Aruba Horseback Riding Tour For Advanced Riders

Review of the Aruba Horseback Riding Tour For Advanced Riders

If you’re an experienced rider heading to Aruba, you’ll find plenty of options for horseback adventures. The Aruba Horseback Riding Tour for Advanced Riders comes highly recommended, boasting a perfect 5.0-star rating based on over 120 reviews. While it’s tailored for those comfortable with faster gaits like cantering and galloping, it’s also accessible to riders of various skill levels, provided you’re physically fit and looking for a scenic, active experience.

Two things really stand out: the expert guides who make every ride both safe and enjoyable, and the stunning scenery, from rocky coasts to remote beaches. However, some travelers mention that the ride might not always match the “advanced” label—especially when group dynamics come into play. With a price of $125 per person, it offers good value for the chance to ride in such beautiful surroundings. This tour is perfect for those who want to combine a love of riding with a taste of authentic Aruba landscapes.

Key Points

• Tailored for experienced riders wanting to canter and gallop.
• Includes hotel pickup and transportation for convenience.
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the ride safer and more fun.
• Stunning scenery along rocky coasts and beaches, ideal for photo lovers.
• Group size is small, enhancing personalized attention and safety.
• Not guaranteed to include gallops or trots, especially in group settings.

What to Expect from the Aruba Horseback Riding Tour

This two-hour adventure begins with a pickup at your hotel or cruise terminal, a detail that adds to the ease of planning. The tour is run by Rancho Notorious, a well-established outfit with a reputation for caring for their horses and guiding riders professionally. Expect to be transported in an air-conditioned minivan to the ranch in Aruba’s countryside, a quiet spot away from the busy tourist areas, where the true Aruban landscape unfolds.

At the ranch, your guide will assess your riding experience and provide basic instructions—crucial for a smooth ride—especially if you’re an advanced rider eager to push your limits. You’ll have your choice of English or Western tack, which not only suits different riding styles but also allows you to ride the way you’re most comfortable.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Rancho Notorious Aruba
This is the starting point, where you’ll get familiar with your horse and the terrain. The guides take pride in their horses’ well-being—they’re well-behaved, healthy, and loved. We loved the way the guides personalize the experience; they adjust the ride according to your skill level, ensuring novices and seasoned riders alike feel safe. The ride covers scenic trails through Aruba’s typical arid landscape, including cacti and desert flora, offering a genuine taste of the local environment.

Stop 2: Countryside to Remote Beach
From the ranch, you’ll ride through Aruba’s “Cunucu”—the local term for countryside—without crossing streets or dealing with traffic. This peaceful trail leads to a secluded beach, a highlight of the tour. Here, guests have the chance to walk, swim (if conditions permit), or just enjoy the view. Several reviews mention how stunning this part of the ride is, with one rider calling it a “perfect photo opportunity.” The guide often takes pictures to help you remember.

Additional Scenic Ride
Some tours extend to a hidden lagoon, home to donkeys, iguanas, and parrots, adding a touch of wildlife and tropical charm. It’s especially suited for families or beginners, but all skill levels are welcome. Importantly, galloping isn’t guaranteed in this part of the ride—it’s more about the experience, scenery, and the joy of riding.

The Experience and Reviews from Riders

The feedback from riders paints a lively picture. Many praise the knowledgeable guides—with names like Nelson and Max—who make the riding smooth and engaging. One rider noted, “Nelson was a great guide and Max did a wonderful job telling us about life on the island,” highlighting the personal touch that sets this tour apart.

Several guests appreciated the variety of speeds, including trotting and cantering, with some lucky enough to gallop along the coast. One rider exclaimed, “Galloping along the beautiful coastline of Aruba was amazing,” emphasizing the thrill of faster-paced riding. However, not all reviews are perfect; one guest expressed disappointment that the ride was slower than advertised, noting, “We paid for an advanced ride and expected more trotting and galloping, but it was mostly walking.” This points to the challenge of group rides where the guide must cater to the least experienced rider.

The landscape truly impresses. Many reviews mention how the scenery along the coast and through the desert exceeds expectations, with “breathtaking views,” “beautiful beaches,” and “arid desert scenery” being common descriptors. Photographers will love the stop at the beach, where the horses stand against the horizon—perfect for memorable snaps.

Transportation, Group Size, and Price: What It Means for You

The included hotel or port pickup adds a layer of convenience, especially in a small island like Aruba where getting around can be tricky. The tour is capped at a maximum of five participants, which is ideal for personalized attention but means booking early is wise. The price of $125 is reasonable considering the two-hour duration, guided experience, and scenic stops. When you compare it to other Aruba excursions, it offers good value—especially if you’re seeking an authentic riding adventure rather than a short, touristy ride.

The duration of approximately 2 hours allows enough time for a meaningful ride without feeling rushed. The transportation is air-conditioned, and the ranch is located in a quiet, picturesque setting that makes the effort worthwhile. Since the ride is tailored for advanced riders, you can expect to get some faster gaits, but always in a safe, controlled manner.

What We Love About This Tour

One of the strongest points is the expert guidance. Riders frequently mention guides like Nelson and Max, who are attentive, knowledgeable, and passionate about the horses and landscape. Their ability to adapt the ride to your skill level creates a safe and enjoyable environment.

Another highlight is the spectacular scenery—from rocky coastlines to quiet beaches and wildlife-rich lagoons. This tour isn’t just about riding; it’s about experiencing Aruba’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point. Plus, the small group size fosters a more personal, less hurried experience.

Possible Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

While many reviews praise the tour, some mention a mismatch between expectations and reality. If you book as an “advanced rider,” there’s a chance you might not always get to gallop or trot, especially if the group includes less experienced riders or if the guide adjusts to safety considerations. It’s worth noting that private tours can guarantee more of the faster gaits, so if that’s a priority, consider that option.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for experienced riders who want more than just a walk. If you enjoy a bit of speed and want to gallop along a beach or through desert scenery, this tour offers that opportunity. It’s also great for those seeking authentic Aruba landscapes and a small, personalized experience.

However, even less experienced riders can enjoy the scenic parts, especially the tranquil countryside and beach stops. Families with children who are comfortable on horseback will find the tour accommodating, thanks to the available English and Western saddles and the guide’s attentiveness.

This tour might not be ideal for those with mobility issues or very inexperienced riders, as it requires a moderate physical effort and the ability to handle a horse at various speeds. Also, keep in mind that the ride might not always include the “advanced” cantering or galloping if the group dynamics demand caution.

Final Thoughts

For anyone with a taste for adventure and a love of horses, this Aruba horseback riding tour offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, personalized guidance, and the thrill of faster riding. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a safe, memorable experience that captures the island’s natural charm. The inclusion of hotel pickup and a variety of scenic stops make it a practical choice, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation.

While the ride may not always match the “advanced” label—particularly in mixed groups—the opportunity to canter and gallop along Aruba’s coast is enough to satisfy most experienced riders. The stunning landscape, excellent guides, and flexible approach to riding levels mean this tour remains one of the top horseback experiences on the island.

If you’re after a genuine ride with breathtaking views and a chance to connect with Aruba’s natural environment on horseback, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip hotel or port pickup and drop-off are included in the tour price for convenience.

What is the tour duration?
The ride lasts approximately 2 hours, which is a good length for a thorough experience without being exhausting.

Can beginners join this tour?
While it’s marketed for advanced riders, all skill levels are welcome, and guides will adjust the ride accordingly. However, it’s best suited for riders comfortable with trotting and cantering.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included and provided for safety during the ride.

What kind of horses are used?
The horses are well cared for, healthy, and loved by the guides. Many reviews mention the horses being well-behaved and suitable for the scenery.

Will I get to gallop or canter?
Gallops and canters are possible but are at the guide’s discretion and depend on group safety. Private rides can guarantee these faster gaits.

What about the scenery?
Expect rocky coasts, remote beaches, and a quiet lagoon, all perfect for photos and relaxing moments.

What should I bring?
Long pants, a small water bottle, sunglasses, and a phone for photos are recommended. Bring water as it can get hot, especially in Aruba’s sunny climate.

Final Wrap-up

This horseback riding tour combines scenic beauty, expert guidance, and an authentic experience for riders who want more than just a walk. It caters well to those seeking a bit of speed and adventure, set against Aruba’s stunning landscape. Small group sizes and flexible riding levels make it a personalized, memorable activity.

It’s especially suited for riders with prior experience or those eager to try trotting and galloping in a safe environment. The tour’s focus on natural scenery and the friendly, knowledgeable guides make it a standout option in Aruba. Whether you want sweeping coastlines, quiet lagoons, or a genuine horse adventure, this tour offers a fine blend of all.

For travelers who value safety, scenery, and a touch of adrenaline, this horseback ride is an adventure worth booking during your Aruba trip.