Horseback Ride to La Fortuna Waterfall

Exploring Costa Rica’s lush landscapes often means hiking or driving, but this tour offers a different way to see the region — by horseback. For around $83.62 per person, you’ll spend about four hours riding through the rain forest from La Fortuna’s town center to the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience blends scenic riding, wildlife observation, and cultural insights, making it a well-rounded half-day outing near Arenal Volcano.

What we particularly like about this tour is the chance to see more of the rural landscape from a vantage point on horseback, and the opportunity to observe Costa Rican wildlife like toucans, iguanas, and sloths—certainly a hit for nature lovers. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics straightforward, especially for travelers staying in La Fortuna. On the downside, some reviews highlight concerns about the horses’ well-being, so animal welfare might be something to consider.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and want a cultural touch with a visit to an indigenous village. It’s also a good choice if you value guided insight into local flora and fauna, all set against the backdrop of Costa Rica’s lush rainforest.

Key Points

• Scenic horseback riding through rainforests offers views inaccessible by vehicle.
• Wildlife spotting is a highlight, with guides sharing knowledge about local animals.
• The visit to Maleku indigenous village adds a cultural dimension.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify transportation logistics.
• The tour is group limited to 15, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Be prepared for a moderate physical activity level; not suitable for children 8 and under.

Detailed Review

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

This horseback riding tour begins with hotel pickup from your La Fortuna accommodation, making it convenient for travelers who prefer to skip the hassle of arranging transport. The meeting point is at Parque Arenal Mundo Aventura, a known local hub, making it easy near public transportation routes. The transport is included from La Fortuna Downtown, and the entire activity lasts approximately four hours — enough time for a leisurely ride and exploration without feeling rushed.

Once aboard your horse, you’ll ride through the rainforest, guided by an expert who points out wildlife like toucan, iguanas, and sloths. As you ascend and descend, you’ll encounter lush scenery that’s often hidden from the main roads, giving a genuine taste of Costa Rica’s rural charm. The group size is kept small — limited to 15 people — promoting a more intimate, less crowded experience.

The Ride to La Fortuna Waterfall

The highlight of the tour is the short walk that leads from the horseback riding trail to the hanging bridge over the rainforest canopy. This is where you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the treetops, a genuinely special perspective that’s often overlooked during standard excursions. The waterfall itself is famous for its impressive cascade, which you can swim in if you choose to take a dip into the cool pools at its base.

Wildlife and Nature Observation

Our guides excel at making wildlife sightings exciting and educational. As one reviewer noted, Gonzalo was a “very friendly” guide who explained all the important bits in both English and Spanish. We loved the way guides bring attention to the different species, helping us appreciate the biodiversity of the area. The chance to see toucan, iguanas, and sloths adds a magnetic appeal for animal lovers.

Cultural Touch: Visiting the Maleku Indigenous Village

On the return journey, you visit the Maleku indigenous village. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about Costa Rica’s indigenous heritage and see local craftsmanship firsthand. While the details of the visit aren’t extensively described, the inclusion gives the tour an authentic cultural flavor that complements the natural sights.

The Waterfall and Swimming

The La Fortuna Waterfall is undoubtedly a star attraction. Its powerful cascade plunges into a clear pool, ideal for a refreshing swim after the ride. Several reviews praise the scenic views, with one describing the experience as “magnificent” and noting how tired but satisfied they felt afterward. Be prepared for some steep steps to reach the base, but the effort pays off when you’re soaking in the spectacular scenery.

What Some Travelers Didn’t Love

While most reviews are positive, one critical review mentions the horses’ treatment. The reviewer lamented seeing horses with ribs sticking out and dead eyes, and described the tight hackamores and riding on concrete paths as harsh. This highlights the importance of animal welfare considerations and suggests that prospective riders should inquire about the condition of the horses beforehand.

Practical Aspects and Value

The price point of $83.62 includes transport, guide services, and the waterfall visit. Considering the scenery, wildlife, cultural experience, and transportation, it offers good value for those wanting a comprehensive half-day adventure. However, it does not include food, drinks, or souvenir photos, which you should budget for separately.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback ride suits adventurous travelers who enjoy nature and culture, are comfortable with moderate physical activity, and are interested in a guided tour with personal attention. It’s also ideal for those who want a more authentic experience of Costa Rica’s countryside beyond the usual tourist spots. Keep in mind the horse welfare concerns raised by some guests, and weigh this if animal treatment is a priority for you.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a beautiful blend of scenic riding, wildlife observation, and culture. The guides’ knowledge and small group size ensure a personable experience, making it suitable for travelers who appreciate authentic interactions and off-the-beaten-path views. The opportunity to swim in the waterfall pools and see the rainforest canopy makes this more than just a horseback ride — it’s a chance to feel deeply connected to Costa Rica’s natural beauty.

If you value guided expertise and scenic vistas, and aren’t overly concerned about the condition of the horses, this tour is a solid choice. Just come prepared for some physical activity and possible crowds at popular sites.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your La Fortuna hotel, making it easy to join without worrying about transportation.

How long is the horseback ride?
The entire experience lasts around four hours, including the ride, walking, and cultural visit.

Can children participate?
The tour is not recommended for children aged 8 and under. The minimum age range for kids is 8 to 11 years old.

What wildlife might I see?
Guides often point out toucans, iguanas, and sloths during the ride. Wildlife sightings depend on the day’s conditions but are typically quite rewarding.

Is the water at La Fortuna Waterfall safe for swimming?
Most visitors enjoy swimming in the waterfall pools, but always exercise caution and follow local advice about currents and safety.

Are the horses well treated?
One review mentioned concerns about the horses’ condition, so if animal welfare is important, you may want to inquire further before booking.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, meals and drinks are not included in the tour price.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits groups to 15 people, offering a more personal experience.

Is physical fitness required?
Yes, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended, as there may be some walking and riding on uneven terrain.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance; later cancellations are non-refundable.

Exploring Costa Rica’s rainforests on horseback leads to a memorable mix of scenery, wildlife, and culture. We think this tour offers good value for travelers eager for an active, authentic adventure — just make sure to consider the welfare of the horses and your own comfort level.