American Mustang Training USA und Portugal
Mustang Selection, Training & Preparation in Arizona
As traveling to the United States is currently not possible or desirable for many Europeans, I have restructured the mustang training.
Interested clients can select a suitable Mustang directly from the holding facility through our experienced training team on site in Arizona — without needing to be present in person. The selection process is careful and individual, with close attention to the horse’s character, sensitivity, and the long-term compatibility between human and horse.
Following selection, the Mustang is thoroughly prepared in Arizona for its journey to Europe. The service package includes pickup from the holding facility, horse-appropriate foundational training, preparation for handling and transport, all required vaccinations and export documentation, as well as full coordination through departure at the airport. Ongoing virtual training support after the horse arrives at its new home is already included in the price.
Training in Arizona is carried out by three highly experienced Mustang trainers who have worked together as a team intensively with wild horses for many years. All three have consciously stepped away from the Mustang Makeover approach and now work without time pressure, competition, or show — with a clear focus on safety, trust, and sustainable development.
An important factor at present is the favorable exchange rate. All prices are calculated in US dollars, which are currently significantly lower compared to the euro. This makes the offer especially attractive for European clients at this time.
This model is designed for people who wish to take on a Mustang responsibly and commit to a long-term partnership — calm, mindful, and beyond hype.
Mustang Workshop Portugal – Coming May 2027
This workshop format in Portugal has been created in response to current U.S. entry regulations and makes it possible to offer well-founded Mustang training at a high level directly in Europe — a heartfelt vision on which our Rancho Terra Bravo is built.
The Mustang Workshop at Rancho Terra Bravo in Portugal will be a four-week intensive training experience for people who truly want to understand wild horses. It is designed for horse(wo)men who wish to engage deeply with Mustang training — as well as for those considering welcoming a Mustang as a partner into their lives.
Unlike our workshops in the United States, the Mustangs presented here have already completed a solid foundation training in the United States. This preparation is essential to ensure safe and low-stress transport to Europe. At the ranch, they continue their journey under the guidance of our experienced U.S. trainers — individuals who know these horses and have helped shape their path from the very beginning. In addition, we work with Mustangs already living at the ranch, as well as with horses brought to Europe by their new owners who are continuing their transition here.
The focus is not on speed, show, or competition. It is about authentic relationship, trust, and communication that honors the true nature of a wild horse. Participants learn how to build a solid foundation through groundwork, how to create safety, and how to support a Mustang in achieving a healthy start both physically and mentally. Topics such as housing, movement, nutrition, and long-term development are addressed, alongside the refined reading of body language and energy.
The workshop combines observation, theory, and hands-on practice. Participants can join at their own level of experience — whether as curious beginners or experienced horse people seeking to deepen their horsemanship. If, during the course, someone forms a connection with a Mustang, there is the opportunity to purchase a horse or continue its professional training. Decisions arise from genuine encounter and understanding, not from pressure or staging.
A special element of the workshop is its cultural context. In Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês, we observe the Garranos — the ancient horses whose bloodlines still live on in the American Mustang today. In this way, a living bridge is formed between Europe and the United States: Portuguese riding culture and classical influences merge with the working traditions of American cowboys and a clear, horse-centered training philosophy.
Life at the ranch is intensive, yet held within a unique atmosphere. Beautiful on-site accommodations, shared meals, evening exchanges, and Portuguese hospitality create an environment where learning extends far beyond technique. It is not only about skill — but about mindset, responsibility, and the deeper question of how we can truly do justice to all horses.
This workshop is intended for people who are ready to learn, to take responsibility, and to build a long-term partnership with an extraordinary horse. The focus is not on quick success, but on the conscious beginning of a shared journey.
Mustang Workshop - Arizona, USA
Update:
Due to the current political situation and reduced willingness of European participants to travel to the United States, the Mustang Workshop will not take place in 2026. The concept remains an important part of Ride the Brand and may be offered again in the future when conditions allow.
The Mustang Workshop is an immersive, hands-on training experience designed to introduce people to the ethical, ground-based work with untouched American Mustangs. Participants learn directly from an international team of experienced Mustang trainers from the USA and Europe, focusing on trust, safety, and long-term partnership rather than speed, show, or competition.
The workshop combines theory, observation, and practical work. Each participant accompanies a Mustang through the first steps of training — from initial observation and first contact to foundational handling and calm preparation for a human-oriented life. Participation is suitable for both beginners and experienced horse people who wish to deepen their understanding of wild horses in a respectful, horse-centered way.
The program has previously included the option to work with an assigned Mustang, to bring one’s own Mustang, or — if desired — to take responsibility for a Mustang beyond the workshop. The focus is always on individual development, stress-free handling, and preparing horses for a safe future in the USA or Europe.
Impressions Arizona Mustang Workshop
– the real “First Touches”
This workshop focuses on the essential foundations of working with wild horses — without time pressure, competition, or performance-driven expectations. Instead of a Mustang Makeover mindset, the emphasis is on understanding, safety, and sustainable preparation that truly serves the horse and the future partnership.
Foundational training is not optional when it comes to responsibly bringing a Mustang to Europe. Without correct early handling, safe transport and long-term integration are simply not possible. Many Mustangs later described as “untouched” have already experienced unskilled or rushed handling, which often leads to lasting physical and emotional consequences. When the early groundwork is done incorrectly, it compromises not only the horse’s well-being, but also the trust and relationship with its future human.
Throughout the program, experienced professionals guide you through the principles of healthy, horse-centered care for wild horses. Cultural context is an important part of the experience: a storyteller and horseman from the Navajo Nation shares traditions connected to wild horses, including a blessing ceremony and a shared evening meal.
Participants also receive rare behind-the-scenes access to a BLM facility, offering valuable insight into wild horse management and the realities these horses face — knowledge that supports a more informed, respectful, and responsible approach to working with Mustangs.
Wild Salt River Mustangs
An unforgettable experience awaits as you observe and photograph wild Mustangs along the Salt River near Phoenix. Accompanying the workshop group is photographer Ray Redstone, whose stunning images you’ll also find throughout my website.
Working Cow Ranch
Sonora, Mexico
The workshop journey continues across the border into Sonora, Mexico, where you'll visit a traditional working cow ranch that still operates on horseback. Look forward to a trail ride with the Vaqueros, meet local leather artisans, and experience the authentic rhythm of ranch life.
Your overnight stay will be at the beautiful Hacienda Bacasobabi, which is part of the ranch. There, you’ll be welcomed with warm hospitality, delicious regional food, and captivating stories about horses and ranch life—best shared over a good glass of tequila.
Testimonials
Linda with Curry, Arizona
"The mustang workshop for me was a life changing experience. I look at, touch, and handle all horses differently now. Understanding the true nature of the horse and learning to work with that was eye opening. The calmer, braver, and more confident I became, so did my horse! Pushing us both through uncomfortable situations, but, always keeping our safety as top priority. I am continuing to build my partnership with my mare, Curry. We both are thriving and enjoying new adventures together. I am forever grateful for this opportunity and for their ongoing support and guidance!"
Constance with Ziv, Arizona
“When I joined the Mustang Workshop, I didn’t expect to meet a horse who would change me.
From the moment I met Ziv, I felt her presence reach out to mine — an instant, quiet connection.
This morning I told her she was my favorite horse I’ve ever met, and she looked at me as if she’d keep that secret forever.
Thank you, Karin Finney, for trusting me with her.”
Tina with Sidh, Arizona
“I became friends with Karin Finney in 2019 at a horse clinic in Arizona, and participating in the Mustang Wokshop in 2025 with Ride the Brand became an unforgettable experience. I gained a much deeper understanding of wild horses and their behavior. Observing the Mustangs along the Salt River was deeply moving, and the Native American horse blessing added a meaningful, grounding dimension to the journey. Traveling on to Mexico completed the experience beautifully, making it feel rich, connected, and truly unique. Karin was a wonderful host, and I loved staying at her bed and breakfast. I left feeling inspired, grateful, and changed in the best possible way."