Cartagena: Manzanillo Beach Horseback Ride & Ranch Show

Summary

Horseback riding by the Caribbean Sea with local horses and ranch show near Cartagena

You’ll feel the salt air on your face as you ride along Manzanillo Beach with friendly guides who know their horses inside out. Watch a Colombian Paso show at the ranch, enjoy lunch under palm trees, and take home candid photos of your day by the Caribbean Sea. It’s relaxed and real — perfect if you want something different from Cartagena’s city buzz.

What’s the experience like?

Hands brushing the horse’s mane, I tried to remember what our guide — his name was Andrés — said about posture. He watched us with this patient smile as we fumbled with helmets and laughed at ourselves. The drive from Cartagena’s old city took maybe twenty minutes, but it felt like we’d landed somewhere slower, where the air smelled more like salt and grass than exhaust. When we reached the ranch, a couple of locals were already prepping the Colombian Paso horses for their little show. I’d never seen horses move like that — almost dancing? Someone handed me a juice box (guava, I think), which made me grin because I hadn’t had one since childhood.

The actual horseback riding tour on Manzanillo Beach started just after that. My horse was called Luna — she snorted every time I shifted in the saddle, which Andrés found hilarious. He gave everyone a quick rundown based on our experience (mine: basically zero), then rode alongside us as we set out toward the water. The sand was warm under Luna’s hooves and there was this constant hush of waves against the shore. We passed a few kids playing soccer barefoot; one waved and shouted something I didn’t catch. It wasn’t crowded at all — just us, some fishermen in the distance, and that wide blue horizon. At one point my horse stopped to sniff some seaweed and I nearly slid off, but Andrés just winked and told me Luna liked to “inspect her kingdom.”

Afterwards they offered lunch (I went for fish; someone else had chicken) right by the ranch under a palm roof. The breeze kept blowing napkins away and everyone looked sun-flushed and happy in that lazy way you get after being outside for hours. They took photos of us on our horses — not posed, just laughing or squinting into the sun — and sent them later as a little souvenir. I still think about how quiet it felt out there compared to Cartagena’s busy streets. If you’re curious about doing a horseback riding tour near Cartagena but worry you’ll look silly (like me), don’t stress — they really do match you with a horse that fits your vibe.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback riding and ranch show

• Pick up from your hotel
• Visit traditional ranch for horse show
• Horseback ride on Manzanillo beach
• Enjoy lunch or dinner
• Receive photos of the experience

Top questions

How far is Manzanillo Beach from Cartagena?

It’s about 20 minutes by car from Cartagena’s old city to Manzanillo Beach.

Is hotel pickup included in this horseback riding tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included for guests staying in Cartagena.

Do I need horseback riding experience?

No experience is necessary; guides match each rider with an appropriate horse and give instructions before starting.

Are meals provided during the tour?

You can enjoy lunch or dinner after your ride at the ranch.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children can join if accompanied by a responsible adult; specialized infant seats are available.

What should I wear for horseback riding on the beach?

Comfortable clothes are recommended since you’ll be outdoors on the beach.

Can cruise passengers join this tour?

Yes, cruise passengers can be picked up at 9:00 am with enough time to return before departure.

Are there weight restrictions for riders?

Yes, riders must weigh less than 120 kg to participate.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Cartagena to Manzanillo Beach, all safety gear like helmets, water or soft drinks during your time at the ranch, a Colombian Paso horse show before your ride along the shore, plus lunch or dinner served under palm trees after riding. You’ll also receive souvenir photos or videos of your experience before heading back to town.