Roatan: ATV & Horseback Tour with Local Guide & Pickup

Summary

Explore Roatan’s wild side on horseback and ATV with locals

You’ll ride horseback through Roatan’s mangrove trails with a local guide, splash into warm ocean shallows at Tortuga Point, then switch gears for an ATV safari through jungle paths and along wild beaches. Expect muddy boots, real laughter, and moments that stick with you long after you’ve rinsed off the saltwater.

What’s the experience like?

“You see that tree?” our guide Luis grinned, pointing at a gnarled old oak as we tightened our helmets. “My grandfather used to tie his horse there when he was a boy.” I liked that — it made the whole place feel less like a tour and more like someone’s backyard. The air smelled salty and green, if that makes sense, and the horses seemed half-asleep until we started moving. My horse (her name was Luna) kept flicking her ears back at me like she was checking if I knew what I was doing. Spoiler: I did not.

The path wound through mangroves so close you could hear the water slapping against roots. There were these little blue crabs darting everywhere — Luis called them “soldiers” and laughed when one tried to climb my boot. We rode right into the shallows at Tortuga Point, water up to Luna’s knees. My shoes got soaked but honestly, it felt good in the heat. Someone from another group tried to take a selfie with a pelican and nearly dropped their phone in the lagoon — classic.

After horses came ATVs, which felt way more intense than I expected. Quick safety talk (Luis is big on helmets), then we were off — engines buzzing, mud splattering my jeans almost instantly. The jungle here is thick and loud; birds yelling overhead, something rustling in the brush every few minutes. At one point we stopped by this iron shore where black iguanas sunned themselves like little dinosaurs. The ocean view just sort of opened up out of nowhere — I didn’t even try for a photo because it felt better to just stand there for a second.

I still think about how quiet it got after we turned off the engines near the beach. Just waves and wind and us catching our breath before heading back. If you’re looking for an ATV safari or horseback ride in Roatan that actually feels connected to the island — not just racing around for photos — this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — ATV Safari and Horseback Adventure

• Check in and sign waiver
• Safety briefing and horse demo
• Horseback ride through oak forest and mangroves
• Photo stop at Tortuga Point
• ATV safety briefing and operation
• Jungle and beach ATV safari
• Beach stop with optional swim
• Return from ATV tour

Top questions

How long does the ATV & horseback tour in Roatan last?

The activity includes both horseback riding and an ATV safari; expect several hours total including safety briefings and stops.

Is hotel pickup included for this Roatan adventure tour?

The tour includes air-conditioned vehicle pickup for guests.

Are beginners welcome on the horseback ride?

Yes, there’s a safety briefing and demonstration before riding; no experience required.

Do I need to bring my own helmet or goggles?

No, helmets and goggles are provided as part of your tour equipment.

Can pregnant travelers join this ATV & horseback tour?

No, this activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

Will I get wet during the horseback portion?

Yes, horses walk through shallow ocean water at Tortuga Point—expect wet shoes or pants.

Is lunch included in this day trip?

No lunch is mentioned as included in this experience.

What should I wear for riding ATVs in Roatan?

Wear clothes you don’t mind getting muddy or wet; closed shoes are best.

What’s included

Your day includes air-conditioned vehicle pickup from nearby locations, all necessary equipment like helmets and goggles for both ATVs and horses, plus guidance from friendly local staff who’ll help with everything from safety briefings to wrangling your horse or snapping photos if you want them to.