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Last Update: 10 Jan 2011

Riding Holidays | Costa Rica

 Though relatively small in size Costa Rica boasts a rich variety of scenery from volcanoes to beaches and rainforest. The other key attraction of Costa Rica is the wide range of plant, bird and animal species. These two factors make a horse riding holiday in Costa Rica a fantastic vacation. Costa Rican equestrian holidays can rival those anywhere in the world.

Since its earliest days Costa Rican history has been indelibly linked to the life of the cowboy or Sabanero. Even today in modern Costa Rica, many of the traditions and culture of days long past are still alive and one can still see the Sabaneros working cattle in the countryside.

The Riding Odyssey trail ride offers the chance to ride over varying terrain and explore two different areas of the country, including some beach riding. There is also a sightseeing day in the middle to see the impressive Arenal Volacano, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and the Cloud forest at Monteverde. An alternative riding holiday is a centre-based stay at Maravilla. Your experienced horse guides will be pleased to share their knowledge of the flora and fauna as you ride. The diverse wildlife of the country includes Iguanas, Crocodiles, Bluemorpho Butterflies, Mot-mots, Herons, Flycatchers, Egrets, Toucans, Parakeets, Scarlet Macaws, Sloths, Howler and Capuchin monkeys. Even Coyotes are a possibility!

The horses you ride are mainly Costa Rican Criollo or alternatively mixed breed (Spanish) and they range in height from 14 to 16 hands. The horses are all selected for their good manners and easy ride style. You ride in a modified McClellan trail saddles or western saddles. Both open and covered stirrups are commonly used. The majority of the horses are ridden in a “Jaquima” with a "bozal" – which is a type of bitless bridle made of rope or leather. The horses are trained to this system, which is not only more comfortable for the horses but practical for long-distance riding.

Horseback vacations are also available based at a boutique style Finca near to Montezuma or around Montevarde and Guanacaste staying at small hotels. Or stay at a farm in the mountains of Puriscal and combine lessons with scenic trail rides.

	Maravilla Based at a family run ranch in the centre of the country. Explore the rainforest or relax in your hammock on the veranda.
	Riding Odyssey A riding expedition that visits three different areas of Costa Rica. Some great wildlife viewing.