What’s the safest way to ride through areas with Del Lobo gang members?

Riding through areas controlled by the Del Lobo gang in Red Dead Redemption 2 can be dangerous, especially if you want to avoid losing your horse. The Del Lobos are a ruthless gang that operates primarily in New Austin, particularly around areas like Thieves'' Landing, Fort Mercer, and Gaptooth Ridge. To safely navigate these regions, you need to understand the game mechanics, plan your route, and prepare for potential ambushes.\n\nFirst, always ensure your horse is in good condition before entering Del Lobo territory. Feed your horse regularly to keep its stamina and health cores full. Use horse tonics or stimulants if necessary, as these can provide a temporary boost to your horse''s stamina during a chase or fight. Additionally, equip your horse with a saddle that improves stamina drain rate, such as the Panther Trail Saddle or the Rattlesnake Vaquero Saddle.\n\nWhen riding through Del Lobo-controlled areas, avoid traveling at night. The gang is more active during nighttime, and visibility is reduced, making it harder to spot ambushes. Stick to main roads during the day, as these are less likely to have hidden gang members waiting to attack. However, even on main roads, stay alert and keep your weapon ready. The Del Lobos often set up roadblocks or ambushes near Thieves'' Landing and Fort Mercer.\n\nIf you must travel off-road, use the terrain to your advantage. Ride through rocky or elevated areas where the gang is less likely to set up ambushes. For example, when passing near Gaptooth Ridge, stick to the higher ground to avoid being surrounded. Use your Eagle Eye ability frequently to scan for enemies or traps. This ability highlights enemies in red, allowing you to spot them before they attack.\n\nIn the event of an ambush, prioritize your horse''s safety. Dismount and take cover immediately, using nearby rocks, trees, or buildings for protection. Use Dead Eye to quickly eliminate threats, focusing on enemies with long-range weapons like rifles first. If your horse is hit, use a Horse Reviver to save it. Always carry at least one reviver in your inventory when traveling through dangerous areas.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to avoid direct confrontation altogether. Use stealth to bypass Del Lobo camps or patrols. Crouch and move slowly to avoid detection, and use silenced weapons like the Bow or Varmint Rifle with Small Game Arrows to take out enemies quietly. If you''re spotted, retreat to a safe distance and wait for the gang to lose interest before continuing.\n\nFinally, consider upgrading your horse''s bonding level to the maximum (Level 4). A fully bonded horse is more responsive, has better stamina, and is less likely to panic during combat. Spend time grooming, feeding, and calming your horse to increase its bonding level. A loyal horse will also return to you if it gets spooked and runs away.\n\nBy following these steps, you can minimize the risk of losing your horse while riding through Del Lobo territory. Always be prepared, stay alert, and prioritize your horse''s safety to ensure a successful journey.