5 Tips to Enjoy Horseback Riding in Costa Rica

Costa Rica equals adventure. Astonishing beaches, mountains, forests, and trails welcome you and offer you endless activities. However, if to you “pura vida” means riding the tropical hills on a horse, relaxing both mentally and physically, you will find in Mistico Park the ideal place. You don’t have to be a riding pro, but we do expect a positive attitude and that you follow these recommendations: Here are 5 tips to enjoy horseback riding in Costa Rica.

1. Wear the appropriate clothes

One key aspect to go horseback riding is comfort. Wear loose pants for maximum leg mobility.

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Also necessary are closed shoes and accessories such as sunglasses and a hat or cap, to protect your skin from direct sunlight. We also recommend wearing a light long-sleeved shirt for protection against UV rays. Don't forget to apply sunscreen and mosquito repellent.

Riding at horse at Mistico Park

Riding at horse at Mistico Park

2. Bond and inspire confidence

Horses are very sensitive animals and they can perceive emotions such as shyness or fear, as well as trust and confidence. Relax when approaching the horse for the first time. Pet it without showing fear. Avoid sudden movements or pinching their skin, as this might startle them.

Before mounting the horse, be sure to display confidence. Let it guide you around. Once adapted to their setting, these animals master the terrain–so sit back and enjoy the ride.

Having fun at Pacos Horses Tour

Having fun at Pacos Horses Tour

3. Perform a safety check

Being safe is fundamental to everyone participating in horseback riding. Before hopping on the horse, make sure it is saddled correctly (saddle, stirrups, cinch, and reins).

In Mistico Park we have the necessary safety riding equipment, and our guides will instruct you and will accompany you at all times during the ride.

Horseback Riding at Arenal Volcano - Pacos Horses Mistico

Horseback Riding at Arenal Volcano - Pacos Horses Mistico

4. Focus when mounting the horse

Once you have bonded with the horse, it’s time to mount it. Place your left foot on the stirrup and hold on to the saddle with your right hand. Then push yourself up and swing your right leg up and over the saddle, and then place it on the right stirrup. Once on the horse, take the reins and check that you’re sitting comfortably.

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Expert Guide gives horseback riding instructions to visitor.

Expert Guide gives horseback riding instructions to visitor.

5. Ride with a smile on your face

You are now on your horse. Time for an amazing experience. Equines have a strong reasoning ability that helps them overcome difficulties. So trust your horse and just focus on letting it know where you want to go.

Riding a horse in our hills will have you breathing the freshest air. Also, your leg, hand and back muscles will oxygenate throughout the ride. What is more important is that being close to nature will make you feel healthier.

Don’t settle for pictures of trips to Costa Rica on social media or the internet. Visit Costa Rica on your next vacation and capture spectacular moments yourself!

Mistico Park offers a horseback riding tour in exclusive trails. You will explore the forest and access the pastures in the highest hills, where you will gain unparalleled views of Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal. Wait no more! Come meet Paco’s Horses!

Pacos Horseback riding tour Arenal Volcano View

Pacos Horseback riding tour Arenal Volcano View