Costa Rica Horse Riding Vacations - Destinations

Costa Rica Horse Riding Vacations Costa Rica

About
Itineraries
Traveler Reviews

General Info

Costa Rica Horse Riding Vacations are a combination of riding and activities in the Central American country of Costa Rica. Experience different terrain in this small, tropical country, an ideal place for viewing wildlife that include mammals, reptiles, and many species of birds. The county's stunning scenery unfolds in an ever changing panorama of steaming volcanoes, forested mountains, dramatic skies and pastoral countryside. Dark lowland jungles give way to rolling savannas. Pacific surf crashes against rocky headlands, in sharp contrast to the tranquility of palm-fringed Caribbean beaches.

Costa Rica helped launch the ecotourism trend some 25 years ago, so folks in charge of these trips have lots of experience leading travelers on adventure vacations. Costa Rica has preserved a higher portion of its territory for Wildlife Reserves and National Parks than any other nation in the world. This small country harbors an astounding amount of plant and animal life. Viewing it on horseback is a great way to unobtrusively get up close to nature!

Chose from a variety of riding vacation itineraries or let us help you customize your own!

Tailor-Made Equestrian Adventures are available. Whether you are riding on your own, with your family or a group of friends and are looking for a challenging ride through pristine and remote forests or simply want leisurely rides at your convenience and pace, a tailor made journey is a good choice. You may also wish to complement your riding holiday with other adventures (scuba diving, rafting, spas and more). Please contact us for more information.

Awards & Accolades

Featured in both Horse & Rider and Horse & Hound magazines in the United Kingdom

Packing

Packing for Horse Riding Costa Rica and Costa Rica Travel Adventures

Please see Equitrekking Travel’s General Packing List

Particularly in the Central Pacific coast, the weather is very hot and humid from January to April, when temperatures can range from 77°F to 95 °F (25 °C to 35 °C). If you are sensitive to the heat, it's best to travel from May through December.

About the Horses

The horses that Spanish explorers introduced to Costa Rica around the sixteenth century were smaller. These were sought for their surefootedness and ability to survive tough weather conditions. In the past 35 years many new breeds have been imported to Costa Rica, such as Andalusians, Peruvian Pasos, Quarter-horses, Thoroughbreds, Arabians and Morgans. These breeds have improved the Criollo horses, making for calm, surefooted, strong and agile horses.

The horses for this equestrian vacation are all hand selected for their calm nature. The breed of horses is called Costa Rican Criollo or alternatively mixed breed (Spanish) and they range from 14 to 16 hands.There are around 20 horses at the first riding destination and 30 more at La Ensenada, the second destination. All of them are very responsive and surefooted. At both properties, there are specialized horse masters that take care of the horses. They are trained to be ridden with neck rein steering. From the working Criollo, to the elegant Costa Rican Paso Fino, there is a horse for every riding preference.

Special note on Gaited Horses: This outfitter has a few Gaited Horses (Paso Finos). Please ask us about riding gaited horses on this equestrian vacation!

Tack
The saddles used on the rides are Modified McClellan and Western Saddles. Both open and covered stirrups are commonly used. The majority of the horses are ridden in “Jaquima” with a "bozal" – a type of Bit-less bridles made of rope or leather. The horses are trained to this system, which is not only more comfortable for horses but practical for long-distance riding.

Activities/Events

At the riding Center in Orotina, you will experience the rural Costa Rican lifestyle, staying next to horses in a peacefully atmosphere. The groups are small (4 to 6), with a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 8 riders to provide personalized attention throughout. Small groups ensure personal attention. In the rare case, where there is a booking for a number of riders that exceeds our established maximums, we may choose to organize two separate groups and add a variation to the itinerary to prevent overlap.

While riding on the Costa Rica Equestrian Adventure, you'll have the opportunity to experience many non-riding adventures. In the different itineraries, packages include different activities for non-riding travelers like nature walks, hiking at Arenal Volcano National Park, enjoying the relaxing hot springs, hikes to the unique Monteverde Hanging Bridges and a trip to a typical cloud forest.

Adding on any of the additional adventures below is possible by contacting us for more information.

Crocodile Boat Safari: This two-hour boat ride explores the Tarcoles river, home of one of largest colonies of crocodiles in Costa Rica, with specimens range between 10 to 23 feet. The area is where the river merges with Guacalillo estuary, and then both blend into the ocean. It's one of the best locations to see endangered birds such as the Mangrove Cuckoo, Mangrove Hummingbird, Mangrove Vireo and the Panama Flycatcher. Many travelers see water birds, incuding Pelicans, Boat-billed Herons, Spoon-billed Egrets and Cattle Egrets. Please note that this activity is scheduled according to the ocean tides (a high tide is required).

Sky Way Tour: This network of trails is located on a privately owned reserve adjacent to Carara National Park. This attraction consists of natural trails and hanging bridges (hammock-type). There are five bridges in total throughout a wonderful rainforest of centenary trees. They are built of metal and held up by metallic towers. They also have a side rail and plastic cover for the railing to give more security and comfort. This tour provides great opportunities for wildlife observation. This tour is accessible for families with kids.

Canopy Tour: The adventure of the “Canopy Tour” starts at Villa Lapas where you will meet your canopy guides, who will help you get geared up. Each person that goes on the tour will be carrying a harness, two Carabinners, a pair of welding gloves, a pulley and two strings (one for the pulley and the other one for safety on the cables and platforms).

Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling: After a brief introduction and demonstration, start your ocean adventure just a short drive to Playa Agujas, near Jaco beach. Paddle to Playa Limoncito, a beach where you can enjoy excellent snorkeling in the warm Pacific waters, followed by a picnic lunch. The beach is in a sheltered cove with a nearby coral reef where it is possible to view a wide variety of marine life. Continue exploring by kayak or relax on the beach before going back to Playa Agujas.

Whitewater Rafting: A White Water Rafting Adventure will provide you with the opportunity to enjoy one of the most amazing rainforest experiences possible - breathtaking beauty far removed from civilization's rush and heart-pounding excitement. It is certain to be a highlight of your stay in Costa Rica. The Pacuare River is one of the top five rafting rivers in the world, known for its scenery and rapids. Many have described rafting on this tropical river as pure magic.

Scuba Diving: Diving on the southern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica can be simply described as spectacular. Located at 12 miles west of Drake Bay, Caño Island offers several site for world-class diving. This island is protected as a biological reserve and its surrounding waters are extremely pristine and home to incredible marine life. Schools of mobula rays (devil rays), turtles, and white tip reef sharks can be seen on many dives. On almost every dive, large schools of fish swimming around and overhead can be breathtaking. Although not as common, the elusive whale shark and the giant bull shark are often spotted in the area. Water visibility is good and can range from 45-90 feet. Temperatures hover in the upper seventies to low eighties throughout the year and provide for an exquisite diving experience.

Rainforest Aerial Tram-Pacific: The Pacific Rain Forest Aerial Tram provides a unique perspective above a tropical rainforest, the modified ski lifts offer a bird's eye view of the rainforest canopy, which is home to an estimated 60 percent of rainforest species. During the 90-minute ride in a silent gondola that skims the rainforest floor and then soars above giant trees - this as a naturalist guides will tell you about the eco-tourism activities, ecology and why saving the rainforest is so important for our country's future. Lush vegetation and many endangered species inhabit the mountainous slopes between the dry Pacific lowlands and adjacent rainforest in Carara National Park. A 40 foot majestic waterfall shoots from the mountainside close to the tram as visitors enjoy a relaxing view of the seemingly endless sea from their gondolas.

Child Riders
Intermediate to Advanced rides require a minimum age of 12-years-old and novice to intermediate rides require a minimum age of 10-years-old. Every rider must be able to demonstrate the ability to safely control hir or her horse and follow instruction. If a child does not follow instruction or the guides are concerned for safety, the child will be returned to the stable and there will be no refund or exception. Riders under 18 years old must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Younger children can be part of any of our riding holidays for families, for whom special rides can be customised. Riding lessons and childcare-taker service can be provided for an extra cost.

Accommodations/Food

Food

Taste exotic tropical fruit and nuts harvested from the area, including cashews, sour sops, cas, guavas, oranges, coconuts, mandarines, avocados, papayas, sweet lemons and mangoes. Due to its location and climate, Costa Rica has a wide variety of fruits and vegetables.

The ingredients used by Costa Rican cooks include simple native foods, such as "chayote" (squash), avocados, and the ever present corn. Costa Rican cuisine is also characterized by its mildness, which comes as a surprise to many visitors who might have travelled through Mexico and expect to find the same spicy chillies in Costa Rican foods. Chillies are used to some degree, however, they are most commonly used in hot sauces with accompany broiled meats and poultry.

Tubers, such as sweet potatoes and cassava, commonly known as "yucca" frequently accompany lunch and dinner meals. In many dishes yucca is often substituted for potato, perhaps boiled and mashed or fried to exquisite crispness to accompany meat and sandwiches instead of fries, or simply boiled and served with butter and garlic. Plantains, a type of banana, are another Costa Rican favorite, and are most often boiled, mashed, stuffed with cheese, or fried to accompany meats or bean dishes. Unlike bananas, plantains are much larger and need to be cooked to be eaten.

There are plenty of meats including: poultry, fish, beef and pork. At the lodge at Maravilla, courtesy drinks and beer are provided after the rides and a glass of wine at dinner time. Clients are also welcome to bring their own alcohol.

Sample meals include:

Breakfast: A traditional Costa Rican breakfast consists of "gallo pinto" (Pinto Rooster), eggs, tortillas and sour cream, with coffee and fresh fruit juice. Most restaurants will offer some international options.
Lunch: Typically known as "casado" (Married), includes: rice and beans, one choice of meat (beef, chicken, pork, or fish), salad, fried plantain (a type of banana, very sweet and very tasty).
Dinner: Pretty much whatever you like. The seafood is excellent, well priced, and fresh, as are the fruits and vegetables. Of course Costa Rica produces some of the finest coffee in the world and it's not uncommon to see bumper stickers around proclaiming that "Juan Valdez drinks Costa Rican coffee

Accommodations
Your first night in Costa Rica will generally be at a comfortable hotel, not far from the airport. Throughout the riding vacations, you stay in the best accommodation available in the area; it tends to be simple rather than luxurious. Please see each individual itinerary for more on accommodations.

The Ideal Traveler

The Costa Rica Equestrian Adventures vacation has rides that will suite all riding ablilities. Famiies with small children are welcome. Many a honeymoon and wedding on horseback have been hosted here. There are also options for private rides for groups of friends.

Odyssey Riding Vacation

This Multi-base Costa Rica riding vacation is designed for those serious riders who want to discover the most diverse terrain and scenery. This is achieved by using vehicle transportation only when strictly necessary due only to the long distances involved between our three riding bases. Riders are required to have an Intermediate level of riding experience to join this ride. On this riding vacation, start at rustic Hacienda La Maravilla from where you explore the coastal rain forest, mango plantations and mountain trails. Then you travel to the Arenal volcano and finish the trail riding over the rolling grasslands of coastal Guanacaste.

10 days/ 9 nights
2013: Feb 21-March 2, March 14-23, March 21-30, March 28-April 6, April 4-13, April 18-27, May 2-11, May 9-18, May 16-25, May 23-June 1, June 6-15, July 11-20, July 18-27, July 25-Aug 3, Aug 8-17, Aug 29-Sept 7, Sept 12-21, Sept 19-28, Oct 10-19, Oct 24-Nov 2, Nov 7-16, Nov 14-23, Nov 21-30, Dec 5-14, Dec 21-30, Dec 26-Jan 4

$1,999 USD* pp sharing
You should be prepared to share at Maravilla (3 nights) due to the limited number of rooms. If you are in a single room on the other 6 nights, there is a single supplement of $294 USD*.

* Prices subject to changes based on currency conversions.

Included
Accommodation; most meals; drinks if staying at Maravilla; riding; guiding. Transfers from San Jose included at set times.

Not Included
Meals in San Jose; drinks; airport departure tax; tips ($10 - $13 USD* per day). International flights to San Jose.

Sample Day by Day Costa Rica Riding Holiday Itinerary

Day One - Arrival

Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel for overnight.

Day Two – Briefing & Welcome Ride

Morning transfer to Cien Fuegos Eco-Ranch & Stables, located along the Trinidad river in the Dry Central Pacific Region and the starting point of your riding adventure. After the horse assignment and presentation, you will head towards Hacienda La Maravilla, riding along rolling hills and meadows into the Gallery Forest alongside the Cuarros River – an excellent spot to see monkeys and maybe other wildlife. Meander across the river following a country lane passing farmland, rural homes and finally arriving at the hacienda grounds. In the afternoon there will be another ride to explore the area. The next three nights will be at Maravilla lodge (shared bathrooms).

Please note at peak times (especially Christmas and New Year) availability at Maravilla cannot be guaranteed and groups may stay at alternative accommodation. Approx 3 hours in the saddle.

Day Three -Coastal Ride

Today’s ride will take you to the Pacific coast, following country lanes and an old ranch trail which lead to Tivives Crag. The Spaniards first started their conquest of the Central Pacific around 1561 right from this very spot! Ride across the Cascajalillo Mangrove Swamps and along the coast. Depending on tide times, lunch will be served at a local café or as a picnic on the beach or back at Maravilla. Again, depending on the tide you may climb on horseback towards Cuevas Crag, enjoying unique views of the Pacific Ocean or alternatively, ride along the shoreline towards Guacalillo beach. Follow a country road back to Maravilla.

Overnight at Maravilla. Approx 5 - 6 hours in the saddle.

Day Four – Ranch & Countryside Ride

This morning you ride across some of the hacienda’s 1,000 acres and its private reserve, through rolling hills and savannahs towards the Transitional Dry Forest and the lush Gallery Forest. Here, the terrain is picturesque, predominantly flat with gentle slopes and forested valleys. As you ride over the higher areas you will be able to gain excellent views of the Pacific Ocean on a clear day. Arrive back at the hacienda in time for lunch and relaxation.

This afternoon ride again in the Southern part of La Maravilla Hacienda. After a few gentle hill climbs you may experience an ocean view sunset – the Pacific coast has the reputation for being amongst the world’s top best places to experience this beautiful event.

Overnight at Maravilla. Approx 3 – 6 hours in the saddle.

Day Five –Mountain Trail & Valley Ride

Your final ride in the Central Pacific will take you to the Machuca River basin, passing Cascajal village and into the area where this river canyon broadens onto the plains. Ride towards the Jesús María River basin, allowing exploration of the plains and forested valleys along the Machuca River Canyon, where the land is very fertile and most commonly used to cultivate melons. Arriving early afternoon back at Eco-Ranch.

In the afternoon you transfer by vehicle to Arenal, home of the Arenal Volcano which last erupted in 1968 and remains one of the most active volcanoes in the world.

Overnight in Arenal. Approx 4 – 5 hours in the saddle.

Day Six – Arenal Volcano Exploration

Today is a relaxing non-riding day to explore Arenal. This morning there are two options;

1) If the weather is clear, you may wish to join a walk to the summit of the volcano.

2) At additional cost (c. USD 80 per person) you may prefer to join a ‘sky trek’ which encompasses zip wires, hanging bridges and a tram way through the rainforest.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time at the beautiful Arenal hot water springs. These thermo-mineral waters, which some people claim to have healing powers, will help you to leave feeling relaxed. Lunch will be at the thermal spa.

Later in the afternoon, transfer by vehicle to Abangaritos. Your journey takes you along the International Highway and passes the Continental Division Line (where the arid Pacific area meets the humid Cloud Forest). Your accommodation for the next three nights is at La Ensenada, a family run lodge located in 1,000 acres.

Dinner and overnight at La Ensenada.

Day Seven –Introductory Ride at La Ensenada Lodge

This morning there will be a ride briefing and introduction to your new horse. Set off on an exploratory ride of La Ensenada which will help you to learn more about your horse and the terrain you will be discovering over the next few days.

Explore the inner grounds at Hacienda Ensenada where the majority of the area is used for grazing beef and dairy cattle. It also includes a protected wetland area of mangrove swamps and wetlands at the Abangares river delta. La Ensenada Wildlife refuge protects some of the remaining primary and secondary forests of the northern Puntarenas province. All of this makes this place an ideal location for horse riding and bird-watching.

Overnight at La Ensenada Lodge. Approx 4 hours in the saddle.

Day Eight - La Ensenada – Salinas & Miadores Rides

This morning you ride towards the eastern side of La Ensenada where the Salinas and various lagoons are located including Laguna Augusta and Laguna Jacana. During high tide and with some luck, this could be a fantastic ride to do some bird-watching on horseback as these wetlands and lagoons are frequented by water-birds. The gulf of Nicoya, the mangroves and the Salinas (Salt Lagoons) offer bird lovers and photography enthusiasts alike the opportunity to see many different species of birds such as pelicans, herons, parrots, Montezuma oropendula, bellbird, white iris and great egret amongst others.

Later this afternoon, you follow "La Pizota" trail over varied terrain including plains, grassland, slopes and rolling hills which are natural lookout points providing excellent opportunities to enjoy a full ocean view and the Gulf of Nicoya.

Depending on the time of your departure from the lodge, you may be lucky enough to experience a dramatic and colourful sunset during this ride.

Overnight at La Ensenada. Approx 5 hours in the saddle.

Day Nine - La Ensenada Lodge / San Jose

This morning’s ride follows a completely different route. You start on trails that skirt the mountain slopes that meet the Pacific Ocean towards the eastern side of the hacienda. Then continue on a rural road visiting the rural community of Manzanillo where life is rustic and simple and gives a true feel of the real rural Costa Rica. Then you will enter a sister property of Ensenada crossing the Cañamazo River and continuing on farm trails through reforestation plantations of Teakwood and Melina trees. Later on, you cross the Congo River and head back towards the lodge with the possibility of stopping at a local town for a drink en route. Arrive back at the lodge in time for lunch.

Afternoon transfer takes about 2 1/2hours back to San Jose and to your hotel.

Overnight San Jose. Approx 4-5 hours in the saddle.

Day Ten - Departure

Morning at your leisure and then be transferred to San Jose Airport in time for your flight home.

* This itinerary is a sample itinerary. Itineraries are subject to changes due to the weather, the trip guide's discretion and other factors.

Costa Rica Accommodations for this riding vacation
Your first night in Costa Rica will generally be at a comfortable hotel, not far from the airport. Throughout the riding trails, you stay in the best accommodation available in the area; it tends to be simple rather than luxurious.

Cerro Lodge

Featured on the Rainforest Adventure ride and at times for nights 2, 3 and 4 of the Riding Odyssey, Cerro Lodge is an environmentally friendly project located on a farm in Tarcoles (central pacific) just 10 minutes from Carara National Park. The lodge is in the middle of one of the most important refuges for the Scarlet Macaw; we often see these spectacular red, blue, and yellow parrots as they fly through the valley at Cerro Lodge.

One of the principle goals of Cerro Lodge is to operate as environmentally friendly and sustainable as possible. Always looking for ways to reduce impact, they re-use water for irrigation, compost their organic garbage and have worms that make organic fertilizer from cow manure. They are also hoping to put together a bio-digestor and would like to produce their own electricity.

There are 8 bungalows with private bathrooms and indoor garden, swimming pool and a dining area. All this is surrounded by trees, palms, gardens, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, mangrove forests, and Carara National Park.

Maravilla

Maravilla is often used for nights 2, 3 and 4 of the Riding Odyssey.

Maravilla Lodge is a former holiday home of the owner of the riding operation in Costa Rica. It is a small house set in pretty lawns with four bedrooms and two bathrooms. The comfortable bedrooms have twin beds and ceiling fans. There is a dining area and seating area. After dinner or during the heat of the afternoon, you can relax in a hammock on the veranda and listen to the sounds of the tropics. Please note at Christmas and New Year it is not possible to stay at Maravilla.

Because there are only four rooms at Maravilla you do need to be prepared to share for the three nights at Maravilla on the Riding Odyssey, however it is possible to request a single room for the other nights (there is a single supplement payable).

La Ensenada

This Lodge is part of the 1,000-acre La Ensenada National Wildlife Refuge located on the pacific coast in the province of Puntarenas, on the gulf of Nicoya, only 2:5 hours from San José. It is an ideal place for horseback riding; for naturalists, for bird watchers and nature lovers. The most important activities for this ranch are cattle and horses, the production of salt and fruit. The Lodge offers rustic but comfortable chalet-type accommodations facing The Nicoya Gulf with en-suite shower room, closet and spacious terrace, from which you enjoy and unforgettable sunset relaxing in a hammock. The lodge has a lovely swimming pool and spacious restaurant area.

Ride & Rainforest Riding Vacation

Diverse Costa Rica Riding Vacation. Explore the coastal rainforest, mango plantations and mountain trails on horseback. In the northern part of the hacienda the terrain is picturesque, predominantly flat with gentle slopes and forested valleys. To the south you ride across savannahs, large mango plantations and explore some of the secondary Dry Forests. You can ride through the Mangrove swamps and estuaries to the Pacific Ocean, ride along the coast and onto headlands with spectacular views.

7 nights
Saturday to Saturday
This Costa Rica Riding Vaccation is offered for 2 riders or more and private groups upon request.

2013 Dates & Rates

$1,699 USD* pp sharing
No single supplement if you are prepared to share, otherwise $210 USD*.
Child minding service provided for children under 11 years.

* Prices shown are subject to daily exchange rate fluctuations. Prices are indicative only; the price of your chosen holiday will be reconfirmed by your travel consultant, prior to your making a booking.

Included
Transfers ncluded from San Jose. Five nights at Cerro Lodge (or Maravilla); two nights in hotel in San Jose; non-riding activities; all transfers; most meals; drinks if staying at Maravilla; riding as per itinerary; English speaking guide.

Not Included
Meals and drinks in San Jose; drinks; airport departure tax; tips ($10 -$13 USD* per day). International flights to San Jose.

Sample Ride & Rainforest Riding Vacation
This week will be tailored to meet the wishes of the group, but the following is a suggestion.

The Rainforest Adventure ride includes a number of non-riding activities. It is usually possible for the group to split with some enjoying extra riding while others enjoy another rainforest adventure.

Day One

Arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José. You will be met and transferred to a San Jose Hotel for an overnight stay (dinner to own account.)

Day Two

Morning transfer to Cien Fuegos Eco-Ranch & Stables - the starting point of your riding adventure. The ranch is located in La Trinidad de Orotina on the Dry Central Pacific Region which offers one of Costa Rica’s most unspoiled and idyllic riding areas. On arrival you will be introduced to the guides, your horse, the ranch and its facilities and have an opportunity to fully acquaint yourself with tack and Costa Rican riding style. After horse assignment, you head towards Hacienda La Maravilla (the horses’ base for the week), riding along rolling hills and meadows into the Gallery Forest alongside the Cuarros River – an excellent spot for wildlife encounters! Meander across the river and follow a country lane, passing farmland and rural homes en route before arriving at the hacienda grounds. This is very much an introductory ride to go over and share riding and safety issues, prior to being ‘let loose’ in the tropics! (Approx. 2.5 hours riding).

This afternoon there is the option of a hike to explore the local area on foot. Or you may prefer to opt for an afternoon ride instead (approx 2 hours riding).