Top Costa Rica Pack Animal Tours in 2026

Discover the beauty of La Fortuna, Costa Rica, on a unique horseback riding adventure operated by a local family-run business. This tour takes you through tropical forest trails, river crossings, and stunning natural landscapes while sharing authentic experiences with visitors from around the world. Led by experienced local guides, enjoy a safe, relaxed, and personalized experience suitable for all ages, including children. Capture unforgettable family moments by the rivers and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of the rainforest. Duration: Approximately 2 hours, with flexible pacing for breaks and photos Suitable for all skill levels; prior riding experience is not necessary Small group sizes from 2 to 15 travelers for a more personalized experience Includes well-trained horses and all necessary riding equipment Operated by a local family passionate about nature and Costa Rican hospitality

Experience Costa Rica’s wild and beautiful rain forest the historic way on a scenic horseback ride to the La Fortuna Waterfall. Travel on private, forested trails away from any roads, at a pace that allows for close observation of jungle life. Dismount for a moderate hike to the famous waterfall, where you can cool off with an optional swim and enjoy more time in nature.

Enjoy a ride across the slopes of Arenal Volcano, following a route that moves from lower pastures to elevated viewpoints. This guided horseback experience includes a professional bilingual guide, helmet and safety gear, and air-conditioned vehicle transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off at selected La Fortuna hotels. The gradual ascent provides wide views of the volcano when weather permits, making it a practical way to experience the landscape beyond roadside lookouts.

Enjoy a safe and family-friendly horseback riding tour through the beautiful landscapes of Arenal. Ride calm, well-cared-for horses along rainforest trails, open fields, and across the Arenal River. Small groups allow for a relaxed pace and personal attention, making this tour perfect for both beginners and experienced riders, including children. Along the way, enjoy nature, possible wildlife sightings, and views of Arenal Volcano on clear days. The tour includes a fun photo shoot to capture memories and share on social media, a visit to a small farm with cute animals like pigs and sheep, and a relaxing riverside stop with fresh tropical fruits.

Set off on horseback through the mountains and trails around beautiful Manuel Antonio on this full-day, guided tour with lunch included. After a safety briefing and riding instructions, hop on your horse and follow your guide into the mountains to an altitude of 1,900-feet (600-meters) taking in amazing views, wildlife, and vegetation along the way. Enjoy a swimming break on the way down and a local lunch at the ranch.

Discover the natural beauty of Jacó on a relaxing horseback riding experience through tropical forest to the Pacific coast. Your adventure begins at Horseback Riding Jaco, where our friendly local guides will welcome you and pair you with a gentle, well-trained horse. Before setting off, you'll receive basic riding instructions, making the experience comfortable even for first-time riders. Follow completely flat terrain through scenic tropical surroundings toward the beautiful north end of Jacó Beach. Along the way, keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy great opportunities for photos. At the beach, take a relaxing break and enjoy fresh tropical fruit with beautiful ocean views before riding back through the scenic trail. With gentle horses, attentive guides, flat terrain, and a relaxed pace, this experience is ideal for beginners, families, kids, and older travelers looking for a memorable way to experience Jacó.

A horseback ride along a remote Costa Rican beach is poised to become a highlight of any tropical vacation. Trot through the a Manuel Antonio nature reserve en route to Esterillos Beach, stopping to enjoy an oceanfront lunch (morning tour) or a picture-perfect sunset with drinks (afternoon tour). This small-group tour is limited to eight people or fewer for a more intimate adventure.

Experience a variety of activities in once convenient and scenic location on this family-friendly tour. Drive all-terrain vehicles, go horseback riding to the top of a mountain, and zipline through the rain forest canopy. You’ll also visit a monkey sanctuary which has a snake exhibit and a petting zoo. A professional guide is with you the whole way to ensure safety, especially for the little ones.

Enjoy the best horseback ride guided by ATV Tours with Fidel from the JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort Costa Rica where you will enjoy the beautiful beaches and an impressive sunset, you will also see many species of different types of animals and be able to appreciate the spectacular nature of the Guanacaste Costa Rica area. We invite you to review our good recommendations

Explore the rain forest around Arenal on this horseback riding adventure that takes you to the enchanting, sky-blue waters of the Rio Celeste. Here you are free to swim in a natural river pool and splash into the water on a giant Tarzan swing — things you can't do inside Arenal Volcano National Park. Well-trained horses and a local guide help ensure a safe, one-of-a-kind experience near La Fortuna.

Snorkeling stops, sunshine, and unobstructed views of Costa Rica's shoreline make this sunset catamaran cruise the ideal way to end your day—and the open bar doesn't hurt. Join a friendly crew (as well as dolphins, turtles, and flying fish) to make the most of the day's last rays on this perfectly timed tour, which ends just as the sun sinks below the horizon. Hotel pickup is included for added convenience.

Discover the beauty of Arenal with an all-inclusive day tour that combines scenic horseback riding and relaxing in natural hot springs. Begin your adventure with convenient hotel pickup in La Fortuna before heading to Paco’s Horses for a guided ride through lush rainforest trails and across the Arenal River. After the ride, unwind at Pura Vida Hot Springs, enjoying the tranquil surroundings and access to the Choyin Hot Water River and hot spring pool. A delicious lunch is included, making this tour perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. - Enjoy an exciting horseback riding experience suitable for all skill levels - Relax in the soothing natural hot springs at Pura Vida Hot Springs - Lunch included and amenities like lockers and towels provided - Convenient round-trip transportation from your hotel in La Fortuna

Meet your gentle horse, put on your provided helmet for safety, then head into the beautiful scenery of Playa Carrillo on horseback with this intimate, small-group tour. Follow your guide as they point out local plants and wildlife and take you from the mountains to the beach. You might make a few new friends on this small-group tour. Hotel pickup is included for added convenience.

Experience the best of Arenal with this nature-filled combo: explore the iconic Mistico Hanging Bridges and enjoy a scenic horseback ride through the foothills of Arenal Volcano. Start your adventure by walking the famous trails of Mistico Park, where you’ll cross a series of hanging bridges suspended above the rainforest canopy. Keep an eye out for tropical birds, monkeys, and lush jungle views along the way. After your walk, saddle up for a relaxing horseback ride on the private trails of Pacos Horses—a local favorite known for its well-trained horses, stunning volcano views, and peaceful forest surroundings. This tour is perfect for nature lovers, families, and photographers who want to experience two of Arenal’s most beautiful landscapes in one seamless experience. - Entrance to Mistico Park included - Great for couples, families, and small groups - Ideal mix of adventure and wildlife in one day - Transportation options available

The horseback riding tour is designed for you to enjoy an unforgettable experience around the sand river and with an incredible view, we will cross the forests where hopefully we can see animals such as toucans, monkeys, sloths and others. After this tour come and enjoy the thermal mineral waters and wrap yourself in mud from the sandy volcano. Just an amazing experience

Feel like a jungle explorer as you venture into the lush rainforest around Arenal Volcano on a horseback ride from La Fortuna. Mount your horse and follow a guide along a scenic trail that hugs a river canyon, stopping to admire the Pino Blanco and La Fortuna waterfalls. Cool off with an optional swim, and learn about Costa Rica’s indigenous culture at the Maleku Village.

Zipline through Costa Rican rainforest on a canopy tour that goes over the spectacular La Fortuna Waterfall—an exciting opportunity not offered on similar excursions. Between cables, take in views of Arenal Volcano and Cerro Chato and talk to your guides about the La Fortuna area. No experience is needed and almost anyone who is interested in Costa Rica’s biodiversity will enjoy this immersive adventure.

Embark on the Ultimate Adventure with the Hacienda Guachipelin Day Pass! Experience 5 thrilling activities in one action-packed day: canopy tour, rappelling through Rio Blanco Canyon, tubing on Rio Negro River with class III rapids, Waterfall walk and swim and a horseback riding adventure. Relax with volcano-heated thermal waters, steam, and mud baths. Our guide ensures safety and fun, with unbeatable views of rivers, canyons, and wildlife. The package also includes a delicious lunch at Hacienda Guachipelin Restaurant. Waterfall and Hotsprings access is over Hanging Bridges.

On this Jaco off-road ATV tour, it’s all about the journey—and the destinations. Take a thrilling ride through rugged mountain terrain en route to a vista point and two waterfalls, one of which has a 15-foot (4.5-meter) jump to try (if you dare). Be sure to bring a swimsuit to refresh yourself in the natural pool either way.

Explore the Arenal area and rainforest on this scenic guided horseback ride. Learn about the flora, fauna, and history of the volcano and its lava flows. Along the way, watch for monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. Before the ride, you’ll receive a short safety briefing. Enjoy included hotel pickup and skip-the-line access for a seamless experience.

Experience the Spirit of Costa Rica: Horseback Riding & Farm Tour at Hacienda La Pinta. Immerse yourself in the authentic culture and natural beauty of Guanacaste during this 2.5-hour horseback riding and farm experience at the historic Hacienda Pinilla. This local farm spans over 501 hectares of breathtaking landscapes, scenic trails, and vibrant wildlife. As you ride through fields, forests, and coastlines, you’ll discover the rich traditions and rural charm that define this unique part of Costa Rica. What to Expect: A guided horseback ride through stunning nature trails. Encounters with local flora and fauna, A deep dive into the history and traditions of a working Costa Rican farm. Perfect for families, couples, and small groups. Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Guanacaste where tradition meets adventure!

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is one of Costa Rica’s most memorable natural wonders. With this tour, venture to the heart of the cloud forest on a self-guided trek and enjoy magnificent views of the Arenal, Rincon de la Vieja, Tenorio, and Miravalles volcanoes. Cool off with a swim beneath a waterfall, tuck into a typical Costa Rican lunch, and enjoy a short horseback ride. Hotel pickup and drop-off from Monteverde and Santa Elena are included for convenience.

Explore the Costa Rican capital’s rich history, landmark buildings, and modern culture on a combo bus and walking tour of San Jose. Get a great introduction to city highlights like the National Theater and Art Museum, and stop to walk through bustling markets and public plazas to feel the pulse of this modern Central American metropolis. Get an extra boost of Costa Rican culture by listening to traditional folkloric music onboard the bus.