Aruba: Advanced Horseback Riding Tour & Coastal Gallop

Summary

Gallop white dunes spot iguanas and ride wild Aruba coast

You’ll saddle up for a real ride through Aruba’s untamed cunucu with a local guide who knows every twist of trail. Gallop white dunes if you’re up for it, spot wild iguanas and parakeets, then cool off back at the ranch with a cold drink or coffee. This advanced horseback riding tour is for riders who want more than just a walk—expect grit, laughter, and that salty wind still lingering after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We were already saddled up before I realized how far we’d left the roads behind—just hoofbeats and our guide’s easy chatter in the air. The Aruban countryside (the “cunucu,” as they call it) felt raw and open, all prickly bushes and flashes of green where parakeets darted. My horse twitched his ears at every iguana sunning itself. Li, our guide, kept an eye on us—he could tell who’d ridden before and who was just bluffing. He told me to try a little trot first, then grinned when I stayed on through a patch of soft sand.

The north coast hit me harder than I expected—windy and loud, waves smashing against black rocks while we picked our way along the edge. There was this moment where Li just pointed ahead and said, “If you’re ready, go.” So I did. Galloping over those pale dunes felt like flying but with grit in your teeth (and probably in my shoes). Not sure my posture was perfect but nobody cared; it was just us, salt air, sun burning through thin clouds. We stopped for photos but honestly I was too busy trying to catch my breath—and maybe trying not to look too pleased with myself.

Back at the ranch it smelled like coffee and grilled bread—someone handed me a cold drink while horses snorted behind us. My legs wobbled getting down (I’ll admit it), but there was this quiet pride sitting there in dusty boots with sand still stuck to my hands. If you’re looking for an advanced horseback riding tour in Aruba that actually lets you ride—not just follow nose-to-tail—you’ll get it here. Still think about that wild stretch of coast sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback riding tour in Aruban countryside

• Pick up from hotel or cruise terminal
• Arrive at ranch in Aruban countryside
• Receive riding instructions and mount horse
• Ride through 'Cunucu' countryside trails
• Observe wildlife at hidden lagoon
• Enjoy scenic photo opportunities
• Return to ranch and dismount
• Depart ranch and return to hotel or cruise terminal

Top questions

Is this Aruba horseback riding tour suitable for beginners?

No, this specific tour is designed for advanced riders who can control their horse well. The guide will assess your level before allowing galloping.

How long does the advanced horseback riding tour last?

The guided ride is approximately 2 hours through the Aruban countryside and along the northeast coast.

Are hotel pickups included in the booking?

Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel or cruise terminal is included in your booking.

Can I choose between English or Western tack?

Yes, both English and Western tack are available upon request at the ranch.

Is galloping allowed during the Aruba horseback riding tour?

Galloping is allowed only for experienced riders at the guide’s discretion, usually on soft sand dunes if conditions are right.

What should I wear for this horseback riding experience?

Wear comfortable clothes suitable for riding; helmets are provided at the ranch.

Are drinks or food included after the ride?

No food or drinks are included but cold drinks, coffee, tea, and Dutch grilled sandwiches are available for purchase at the ranch bar after your ride.

What is the maximum weight limit per rider?

The maximum weight per person is 200 lbs (about 90 kg).

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel or cruise port by air-conditioned minivan straight to the ranch in Aruba’s countryside. You’ll get fitted with English or Western tack plus helmet use before heading out with a local guide on a two-hour ride—with galloping allowed if you’re experienced enough—then return transport after relaxing at the cozy country bar back at base.