Journey into the world of wild horses~ Learn directly from the herds and experience the spirit of the American Wild Horse!

SanctuaryTours:

Experience a vital link to our living history: America’s wild horses! Learn about the origins of the horse in America, how they shaped American cultures, what they face in the world today and what we are doing to preserve them. Watch a 10 minute introductory DVD in the barn, engage in a brief Q & A discussion , then head out to meet some of the horses and see the sanctuary.  The tour will focus on the diversity, individual stories and the historical significance of America’s wild horses. Light refreshments will be provided before and after the tour. 

For the kids! Through stories, games, and interactions with Return to Freedom's horses, these tours will focus on herd behavior and general horse knowledge. A visit with "Spirit," the horse who inspired the DreamWorks animated movie, is included. Organize a special tour for your class or youth group! 

Suggested minimum donation $25 per adult, $10 for children under 12. 10am-12pm. Please check our calendar for dates and times.

Private Tours ~ Schedule your own private group tour; birthdays, clubs, youth group, school or church group! Bring a bag lunch and spread out a picnic blanket near the pagoda after the tour. Light refreshments provided.  May-September only. Suggested minimum donation $50 per adult, $15 for children under 12. Scheduled by appointment only and subject to staff availability. 

Wild Horse Walks:

An intensive study of wild horses, their role in the American West, and their herd behaviors. Participants will spend several hours in the hills, quietly observing wild horses and discussing behavior, public land use, and other wild horse preservation related issues. Hiking is moderate to strenuous on uneven, steep land. Suggested donation of $75 per adult. This trip is not recommended for children under 12. Please check our calendar for dates and times.

Photo Safaris ~ A special Return to Freedom program to accommodate amateur and professional photographers! Join a notable equine photographer familiar with RTF herds or an RTF staff member for an unforgettable journey into the hills to meet our wild herds. The hike begins with an overview about Return to Freedom and America’s wild horses before heading into the hills to photograph these magnificent animals. Your guide will help direct you to capture the afternoon light, and relationships as the herds move about in their daily lives. Capture it all on film for an unforgettable experience. See dates already scheduled with notable equine photographer Kimerlee Curyl! Pre-registration required. Suggested Minimum Donation $150, 4-7pm

Evening Herd Observation & Firelight Dinner:

A meditative and reflective journey into the world of wild horses. These intimate evenings are hosted by Return to Freedom Founder Neda DeMayo, sharing her unique insight and understanding of wild herds. Special guests and staff may join to add their expertise.  Once in the hills, our time will be reserved for quiet observation of the herds. At dusk we will gather around the campfire for a light dinner, wine, storytelling, music, and discussion. Hiking level is moderate to strenuous on uneven, steep terrain. Not recommended for children under 12. Hiking boots, light jacket, and a reusable water bottle recommended for the hike. Recommended donation $125. 4 PM - 9PM

Scheduled by appointment only. Minimum of 10 people for private groups. To inquire about scheduling, call (805) 737-9246 or email programs@returntofreedom.org