I know diddly squat about horses. Went on a trail ride decades ago, that’s literally the most experience I’ve had. And I’m Canadian, so would also be a tourist in this situation.
But I’m not an idiot. Horses are freaking massive, and these ones are military trained. You couldn’t pay me to get within reach of one, no matter how breathtakingly gorgeous I think they are (and I do).
Whatever happened to common sense? “Massive animal, currently on guard duty, and I’m a stranger.” seems to me that should be more than enough information to tell people to stay the heck at a distance.