Queveri Horseback Riding Tours

Queveri Horseback Riding Tours: An Authentic Costa Rican Farm Adventure

If you’re looking for a truly local experience that combines horseback riding, cattle herding, and breathtaking views, Queveri offers a unique day out just outside San Jose. For $65 per person, you get roughly four hours of immersive farm life, led by welcoming hosts who make you feel like part of the family. The tour includes a scenic ride through lush paddocks, a hands-on herding experience supported by the farm’s staff, and, weather permitting, a visit to a spectacular viewpoint of Costa Rica’s volcano range.

What we love about this tour are the genuine farm interactions — herding cattle with the support of knowledgeable guides gives you a sense of real rural life, far removed from touristy cattle drives. Plus, the delicious farm-to-table Costa Rican meal at La Fonda del Alto, served in a cozy setting, offers a perfect finish to your adventure. The views from the viewpoint, overlooking four major volcanoes and Tapanti National Park, are an added bonus that makes this experience truly memorable.

A single consideration is that the road up to the farm is quite rocky, so a 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended. If you’re not comfortable with bumpy rides or moderate physical activity, this might not be your ideal fit. But for those who enjoy outdoor activity and stunning scenery, this tour is an excellent choice, especially if you want something more authentic and less commercialized.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate rural charm, hands-on activities, and delicious local cuisine. It’s perfect for families, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a meaningful connection to Costa Rica’s countryside beyond the usual tourist spots.

Key Points

• Authentic farm experience with cattle herding supported by friendly staff
• Stunning volcanic mountain range views from the viewpoint, including marking your name on Piedras del Alto
• Delicious four-course Costa Rican meal made with fresh local ingredients at La Fonda del Alto
• Moderate physical activity and bumpy terrain require some level of fitness and a good vehicle
• Private tour ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience
• Booking well in advance (average 22 days ahead) helps secure your spot for this popular adventure

A Closer Look at Queveri Horseback Riding Tours

If you’re after an experience that feels grounded in local life and offers a genuine taste of Costa Rican countryside, Queveri’s horseback riding tour ticks all those boxes. Located just four kilometers south of Hacienda Orosí in the province of Cartago, the farm is a family-run operation renowned for their warm hospitality and authentic farm activities. The total cost is set at $65 per person, making it a very reasonable option considering the mix of adventure, scenery, and food involved.

The Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with a pickup at the farm, where you’ll be introduced to the calm, well-trained horses. The first part of the journey involves a ride through lush paddocks, offering sweeping views of farmland, farm animals, vibrant flowers, and native fauna. The horses are described as “super calm” and “well trained,” making this suitable even for first-time riders. The experience of herding cattle, with guidance from the farm staff, is the highlight. As one reviewer noted, “the horseback riding seemed to go on and on which was fantastic,” emphasizing how immersive and generous the riding part of the tour really is.

During herding, you’ll learn about the farm’s operations and the importance of cattle and dairy in Costa Rica. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at rural life that many travelers find enlightening and refreshing. The farm hosts are praised for their friendly and personable manner, making the entire process smooth and enjoyable.

Scenic Viewpoint and Marking Your Name on Piedras del Alto

If the weather cooperates, the tour culminates with a visit to a spectacular viewpoint where you’ll see the volcanic mountain range — Poás, Barva, Irazú, and Turrialba. These are some of Costa Rica’s most iconic volcanoes, and gazing upon them from a vantage point is a privilege. You can also visit the Piedras del Alto, a special spot where you can carve your name as a memorable keepsake. As one traveler put it, “the views on the trail were beautiful,” and this part of the tour truly makes the effort worthwhile.

The Farm-to-Table Lunch

After your outdoor activities, the tour concludes with a 4-course lunch at La Fonda del Alto, a small family-run restaurant. Here, you’ll enjoy dishes prepared from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including a soup or cream, a vibrant salad, a hearty main course, and a dessert courtesy of the house. Reviewers consistently mention how delicious the food is, with some describing it as “exceptional” and “gorgeous,” making this meal a highlight and a perfect way to relax after an active morning.

Practical Details and Booking

The activity begins at the farm, located in Orosí, about 4 km south of Hacienda. The tour is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, which enhances the personal touch. The total time is about four hours, making it a manageable half-day outing. The tour is recommended for those with moderate physical fitness, given the herding activity and some bumpy terrain on the road.

Booking often fills up about three weeks in advance, so planning ahead helps secure your spot. The tour includes a mobile ticket, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility should weather or other plans change.

Why Travelers Love Queveri

Many reviews highlight the warm hospitality and authentic farm experience as the biggest draws. Krista, for example, described the hosts as “sweet, down to earth,” praising the calm horses and beautiful scenery. Another reviewer, Alejandro, recommended booking ASAP due to how popular and well-liked the tour is, especially noting the “fantastic” lengthy horseback ride.

The stunning views are consistently praised, with many describing the scenery as “gorgeous” and “beautiful,” especially from the viewpoint overlooking the volcanoes. Reviewers also love the food — fresh, delicious, and farm-fresh — which makes the experience feel even more genuine and satisfying.

Authentic, Personal, and Scenic

What sets Queveri apart from larger commercial tours is the personalized attention from the owners and staff, making it feel more like visiting friends than a typical tourist stop. If you’re seeking an authentic, hands-on farm experience with the added bonus of incredible nature views and a tasty meal, this is a tour that will leave a lasting impression.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for adventure lovers eager to try horseback riding and cattle herding in a beautiful setting. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a genuine slice of Costa Rican rural life, especially those who enjoy outdoor activity and scenic landscapes. Foodies will appreciate the locally sourced meal, and everyone will enjoy the stunning mountain views. It’s a particularly good choice if you want more than a typical sightseeing tour, offering real engagement and authentic hospitality.

If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and don’t mind a bumpy, rocky ride, you’ll find this tour both rewarding and relaxing. But if you prefer flat terrain, minimal physical effort, or have mobility issues, it might be worth considering other options.

In essence, Queveri delivers a heartfelt glimpse of Costa Rican country life paired with memorable scenery and delicious food — an ideal way to connect with the land and its people.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for first-time riders?
Yes. The horses are described as “super calm” and well-trained, making it accessible even for beginners.

How long does the entire experience last?
Approximately four hours, including herding cattle, enjoying the views, and having lunch.

Is the road to the farm difficult to drive?
Yes, the road is quite rocky, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended for a smoother trip up to the farm.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, plus sturdy shoes suitable for riding and walking on uneven terrain.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private activity, meaning only your group will participate.

What’s included in the meal?
A four-course Costa Rican meal with local ingredients, including a soup or cream, salad, main dish, and a complimentary dessert.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While weather isn’t explicitly specified, the tour depends on good weather to enjoy the views. Costa Rica’s dry season (December to April) would be ideal.

To sum it up, Queveri Horseback Riding Tours offers a genuine, scenic, and delicious dive into Costa Rican farm life. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes, making it a memorable highlight for those seeking authentic rural encounters.