Our arrival in the town of Miranda was nothing short of spectacular.

“Miranda please welcome Filipe Leite, the Horseman of the Americas!” a car with large speakers blasted out as the Mayor shook my hand for a photo.

In front of the ‘Welcome to Miranda’ sign riders stood waiting for me – one played the berrante. I said hello to everyone and we began riding through the town as people waved from the sidewalks. After more than 200 kilometers riding through the middle of the Pantanal, arriving in the first town since Corumba felt amazing.

“We were waiting anxiously for you to arrive Filipe”, one of the riders said, “I follow you on instagram!”

When we arrived at the Mayors office we took more photos and I was interviewed by the local newspaper. After a short ceremony it was time to take the ponies to their much deserved resting spot. They worked so hard to get me here to Miranda, they deserve a nice break.

“You will be staying at Hotel Pantanal during your time here, they are sponsoring your stay,” the Mayor said.

I can’t thank the people of Miranda enough for the amount of love they welcomed us with. After taking care of the ponies Emma and I slept for eighteen hours straight!  We were so tired from the trek we’d taken to get here.