7 days (4 on horseback)

“7 days to connect with yourself, horses and nature…”

This unique horseback adventure invites you deep into the wild and vibrant landscapes of Costa Rica, in the Turrialba region, where horses, nature, and culture intertwine. Over the course of the week, you will explore vast private lands, tropical forests, coffee and cocoa plantations, rivers, waterfalls, and breathtaking viewpoints overlooking volcanoes and mountain ranges.

More than a riding holiday, this journey is a true immersion into the country’s biodiversity and rural life. From long trail rides and refreshing swims in crystal-clear rivers to encounters with local communities and discoveries of organic coffee production, each day offers a new perspective on this extraordinary land. Riding well-cared-for horses and guided by professionals deeply connected to both horses and nature, you will experience Costa Rica at a slower, more meaningful pace.

A balanced mix of adventure, horsemanship, cultural discovery, and moments of rest, this itinerary is designed for riders seeking authenticity, connection, and unforgettable experiences—both in the saddle and beyond.

Highlights of the trip – 7 days (4 on horseback) and 3 days optional extensions

• Unique, exclusive routes far off the beaten track
• Authentic encounters with the “vaqueros pura vida”
• Discovery of the country’s exceptional biodiversity through an itinerary combining mountains, rivers, tropical forest and organic crops
• Energetic, sure-footed horses offering unforgettable gallops
• Unusual accommodations in open-air eco-decks and a beautiful colonial-style guesthouse
• Safe riding experience in halter / bitless
• Discovery of the national horse breed “Paso Costarricense”
• Certified French, Spanish and English speaking guides

DAY 1 – Monday: Flight to SAN JOSÉ

International flight to San José (not included).
Arrival in the evening at San José International Airport and welcome by a member of the Hacienda team.
Overnight stay at a hotel near the airport (included).

DAY 2 – Tuesday: SAN JOSÉ – PAVONES DE TURRIALBA – 3H riding

Morning
Welcome drink upon arrival at the charming colonial guesthouse where you will be staying. Each room has its own private bathroom, and there are many peaceful shared spaces to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Time to settle in before heading to the farm for a welcome and full introduction to the team. Lunch will be served facing the large grass arena, followed by a personalized session with your guide to assign horses.

Afternoon
To warm up, you will ride in the arena for an initial evaluation and to build connection with your horse. Then you set off for your first ride across the hacienda’s 350 rolling hectares: sugarcane fields, coffee plantations, and sweeping views over the Central Volcanic Mountain Range.
Along the way you may spot Costa Rica’s iconic flora and fauna—rainbow eucalyptus, bright-blue Morpho butterflies, scarlet-red Tanagers, toucans, and the famous yellow-tailed Oropendola with its unique call.
After enjoying the first gallops, you will stop beneath a majestic three-hundred-year-old Ceiba tree, considered sacred by the Maya.

In the evening, enjoy a convivial barbecue dinner at the hacienda (grilled meats and vegetables), then settle into your room for the night.

DAY 3 – Wednesday: EL SILENCIO – 6H riding

Breakfast on the terrace of the house, then everyone retrieves his horse for a beautiful full day on horseback. This 6-hour ride will take us through small rural villages, spectacular viewpoints overlooking Lake Angostura, and a private farm home to magnificent oak forests, a peaceful lagoon, and several breathtaking panoramic viewpoints. During this part of the experience, the owner of the farm will accompany us as our guide. Having spent his whole life on this land, he offers a unique perspective on the area’s history, rural traditions, local way of life, and the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit these mountains.

Along the way, we will stop for lunch in a traditional wooden ranch, where guests will discover local specialties such as yuca, hearts of palm, and other regional products, while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the horses grazing nearby.

After several hours on horseback, we will take a short walk to discover an incredible tree. It will be a nice opportunity to stretch, relax the muscles, and enjoy the surroundings. For those who are interested, there will also be a small zipline experience above a tiny-lagoon.

In the afternoon, we continue our ride through the rolling landscapes of the region before returning in the direction of the hacienda.

Dinner at the guesthouse and overnight stay.

DAY 4 – Tuesday: Free day

After breakfast at the Hacienda, this fourth day is yours to rest before the upcoming long days on horseback. Several optional activities are available (not included in the package):

• Rafting on the world-famous Pacuare River – departure at 9 a.m., thrilling rapids and incredible scenery. Lunch by the river and return around 4 p.m.
• Naturalist tour with a biologist to discover local species and their secrets.
• Guided visit to Turrialba Volcano, its history and landscapes.
• Horsemanship or groundwork lesson with an equine behavior specialist.
• Or simply a relaxing day at the Hacienda – forest trails, swimming at the nearby waterfall, and quiet time.

In the evening, horseback tradition takes the spotlight: dinner with a demonstration of Paso Costarricense horses or lasso handling.
The opportunity to dive into the local horse world.

DAY 5 – Friday: Finca Tres Equis – 4H riding

Breakfast on the terrace before setting off to a neighboring farm, Finca Tres Equis. This property plays a key role in biodiversity conservation, with hundreds of hectares of preserved forest bordering the Pacuare River and the primary forest of Barbilla National Park.

Here we will bring our own horses, so that you can follow your journey with the horse you already started to know and love.

You will ride across cocoa plots at the top of the property, then descend to the Pacuare River for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear water. After a long climb back up, enjoy a delicious lunch and a cup of coffee on a viewpoint platform overlooking mountains and primary forest—an unforgettable panorama.

After lunch, the adventure continues as we make our way back through an exceptionally preserved forest filled with towering trees and remarkable natural features. This is the most challenging and rewarding part of the route, following authentic dirt trails that are sometimes muddy and winding through the heart of the landscape. Just before returning, we will stop for a final thrill: a giant swing suspended above breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, the perfect ending to an unforgettable horseback adventure.

Return to Monte Claro in the late afternoon, dinner and overnight.

DAY 6 – Saturday: PAVONES – 5H30 riding + horse-swimming

Breakfast at the house, then pack your things—tonight you will experience a very special type of accommodation!

At the farm, we will prepare the horses for a long and beautiful final trail ride through the tropical forest. We will explore the outer edges of the property, descend shaded hills beneath giant Espavel trees, and cross former pastures now part of an ambitious native-species reforestation project.

Our first destination is the sandy banks of the Reventazón River, where we will take a refreshing break and enjoy one of the highlights of the week: bathing the horses in the river. Those who wish can take their horse into the water and experience this unique and unforgettable moment while cooling off in the crystal-clear current.

After this refreshing stop, the adventure continues along a more technical and exhilarating section of the trail, offering exciting riding and beautiful scenery as we make our way to a second access point on the river. There, we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch surrounded by nature.

The afternoon includes more breathtaking viewpoints, technical gallops through various plantations, and a stop at a waterfall where you may be lucky enough to spot turtles. We will then ride through a more technical section of trail winding beneath tall pine trees, part of an innovative carbon-capture and reforestation project. Emerging from the forest, we will visit Beneficio Naturalba, the farm’s organic coffee processing facility, to learn about Costa Rican coffee production and the work of the local Bio Producers Association.

We then make our way back to the stables in the late afternoon for horse care.

A final dinner at the hacienda—wine optional! Then you will spend the night in one of our eco-decks: natural and local materials, an open wall overlooking the valley, mountains and volcano, no electricity, only starlight and a few solar-powered lamps… A pure immersion in nature.

DAY 7 – Sunday: TURRIALBA – AIRPORT

After breakfast, you may observe the training of young horses and learn more about horsemanship before departure.

Transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule, heart and mind filled with unforgettable memories…

DAY 8 – Saturday: Arrival in your country

Arrival in your country.

 

Optional Extensions

Enhance your Central Valley journey with one of our exclusive pre-tour extensions. These optional 3-day adventures take place after the main itinerary, allowing you to discover another side of Costa Rica after the mountains of the Central Valley.

Guests may choose one of the following extensions:

• Pacific Coast Extension
• Caribbean Coast Extension

>> OPTION 1 – Pacific Coast Extension (3 days)

A perfect closing of your Costarican adventure, on the Pacific coastline, combining long horseback rides on the beach, tropical forests, wildlife and spectacular sunsets.

DAY 7: Extension day 0 – Sunday: TURRIALBA – PLAYA GARZA – PLAYA GUIONES

Breakfast at the Hacienda and departure towards the Pacific coast (approx. 7h drive). We leave around 8:00 a.m and we will stop along the way for lunch, before continuing on to the coast.

Depending on the route and timing, we may also stop at the beautiful Playa Garza, where those who wish can enjoy a swim. Others may prefer to take a short walk along the coastline to stretch their legs and reach the rocky point, which offers magnificent views over the ocean.

We then continue by vehicle for the final 15-minute transfer to our accommodation, where you will have time to settle in. The late afternoon is free to relax, walk to the beach, enjoy the sunset, take a swim, or simply rest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the coast.

DAY 8: Extension day 1 – Monday: PACIFIC COAST: SECTOR OSTIONAL, GUANACASTE – 3H riding

Breakfast at the accommodation, followed by a transfer to our host’s property. We will meet him and the horses. He will be our guide for these two days of riding on the Pacific coast. A true local who has lived here his entire life. He will passionately introduce you to his world, his horses, and the place where they live, before setting off on horseback for a unique ride through his land while sharing insights into Guanacaste traditions.

The trail takes you across vast cattle pastures typical of the region, home to Brahman cattle, through reforestation areas, and along sections of river where you will ride directly in the water. Along the way, you will also discover the impressive Guanacaste tree, the national symbol, as well as shaded forest areas inhabited by coatis, howler monkeys, birds, and butterflies.

Lunch will be served at our host’s property, offering a delicious and authentic local experience.

After releasing the horses, we will return to the accommodation in the early afternoon. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to relax, enjoy the beach, or book an optional activity or a massage. In the evening, we meet again for dinner at the house.

DAY 9: Extension day 2 – Tuesday: GOLFO – PLAYA PELADA – PLAYA GUIONES – 4H30 riding

Breakfast, followed by a free morning to relax. You may enjoy the beach, rest or take part in an optional activity. We meet again at the accommodation for lunch at midday, before transferring by vehicle (approx. 10 minutes) to meet our local guide and the horses.

Departure on horseback between 1 and 1.30PM, for an off-the-beaten-track ride of approximately 4.5 hours. The trail takes you through a variety of landscapes including tropical forest, mangroves, rivers, and elevated viewpoints offering breathtaking views over the Pacific coast and surrounding mountains, as well as stretches of paradisiacal beaches.

During the ride, we stop at a scenic spot for a well-deserved break, where you can enjoy a snack along with a refreshing beer or natural juice. The ride continues into the late afternoon, allowing you to experience a magical sunset on horseback along the Pacific coast—an unforgettable highlight of your stay.

After a small rest, we will gather again in the late afternoon for a final farewell dinner together, followed by an overnight stay at our accommodation.

DAY 10: Extension day 3 – Wednesday: PACIFIC COAST – AIRPORT

Breakfast at the hotel and early-departure, for a transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule, heart and mind filled with unforgettable memories…

We will stop along the way for lunch (not included), in a nice local restaurant and its butterfly-garden.

DAY 11: – Thursday: Arrival in your country

Arrival in your country.

>> OPTION 2 – Caribbean Coast Extension (3 days)

A perfect closing of your Costarican adventure, in the vibrant and lush Caribbean region where jungle meets the ocean, enjoying remote beach rides, tropical forest crossings, and unforgettable experiences such as swimming with the horses in a river flowing into the Caribbean Sea.

DAY 7: Extension day 0 – Sunday: TURRIALBA – CARIBBEAN COAST TRANSFER

Breakfast at the Hacienda and departure towards the Caribbean coast (approx. 3h30 drive).

At our arrival in the Caribbean region, stop in the colorful village of Cahuita, one of the most authentic towns on the coast, known for its relaxed atmosphere and Afro-Caribbean culture. Lunch at a typical local restaurant to discover the famous Caribbean Rice and Beans, traditionally cooked over a wood fire and served with freshly caught local fish.

Early afternoon at Cahuita National Park. Those who wish can enjoy a walk through the park’s beautiful coastal trail, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and abundant wildlife, while others may simply relax on the white-sand beach, swim in the warm Caribbean waters, or enjoy a homemade artisanal ice cream in the village.

Departure towards your accommodation in the middle of the afternoon. Time to settle in and relax in this new tropical atmosphere between jungle and ocean breeze. Dinner and night in your accommodation.

DAY 8: Extension day 1 – Monday: MANZANILLO JUNGLE CROSSING – 4H30 riding

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the horses and our local guide. Each rider will be carefully matched with a horse, allowing time to connect and feel comfortable before setting off.

Once ready, begin an exceptional full-day ride through a protected natural area.

This unique route takes you through the Manzanillo National Park’s dense tropical jungle, pristine forest corridors and remote natural trails rich in biodiversity. Wildlife such as monkeys, exotic birds and sloths can often be observed along the way.

A stop is planned for a picnic lunch on a secluded and paradisiacal beach, far from any crowds. Time to relax, swim and enjoy the surroundings.

The ride continues through untouched nature until the return in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight at the accommodation.

DAY 9: Extension day 2 – Tuesday: BEACHES & HORSE SWIMMING – 2H30 riding

After breakfast, we go to meet our guide and the horses. Departure for a beautiful coastal ride exploring a succession of pristine Caribbean beaches, offering long stretches of sand and excellent opportunities for amazing gallops. We will make a stop to walk to an impressive mirador.

The experience ends with a magical moment: swimming with the horses in a river flowing directly into the Caribbean Sea, a unique and unforgettable highlight of the journey.

The ride finishes around midday. We then head to have a local lunch, where fresh fish and Caribbean specialties are available for those who wish to continue enjoying the local flavors.

The afternoon is free, allowing time to relax on the beach or at the accommodation. For those who wish, optional activities can be arranged in advance, such as a cacao tour, snorkeling excursions, or simply more time to enjoy the Caribbean coast at your own pace.

We will gather again in the late afternoon for a final farewell dinner together, followed by an overnight stay at our accommodation.

DAY 10 – Extension day 3 – Wednesday: CARIBBEAN COAST – SAN JOSÉ – AIRPORT

Breakfast at the hotel and departure towards San José (approx. 4h30–5h drive). We will stop at a restaurant for those who wants to have lunch before arriving at the airport (not included).

Arrival at the airport between 1:00 and 2:00 PM depending on traffic conditions and flight schedules.

End of the journey and international departure (flight not included).

DAY 11: – Thursday: Arrival in your country

Arrival in your country.

Accommodation

The first night, you will sleep in a hotel close to the airport, so you can rest before starting the journey. The hotel has its own restaurant and swimming pool.

In Turrialba, during the first part of the week, you will stay in a beautiful colonial-style house, tastefully decorated and designed with generous open spaces that blend seamlessly with the surrounding nature. Each shared bedroom features its own private bathroom, ensuring comfort.

The last night may be spent in a truly unique and optional experience: an eco-deck nestled in the heart of nature. This open-air structure, built with only three walls, offers an intimate connection with the outdoors. With no electricity, evenings are softly illuminated by candlelight and a few solar lamps, creating a peaceful and unforgettable atmosphere.

For the two optional extensions : On both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, accommodations are carefully selected for their charm, comfort and privileged locations close to the beach. Whether set in lush tropical gardens or facing the ocean, they offer the perfect setting to relax and fully enjoy the coastal lifestyle, just steps away from the sea. As availability may vary, we do not work with a single fixed property, but with several carefully selected and verified partner accommodations.

Catering

The stay is offered on a full-board basis, except for lunch on day 7 (for the optional coastal extensions, lunch on day 7 is included but not the lunch on day 10). Guests will enjoy generous breakfasts throughout the journey, with continental-style breakfasts.

Other meals are thoughtfully arranged and vary according to the day’s activities. Lunches and dinners are either prepared on the ranch with care, using fresh ingredients and offering vegetarian options upon request, enjoyed as picnics during certain horseback rides, or taken at selected local restaurants. When dining out, guests may choose from three different menu options. On some days, meals are completed with homemade desserts, adding a warm and authentic touch to the culinary experience.

Practical informations

• Duration: 7 days / 6 nights → with extension: 10 days / 9 nights
• Group size: 4 to 8 riders
• Riding level required: Comfortable at all three gaits, outdoor riding experience preferred
• Location: Hacienda Monte Claro (Central Valley, Turrialba) and Finca Tres Equis
• Herd: 22 horses living barefoot, together in vast pastures in a natural herd environment.

PRICES

• Price per person: 1.920 US$ without flights.
• Small group supplement:
  • 260 $ per person, for a group of 3
  • 760 $ per person, for a group of 2
• Single room supplement: 340 $
• Price for non-riding companions: 1.340 $
  • All meals are included, except for lunch on day 3 and 6.
  • Coffee-tour, Dinner/Lasso activity and Finca Tres Equis are maintained.
  • The accompanying client is not included in the minimum occupancy rate (i.e., if there are 3 clients + one accompanying person, the hiking trip is still not confirmed since the minimum of 4 equestrian clients has not been reached).

Airport transfers are included in the price. Clients are picked up in San José on Monday evening and dropped off next Sunday in the morning. If a client requires a transfer at a different time, an additional fee will apply.

>> Prices of the extensions

PACIFIC EXTENSION

• Price per person : 1.650 US$
• Small group supplement:
  • 200 $ per person, for a group of 3
  • 500 $ per person, for a group of 2
• Single room supplement: 410 $
• Price for non-riding companions: 1190 $
  • All the same meals are included, except for lunch Monday.

CARIBBEAN EXTENSION

• Price per person : 1.550 US$
• Small group supplement:
  • 290 $ per person, for a group of 3
  • 720 $ per person, for a group of 2
• Single room supplement: 400 $
• Price for non-riding companions: 1120 $
  • All the same meals are included, except for lunch Monday.