La Fortuna: Horseback Riding & Waterfall Ranch Tour with Lunch

Summary

Horseback riding la fortuna family ranch tour with jungle hike and lunch

You’ll ride gentle horses across a family ranch near La Fortuna, hike lush jungle trails with local guides who know every story, spot bright frogs and ancient trees, cool off by a hidden waterfall, then share a home-cooked Costa Rican lunch overlooking the rainforest. Expect muddy boots, laughter, and those little moments that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

Randall grinned when he handed me the reins — “Don’t worry, she’s tranquilo,” he said about my horse, but I wasn’t so sure. The saddle creaked as we set off through the fields at Rancho Típico Don Juan, and you could smell wet grass mixing with something sweet from the trees. Mr. Juan rode ahead, waving to his neighbor across the pasture. He’s been here forever, it seems — three generations on this land — and he knew every cow by name. I tried to look relaxed but probably just looked confused; Randall laughed and told me to lean back on the steeper bits.

The horses picked their way through a shallow creek (my shoes got soaked, but honestly it felt good), then we left them tied under some shade and started into the jungle on foot. It was humid and close in there — everything buzzing or chirping or rustling. Randall pointed out a tiny red frog clinging to a leaf; apparently poisonous, but it looked like candy. There was this tree — 400 years old, they said — with roots like giant fingers curling over rocks. I touched the bark and it felt cool even though I was sweating buckets.

We ended up at one of their waterfalls (they have nine?!) where you could hear nothing but water for a while. Some people took off their boots and sat on rocks; I just let my hands dangle in the spray. They called it a “Costa Rican massage” — not sure if that’s official but it worked for me. Lunch after was at their house: casado piled high with beans and plantains, windows open wide to green everywhere. Mrs. Juan brought out more tortillas than we could ever eat and smiled when I tried my Spanish (badly). Still think about that coffee at the end — strong enough to wake up your whole week.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback riding and nature tour

• Ride through ranch fields
• Explore cattle, creeks, and birds
• Take short jungle hike
• Learn about wildlife and plants
• See legendary 400-year-old tree
• Visit one of nine waterfalls
• Enjoy traditional Costa Rican massage
• Have Costa Rican lunch with views

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this horseback riding tour?

Yes, pickup from your place of stay is included in the tour.

How long has Rancho Típico Don Juan been run by the same family?

The ranch has been in the same family for over 85 years (three generations).

Are meals provided during the La Fortuna horseback riding tour?

Yes, a traditional Costa Rican lunch (casado) is included at the end of the tour.

Will I see wildlife during this day trip?

You may spot birds, cattle, frogs (including poisonous ones), and learn about local plants during your jungle hike.

Is this horseback riding tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it's suitable for all physical fitness levels except those with spinal injuries or certain health conditions.

Are specialized infant seats available?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available upon request.

Does this tour include a visit to waterfalls?

Yes, you'll visit one of nine waterfalls located on the ranch property.

What should I bring for this private ranch tour?

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting muddy; towels are provided.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided horseback riding led by Don Juan or his son Randall across their family ranch near La Fortuna, a short jungle hike to spot wildlife and ancient trees, time at one of several waterfalls (with towels provided), photos along the way, drinking water throughout, and finally a home-cooked Costa Rican lunch served with views of the surrounding rainforest before heading back.