Aruba Countryside: Horseback Adventure to Urirama Cove
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (based on 249 reviews)
Price: $115 per person
Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes
Location: Aruba, starting in Boroncana, Noord
Recommended by: 94% of travelers
It was amazing!!! We loved it!!!They took us to the ocean!!! It was so beautiful!!Everybody was so nice.The person picked us as well as the leader on the horse ride!
A great ride through the desert to the sea. Stunning views and photo ops. Our guide was excellent and it was a wonderful experience.
This was a great experience! We have done many trail rides when we travel and this was one of the best! The guide was excellent, the owner of the establishment was awesome. The horses were gentle and knew their way through the sometimes tough but beautiful terrain. We will do this ride again-…
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A quick snapshot of what you’ll get
Imagine a horseback ride through Aruba’s less-traveled, rugged landscape, ending at a secluded cove on the island’s northeast coast. For just over an hour and a half, you’ll navigate a trail that takes you from the typical palm-dotted countryside to the wave-kissed Urirama Beach.
Guides like Nelson and Barbara make sure everyone is comfortable, whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete novice. Costing $115, this tour includes transportation, helmet use, and a friendly local guide.
Two things we love about this experience: First, how accessible it is — all skill levels are welcome, and instruction is provided. Whether you’re a first-timer or have some riding experience, the guides will ensure you feel safe and confident. Second, the scenic variety — from desert-like cactus terrain to the spectacular ocean views at the cove, the landscape never gets boring.
A possible consideration? The hot Aruba sun can be intense, so sunscreen and water are must-haves. Also, keep in mind the maximum weight limit of 200 lbs, which is common for safety reasons.
This tour suits outdoor lovers, families with kids (children under 5 ride free with a parent), or anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic adventure that’s authentic and well-organized.
Key Points
- All skill levels welcome: beginner-friendly with guides offering instruction.
- Spectacular views: from cactus-studded terrain to ocean vistas.
- Includes transportation: hotel or cruise port pickup and drop-off.
- Guide-led: guides like Nelson stay with you for safety and photo opportunities.
- Comfortable horses: animals are well cared for, suitable for all ages.
- Accessible for families: children under 5 ride free, and the tour is safe for kids.
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Exploring the Aruba Horseback Adventure in Detail
What makes this tour special is its perfect blend of scenic beauty, ease of access, and authentic local experience. For many travelers, the chance to ride through Aruba’s countryside without needing prior riding experience is a big plus. Guides like Nelson and Barbara are repeatedly praised for their kindness and professionalism, making even beginners feel at ease.
It was amazing. Nelson was our guide and he was wonderful! Amazing trail and view. We were a family of 4 adults, 1 child (9 years old) and a toddler (2 years old) and it was fun for all. 10/10 experience!!
Excellent timely communication and response from Viatar. Annalot and Nelson were very helpful, friendly, and accommodating! I was EXTREMELY satisfied and had a fantastic experience. Thank you Nelson for being our guide and photographer!
Our ship was a little late due to the time change. I called Barbara to let her know we may be late and she was so gracious. We were picked up very close to the port and taken to the rustic horse ranch. We were then introduced to our
Transportation and logistics are straightforward. The tour includes hotel or cruise port pickup, usually within 15 to 45 minutes before the ride begins. You’ll be driven to the ranch, just five minutes from major hotels, where you'll complete waivers, get a quick safety briefing, and meet your horse. The group size is small, with a maximum of five travelers per ride, ensuring personalized attention and more space to enjoy the journey.
The ride itself starts on the ranch, passing through Aruba’s typical desert and cactus landscape, which many reviews describe as beautiful and rugged. The guide will check how well you control your horse, offering tips along the way. You’ll traverse rocky, sandy, and hilly terrain, which adds to the adventure’s authenticity.
The highlight is reaching Urirama Cove — a secluded beach on the northeast coast, known for its spectacular rugged coastline. Many reviewers note that the views from the cove are breathtaking, with some describing the scenery as “incredible” and “spectacular.” Make sure to bring your camera because this is a moment worth capturing.
Guide commentary is another treasured aspect. As one reviewer notes, Nelson “kept a running commentary about life in Aruba,” which adds context and local flavor to the ride. Guides also take photos for you along the way, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery without worrying about snapping pictures.
The horses are praised for being gentle and well cared for. This makes the tour suitable even for those who haven't ridden in years — some describe their horses as “perfect,” with one rider noting her husband’s first-time ride was “smooth and enjoyable.”
Post-ride relaxation is easy: at the cozy Country Bar, you can purchase cold drinks, including water, beer, or soda, to cool down and chat about your adventure.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Aruba
What to Expect and Tips for the Ride
The itinerary is straightforward but packed with visual and emotional rewards. After pickup, you'll arrive at the ranch, where the staff will guide you through paperwork and safety gear. Expect a brief instruction session before mounting your horse. All equipment, including helmets, is provided, which is reassuring for first-timers.
The actual trek takes you through a variety of terrains that show Aruba's arid yet striking landscape. The guide will lead the group, ensuring everyone’s comfort and safety — a feature most reviewers appreciated. Many mention how guides like Saya and Nelson went out of their way to stop and take photos and answer questions about the landscape and local wildlife.
The destination is the cove — a quiet, less crowded beach where the rugged coastline truly shines. Many describe the view as “spectacular” and the scenery as stunning, with some reviewers saying it felt like a “journey back in time,” thanks to the unspoiled, natural surroundings.
Weather considerations: Since the ride is outdoors in Aruba’s sun, sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are necessary. Several reviews highlight the importance of hydration, especially since the ride can be warm.
Group size and pace are manageable, with most riders describing it as a relaxed, easygoing pace suitable for beginners and families. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, which includes the ride and some time at the cove for photos and relaxation.
Booking and flexibility: The tour is popular, with recent reviews noting bookings for "5+ last month." It’s advisable to book in advance. Refunds are available if canceled 24 hours ahead, but late arrivals or no-shows mean no refunds.
Authentic Experiences and Authenticity
What draws many to this horseback adventure is the opportunity to see Aruba beyond the beaches. The landscapes are diverse, rugged, and beautifully unspoiled. Several reviews mention the desert-like terrain filled with cacti and the quiet serenity of the coastline. These elements give you a taste of Aruba’s natural beauty that you won’t get from typical tourist attractions.
Guides like Nelson and Barbara are often praised for their ** friendliness, knowledge, and professionalism**. Their attentiveness makes the experience feel personal rather than commercial, which many travelers find valuable. As one reviewer describes, Nelson’s “running commentary about island life” added a layer of local culture to the trip.
The horses are described as calm, well-cared-for animals that are suitable for all ages and skill levels, making this tour a good choice for families or groups with mixed riding abilities.
The scenery at Urirama Cove is a highlight, with many stating it’s “breathtaking” and “incredible,” making the ride worth every dollar. The fact that the entire experience costs $115 and includes transportation, instruction, and guide support makes it a generally good value for a memorable outdoor adventure.
Who Would Enjoy This Tour?
This horseback adventure is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, families with kids, or anyone seeking a relaxed, scenic ride that’s accessible for beginners. If you enjoy nature, wildlife, and stunning coastal views, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to escape paved roads and see a different side of Aruba — a landscape that feels untouched and authentic.
While it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or who dislike hot weather, the small group size and supportive guides help make the ride manageable and enjoyable. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience without overwhelming crowds or strenuous activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 5 ride free with a parent. The ride is designed to be safe and manageable for all ages, and guides are attentive to younger riders.
What should I wear on the ride?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, and don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Are the horses calm and well-trained?
Yes, reviews consistently mention the horses are gentle, well-cared-for, and suitable for beginners and children.
What’s included in the price?
The tour includes hotel/port pickup and drop-off, a local guide, use of helmets, and taxes. Drinks and tips are separate.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations or no-shows are non-refundable.
How long is the horseback ride?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the ride and some time at Urirama Cove.
What is the maximum weight allowed?
200 lbs, for safety reasons.
Is this tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
It’s not explicitly stated, but the activity requires mounting and riding a horse, so it may not be suitable for all mobility levels.
What if I have no riding experience?
No problem. The guides provide instruction and support, and all skill levels are welcome. Many reviewers say even first-timers had a great time.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Boroncana, Noord, Aruba, and returns to the same location after the ride.
To sum it up, this horseback adventure offers a fantastic way to see Aruba’s diverse landscape while enjoying a relaxed, guided ride suitable for all skill levels. The scenic trail passing through desert-like terrain to the secluded Urirama Cove is a highlight, with many reviews praising the friendly guides, gentle horses, and breathtaking views. For those who love outdoor activities and want a taste of Aruba’s natural beauty away from crowded beaches, this tour delivers genuine value and memorable moments.
It’s especially well-suited for families, first-time riders, or travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic experience that combines adventure with authentic island scenery. Just remember to bring sunscreen, water, and a camera — you’ll want to capture every stunning vista along the way.
