Experience the Authentic Brazilian Countryside on Horseback with a Picnic at Belvedere

Imagine riding through rolling hills and lush landscapes, with a local guide sharing stories about the land and its animals. For just $98 per person, this exclusive horseback experience offers a 5-hour journey into the heart of Serra da Bocaina National Park, starting with convenient hotel pickup in Paraty. You’ll spend about an hour and fifteen minutes on horseback, with plenty of opportunities to learn basic riding skills if you’re a novice, all wrapped in a private, personalized setting. The highlight? A peaceful picnic at a scenic belvedere, surrounded by breathtaking views.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines nature, culture, and the art of horsemanship in a relaxed atmosphere. Raul, the guide, clearly pours his heart into caring for his horses and sharing his passion for the land, which makes all the difference. Another favorite? The chance to enjoy stunning vistas at nearly 1,300 meters above sea level, giving you a real sense of being in the Brazilian countryside.

One small consideration is that this experience is weather-dependent; in heavy rain, the tour will need to be canceled. Also, it’s best suited for those comfortable with long pants and closed shoes—sandals and shorts are not recommended. This tour is perfect for beginners, couples, or small groups who want an authentic, intimate connection with nature—and a memorable ride with personalized service.

Key Points

Personalized Private Tour: With only 2 to 4 people, you’ll get a tailored experience.
Horses and Horsemanship: Basic riding lessons are included, making it accessible for novices.
Scenic Views: Expect panoramic vistas at nearly 1,300 meters, perfect for photography.
Caring Guides: Raul’s love for horses and nature shines through, creating a warm, engaging atmosphere.
All-Inclusive: Hotel pickup, bottled water, helmets, and a special picnic are part of the package.
Weather Caution: Heavy rain may lead to cancellation, so check the forecast.

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Paraty: 3-Hour Rainforest Horseback Ride

A Deep Dive into the Horseback Experience at Belvedere

Starting from Paraty, the journey to Serra da Bocaina National Park takes about 45 minutes, traveling through scenic landscapes that prepare you for the adventure ahead. The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in the city center—an especially welcome feature for those who want to avoid the hassle of finding meeting points or navigating unfamiliar roads. Once you arrive, you’ll meet Raul, who has earned glowing praise for his knowledge, patience, and genuine love for his horses.

Raul’s approach to horsemanship is notably humane and relaxed. Multiple reviews highlight how he patiently instructs first-time riders, making sure everyone feels comfortable. Gabrielle says, “They picked us up right to our place and the tour couldn’t have been more lovely,” emphasizing the convenience and thoughtful organization. If you’re nervous about riding, Raul’s calm demeanor and detailed instructions can help ease those jitters.

The horseback riding itself is within a private property, where you’ll spend approximately 75 minutes exploring the land. The terrain varies from gentle slopes to more rugged sections, but Raul’s horses are described as “kind and safe,” suitable for all abilities. For those new to riding, Raul offers basic lessons, so don’t worry if you’ve never mounted a horse before. As one reviewer puts it, “Raul is a really deep love for his horses and nature,” which translates into a caring environment for riders of all levels.

The highlight for many is the scenic drive up Serra da Bocaina, reaching nearly 1,300 meters in altitude, where expansive views stretch over the landscape. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot perfect for photos and soaking in the natural beauty. The fresh mountain air and panoramic vistas make this a memorable part of the experience. Elizabeth shares, “It felt like he works with the horses in such a humane and understanding way,” emphasizing Raul’s compassionate approach.

After the ride, you’ll enjoy a special picnic at the Belvedere, thoughtfully prepared and served in a tranquil setting. The picnic includes bottled water and local touches, making it a perfect, relaxing way to conclude your adventure. According to Chiara, “the picnic was a peaceful experience,” highlighting how this quiet moment adds a layer of authenticity to the trip.

Throughout the tour, Raul shares insights into local history and the region’s natural features, enriching your understanding of the land. This personal touch, along with the small group size, creates an intimate, relaxed atmosphere that many travelers find rewarding.

The entire experience lasts around five hours, including transportation. The morning session starts at 9 am, with an afternoon option at 12:30 pm, allowing flexibility depending on your schedule. The private nature of the tour means it’s not a shared group, giving you space to ask questions and enjoy the ride at your own pace.

Analyzing the Value

At $98 per person, this tour offers excellent value. You get door-to-door transportation, personalized attention, horseback riding suited to all levels, and a scenic picnic—all in a private setting. The reviews show that visitors feel this is an authentic and well-organized experience, often describing it as a highlight of their trip to Paraty.

The small number of participants (minimum 2, maximum 4) ensures everyone’s safety and comfort, especially for beginners or those hesitant to ride in a large group. The inclusion of helmets and bottled water further enhance the sense of care and professionalism.

While the price might seem steep compared to more generic tours, the level of personalization, the care for the animals, and the chance to enjoy breathtaking scenery make it worth considering if you’re after a genuine, quiet encounter with nature.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous couples, small groups, or families with children over 4 years old looking for an authentic outdoor activity. It’s ideal for those who want to combine scenic beauty with a hands-on activity—not just sightseeing but actively engaging with the landscape and animals. Even if you’re a novice rider, Raul’s patience and the basic lessons make it approachable.

Those who appreciate small, private experiences and a personal touch will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic escape from the busy streets of Paraty, with the added bonus of learning about local flora, fauna, and history.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Balance of Nature and Authenticity

This horseback tour with a picnic at Belvedere offers a wonderful blend of scenery, culture, and personal connection. You’re not just riding horses—you’re sharing a moment with nature, guided by someone who genuinely cares for his animals and land. The panoramic views, peaceful environment, and the opportunity to learn in an intimate setting make it a memorable experience.

If you’re after an authentic taste of Brazil’s countryside, combined with gentle adventure and stunning vistas, this tour is a real winner. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate personalized service, local insights, and quiet moments in nature.

However, be mindful of the weather, and come prepared with appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and a camera. This experience is about savoring the land at a relaxed pace, making it ideal for travelers who want to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty of Serra da Bocaina.

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FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Paraty’s city center, making the whole experience hassle-free.

What is the group size?
This tour is private, with only your group of 2 to 4 people, ensuring personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Do I need riding experience?
No, beginners are welcome. Raul provides basic riding lessons, and his calm guidance helps everyone feel comfortable.

What should I wear?
Long pants and closed shoes are recommended. Shorts and sandals are not suitable for riding or safety reasons.

What if it rains heavily?
The tour can be canceled in case of heavy rain, so it’s best to check the weather forecast beforehand.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 4 and above can join, but they must be accompanied by an adult for safety and supervision.

This horseback adventure offers a genuine connection to Brazil’s natural landscapes, guided by a passionate local. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the countryside, learn about horsemanship, and share a peaceful moment with loved ones—an experience that’s hard to beat when visiting Paraty.