Types of Animal Powered Transportation

Today's travelers are accustomed to bikes, cars and public forms of mechanical transportation, like subways and trains. However, there once were many ways to get around via animals. Most animal-powered transportation options are still around today, in much smaller volume. These modes of transportation are a glimpse back at the old days and an experience to enjoy.
  1. Horse Drawn Carriage

    • A horse drawn carriage or buggy can still be ridden today in many parts of the United States and all over the globe. While they are mainly found as tourist attractions in large metropolitan areas, some Amish and small towns have many horse-drawn buggies used as primary transportation. These are driven by a single man and are powered typically by two horses, although you may see only one horse per buggy. These carriages are usually open and are meant for families and couples to enjoy a scenic route around a town. The most famous active horse-drawn carriages can be found in New York City's Central Park.

    Stage Coach

    • The stage coach was the precursor to the modern automobile and can still be seen in many wild-west themed amusement parks. These are similar to the horse-drawn buggy, but were used on more long-haul trips, carrying not only people, but also luggage and cargo. While the horse-drawn buggy may only have one or two horses, the stage coach will often have four or more for a heavier load.

    Dog Sleds

    • Dog sleds were once the most common mode of transportation in the snowy and icy terrains, like Alaska, Canada and Russia. They were quick and made hunting in these harsh conditions easier, since the dogs were able to smell prey and steer the sled toward it. Most sleds had enough room for two people and were led by at least three dogs. They are still used today, but much less often for real transportation and much more often for tourist attractions. The most popular dog sledding seen today is the Iditarod, a race over 1,150 miles.

    Donkey or Mule Cart

    • In mountainous areas, mule and donkey carts were once used as primary transportation, not only for humans but to carry loads of cargo. Mules are smaller animals that are able to maneuver on steeper mountain cliffs and roads easier than a horse. While most mountainous areas have since built roads for cars, many people in Mexico, South America and Greece still use mule carts in traditional ways. Tourists can get a glimpse of this transportation method in places like the Grand Canyon, which has mule tours down the side of the canyon.

    Oxen and Camels

    • Oxen and camels are used similarly to mules and horses to pull large carts and heavy cargo, often in many developing countries. Oxen can pull heavier items and can pull for longer than horses, making them valuable animals in India and other parts of the globe. Camels are traditionally ridden for human transportation, like a horse, but are also used to pull heavy cargo in Pakistan and other countries. Camels can do a lot of work without much rest or water, which makes them perfect for long trips.

Copyright Wanderlust World © https://www.ynyoo.com