Things to Do
Jaco Horse Tours, Costa Rica
By Explore Costa Rica Staff
Jan 9, 2006, 16:54

Costa Rica Area Info: Central Pacific Coast: Manuel Antonio/Quepos: Places to Eat: Costa Rica Hotels Jaco Beach Places to Eat Jaco Beach Things to Do

Jaco Horse Tours, Central Pacific, Costa Rica

Naturalists have long marveled at the extraordinary beauty and diversity of ecosystems of Costa Rica. Situated in Central America between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica boasts 800 known species of sea and land birds, giant leatherback turtles, Howler monkeys and the adorable white faced Capuchin monkeys. 
 
The horseback riding trail explores the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica in the sparsely populated province of Puntarenus, along the Pacific Ocean. It is the ancient volcanoes which formed the magnificent mountain range and the beautiful beaches along which you will ride. 
 
Let's take a ride with the cowboys...
 
Pulling into the corral, the ranch's vaqueros, Indian Brahmans, are seen working with the cattle. Your horses are saddled and ready to go. According to your skill level and size, our assistant Juan will select the perfect mount for you. Our experienced guide gives you a quick lesson on riding and safety, then leads you on your Jaco riding adventure.
 
We start our Jaco Horse Tour by crossing large green pastures. You may spot Scarlet Macaws, Toucans and Hawks, which are commonly found in the area. Approaching the marsh, Muscovy and Whistling ducks are circling and feeding. Continuing on to the Punta Leona river we spot Roseate Spoonbills, resembling Flamingos, White Ibis, several different types of herons and egrets. 
 
Riding through the river we head across another field heading to the mountain forest trail. We have seen Motmots, wild turkeys, anteaters, white faced monkeys and sloths. This beautiful forest hosts many species of tropical hard woods with amazing sprawling buttress roots, and large vines resembling art sculptures. Stopping at a clearing, we dismount and enjoy ice cold water and a freshly cut pineapple served on a heliconia leaf.
 
Our ride continues to the Pochote forest which takes us up to a crest with commanding views of the surrounding mountains. Take out your camera! Heading back toward the beach, you may witness Wood Storks, marsh birds and more macaws. Horseback riding back on Jaco Beach, enjoy the tropical setting, with the Nicoya Peninsula in the horizon.
 
Admire the many orchids and bromeliads on the Guanacastes, Costa Rica's national tree. You may elect to stop at the Cantina on Jaco Beach, while the horses relax in their private beachfront lot. We return to the corral on the lightly trafficked public road bordered with massive Punta Leona trees canopying the road.
 
During the "green season" we also offer a waterfall tour, where you may swim in the ocean or relax on white sandy beaches. At Jaco Beach Horse Tours, we guarantee you a safe & unforgettable riding adventure!
 
Suggested attire: long pants, tennis shoes or hiking boots, hats, sunglasses. Don't forget to bring your camera, bug spray and sunscreen.
 
Ride with the Cowboys, Ride with Jaco Horse Tours
Located just north of Punta Leona on the Costanera
Tel: 359-6875