Beach Horseback Riding in Puerto Plata

Experience the Beauty of Puerto Plata on Horseback

For those seeking a memorable way to explore Puerto Plata’s stunning coastal scenery and rolling hills, the Beach Horseback Riding tour offers an inviting escape. Priced at $69 per person, this 2-hour 15-minute adventure takes you from the heart of the city to the pristine sands and lush countryside, guided by friendly, knowledgeable handlers. The tour includes hotel pickup from select locations, a helmet, bottled water, and the chance to ride through palm-fringed beaches and along the clear waters of the Dominican Republic.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it caters to riders of all levels — whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, the gentle horses and patient guides make for a relaxing and scenic ride. Another highlight is the opportunity to combine beach riding with countryside exploring — a rare blend that keeps the experience diverse and lively.

One aspect to consider is that the tour does not include lunch and pickup is unavailable from Sosua or Cabarete, so planning transportation might require some forethought if you’re staying outside the central pickup zones.

This tour is ideal for families, small groups, or anyone eager to enjoy a relaxed, authentic horseback experience while soaking up Puerto Plata’s natural beauty. If you love outdoor adventures with scenic views and friendly guides, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Scenic beaches and countryside: Ride along palm-lined beaches and explore rural hillsides.
• All skill levels welcome: Gentle horses and patient guides make it accessible for beginners.
• Includes transportation: Hotel pickup from selected areas saves hassle.
• Authentic experience: Small group sizes and professional guides enhance the personal touch.
• Weather-dependent: Tour may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions aren’t favorable.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for children with adult supervision, but not recommended for pregnant women.

A detailed look at the Beach Horseback Riding Tour in Puerto Plata

When we picture a day in Puerto Plata, images of sun-drenched beaches and lush green hills often come to mind. This horseback riding tour captures those images perfectly. It begins in the Puerto Plata area, with pickups starting at 9:30 am from your hotel or designated meeting points like Cofresi, Costambar, or Playa Dorada.

The tour’s main highlight is the ride along Playa Dorada — a well-known stretch of golden sand where the horses patiently wait, saddled up and ready. This initial stop is just a 30-minute ride along the beach, allowing you to get comfortable with your mount in a serene, scenic setting. From there, the journey continues to Bergantin Beach, where you’ll enjoy riding over stunning white sands and along tranquil waters.

What makes this experience appealing is the variety of scenery. We loved the way the tour combines the beachfront with nearby hillside vistas, providing a balanced perspective of the Dominican landscape. One reviewer described it as “an easy, memorable ride,” emphasizing the gentleness of the horses and the patience of the guides. The professional guide takes time to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable, which is especially important if you’ve never ridden before.

The tour is designed to be relaxed and accessible. If you’re interested in swimming with the horses, bring along a bathing suit and towel — many riders appreciate the chance to cool off or enjoy some extra time at the water’s edge. The use of helmets and bottled water are provided, adding a layer of safety and comfort.

What to Expect During the Ride

The itinerary is straightforward but thoughtfully structured. Starting at Playa Dorada, you’ll ride for about half an hour along the coast, enjoying views of palm trees, white sands, and the sound of waves. Guides handle the horses with care, especially for first-timers, and are often bilingual, making communication easy.

As you venture further along the beach, you’ll likely encounter the friendly horses that reviews describe as “very well-trained and gentle”. This is crucial for ensuring a comfortable experience whether you’re a novice or more experienced rider.

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, the refreshing bottled water and scenic surroundings help keep you energized. The group size is limited to 30 travelers, which maintains a friendly, personal atmosphere.

Authentic Encounters and Personal Touches

Several reviews highlight the expertise and kindness of the guides. One reviewer said, “Our guide Alexys was amazing. Handled the horses very well and took his time with us,” which is reassuring if you’re new to riding or want a more personalized experience. Another traveler appreciated the patience and care the guides showed, making even first-time riders feel comfortable.

The small group and personal attention really enhance the experience, giving you moments for photos and relaxed riding rather than feeling like just another passenger in a large tour bus.

Possible Drawbacks

A common concern is transport logistics. Since the tour doesn’t provide pickup from Sosua or Cabarete, travelers staying outside the central zones may need to arrange their own transportation. One reviewer found this part challenging, describing the ranch as “like a biting fly infested Ethiopian village,” which vividly illustrates that the ranch environment might not appeal to everyone.

Weather can also be unpredictable — if rain or stormy weather occurs, the tour can be canceled or postponed. Fortunately, the provider offers a full refund or rebooking if that happens, which adds peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback riding experience suits families with children, couples seeking a relaxed outdoor activity, or solo travelers eager to connect with nature. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a less intense, scenic ride without the need for advanced riding skills.

If you’re looking for an authentic, laid-back adventure — one where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Puerto Plata with a friendly guide leading the way — this tour hits the mark.

The Value of a Scenic Ride

At $69, this tour offers a good balance of price and experience. The inclusion of hotel pickup, helmets, bottled water, and a guided ride makes it a convenient option that minimizes the typical hassles of organizing a day out. While it doesn’t include lunch, you might find that the breathtaking scenery, the chance to gallop along the beach, and the personalized attention from guides give this tour a satisfying value.

The reviews echo this sentiment. Happy travelers describe their day as “spectacular,” with one even saying, “I had my very first riding experience, and it was exceptional.” Such reviews affirm that, despite some logistical hiccups, the core experience remains charming and memorable.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour in Puerto Plata offers a charming glimpse into the island’s natural beauty. It’s an accessible outdoor adventure that balances scenic riding with personal attention from guides. Whether you want to capture stunning photos, enjoy a gentle ride along the ocean, or introduce your children to horseback riding, this tour can deliver.

If you’re comfortable with basic transportation arrangements, love nature, and prefer a small-group experience, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just keep in mind the weather conditions and the logistical considerations for pickups outside the main zones.

Overall, it’s a wonderful way to escape the city for a few hours, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and create lasting memories amid one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful settings.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from Puerto Plata, Cofresi, Costambar, and Playa Dorada is included, making it convenient to start your day.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for riding, and if you want to swim, bring a bathing suit and towel.

Can children participate?
Children can ride with guides, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for families.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The horses are described as gentle and well-trained, and guides are patient and professional.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are subject to favorable weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are the horses used for the tour free to roam?
The horses are well-trained and handled by guides. Some reviews mention the horses being very sweet and easy to ride.

Can I book from outside the main pickup zones?
You might need to arrange your own transportation if you’re not within the pickup areas, as the tour does not pick up from Sosua or Cabarete.

To sum it up, Beach Horseback Riding in Puerto Plata provides a genuine, scenic escape that’s perfect for those wanting an authentic taste of Dominican coastal life. With friendly guides, gentle horses, and breathtaking views, it’s an experience that offers both relaxation and adventure — at a price that’s fair for what you get.