Miches: Beach Horseback Riding & Countryside Ranch Escape

Summary

Horseback riding along Costa Esmeralda’s wild shore with family ranch vibes

You’ll start at a small family ranch near Punta Cana, meet your horse (and probably laugh nervously), then ride through wild palms and brush to reach Miches’ Costa Esmeralda beach. Expect fresh coconut water, friendly guides who know every inch of this coast, and time to just listen to hoofbeats and waves. It’s quiet, honest travel — not polished or crowded — and that stays with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

Li handed me the reins with a grin and said, “Don’t worry, this one’s lazy.” I laughed, but honestly my heart was thumping — I’d never been horseback riding on a beach before, let alone somewhere like Miches. The air smelled salty and sweet, and there was this low hum of waves behind us as we left the sleepy little ranch. The horses seemed to know their way better than I did. At first I kept glancing at our guide for reassurance, but after a few minutes it felt natural to just let go and look around — palm trees leaning over like they were eavesdropping on us, Atlantic wind tugging at my hat.

I didn’t expect how quiet it would feel out there. No resort music or crowds — just the sound of hooves in wet sand and Li pointing out birds I couldn’t name (he tried to teach me one in Spanish; I totally butchered it). We rode past brush that scratched at my jeans and sometimes you’d catch this sudden whiff of coconut from somewhere nearby. When we finally reached Costa Esmeralda, the beach opened up so wide it felt like we’d stumbled onto someone’s secret. There were no vendors or sunbeds — just miles of pale sand, driftwood here and there, water stretching out blue-grey under a cloudy sky.

We stopped for coconut water straight from the shell (I spilled half of mine trying to open it) and swapped stories with the ranch folks about growing up in Punta Cana. They told us how their family’s been running this place for years — you could see it in how they handled the horses, gentle but firm. On the ride back I kept thinking about how different this felt from anything else I’d done in the Dominican Republic. It was simple but kind of perfect in its own way — not flashy or staged, just real people sharing something they love. Sometimes you don’t realize what you’re missing until you’re out there with your feet dangling above the surf.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback riding on Miches beach

• Travel to family-run ranch
• Receive horseback riding briefing
• Ride horse along Costa Esmeralda beach
• Explore untouched coastline and nature
• Return to ranch and end tour

Top questions

How long is the Miches beach horseback riding tour?

The experience takes about half a day away from your resort.

Is hotel pickup included for this horseback riding tour?

Yes, pickup is included from Punta Cana area hotels.

What drinks are provided during the tour?

Bottled water, sodas, and coconut water are available during the ride.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for those with spinal injuries or pregnant travelers.

Where does the horseback riding take place?

The ride starts near Punta Cana countryside and follows trails to Costa Esmeralda beach in Miches.

Are children allowed on this horseback riding tour?

No specific age limit is mentioned; check directly with operator if traveling with children.

Can people with health issues join?

This activity isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

No lunch is included; drinks such as bottled water, sodas, and coconut water are provided.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by air-conditioned vehicle from your hotel in Punta Cana or nearby areas; bottled water, sodas, and fresh coconut water along the way; plus all guiding throughout your horseback ride across countryside trails to Costa Esmeralda beach before heading back again.