Jaco Beach: Horseback Riding Tour with Beach & Forest Trails

Summary

Ride horses through Jaco’s rice fields, forest and along the beach with a local cowboy guide

You’ll ride your own horse through Jaco’s rice fields and shady forests with a local guide who knows every turn. Cross rivers, spot monkeys or sloths if you’re lucky, then finish with a peaceful stretch along Jaco Beach itself. Expect laughter, muddy shoes, ocean breeze—and maybe a story or two you’ll want to tell later.

What’s the experience like?

We met our guide just outside Jaco Beach — he was already laughing about how my friend tried to tie her helmet. The horses looked relaxed, tails flicking at flies, and I could smell a bit of that grassy, earthy scent you only get near stables. I’ll admit I was nervous (I’ve only ridden once before), but our guide, José, made it feel like no big deal. He showed us how to hold the reins and said “don’t worry, these horses are pura vida.” That made me laugh — it’s true, they barely flinched when a rooster crowed nearby.

The first part of the horseback riding tour took us past some rice plantations — not exactly what I pictured in Costa Rica, but the green went on forever. José pointed out a sloth in a tree (I almost missed it) and told us about his family working these lands for years. There was this moment where we crossed a shallow river; my horse hesitated, then just splashed right in. My shoes got wet but honestly? It felt good in the heat. The air smelled like wet earth and something sweet from the trees — maybe guava?

After winding through some shaded forest trails (cooler under there), we finally reached the beach. The sand was firmer than I expected — easy for riding — and suddenly you could hear nothing but waves and hoofbeats. I tried to say “qué bonito” but probably messed up; José grinned anyway. We walked slowly along the shore while pelicans skimmed over the water. It wasn’t rushed at all. I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jaco Beach Horseback Riding Adventure

• Meet friendly local guide
• Receive horseback riding instruction
• Ride through rice plantations
• Explore exclusive nature trails
• Cross shallow river
• Ride forest trail
• Ride along the beach
• Spot wildlife like monkeys and sloths

Top questions

Is this horseback riding tour in Jaco Beach suitable for beginners?

Yes, beginners are welcome—your local cowboy guide will give instructions for any level of experience.

How long does the horseback riding tour last?

The tour lasts between 1.8 and 2.5 hours depending on your group’s pace and skill level.

What kind of terrain will we ride through on this Jaco Beach horseback tour?

You’ll ride through rice plantations, cross a shallow river, follow forest trails, and finish along Jaco Beach.

Are there chances to see wildlife during the ride?

Yes—there’s a good chance to spot monkeys or sloths along the way.

Is bottled water included on this horseback riding tour?

Bottled water is included for all participants.

Do I need prior horseback riding experience?

No experience is needed—the horses are calm and guides help everyone feel comfortable.

Are safety helmets provided on this tour?

Yes—safety equipment including helmets is provided for all riders.

Can children join this horseback riding tour near Jaco?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers; check with operator for age restrictions.

What’s included

Your day includes instruction from an experienced local cowboy guide, use of well-cared-for horses suited to all skill levels, safety gear like helmets, bottled water to keep you cool in the heat, plus exclusive trails through rice fields, forests, shallow river crossings and time riding right along Jaco Beach itself before heading back.