Peruvian Paso Horses

The caballo peruano de paso descends from horses brought by the Spanish in the sixteenth century and bred on the coastal haciendas for a specific purpose: covering long distances over rough ground without tiring the rider. The result is a lateral four-beat gait, the paso llano, in which the legs on each side move together and the horse's body stays almost level - the classic demonstration is a rider holding a full glass of wine at speed without spilling it - combined with termino, an outward rolling swing of the forelegs that is unique to the breed. It is Peru's national horse, protected in law. Ranches around Trujillo keep and show them, with the chalán rider in white poncho and straw hat, and displays are often paired with marinera, since the horse dances alongside the couple in northern performances.

What you actually see

• The paso llano - a lateral four-beat gait that keeps the rider almost still.
• The termino - the outward rolling swing of the forelegs unique to the breed.
• The chalán - the traditional rider in white poncho and straw hat.
• The marinera pairing - horse and dancers performing together in northern displays.

When to go

Year-round; January around the marinera contest and April for national competitions bring the best displays. Two to three hours. Ranch visits must be arranged in advance.

Honest expectations

Ranches are private and require booking - there is no drop-in. Displays are short and are followed by a sales pitch at some establishments. Hot and dusty in the coastal valleys. Prices vary widely between operators.

Nearby

Trujillo is the base; Chan Chan and Huanchaco are on the coast nearby.