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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Costa Rica
Intro to Costa Rica
Arenal Caribbean Coast Guanacaste Pacific Coast Pacific&Caribe
Extensions:
Hotel Capitan Suizo
Belize
Mexico
Honduras
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Colonial Trails of Costa Rica
Pacific Coast
Costa Rica
Waterfalls, hot springs, jungle trails, beaches, plantations and more - this ride is as diverse as it gets! Different terrain and new experiences each day of riding!
From the
mystical valleys of the Pacific Coast to the rain forest jungles; from flat open
beaches to the cloud forest region of Monteverde; from the Arenal Volcano to
the plains of San Carlos and much more! Begin your journey on the coast of the Pacific Ocean and travel boldly inland on this 10-day progressive Costa Rican horseback ride - accompanied by a professional equestrian guide throughout. The trip offers incredible vistas of vast mountain ranges, active volcanoes, pristine sandy beaches and colorful local culture! You will descend on horseback from the highland region of Terrazzo, through beautiful forests to the warmer region of the coastal area. This ride is truly a spectacular trek starting at the coffee farms and with panoramic mountain views along a colonial trail all the way to the Quepos near Manuel Antonio on the Pacific Coast. Then the next day is an exhilarating ride through the tiny coastal hamlet of Esterillos to one of the longest beaches in Costa Rica. Riding south along the beach, you will experience the adrenaline rush of galloping the horses along the sands of the wild pacific ocean. Next is on to well known Paso breeding farm of Hacienda Don Tito to be enchanted by his "dancing" Costa Rican Paso horses and take one for a spin yourself! Discover incredible vistas during our next day's ride as you descend from the cool cloud forest area of San Gerado to Lake Arenal, where on clear days you can see the infamous Arenal Volcano and Lake as you wind slowly down the mountain passes crossing rivers until reaching Rio Chiquita. After exploring the volcano and natural pools, we transfer to La Fortuna next day for some riding, hiking and swimming at the stunning waterfalls and go for a swim in the pools at the base before an afternoon of free time to spend as you wish! See many different types of birds like the tropical Toucans and you may catch glimpse a sighting of the local wild pigs, monkeys, raccoons, and sloths! Ride on magic trails to enjoy the flora - giant trees, waterfalls, lakes, over a thousand orchid species, butterflies and colorful vegetation. Truly a magical bonding moment for a horse and rider!
Come ride with us today and discover the multitude of hidden trails a country like Costa Rica has to offer!
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
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Meeting:
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San Jose hotel
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Airport:
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San Jose
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Transfer:
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San Jose
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
Max
10 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF)
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2012
Rates include:
Accommodations, meals as indicated, 8 riding days, fully escorted with professional equestrian guide
| A | 2012 | 10 day trip | 10d / 9n | $2655 |
Group Leader is FREE with group of 11
Transfer Option:
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2012
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Aiport transfer and San Jose overnight pp (dbl)
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$95
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Tour Dates for 2012
This trip can be arranged any time during the year with a minimum of 2 riders.
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Rates do not include:
Meals not mentioned, beverages, gratuities, Costa Rica departure tax
Day 0: Arrival in San Jose, transfer from airport to a hotel and overnight (not included, but can be arranged - extra).
Day 1: Piedras Negros Ride
Pick up at San Jose Hotel in the morning and transfer via the very
scenic route of Puriscal to the area of El Rodeo here we ride through
incredible forest , next to the University of Peace to Piedras Negro.
The horses love the cool river where they can splash around and rest.
Troupes of monkeys often pass through these beautiful trails. Lunch at
the ranch Transfer to Manuel Antonio - overnight Hotel Mimos or similar. .Riding time 4 hours.
Day 2: Finca Valmey
Finca Valmey Waterfall .....Leaving from the stables where we are
matched up with the perfect horse, we enter into the forest, riding to
the river. At one point we leave the horses and hike a short distance
to get to the waterfalls,which is located on part of the Valmy
property. One can bathe in the lagoon and waterfall, or simply sit and
rest while listening to the relaxing sounds of the waterfall as it
cascades into the small lagoon below. On the return trip, the horses
take you around the river through lush vegetation. Lunch is served back
at the ranch. Transfer to Jaco BEach. Overnight South Beach Hotel at
Jaco Beach...Riding time 3+ hours (BL)
Day 3: Mountain Ride Adventure
Our tour will take you through the stunning pristine primary rain forest and incredible vistas. Surrounded by amazing flora and fauna, you will arrive at a beautiful waterfall in the heart of the jungle. . A perfect combination of riding, nature exploration, relaxation and fun.
Overnight South Beach Hotel at Jaco Beach.. Riding Time 2.5 - 3 hours
Day 4: Beach Ride
Nothing compares to riding a horse along the deserted tropical pacific coast . This is a once in a life time experience. Ride through the tiny coastal hamlet of Esterillos to one of the longest beaches in Costa Rica. Riding along the beach, you will experience the adrenaline rush of galloping the horses along the sands at the edge of the Pacific Ocean. ... Feel the freedom of galloping your horse along the waters edge, with the tropic breeze in your face. Stopping for a wonderful lunch, . Overnight South Beach Hotel at Jaco Beach..Riding Time 3 hours.
Day 5: Hacienda Don Tito
After breakfast drive the short
distance to Hacienda Don Tito. Here they breed the famous Costa Rican
Paso Horses, that are so loved by the Tico riders. Your guide will
show you how they dance and give you the opportunity to ride one of
these magnificent horses. After the ride through the hacienda lunch
will be served. Continue on to Monteverde. Overnight Cloud Forest Lodge
or similar. (BL) Riding time 3 + hours
Day 6: Monteverde Cloud Forest Region
While it is not permitted to ride in the Reserves themselves, we are pleased to offer the chance to ride on a private family farm of more then 300 acres. Here we’ll have an opportunity to enjoy exclusive quiet trails, bird watching, sugar cane and coffee plantations, secondary and primary forest, open fields (great for cantering with the horses), and amazing views of mountains, canyons and the Gulf of Nicoya.. Overnight Cloud Forest Lodge or similar. Riding time 4 hours (B)
Day 7: Monteverde to Arenal
Enjoy the incredible vistas during today's ride as you descend from the cool cloud forest area of San Gerado to Lake Arenal, where on clear days you can see Arenal Volcano and Lake as you wind slowly down the mountain passes crossing rivers until reaching Rio Chiquita. Transfer to Fortuna, the little town at the foothills of Arenal Volcano. (Today's ride is approximately 4 plus hours Breakfast, lunch included this day. Riding time is 4 hours...Overnight Hotel Arenal Paraiso with its own hot springs on site. (BL)
Day 8: Fortuna Waterfalls
This is a combination of horseback riding and hiking. The horses take you all the way up to the waterfall trough green areas of pastures, forest and high hills. The views of San Carlos valleys and the Tropical Forest that surround the waterfall are spectacular. At the end of the road the horses wait while we walk down the trail to the base of a waterfall which is 65 mts high. . There is time to swim in the natural pools before starting back. On the way back we ride through a privet farm of 400 hectares, where there is plenty of good areas where the horses love to canter. Breakfast included (B) Riding time 3 plus hours
Overnight Hotel Arenal Paraiso.. (BL)
Day 9: Arenal Volcano
Explore the surrounding trails of Arenal Volcano which are only passable
by horseback or on foot. The views from this area are magnificent. Not
only can you see the cone shape of the volcano but also the old lava
flow trails and the green fertile hills near the volcano. riding time 3
plus hours...overnight Arenal Paraiso (B)
Day 10: After breakfast transfer to San Jose hotel or airport.
Subject to changes
B= Breakfast L=Lunch D=Diner - included
Meeting:
San Jose hotel
Airport:
San Jose
Transfer:
San Jose
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Tack:
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Costa Rican saddles
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Horses:
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Criollos
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Pace:
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Moderate with nice canters
4-6 hours per day,
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Good Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
10
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Max
70
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Weight:
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Max
200 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
10 riders
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Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least 30 days after arrival or for the length of stay, whichever is greater. Passport Note(a) Nationals listed above must obtain an exit visa from the Immigration Department in S. more
Tropical and subtropical; dry season (December to April); rainy season (May to November); cooler in highlands.
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This list is only a guideline for you
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Travel documents and Voucher
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Flight tickets
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Passport and copy of passport kept in a separate location
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Visa (check with your consulate)
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RIDING GEAR
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Comfortable light weight riding pants or jodhpurs
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Short boots and half chaps
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Riding helmet (recommended for all trips)
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Riding gloves
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Hat or visor
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Rain coat/Wax jacket
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PERSONAL CLOTHING
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Sweater for higher elevations and chilly nights in San Jose
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Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts
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Jeans
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Shorts
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Underwear and socks
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Pyjama
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Bag for dirty clothes
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Wind breaker or light jacket
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Comfortable walking shoes like lightweight hiking boots with a good tread for hikes
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River sandals or aqua socks
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Swimsuit and beach towel
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Bandana
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ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING
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Day pack and fanny pack
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Personal Toiletries
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Insect repellent-at least 75% DEET
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Personal medications
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Sore cream (for the emergency)
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Sewing kit
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Handkerchiefs
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Camera and enough extra films (it is expensive in Costa Rica)
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Belt pack
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Address book and pen (for pictures postcards!)
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Sun glasses with strap
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Sun tan lotion with high sun protection factor, such as SPF 29-40
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Binoculars
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Flashlight
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Water bottle
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Battery alarm clock
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Plastic bags - for keeping books, binoculars and other items dry, and for wet clothing
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We recommend for women to ride in leggings with a big shirt over them. The legging is not too hot, and they dry out quickly if they get wet. Dress in layers.
SENSIBLE PRECAUTIONS.... Almost all encounters with noxious insects & plants can be avoided by watching where you walk and sit, by not touching non-recognizable insects, plants, etc; by tucking pants in your socks, by using an insect repellent, by spraying shoes and ankles to avoid bites, by always following tour guide's instructions to the letter, and finally, avoid using perfumes, after-shave, or other scents that will attract insects. Please leave your valuables at home.
Most important of all to bring to Costa Rica: "Sense of adventure, open mind and big smile"
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations in hotels and back-country lodges.
Please note on some trips hotel booked may change depending upon availability. We make every effort to confirm which hotels are booked for you well in advance.
Meals are included at different restaurants as indicated in the itinerary.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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Costa Rican saddles
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Horses:
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Criollos
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Pace:
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Moderate with nice canters
4-6 hours per day,
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Good Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
10
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Max
70
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Weight:
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Max
200 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
10 riders
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Passports
Passport valid for at least 30 days after arrival or for the length of stay, whichever is greater.
Passport Note
(a) Nationals listed above must obtain an exit visa from the Immigration Department in San José at least three weeks before leaving Costa Rica. Those who stay for less than 30 days are exempt if in possession of a disembarkation card.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except:
(a) 1. nationals of Austria, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, UK and USA for stays over 90 days;
(b) 2. nationals of Australia, Bulgaria and Ireland for stays over 30 days.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Visa Note
The immigration authorities are strict about detaining foreigners who are undocumented or tourists who have overstayed.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No/1 |
| Australian |
No/2 |
| Canadian |
No/1 |
| USA |
No/1 |
| Other EU |
No/1/2 |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
Yes |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Colonial Trails of Costa Rica
Tour Code:
IT-CRIT08
10 days /
9 nights
~$2,655.00
Dates :
Available all Year
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :

Lodging:
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accomodation
Tack:
Costa Rican saddles
Horses:
Criollos
Pace:
Moderate with nice canters
4-6 hours ...
Walk,
Trot,
Canter,
Gallop,
Airport:
San Jose
Location on Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
Download tour PDF
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