Horseback Riding in Costa Rica
Good to Know
Discover the unparalleled beauty of Costa Rica on a horseback riding adventure. Our curated tours span diverse landscapes, from the volcanic vistas of Arenal to the pristine beaches of Guanacaste and the lush cloud forests of Monteverde. We partner exclusively with licensed operators prioritizing animal welfare, ensuring an authentic and responsible experience across nearly every major tourist destination. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through Costa Rica's most captivating scenery.
There are few things more Costa Rican than horseback riding. Until the late 1970s, the vast majority of Costa Ricans still used horses as their primary method of transportation. Cars were generally reserved for the wealthy. While cars are much more abundant now, many Costa Ricans in rural areas still depend on horses to get around.
These days, Costa Ricans still love their horses. Nearly every small town has some sort of horseback riding event or competition annually. To watch one of these events with the cowboys riding their high stepping Costarricense horses is quite a sight.
Choosing a Horseback Riding Tour in Costa Rica
When choosing a Costa Rica horseback riding tour, you should only do so with licensed operators with the ICT. Check for reviews of their services as some companies care more about profit than the animals.
We offer many Costa Rica horseback riding tours and do so in just about every tourist destination. As Costa Rican horses are generally smaller than American horses, these tours usually have a weight limit of 200 – 225 pounds, depending on the operator and size of their horses. We only work with the best operators that take care of their horses and take pride in their showmanship.
Various Horseback Riding Options
Arenal Volcano: At the Arenal Volcano area you can take a horseback riding tour to the volcano or La Fortuna Waterfalls.
Monteverde: In Monteverde we offer tours through the cloud forest or to the San Luis Waterfall. Most of these tours cross the continental divide and take you through amazing scenery.
Rincon de la Vieja: This is one of the hottest places in Costa Rica, but one of the coolest horseback riding tours. The tours we offer are usually with Hacienda Guachipelin and the horses bring you to the Rio Negro where you whitewater tube back down a canyon river.
Guanacaste Beach areas: We offer horseback riding tours from all of the Guanacaste beach destinations. These tours include riding on private ranches, in the mountains and even some on the beach.
Southern Nicoya Peninsula: Our horseback riding tours on the Southern Nicoya Peninsula are almost like taking a time machine back in time. The rural areas of the Nicoya peninsula have changed little over the past 50 years, so prepare yourself for a ride like no other. The most popular ride we offer is to the El Chorro Waterfalls in Montezuma.
Jaco: We offer horseback tours in the mountains and on a private ranch in the Jaco area. For an even better experience, we can pick you up and bring you to Manuel Antonio for a ride to the waterfall or on the beach.
Manuel Antonio: We offer two horseback riding tours from Manuel Antonio. The first is a romantic ride along the beach. The second is one of our favorites as it is a ride through the mountains and to a secret waterfall where you can take a break and swim beneath the jungle surrounded falls.
South Pacific and Osa Peninsula: We have several options available. Some are in the mountains or on the beach. Others are through the jungle and to waterfalls.
Southern Caribbean: We offer a great horseback riding tour near the beaches of Cahuita that takes you first along the beach, through town and then into inland trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I choose a horseback riding tour in Costa Rica?
When selecting a horseback riding tour in Costa Rica, it is crucial to choose licensed operators recognized by the ICT. Always check reviews to ensure the company prioritizes animal welfare, as we only work with the best operators.
Are there weight restrictions for horseback riding tours in Costa Rica?
Yes, due to the generally smaller size of Costa Rican horses, most tours have a weight limit typically ranging from 200 to 225 pounds, depending on the specific operator and their horses.
What types of horseback riding experiences are available in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica offers a diverse array of horseback riding experiences, including rides to the Arenal Volcano or La Fortuna Waterfalls, through Monteverde's cloud forest, along Guanacaste's beaches, to the El Chorro Waterfalls in Montezuma, or to a secret waterfall in Manuel Antonio where you can swim.
Which regions in Costa Rica offer horseback riding tours?
Horseback riding tours are available in numerous Costa Rican destinations, including Arenal, Monteverde, Rincon de la Vieja, Guanacaste beach areas, Southern Nicoya Peninsula, Jaco, Manuel Antonio, South Pacific and Osa Peninsula, and the Southern Caribbean near Cahuita.