Meet Our Brazil Guide: Paulo Junqueira Arantes
At the heart of Globetrotting’s Canyons & Waterfalls horse riding holiday in Brazil is Paulo Junqueira Arantes, an exceptional horseman with decades of experience guiding riders across South America. While Paulo offers and guides several riding routes throughout Brazil, Globetrotting has carefully chosen to partner with him on his Canyons & Waterfalls Ride — a journey that showcases some of the country’s most dramatic scenery, exceptional horses, and authentic riding experiences.
We sat down with Paulo to learn more about his journey, his philosophy, and what makes horse riding in Brazil such a special experience for globetrotters.
How long have you been running horse riding holidays in Brazil?
I began running horse riding holidays in 2005, so I’ve been working with international riding guests for nearly two decades.
What was the background or inspiration for starting?
I always wanted to live and work with horses. When I realised that Brazil has the third-largest horse population in the world, it became clear that we had something very special to offer. Despite our excellent horses and spectacular trails, Brazil wasn’t well known internationally for horse riding holidays because there were very few guides offering the level of safety, quality, and experience required. I wanted to change that.
Which ride do you guide now?
I guide several horse riding holidays across Brazil, each offering a different landscape and riding style. The Canyons & Waterfalls Ride is one of my signature journeys and the ride that Globetrotting has chosen to offer, as it best reflects the quality, scenery, and experience we both value.
How many guest horses do you have?
We have approximately 25 horses, carefully selected and trained for long-distance riding and varied terrain.
Describe your herd of horses in four words.
Reliable, comfortable, beautiful, and brave.
What is the philosophy behind your horse riding holidays in Brazil?
To turn each holiday into an unforgettable experience — something far more than just a ride. It should be a once-in-a-lifetime journey that connects people with horses, nature, and Brazilian culture.
What do you love most about your job?
The recognition from guests at the end of a ride is priceless. Knowing that someone has had a truly meaningful horse riding holiday is incredibly rewarding.
What is the most challenging part of guiding?
Understanding each rider quickly and finding the perfect match between horse and guest. That connection is essential for a safe, enjoyable, and confidence-building ride.
Why should globetrotters choose a horse riding holiday in Brazil?
Brazil has over five million horses and more than ten distinct breeds, as well as vast, unspoilt landscapes that are ideal for riding. Add to that our warm, welcoming culture, and you’re guaranteed an authentic and memorable horse riding holiday.
One tip every globetrotter should know before riding in Brazil.
Come with an open mind — you will be surprised by what you discover.
What has been the most memorable moment of your guiding career?
I can’t choose just one. Many first-time riders have told me that their outlook on life changed after their horse riding holiday here. Those moments stay with you.
Anything else you’d like to add?
If I hadn’t become a riding guide, I would still be living in the countryside with my horses. I’d also love to study horse ethology — understanding how horses interact with each other and with humans — and one day write about those experiences.
