Horseback Riding Arenal Volcano: Private Cattle Farm Trails

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Duration2h 30m

GroupUp to 15

LanguagesEN · ES

PickupAt your hotel

Rainforest, river crossings, and a viewpoint facing the volcano cone

Horseback riding around Arenal Volcano takes you through lush primary forest and cattle pastures on a private farm at the volcano's base, with a bilingual guide leading the way on well-trained horses. The route climbs from the lowest to the highest part of the property, stopping at a lagoon where the horses drink and you stretch, then reaching a lookout with direct views of the volcanic cone and old lava fields. Hotel pickup from La Fortuna is included; the ride takes about two and a half hours and suits riders of all skill levels.

2h 30m

Step-by-step itinerary

Horseback riding around Arenal Volcano

Begin horseback ride on private cattle farm
Pass through tropical rainforest and pastures
Cross scenic rivers and creeks
Stop at lagoon for horse refreshment and rest
Continue to lookout with volcano views
Observe wildlife and take photos
Enjoy cold organic fruit drink if weather permits

The Experience

The trail starts on private property that was originally used by Don Tobias, a well-known horse breeder in the Arenal area. You'll ride through lush primary forest and open pasture where herds of sheep, horses and cattle graze, with chances to spot howler monkeys, sloths and colorful toucans in the canopy. The pace is gentle and the horses are accustomed to riders of varying experience, so you can focus on the landscape and the wildlife instead of managing the animal.

Halfway through, you'll reach a beautiful lagoon where the horses stop to drink and refresh themselves. This is your chance to dismount, stretch and take in the surroundings before continuing uphill. The trail climbs steadily toward the volcano's slopes, and as you gain elevation the views open up. When the weather cooperates, the stable serves a cold drink made from organic fruit—banana, pineapple, papaya or lime—at the high viewpoint, where you can see the whole volcanic cone from base to top and take photographs without the glare of midday sun.

The bilingual guide (English and Spanish) handles the logistics and knows the property well enough to point out wildlife and explain what you're seeing. Bring long pants, a t-shirt, binoculars, camera, sunscreen and insect repellent; a helmet and safety gear are provided. Hotel pickup and drop-off from selected La Fortuna hotels are included, so you don't arrange your own transport to the stable.

What’s included

Helmet and safety gear.
hotel pickup and drop-off from selected La Fortuna hotels.
bilingual guide in English and Spanish.
well-trained horse matched to your size and experience.
access to the private farm trail and the high viewpoint.
a cold drink made from organic fruit at the lookout (when weather permits).

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Tico Paradise Costa Rica

Is this one for you?Choose the private option at Los Lagos Stable if you want to set your own pace and avoid coordinating with other riders; the shared departures work better if you're traveling solo or with one other person and don't mind a small group. Riders need moderate fitness because the trail climbs steadily uphill, but the gentle pace and well-trained horses mean you can manage it without prior saddle experience.