Guanacaste: Jungle, River & Buenavista Beach Horseback Ride

Summary

Horseback ride from Guanacaste jungle to wild Buenavista Beach with river crossing and wildlife

You’ll ride gentle horses from Guanacaste’s jungle trails across the Buenavista river, spotting monkeys and butterflies along the way, until you reach an untouched Pacific beach where your horse paddles in the surf. Small groups make it easy to chat with your guide or just listen to hoofbeats and waves — there’s even fresh coconut water waiting at the end.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — hooves on packed earth, birds shouting somewhere up in the Guanacaste trees. My horse was called Canela (which means cinnamon), and she was calmer than I expected. Our guide, Diego, waved us forward with a grin and we just… went. The sun was already warm but not heavy yet. There was this damp, green smell everywhere — like leaves after rain, even though it hadn’t rained in days.

I didn’t expect to cross a river so early. The Buenavista wasn’t deep but it was cool on my boots, and the horses barely hesitated. Diego pointed out some monkeys overhead — howler monkeys, he said — and I swear one of them watched us like we were the show. There were butterflies too, blue ones that flickered around our heads for a second before vanishing back into the trees. Someone behind me laughed when their horse tried to drink mid-crossing.

After maybe an hour of winding through forest and fields (we saw some wild cows just standing there staring at us), we broke out onto Buenavista Beach. It was long and grey and empty except for us. No buildings, nothing but driftwood and this wide sky over the Pacific. Canela walked straight into the waves like she did it every day — maybe she does — and I felt that salty spray on my face. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

On the way back we rode through open fields where other horses grazed without saddles or people. Diego handed us fresh coconut water near the stables (I spilled half of mine trying to open it). The whole thing took about two and a half hours but honestly it felt both longer and shorter than that — you know? Time gets weird when you’re moving slow on horseback with nothing but wind and animal sounds around you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horse riding through river, jungle, and beach

• Start tour at gate opening
• Cross Buenavista river on horseback
• Observe animals and flora in forest
• Ride to Buenavista Beach
• Horse paddles in Pacific Ocean waves
• Return through field with wild cows and horses

Top questions

How long does the horseback riding tour last?

The tour lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish.

Is this tour suitable for beginners or kids?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and kids from 5 years old are welcome.

What animals might we see during the ride?

You could spot monkeys (like howler monkeys), butterflies, birds, cows, horses, or even crocodiles.

Does the tour include riding on Buenavista Beach?

Yes, you’ll ride along Buenavista Beach and your horse can paddle in the Pacific Ocean waves.

Are helmets provided for riders?

Yes, helmets are included for all participants.

Is coconut water really included?

Yes! Fresh coconut water is offered at the end of your ride near the stables.

How big are the groups on this tour?

The tour usually runs in small groups but can accommodate up to 15 people if needed.

Are service animals allowed on this horseback ride?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to where the tour starts.

What’s included

Your day includes a well-trained horse matched to your comfort level, safety helmet for every rider, a friendly local guide leading you through jungle trails and across rivers all the way to Buenavista Beach, plus fresh coconut water served at the end before heading back toward town.