Show Jumping Camps In Switzerland

Show Jumping Camps in Switzerland

Overview

Show jumping camps in Switzerland range from single-day clinics to month-long academies. Programs typically include a mix of flatwork, grids, course work and show simulation, with clear progression toward competition heights between 60 cm and 140+ cm. Coaches emphasize rider safety, horse welfare and measurable development.

Typical Prices

Prices vary by format, level and included services. Typical ranges are:

• Day camps: CHF 50–150 per day.
• One-week intensives: CHF 700–3,000.
• Two-week courses: CHF 1,400–5,500.
• Monthly academies/residencies: CHF 4,000–15,000+.

Peak Season and Bookings

June–August is the busiest period, with many camps also adding weeks at Easter and in October. Expect early-bird discounts of approximately 10–20% and sibling reductions of about 5–15% where offered. Always reserve horse and tack hire early to secure suitable mounts.

Coaching and Group Size

Typical mounted session counts are 2–5 sessions per day. Group coaching sizes commonly run from 4–12 riders, but for faster jump schooling we recommend a 1:4–1:6 rider-to-coach ratio. Advanced work is usually delivered by FEI or national coaches, while private lessons cost about CHF 50–120 each.

Training Load and Outcomes

Weekly structures usually move from initial assessment to focused training and end with a show simulation or assessment day. Coaches measure progress by jump-height benchmarks and technical gains, aiming to move riders up through novice heights toward 140+ cm depending on ability.

Logistics and Safety

Horse hire typically runs CHF 50–150 per day or CHF 300–1,000+ per week depending on level and included care. Camps enforce strict helmet and body-protector standards and require vaccination records, emergency contact details and proof of insurance. Accommodation and transfer options vary by venue—many camps offer on-site stabling and dormitory or private lodging.

Key Takeaways

• Typical formats and costs: Day camps CHF 50–150/day; one-week intensives CHF 700–3,000; two-week courses CHF 1,400–5,500; monthly academies CHF 4,000–15,000+.
• Peak season and bookings: June–August busiest. Expect early-bird discounts of 10–20% and sibling reductions of 5–15%. Reserve horse and tack hire early.
• Coaching and group size: Recommend 1:4–1:6 jump-schooling ratio for fastest progress. FEI and national coaches run advanced work. Private lessons ~ CHF 50–120.
• Training load and outcomes: Plan for 2–5 sessions/day. Weekly structure moves from assessment to show simulation. Progress measured by jump-height benchmarks.
• Logistics and safety: Horse hire CHF 50–150/day or CHF 300–1,000+/week. Enforced helmet and body-protector standards, required vaccination records and insurance. Accommodation and transfers vary.

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Quick planning snapshot: lengths, peak season, group sizes and costs

We, at the Young Explorers Club, lay out the essentials so you can pick the right show jumping camp Switzerland option fast. Details below cover typical durations, price ranges, peak months, group sizes and the daily riding workload. Use this to compare programmes and set realistic expectations.

Camp lengths, prices and practical figures — key points to note

Below are the common formats and indicative costs you’ll see when planning show jumping or summer riding camps Switzerland:

• Day camps: CHF 50–150 per day — good for single-day programmes or holiday weeks without full board.
• 1-week residential/intensive camps: CHF 700–3,000 per week (per-day equivalent ≈ CHF 100–430/day depending on what’s included).
• 2-week programmes: CHF 1,400–5,500 — often priced as two single weeks plus extras such as internal competitions or extra coaching.
• Extended stays / seasonal residency / academies: CHF 4,000–15,000+ per month depending on training intensity, accommodation and competition support.
• Peak months: June–August are peak for summer riding camps Switzerland; many providers also run Easter and October half-term weeks and indoor programmes year-round.
• Typical coaching group sizes: 4–12 riders per coaching group.
• Camp facility capacity: often 12–40 riders overall; larger centres can host 60+ when families and visitors are included.
• Typical daily riding and workload: 2–5 riding sessions per day, totaling roughly 1.0–3.5 hours mounted daily, plus stable and horse-care duties.

We recommend the above figures for planning and budgeting. They reflect the range you’ll encounter across Swiss equestrian centres.

Group-size guidance and how it changes outcomes

Small groups give faster technical progress. Aim for 4–6 riders per coaching group if you want focused fence work, frequent video review and tailored jump grids. Larger groups (8–12) work better for riders who want more social time, varied horse rotation and broader peer learning. Facility size matters too: bigger centres usually offer more horse options and organised social programmes.

Daily schedule realities and rider workload

Expect active days. Two to five mounted sessions are common at intensive camps. Sessions vary in length — flatwork warm-ups, pole work, gymnastic grids and course practice. Add time for tacking, turnout, feeding and basic stable care. Inevitable lessons get repeated; repetition builds confidence over fences. We advise planning for at least 1–2 extra hours per day for horse care if the camp includes stable duties.

Choosing by goals and budget

Match camp length to your objectives:

• Quick skills boost: pick a 1-week intensive with small coaching groups.
• Competition prep or deeper curriculum: choose 2-week programmes or extended residency for consistent progress and competition support.
• Casual experience or introduction: day camps or week-long non-residential options keep costs down and require less commitment.

Pricing trade-offs to expect

Lower-cost day options focus on riding time and basic supervision. Mid-range weeks usually include full board, supervised stabling and a few extra activities. High-end academies add one-to-one coaching, competition logistics and tailored training plans — that’s where fees climb toward CHF 15,000+ per month.

Practical tips we use when advising families

• Prioritise coaching ratio over flashy facilities if you want technical gains.
• Check how many sessions are mounted versus theory or leisure.
• Ask about horse allocation and whether you’ll ride the same mount consistently.
• Confirm what’s included: lessons, accommodation, meals, insurance and competition entry fees.
• If you want a social environment, search for camps with larger groups and organised evening activities.

For a deeper comparison of options and to help decide which camp fits your needs, see our guide to summer riding camps.

Which camp is right for you: types, ages, skill levels and likely outcomes

We assess goals, age and current ability to find the right fit at our show jumping camps. We match progression paths to clear technical outcomes and competition objectives.

Camp types, typical ages and mapped outcomes

Below I summarise the common camp formats, who they suit and what riders typically achieve.

• Pony camps / beginner youth camps (ages 6–10, sometimes up to 14): Focus on basic riding, trot/canter, poles and pony-care. Outcome: confident seat at the canter, safe control and basic horse-care skills. See our advice on choosing a pony camp.
• Youth beginner/intermediate camps (ages 6–14; many accept to 18): Emphasis on seat, balance, grid work and 60–90 cm courses. Outcome: ride a full 60–90 cm course with consistent rhythm and improved two-point.
• Teen / advanced rider camps (ages 14–21; some take 12+): Training targets 100–140+ cm, course strategy and competition prep. Outcome: competition-ready at 120+ cm and confident course riding.
• Adult intensive weeks: Programmes for adults at all levels with technique drills, fitness work and tailored lesson plans. Outcome: measurable improvement in position and riding fitness.
• Performance / competition preparation camps (often 12+ or invitation-only): Require competition record, coach recommendation or trial assessment. Outcome: sharpened tactics, starting lists and pre-competition routines.
• Residential academies / long-term programmes: Seasonal residency with monthly billing, continuous competition pathway and daily training. Outcome: sustained technical progression and entry into national youth pathways.

Skill levels and likely progression

I map skill levels to measurable jump heights and likely progression.

• Novice / beginner: walk, trot, canter, poles and cross-poles. Typical outcome is a secure seat at canter and basic aids.
• Intermediate: grid work and courses, typical heights 80–110 cm; many intermediate riders progress from ~80 cm to ~100 cm during a well-structured two-week programme.
• Advanced: 120–140+ cm, tactical riding and fitness; campers leave able to ride 120+ cm courses confidently and tackle competition routines.

Prerequisites for elite or advanced camps usually include a competition record, coach recommendation and a trial lesson or video assessment. Practical, measurable progression I expect from focused programmes includes:

1. Improved two-point position
2. Cleaner approaches to fences
3. Consistent grid work
4. Independent tacking and stable routines
5. Staged competition experience from in-house classes to local licensed events

Many camps issue a camp skill certificate or SVPS-aligned progress note to document progress and support entry onto national pathways.

Typical daily & weekly curriculum, training load and progression

Sample daily structure

A typical day looks like this:

• 07:30–08:15 — morning flatwork 45–75 minutes (riding fitness and warm-up).
• 08:15–09:00 — stable and horse care lessons (30–45 minutes).
• 10:00–11:30 — main schooling or jumping lesson 60–90 minutes.
• 13:00–14:00 — optional additional lesson or cross‑training (45–60 minutes); younger riders rest.
• 16:30–17:00 — theory, video analysis or tack session (30 minutes).
• Evening — supervised grooming, tack check and briefing (30–45 minutes).

Weekly progression, intensity and coaching

We structure the week to move riders from assessment to performance. The weekly flow is typically:

1. Arrival (Day 0) — check-in, tack fitting, safety briefing and a short mount for assessment.
2. Assessment day (Day 1) — sets baselines with a 60-minute flatwork session, a 75-minute jumping lesson and a 30-minute theory review.
3. Technique day (Day 2) — raises complexity with grid work and targeted drills.
4. Course practice (Day 3) — focuses on lines, rhythm and course strategy.
5. Light day (Day 4) — recovery and specialist clinics like tack fitting or mental skills.
6. Show simulation (Day 5) — recreates a competition day: warm-up, full course practice and a strategy walk.
7. In-house competition or local outing (Day 6) — gives riders pressure experience and structured feedback.
8. Departure morning (Day 7) — short warm-up and certificate presentation.

Training progression follows a clear model. Day 1 assessment determines group allocation and riding objectives. Mid-week technical drills escalate in complexity — pole-to-pole, combinations and variable line lengths are introduced in stages. The day before a competition we shorten riding load to keep horses and riders fresh, and we run a focused warm-up plan and course walk.

Session loading is based on level and recovery needs. An advanced jumping lesson (60–90 minutes) commonly includes 20–40 purposeful fences per session, arranged in exercises with 2–5 fence lines and planned rest between efforts. We pace sessions to preserve horse soundness and rider focus; repetition targets quality over quantity.

Coaching ratios affect impact and safety:

• Beginners: coach-to-rider 1:4 to 1:6.
• Intermediate: usually 1:5 to 1:8.
• Private lesson: 1:1 for focused technical correction.
• Recommendation: minimum ratio of 1:6 for jump schooling to ensure adequate supervision and feedback.

Non-riding curriculum is integral. We cover:

• Horse care
• Tack fitting
• Nutrition theory
• Stable management
• Video analysis
• Mental skills sessions

Practical horse care lessons are paired with classroom time so riders understand the why behind every routine.

Practical advice for parents and riders

To speed progress and keep everyone safe:

• Communicate current goals at check-in.
• Mention any recent vet or physiotherapy notes so we can adapt plans.
• Accept the assessment outcomes — they help place riders where they will improve fastest.
• We balance intensity with recovery and adapt plans if horses or riders show fatigue.
• For program selection, review options in our guide to the best summer camps to match experience level and coaching expectations.

Coaching, qualifications, safety checks and how coaching affects outcomes

We, at the Young Explorers Club, staff show jumping camps with a mix of Swiss-qualified instructors, FEI-level coaches and former professional riders. Advanced sessions will have at least one FEI or national-level coach on duty to lead course work and provide higher-level input. I present coach profiles using a simple, consistent format so parents and riders can compare qualifications and track records easily.

Coach credentials and examination support

I recommend a clear credential line when profiling staff: Head Coach — Qualification(s) — Competition highlights (for example, Head Coach — FEI Level 3 / National Coach — Former Grand Prix competitor). That single line tells parents what to expect in technical level and competitive experience. Some camps we run or recommend also prepare riders for Swiss Equestrian Federation (SVPS) youth or instructor exams and for FEI pony/youth categories. We encourage camps to state which certification pathways they support so families can match goals with programs. For help choosing a program that fits competitive ambitions, see choose the best camp.

Coach-to-rider ratios, outcomes and safety checks

Below are typical ratios and how they affect daily progress and safety:

• 1:4 (beginner groups): high individual attention, faster technical correction, and safer for newcomers.
• 1:6 (recommended minimum for jump schooling): balanced individual feedback while still allowing small-group dynamics.
• 1:8 (larger intermediate groups): suitable for consolidation and ride-through work but gives less time for individual correction.
• 1:1 private lessons: maximum progress, specific problem fixing and immediate technical gains.

We find lower ratios (1:4–1:6) produce faster, measurable improvements in rider position and approaches to fences. The presence of FEI or national coaches raises the level of course-planning, competition strategy and exposure to advanced techniques that riders can apply immediately in clinics and shows. Private lesson prices typically range from CHF 50–120 per lesson depending on coach level and region, and camps often add specialist clinics — biomechanics, cross-training or mental coaching — at extra cost.

Safety checks and standards we enforce every day:

• Mandatory helmet standards and fitted helmets for all mounted work.
• Body protectors required for high-risk sessions such as grid work and young horse jumping.
• Pre-ride tack checks by coaches before every session.
• Structured warm-up protocols and progressive fence heights to reduce injury risk.

We recommend families prioritize camps that post coach-to-rider ratios, list instructor qualifications and describe the specific safety checks they run each day. That transparency directly improves learning speed and reduces avoidable incidents.

Horses, tack, horse hire and packing checklist

Horse provision models, costs and allocation

We describe the common models so you can pick the right camp option. Camps typically offer three approaches: bring-your-own-horse, school horses/pony hire, or a mixed rotation model. Bring-your-own-horse means the rider supplies the mount and pays livery or yard fees per the camp policy. When camps supply school horses they usually match mounts to ability and size; many also offer pony hire for younger riders. Mixed models rotate horses so riders gain experience on different types.

Expect straightforward pricing bands for horse hire and livery. Typical horse hire is CHF 50–150/day or CHF 300–1,000+/week depending on the horse’s quality and whether you get guaranteed exclusive use. Many premium programmes charge an extra fee for a dedicated horse for the week. Smaller camps sometimes average 1.5 riders per horse (shared mounts), but many aim for 1 horse per rider at higher-level courses and private clinics. We advise checking the advertised horse-to-rider ratio before booking.

Horse levels and types vary by programme. School jump heights usually start at 60 cm and can reach 140+ cm for advanced tracks. Expect warmbloods and thoroughbreds as the backbone of jump schools, plus ponies for youth sections. Allocation is almost always matched by rider height and ability; rotation is common to broaden skills. If you want a single, consistent mount, be prepared for a premium horse hire fee.

Camps will request specific paperwork and perform safety checks. A horse passport and up-to-date vaccination record are standard. Camps may also ask for farrier and dental notes. For international horses you’ll need transport and import health documentation completed well before arrival. We recommend sending scanned documents ahead of time and carrying originals.

Equipment rental and availability differ by camp level. Many programmes provide basic tack and helmet hire; premium camps offer higher-quality saddles and bridles. Helmet/tack hire is often included for day programmes, but full tack hire or guaranteed exclusive horse hire typically costs CHF 50–150/day or CHF 300–1,000+/week. We suggest reserving rental gear early during peak weeks.

You can read more about how mounts are handled through our pages on school horses for additional expectations and matching policies.

Packing checklist (printable)

Use this checklist to pack efficiently; tick items as you go.

• Rider essentials:
  • Certified helmet (ASTM/SEI or applicable European standard)
  • Riding boots (field or tall boots), and half chaps if you use them
  • Body protector (recommended for jumping)
  • Breeches x2–4, riding socks, gloves
  • Light waterproof jacket and sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
  • Casual clothes and trainers for off-horse time
  • Small personal first-aid kit and any medication
• Tack & horse items (if bringing a horse):
  • Saddle, bridle, girth, stirrups and leathers; spare girth/leathers if possible
  • Grooming kit, hoof pick, mane/tail bandages
  • Horse passport and vaccination record, plus any travel documents
  • Farrier/dental notes and the horse’s feed/supplement plan (check camp feed policy)
  • Spare halter, leadrope and stable rug
• Travel / admin:
  • Signed medical form and emergency contact details
  • Proof of personal accident/health insurance and liability insurance if required
  • Coach recommendation or recent trial report if requested by the camp

We, at the young explorers club, recommend double-checking horse hire CHF 50–150/day or CHF 300–1,000+/week fees and confirming what’s included before you finalize your booking.

Accommodation, logistics, regions and travel essentials

We, at the young explorers club, handle the practical side so riders can focus on the sport. I outline what camps usually include, common extras, regional travel times and payment notes so you can plan with confidence.

Many camps run Sunday afternoon arrivals with Saturday morning check-out. You’ll find on-site dormitory rooms for juniors and private rooms at premium camps. Meals come as athlete meals (three per day plus snacks) with a carb/protein balance. Indoor arena facilities cover autumn and winter programmes; alpine sites sit between altitude 400–1,200 m, so check seasonal weather and boot choices. Zurich Airport (ZRH) and Geneva Airport (GVA) are the main gateways. Transfer time from either hub ranges from 30–180 minutes by car or train. Typical airport transfer fees run CHF 50–200 each way; larger camps often coordinate group transfers to reduce cost. Capacity varies: small yards 12–20 riders, mid-size 20–40, large centres 60+ including visiting families.

I recommend checking these payment details before you book: prices are quoted in CHF. Many camps accept card payments and bank transfers. Expect exchange fees if you pay from EUR/GBP/USD accounts. Common discounts include sibling/family 5–15% and early-bird 10–20% for bookings made 3+ months ahead.

Price tiers and what’s typically included

Price tiers and what’s typically included — quick comparison:

• Low-tier (CHF 700/week): shared dormitory, basic or baked lunches, roughly 10 group lessons, access to school horses. Extras usually charged: private lessons (CHF 50–120) and guaranteed horse hire.
• Mid-tier (CHF 1,500–3,500/week): shared or private room options, athlete meals (3/day), more guaranteed horse time, 1–2 private lessons available, some include in-house competition entry.
• High-tier / premium (CHF 3,000+/week): private room, guaranteed exclusive horse, daily private lessons, competition support and travel assistance.
• Typical inclusions: riding lessons, basic accommodation, 3 meals/day, basic school horse hire.
• Typical extras: private lessons CHF 50–120, guaranteed horse hire CHF 300–1,200/week, competition entry fees, airport transfer CHF 50–200.
• On-site costs to budget: daily pocket expenses and lessons can be CHF 50–150/day depending on activities and supervision.

For regional advice and to compare options across Swiss locations, see our guide to the best summer camps, which highlights venue styles from Zurich and Bernese Oberland to Vaud and Ticino. We recommend confirming arena type (indoor arena vs outdoor), exact altitude, and horse-to-rider ratios before paying any deposit.

Safety, insurance, competition pathways and certification opportunities

We, at the Young Explorers Club, set strict safety and documentation standards for all show jumping camps. Helmets must meet the helmet standard ASTM/SEI or the relevant European standard for every mounted activity. Body protectors are strongly recommended and become mandatory for cross-country or higher jump sessions. I require pre-ride checks on tack and girths, and I insist on planned warm-up and cooldown routines for every rider and horse.

Mandatory equipment and documents

Before arriving, provide the items and paperwork below; they cut risk and speed up registration.

• Certified helmet (ASTM/SEI or EU standard) — bring certification details with the helmet.
• Body protector — compulsory for higher jumps and cross-country; bring fitting notes.
• Riding boots, gloves and horse boots — safe, well-fitting footwear reduces slips.
• Tack checklist — check saddle fit, girth condition and bridle integrity before mounting.
• Rider medical form — list allergies, medications and recent injuries.
• Proof of personal accident/health insurance and rider liability insurance — camps often require both.
• Emergency contact details — local and international numbers if relevant.
• Horse passport and vaccination record — include recent health certificates when a horse accompanies a rider.
• Competition licence or prior certification (if applicable) — bring any existing SVPS certification or federation IDs.

Insurance, emergency care, liability and progression

I require proof of personal accident/health cover and third-party liability insurance at booking. Camps typically hold public liability insurance for on-site incidents, but that won’t replace your personal cover for medical costs, repatriation or some competition liabilities. Confirm exactly what the camp’s policy covers and what you still need to insure separately before arrival.

Most camps station first-aid-trained staff on site. I log the location of nearby clinics and hospitals; in rural Swiss valleys that can be 20–60 minutes away by road. I also keep clear procedures for serious incidents, including emergency transport and hospital liaison. Carry a copy of the medical form and your insurance details in your phone and in paper form.

I design in-house competition days into week-long and multi-week programmes to simulate show-day pressure. These events let riders practice ring routine, warm-up timing and score parsing without the full cost or bureaucracy of an external show. For advanced riders, I’ll help with entries and logistics for local licensed events, and can advise on getting exposure to local CSI/CSIO or national youth classes.

Certification opportunities often align with national standards. Camps may prepare riders for SVPS certification and the Swiss Equestrian Federation youth or instructor exams, and provide introductions to FEI youth categories. Typical progression looks like this:

1. Camp skill certificate
2. Local youth circuits
3. Regional finals
4. National finals and FEI youth classes for selected riders

Some elite programmes keep links with owners or agents and may highlight alumni who’ve reached national finals; check individual camp profiles for named riders.

I always recommend you verify three things before booking:

1. Helmet standard (ASTM/SEI) acceptance
2. Exact vaccination requirements for horses
3. Scope of the camp’s public liability cover

For practical guidance on choosing the right programme for your child, see our guide to the best summer camp.

Sources

Swiss Equestrian Federation — Swiss Equestrian

Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) — Jumping

Swiss Federal Statistical Office — Sport and leisure statistics

CHI Geneva — CHI Geneva (Concours Hippique International de Genève)

Horse & Hound — Riding and training features

MySwitzerland (Swiss Tourism) — Horseback riding in Switzerland

ASTM International — ASTM F1163 Equestrian Helmet Standard

Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) — Import and transit of live animals

Zurich Airport — Passenger information

FEI — Jumping regulations