Horseback Riding in Jaco: You Control the Horse

Take the reins yourself and guide gentle horses through forest trails to the beach sand.

Horseback riding in Jaco, Costa Rica where you control the horse instead of following a guide's lead. The ride moves through rice plantations, forest trails, and a shallow river crossing before finishing on the beach; the guide has over 15 years of experience and teaches beginners everything they need. Duration runs 1.8 to 2.5 hours depending on your skill level.

The Experience

Most horse tours hand you the reins and then a guide pulls the horse forward. This one is different: you're the one steering. The guide—someone with more than 15 years leading riders—stays with you to teach technique if you need it and to navigate the trails, but the horse responds to what you do. That shift from passenger to rider is what makes the difference, especially if you've never ridden before. The horses are calm and used to all levels, from people who've never sat on one to experienced riders.

The route starts by moving through rice plantations around Jaco, then opens into forest trails that the operator says are exclusive to this tour. You'll cross a shallow river, ride through the trees where monkeys and sloths often appear, and finish the last stretch on the beach itself—the ocean breeze, the sand under the horse's hooves, the whole arc of the day. How long it takes depends on your pace and comfort: somewhere between 1.8 and 2.5 hours. The guide carries all the safety gear, and the horses are in excellent condition.

Beginners get the instruction they need to handle the horse confidently. If you're already comfortable riding, you'll have the freedom to move at your own speed through the trails. The operator emphasizes flexibility—if something about the route or timing needs to shift for your group, they work with you on it.

What’s included

• Security gear for the entire ride.
• a guide with 15+ years of experience in English or Spanish.
• water to stay hydrated.
• calm, well-cared-for horses suited to any skill level.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelers

Operated by Tours & Travel Jaco Costa Rica

Is this one for you?You're in control of the horse from start to finish—our guide teaches you to ride confidently on exclusive trails, whether you're discovering horseback riding for the first time or returning to the saddle.

Traveler reviews

4.93★★★★★★★★★★

511 verified traveler reviews

5 ★491

4 ★13

3 ★2

2 ★0

1 ★5

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Can I ride a horse in Jaco if I've never done it before?

Yes. The guide teaches beginners the skills they need to control the horse safely, and the horses are calm and used to riders at any level. You'll get the instruction right there on the trail.

What's the difference between this tour and other horseback rides in the area?

In most horse tours, a guide leads your horse and you don't really steer. Here you control the horse yourself—the guide teaches and navigates, but you're the one directing the ride. That's the core of what makes it different.

What happens during the river crossing?

The river crossing is shallow, so it's not deep or dangerous. It's part of the trail that moves through the forest before you reach the beach section.

How long does the whole ride take?

The ride runs between 1.8 and 2.5 hours depending on how fast you and your group move and your comfort level with the horse. The guide adjusts the pace to match your skill.

What wildlife might I see?

Monkeys and sloths are common sightings on the trails around Jaco. There's a good chance you'll spot them, especially in the forest sections.

What's included to keep me safe?

All safety implements are included—helmet, proper gear, and the guide's experience. The horses are well cared for and equipped for safe riding.