Horseback riding

Hi,

I checked the tours and prices from my English speaking hostel and they are a bit pricey. I'm used to traveling on my own and I do speak mandarin. Is it possible to take a bus to the desert and rent a horse directly from the owners with a cheaper price? Where can I find the prices for travelchina guide to go there? Was thinking about doing a Mandarin trip to cut the price, do you know any travel agencies? :)

Thanks

Lena