Samara: Jungle & Beach Horseback Ride with Pickup & Photos

Summary

Horseback ride from Samara into jungle trails and quiet beach

You’ll ride from Samara through lush jungle trails, guided by locals who know every shortcut and story. Feel your horse’s steady pace beneath you as you reach Buena Vista or Samara Beach for a peaceful break with fresh fruit and water. Watch for monkeys overhead or iguanas darting past—then finish with sandy boots and new stories to tell.

What’s the experience like?

"You ever ridden a horse before?" That’s what Carlos asked as he handed me the reins. I just laughed — not really, unless you count one bumpy pony ride as a kid. But he was patient, matching each of us to a horse that somehow fit our vibes. The ranch sits about 2km outside Samara, and even before we set off, I could hear monkeys somewhere in the trees — this weird mix of hoots and rustling leaves that just made everything feel alive.

The path started out dusty and kind of narrow, winding through bits of jungle where the air smelled green (if that makes sense) and sometimes sharp with something floral I couldn’t place. My horse liked to stop and sniff things — Carlos joked she was “on her own tour.” We passed a couple of locals waving from their porch, one little kid grinning at us like we were in a parade. Then suddenly it opened up: Buena Vista Beach. White sand, almost no one around except some crabs doing their sideways dance. The horses’ hooves left these perfect prints behind us. We stopped for fruit and water under a tree while Carlos pointed out iguana tracks — I tried to spot one but honestly, no luck.

Depending on the season or if the river’s too high, sometimes you end up on Samara Beach instead. That’s what happened to us — the river was wild after last night’s rain. Didn’t really matter though; riding along the edge of the waves felt unreal anyway. There was this moment when everything went quiet except for the ocean and my horse’s breathing. I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jungle and beach horseback riding

• Start at ranch near Samara
• Match horse to riding level
• Ride through jungle and village
• Ride to Buena Vista Beach
• Observe wildlife like monkeys and iguanas
• Return to ranch

Top questions

How long is the horseback riding tour in Samara?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Is hotel pickup included for the horseback riding tour?

Yes, pickup from your hotel in Samara is included.

What beaches do you visit during the horseback ride?

The main route goes to Buena Vista Beach; in rainy season or high tide, it may go to Samara Beach instead.

Are beginners welcome on this horseback riding tour?

Yes, riders of all levels and ages are matched with suitable horses.

What animals might you see during the tour?

You may see howler monkeys, iguanas, coatis, or various birds along the way.

Is there a break during the ride?

Yes, there is a 20-minute break with water and fresh fruit provided.

Are photos included in the horseback riding experience?

Yes, pictures and videos are taken during the tour at no extra cost.

When does the horseback riding tour start?

The start time depends on tides—usually morning around 8am or afternoon near sunset at 3pm; you’ll be contacted after booking.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Samara, a gentle introduction at the ranch with a horse chosen for your experience level, guided riding through jungle paths to either Buena Vista or Samara Beach depending on conditions, a relaxed fruit-and-water break under shade trees, plus photos and videos captured along the way before returning home sandy but happy.