagine. I felt deeply empowered being on horseback in the mountains, surrounded by some of the most stunning landscapes I've ever seen. I discovered strength within myself, both mentally and physically, that I didn't know I had. I'm incredibly proud of how I rose to the occasion; I felt like a powerful woman. This trip requires you to tack up your horse, set up your tent, and take care of yourself, each other, and the horses. I personally witnessed Aniela and her team intentionally create a supportive space for everyone to share their experiences, fully aware that the journey could be intense for some. I saw one participant express discomfort, and Aniela handled it with grace. By the end of the trip, that same person was beaming with pride for overcoming the challenges of riding and camping for six days. Aniela and her incredible team of guides were nothing short of exceptional. Their expertise in reading topographic maps, navigating the terrain, handling the animals, preparing excellent meals, and keeping us safe made the experience seamless. But beyond logistics, they fostered a space where genuine connection and personal growth could thrive. For me, this experience was priceless. It showed me that I am strong, brave, and capable- lessons that have carried over into my business, my relationships, and my personal life. It helped me reconnect with my voice. And the HORSES- what a magical experience to bond with them and feel an ancient connection to nature. I would do this again in a heartbeat. Be prepared to ride, camp, and brave the elements, but know that you'll gain an unforgettable experience in return. I watched the full moon rise over the Sierras, rode through wide colorful valleys, and saw alpine lakes in the most stunning shades of blue. I met women I didn't know who felt like sisters by the end of the trip. I was deeply moved by the strength and beauty of the women around me. If you're brave enough, don't miss this. It's worth every moment. read more

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Aniela was a wonderful host and guide on our mostly female, 10-day packing trip through the Sierra Nevada. She made us feel comfortable, knew the route and safely got us out of a few sticky, unpredictable situations with her skill and knowledge of packing. It was an unforgettable trip that made me more confident in more ways than just on a horse. The opportunity to learn more about myself through self-reflection and the willingness to trust our small group (horses/mules included) renewed my trust in the world. I was also one of the first to be sponsored for a Riding Wild packing trip. I met Aniela in 2020 at a horse ranch where I was working with a newly adopted mustang. We talked about our passion for horses and our motivation for making riding and nature more accessible to people everywhere. As a beginner rider, I was looking for more ways to connect with the horse world that waswithin my means. She was extremely determined to raise the funds so that me and an indigenous woman could be a part of this trip through the Sierra Nevada. Our collective goal by doing this trip was to uplift women by showing that no matter what our cultural differences are, women have the power to coexist with nature in a more delicate and cohesive way than has been done in the past. Our influence and voice is needed to make impactful environmental change to save this planet. These types of trips don't have to be solely dominated by men as they have been. Our footprint was small, we ate plant based meals, and the horse and mules ran free at night. The 70-mile journey was undoubtedly filled with challenges, but what kind of adventure would it have been without a few tests from Mother Nature? When a swarm of bees began stinging the horses, she guided us on how to keep them calm. Crossing bridges with spooked mules and navigating downed trees on the rugged trail were intense moments, but Aniela and her team used their expertise and calm leadership to keep everyone safe, no matter what challenges arose. And despite these trials, Aniela's steady guidance ensured we emerged from the mountain range safely, turning a challenging journey into an unforgettable adventure. I would trust Aniela with my safety and my spirit any day. I also trusted the community that she built to come on the long 70 mile journey. I had never done anything like this before and she reassured us that it wouldn't be easy, but extremely rewarding, and that's exactly what it was. She gave us basic tips on how to be safe on a horse, but also to trust that the horses were very experienced in the knowing the ins and outs of the route. We also had the option to get down and walk if we wanted to and lead the horses. She was very clear about what our days would look like. We checked in regularly, we stayed close the entire time, and we grew as a community around dinners and fires at night. I need a trip like this every few years to remember how special each of us are and how truly capable we are in nature. read more

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There are hardly words to describe the exceptional experience Aniela puts together for her clients. It's a magical symphony of sensory, soul and embodied practice. Every detail is thought of with intention, presence, and love. Her unique offering bridges the gap between our hearts and our minds, our bodies and our souls, bringing you home to the warmth of who you are that only nature and a loving guide can provide. She builds upon the foundational knowledge of equine therapy, somatic recovery, trauma informed breath work and reiki healing and combines it with ancestral wisdom, making sure that a local representative of the region is always present on each trip so that the integrity of the land remains in tact and that the group is in right relationship with its stewards, their cultural history and the horses. I have worked with many healing modalities over the course of 15 years and I have never experienced such a deeply transformational, profound and soul enriching experience as I did with Aniela and Riding Wild on the Icelandic trip. The deep bond of sisterhood I felt that was cultivated with each and every single person, including the stewards, was a medicine I never knew I needed. The intentional bond that is fostered between rider and horse over the course of the week, in which Aniela oversees and guides, opens up a deeply intuitive relationship creating an embodied healing experience that I truly believe can only be possible between horse and human. Aniela helped me reopen that portal within myself where I had forgotten the magic and love of these incredible animals and helped me find a deep part of my soul that had been slightly forgotten. I will forever be grateful to Aniela and Riding Wild for creating and fostering such a breathtaking experience and I am incredibly honored and grateful to have been apart of this one. I looking forward to attending many more in the future. read more

My experience with Riding Wild was pure magic. Riding Icelandic horses through Greenland's mountains and fjords with a group of strong, open-hearted women was nothing short of life-changing. We came as strangers and left as sisters/friends--lifting each other up, laughing through challenges, and sharing moments of deep connection and joy. The horses were incredible, the landscapes surreal, and the meals--warm, nourishing, and cooked with so much care. This was more than just a trip, it was a safe, empowering space to be seen, supported, and free. I'll carry this sisterhood, and the strength we found together, with me always. Thank you Riding Wild for an unforgettable and magical time. read more

A trip of a Lifetime! What started off as "just" Horseback Riding turned into a journey that I couldn't even imagine. Aniela, the organizer and founder of Riding Wild created a journey which included Horseback Riding in Iceland for women to meet and come together for spiritual healing... what I didn't know is that all of the stars would have to align for all of the incredible moments to be this magical. For each of us to choose this epic adventure, for each of us to be open and vulnerable, and for each of us to be authentically ourselves and most importantly for each of us to feel SAFE! Aniela partnered with an incredible family farm, Heklustar and an incredible Icelandic native healer, Heidrun to bring together an unimaginable journey for us all to enjoy. Everyone on the trip was so friendly, encouraging, peaceful, and so much more! The alignment to be there with such incredible women and to be matched with the most beautiful spiritual horse "Blakkur" was a telling life lesson of following our intuition to join this journey, to say YES! This trip will be imprinted on my life forever and will be one of the best things I have done for myself in a long time. I cannot thank Aniela enough for her incredible thought and work that goes into a trip like this, it changes lives and creates moments to remember for a lifetime! There is no dollar value that you can put on this type of journey! All I can say is take the trip!!!! Say YES to taking the risk, say YES to spending the money, say YES to meeting new women, say YES to a new place, say YES to Aniela, say YES to RIDING WILD!!! read more

Riding Wild - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me

I experienced a new state of bliss and elevation riding the Icelandic horses over the stunning countryside. Galloping over lava fields and rolling sheep folds. Their gaits were incredibly smooth and delightful. They were sweet, responsive and patient while also strong and sure footed with great stamina. The farm was charming and peaceful, you could feel the love and care the owners put into their property and animals. Each meal was farm fresh and deliciously nurturing. Aniela is a gem. Her soft sweet presence holds space for gentle heart opening and release. It was beautiful to start each morning with a meditation and close each day with a gentle yoga practice or breath work. We created a powerful women's circle tapping into our intuition, and expression. This facilitated deeper connection to ourselves, each other, the horses and the nature. I will absolutely be attending more of these transformational and restorative riding retreats. read more

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I'm writing this after spending four unforgettable days in the Sierra Nevadas with Aniela and an incredible group of women from all walks of life. The experience was transformative--powerful yet gentle and deeply nourishing for the soul. If you're looking for a safe, supportive space to immerse yourself in nature, connect with horses, and turn inward on a personal journey, this is it. The food was phenomenal, the logistics ran flawlessly, and the horses were nothing short of magical. I can't recommend it enough! read more

I joined Riding Wild's Horse Healing Retreat in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa--an experience rooted in nature and intuitive connection with horses. Aniela, the founder and trip facilitator, brings a sense of intention and presence that helps participants feel grounded and held. She and Candice, the horse healer, are beautifully aligned and complement each other in a way that supports the flow of the retreat. The one-on-one healing session with Candice felt deeply personal and uniquely profound. If you enjoy retreats and meaningful shared experiences with other women, it's worth exploring. read more

The wild horse trip was my second with Aniela and Riding Wild and it was just as magical as the first. I returned home with priceless experiences, new friends, a calmer nervous system, and so much inspiration and perspective. Can't wait for the next opportunity! read more

Riding Wild in Morocco was a soul pilgrimage to awaken an ancient, missing piece of wisdom within myself. My heart knew before my mind knew exactly why I was so drawn to join this trip. Through Aniela's nurturing, genuine, and intentional guiding I was able to sink into the experience of journeying into new land with a beautiful horse partner and wonderful group of women around me. Riding a stallion made me feel safe and cared for; the space for the feminine to flourish was not only an invitation but an initiation for us all who rode atop them in partnership day after day. The daily invitations of yoga and meditation were perfect complementaries to the sometimes tough and tiring days. The practices allowed my body and mind to rest and integrate all I had taken in from the saddle - from the revelations occuring in my mind, to the physical input I was receiving from the horse under me - the duality of movement and stillness created a gentle rhythm to the days that I looked forward to. read more

My ride through the Sierra with Riding Wild to see wild mustangs was unforgettable, transformative, and deeply profound. Aniela created a space and journey that was more than simply a trail riding vacation. This was an experience that taught me to find the peace within myself and harness the power of the wilderness. The group including wranglers and facilitators was all women. Aniela led incredible and meaningful yoga and meditation sessions. I have never done horse packing before but I felt very safe knowing I was in good, experienced hands the whole trip. The back country cooking was also surprisingly an amazing highlight of the trip! I will for sure be coming back for another of Aniela's trips read more

There are other organizations that offer riding trips...however, Riding Wild is so much more. Under the guidance, support and love of horses, Aniela Gottwald has created an experience that is magical. Riding Wild is not just about riding. Aniela's vision is meant to feed your soul, bring you to places that allow you to be who you are, and be included in a community of women experiencing the adventure of a lifetime. I rode on two rides with Riding Wild this summer. Both in California and both so very different. What was not different was Aniela's attention to detail, her commitment to empowering women and her diligence in working with partners that value her vision and value their horses and mules. On any Riding Wild adventure, you will be assured that Aniela has vetted her equine partners. That the care of the horses and mules is as important as the care of the women joining the trip. Each trip Aniela and her in country co facilitator (shout out to wonderful Taren) will have wellness as an integral part of the day. Aniela and Taren brought their healing expertise to each and every woman. Both trips' bonds were created as we rode, overcame fears, challenged our minds and bodies and shared an experience beyond our wildest dreams. You will feel the embrace of Riding Wild as soon as you see Aniela's beautiful smile. Being on an all-woman trip with women guides and wranglers (WOW is the only way to describe these women) is an experience not to be missed. The energy, support, challenge, courage, adventure is life altering. These were my first trips with Riding Wild...the first of many, read more