The Ultimate Guide to Horseback Riding in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a Caribbean paradise with more than just postcard-perfect beaches and vibrant culture. One of the most unforgettable ways to explore its lush landscapes is on horseback. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or you’ve never even mounted a horse, horseback riding in Puerto Rico offers something for everyone…coastal beach gallops, rainforest treks, and peaceful countryside strolls.
During a recent trip to the island, I decided to try horseback riding as a way to disconnect from my phone and reconnect with nature. By the end of the ride, I was hooked not just by the scenery, but by the gentle Paso Fino horses, the deep cultural connection, and the sense of freedom you feel as you explore the island from the saddle.
So, saddle up! In this ultimate guide, you’ll discover the best places to ride, trusted tour operators, insider tips, and how to make the most of your horseback adventure in Puerto Rico.
Why Go Horseback Riding in Puerto Rico?
Horseback riding here isn’t just a tourist activity. It’s part of the island’s heritage. Puerto Rico is home to the Paso Fino, a smooth-gaited horse breed known for its elegance and comfortable ride. The culture of horse riding stretches back centuries, blending Spanish colonial traditions with the island’s rural lifestyle.
But beyond the history, it’s the landscapes that make Puerto Rico truly special for riders. Imagine cantering along golden beaches with waves lapping at your boots, winding through rainforest trails where waterfalls spill into emerald pools, or climbing mountain paths with panoramic views of coastal plains.
Plus, Puerto Rico’s year-round warm weather means you can ride any month of the year though some seasons offer a little extra magic (we’ll cover that later).
Best Regions & Spots for Horseback Riding
Puerto Rico is small enough to explore multiple landscapes in one trip, but each riding spot has its own unique charm.
Beach Rides
Riding on the sand feels like pure freedom. The open expanse, salty air, and glistening water create a dreamlike backdrop.
Isabela
On the island’s northwest coast, Isabela is famous for its rugged beauty. Trails here often lead straight onto secluded beaches like Jobos Beach or Shacks Beach, where the turquoise Atlantic crashes against dramatic rock formations. Sunset rides here are unforgettable. The sky turns a palette of pink, orange, and gold.
Aguadilla
A short drive from Isabela, Aguadilla offers quieter stretches of sand and hidden coves. Many tours here combine beach riding with paths through almond tree groves. If you’re lucky, you might spot sea turtles or pelicans swooping for fish.
Book a Horseback Ride by the Beach in Aguadilla.
Luquillo
On the east coast, near El Yunque National Forest, Luquillo’s beaches are lined with coconut palms. Here, rides can be paired with rainforest excursions, giving you the best of both worlds in a single day.
Join a Luquillo beach & rainforest horseback tour for the ultimate tropical day.
Rainforest Adventures
If the thought of riding under a canopy of green, with tropical birds calling overhead, excites you, head to El Yunque or the island’s central highlands.
The trails here weave past streams, bamboo thickets, and giant ferns. Because of the soft, uneven terrain, rides in rainforests are generally at a slower pace, perfect for soaking in the sights and scents of the jungle.
Check out El Yunque rainforest horseback riding experiences for a serene, immersive ride.
Countryside & Mountain Trails
Puerto Rico’s interior is dotted with rolling hills, coffee plantations, and historic haciendas. Mountain trails here offer cooler temperatures and panoramic views of both the Atlantic and Caribbean sides of the island. It’s also where you’re most likely to see locals riding their Paso Finos along rural roads.
Top Horseback Riding Tour Companies in Puerto Rico
Choosing the right tour can make all the difference. Here are four highly rated options, each with their own personality and perks.
1. Tropical Trail Rides – Secluded Beaches & Tropical Forests
Location: Isabela & Aguadilla
Skill Level: Beginner to advanced
Reserve your Tropical Trail Rides tour here and explore hidden beaches few tourists see.
This tour is perfect if you want to escape the crowds and ride where few tourists venture. You’ll traverse private trails that lead to secluded beaches, forest paths, and cliffside viewpoints over the Caribbean Sea.
What I love most is the pacing. Guides adjust speed to match your comfort level. No prior riding experience? No problem. You’ll still feel confident and safe.
2. Campo Rico Adventures – Private Ranch Experience
Location: Carolina (near San Juan)
Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate
Book Campo Rico Adventures for a private ranch escape from San Juan.
Located just minutes from San Juan, this is an ideal choice if you don’t want to stray far from the city. Rides take place on a private 2,200-acre ranch, with trails winding through coastal plains, forests, and mountain viewpoints.
You’ll ride a Paso Fino, learn about the breed’s history, and spot wildlife along the way. Afterward, relax at the ranch’s hilltop bar, a well-earned drink with a view.
3. San Juan Tours – El Yunque Rainforest Horseback Riding
Location: Near El Yunque National Forest
Skill Level: All levels
Secure your spot on an El Yunque rainforest ride and pair it with a rainforest hike.
This is the one to book if you dream of riding in Puerto Rico’s famous rainforest. Tours begin with a brief riding lesson, making it great for families and first-timers. Horses are carefully matched to each rider’s size and confidence level, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.
4. Rico Sun Tours – Scenic Countryside Rides
Location: San Juan / Hacienda Campo Rico
Skill Level: Beginner to advanced
Book Rico Sun Tours for countryside views just outside the city.
Combining accessibility with stunning scenery, Rico Sun Tours offers guided rides through rugged countryside just outside San Juan. You’ll pass through open fields, wooded trails, and lookout points where you can pause for photos. Round-trip hotel pickup is included.
What to Expect on a Horseback Riding Tour
Most tours last between 1.5 to 3 hours. You’ll usually start with a safety briefing and riding tips, even if you’re experienced. Helmets are often provided (and recommended).
Expect a leisurely pace if you’re in a mixed group, but private tours may allow for more trotting or cantering. Breaks for photos are common, and some tours even stop for a quick swim if conditions allow.
Costs & Booking Tips
- Average Cost: $65–$125 per person for group tours. Private tours can be $150+.
- Book Early: Especially in winter (peak season) and holiday weeks. You can compare availability and prices on Viator’s Puerto Rico horseback riding listings.
- Ask About Weight Limits: Many tours have limits around 240 lbs for horse welfare.
- Check Cancellation Policies: Tropical weather can cause last-minute changes.
Best Time of Year for Horseback Riding in Puerto Rico
While Puerto Rico is rideable year-round, November to April offers cooler, drier conditions.
May to October is warmer and more humid, with afternoon showers but also fewer crowds and lusher scenery.
What to Wear & Bring
- Closed-toe shoes (boots if you have them)
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Sunscreen & insect repellent
- Water bottle (some tours provide it)
- Small camera or phone with strap
Safety & Responsible Riding
Choose companies that:
- Use healthy, well-cared-for horses
- Match horses to rider skill and size
- Provide helmets and trained guides
- Avoid overworking horses in extreme heat
If you’re an animal lover, don’t be shy. Ask how often the horses rest, what they’re fed, and how they’re trained.
Other Activities to Combine with Horseback Riding
- Snorkeling in Fajardo or Culebra. Book a snorkeling excursion for a perfect post-ride cool-off.
- Zip-lining in Toro Verde Adventure Park
- Hiking in El Yunque
- Visiting coffee plantations in the mountains
- Local food tours in Old San Juan
Conclusion
Horseback riding in Puerto Rico is more than just an activity. It’s an experience. It’s a chance to see the island through a different lens, connect with its traditions, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re gliding along a golden beach, navigating the mystical trails of El Yunque, or trotting through the lush countryside, there’s a ride here with your name on it.
So go ahead, book your Puerto Rico horseback adventure today, breathe in the tropical air, and let a noble Paso Fino carry you into the heart of the island.
Have you been horseback riding in Puerto Rico? Share your story in the comments or check out the links below to book your own adventure today.
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