Cartagena: Horse riding on the beaches of Cartagena & PHOTOS

Imagine trotting along the soft sands of Cartagena’s coastline, the waves lapping at your horse’s hooves, with the Caribbean sun warming your back. This horseback riding tour offers an authentic taste of local scenery and culture, with options to ride from 30 minutes up to two hours. The meeting point is conveniently set at the Sonesta Hotel or in the Portovento building, making it easy to start your seaside adventure.

What really stands out for us are two things: first, the friendly, bilingual guides who walk with you, sharing insights about the beaches and Caribbean culture; second, the opportunity to capture this moment with plenty of photos—a real bonus for those wanting to remember their seaside ride.

A possible consideration is the drive to the starting point, which can be around 30 minutes on dirt roads from areas like Bocagrande. For travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a quick, centrally located activity, this might be a minor inconvenience.

This experience is ideal for travelers who love being outdoors, want a relaxed, scenic ride, and enjoy sharing these moments with friends or family. If you’re keen on authentic, less crowded beaches and don’t mind a short trip outside the city, this rides fit well into a laid-back Cartagena itinerary.

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Key Points

Authentic beach experience: Ride along quiet, scenic beaches and even in the water.
Flexible duration: Choose between 30 minutes, 1 hour, or 2 hours for your ride.
Photo opportunities: Assistance in taking memorable pictures during your ride.
Bilingual support: Guides speak both Spanish and English, making communication easy.
Convenient meeting points: Starts at Sonesta Hotel or Portovento building.
Limited inclusions: No drinks, lunch, or hotel transportation included, so plan accordingly.

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In-Depth Look at the Cartagena Beach Horseback Tour

The Location and Meeting Points

The tour begins at either the Sonesta Hotel Cartagena or the nearby Portovento building. Both are easy to find and serve as a comfortable starting point for your seaside journey. From here, a short walk takes you to the beaches behind the hotel, where the real adventure begins. This proximity to a well-known hotel makes logistics simpler, especially if you’re staying nearby or arriving by taxi.

The beaches are described as peaceful, with low crowds — perfect for a relaxing ride without the bustle of busier tourist spots. The scenery alone makes the early-morning or sunset rides particularly special, offering scenic views and a quiet ambiance.

The Ride and What to Expect

Once you arrive, the experience is centered on a scenic beach horseback ride. The guides, often described as friendly and accommodating, walk with you, sharing stories about the area and local Caribbean culture. This makes the experience more personal and educational, even if you’re just there for fun.

You can choose your preferred pace—gently walking, trotting into the water, or just chatting and sightseeing. The horses are well-trained, and the tour includes all necessary equipment, so you don’t need to worry about gear.

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Photo Opportunities and Support

One of the highlights for many is the photo support provided during the ride. Guides are happy to help take pictures, ensuring you capture the perfect moment with the Caribbean Sea as your backdrop. Several reviews mention the great photos and friendly guides, making this a memorable part of the experience.

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The Duration and Flexibility

You can select from 30-minute, 1-hour, or 2-hour rides—a flexibility that allows you to customize your experience based on your mood, schedule, or stamina. The shorter rides are perfect if you just want a quick taste of beach riding, while longer options suit those wanting a more relaxed, immersive experience.

Transportation and Logistics

Getting to the starting point is straightforward if you plan on walking or taking a taxi. Some travelers opt for hotel pickup and drop-off, which can be added during booking, but this isn’t included in the standard price. The tour recommends ending the ride at a local restaurant or catching an Uber back, which many reviewers found convenient.

The Experience and What We Love

We particularly appreciate the friendly guides who do more than just lead the ride—they make you feel comfortable and share interesting insights about Cartagena’s beaches and culture. Alexandria’s review mentions Carlos, who was “very kind,” highlighting the personal touch that guides bring to this experience.

The photos are another key highlight. With support from the guides, you can get great shots of the waves, your horse, and yourself, making it perfect for social media or personal keepsakes.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration might be the drive on dirt roads to reach the beaches, which takes about 30 minutes from more central areas like Bocagrande. For travelers seeking a quick, city-center activity, this could be a slight inconvenience. Also, those with mobility issues or over 350 lbs may not find this tour suitable.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This horseback ride appeals most to travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic outdoor activity away from the crowded city spots. Families, couples, or solo adventurers wanting authentic beach time with a personal touch will appreciate the friendly guides and photo support. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy gentle rides or want a peaceful experience in natural surroundings.

The Sum Up

This Cartagena beach horseback riding tour offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and personal interaction. The flexible duration lets you tailor your experience, whether just a quick ride or a longer exploration of the shoreline. With bilingual guides, comfortable horses, and photo support, it’s well-suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic seaside adventure.

While the drive to the beaches might be a minor consideration if you’re staying centrally, the tranquil beaches and friendly guides more than compensate for this. The activity is perfect for those wanting to enjoy Cartagena’s coast in a leisurely, memorable way—whether to celebrate a special occasion, enjoy a family outing, or simply escape the buzz of the city for a while.

For anyone craving a gentle, scenic ride with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural flavor, this tour is a solid choice at a reasonable price. It’s a unique way to connect with Cartagena’s natural beauty and local vibe without breaking the bank or overcomplicating your day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the starting point included?
No, transportation isn’t included, but you can easily take a taxi or arrange for hotel pickup during the booking process. Some travelers choose to walk if staying nearby.

Can I choose the length of my horseback ride?
Yes, you can select from 30 minutes, 1 hour, or 2 hours depending on your preference and schedule.

Are the horses well trained?
According to reviews, yes—many mention the horses being very well trained and the guides being attentive to rider safety.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Most reviews suggest the horses are gentle, and guides are helpful, making it suitable for beginners or those with limited riding experience.

Are there any age or weight restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those over 350 lbs (159 kg).

What should I bring?
Bring your own phone or camera for photos, and wear comfortable clothing suitable for riding and the beach environment.

Is this experience available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides are bilingual in Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication during your ride.