Horse Riding in Port Vila with Yumi Tours

Imagine riding through lush rainforests, exploring traditional village gardens, and ending your ride by splashing into the crystal-clear waters of Etmat Bay—all on a horse. That’s what Yumi Tours offers with their Horse Riding in Port Vila experience. This tour promises a memorable day suited for all riding levels, from absolute beginners to seasoned equestrians, with plenty of stunning scenery and authentic moments.

What makes this ride particularly appealing? First, the diverse landscape—over 5,000 acres of verdant rainforest, coastal trails, and pristine beaches. Second, the personalized approach—they carefully match each rider with the right horse, ensuring comfort and confidence. However, one thing to consider is that this tour is about 2 hours long, so those with limited mobility might want to assess their physical readiness. Overall, it’s a great pick for travelers craving a taste of Vanuatu’s natural beauty on horseback, especially those eager to combine adventure and relaxation.

Key Points

• Scenic diversity: Ride through rainforest, village gardens, and along beaches.
• All skill levels welcome: Horses are matched to rider experience.
• Water experience: End your ride with a chance to swim with your horse.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance safety and storytelling.
• Value for money: At $135, the tour offers a well-rounded experience with included transportation.
• Limited group size: Max 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

What You Can Expect from the Horse Riding Tour

This two-hour guided adventure is designed to showcase some of the most beautiful parts of Vanuatu in a relaxed, friendly environment. The journey begins with a convenient pickup from Port Vila, in an air-conditioned vehicle. From there, it’s a short 10-minute drive to Club Hippique Adventure Park—a sprawling property with access to rainforests, beaches, and village gardens.

The ride itself is a mix of forest trails, open areas, and a beach segment, offering a variety of scenery and sensations. You’ll appreciate the expert guidance, especially if you’re new to riding, as they’re committed to matching you with a horse suited to your experience level. Their approach seems to be very accommodating, with many reviews mentioning how well the guides checked in and assisted, especially for first-time riders.

The Trail and Beach Ride

The highlight for many is the beach section, where you can trot or walk along the white sands of Etmat Bay. Participants are encouraged to bring bathers and towels, as there’s a special opportunity at the end to ride your horse into the water and enjoy a swim. Several reviews mention this as a magical part of the experience, with one noting, “When you return, they take the saddle off so you can ride bareback deeper into the water.”

The Scenery and Wildlife

The lush rainforest offers a peaceful backdrop, with some reviews describing the ride as “beautiful, tranquil, and peaceful.” The guides’ knowledge about the land and the local environment adds depth to the experience, making it more than just a ride—it’s a chance to connect with Vanuatu’s natural landscape.

The End of the Ride

Once back on land, you can admire the scenery, take photos, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. The tour ends with about 15-20 minutes of free time, giving you a chance to chat with guides or explore the grounds.

The Experience Itself: Practical Details

Duration and Group Size: The ride lasts around 2 hours, with a maximum of 20 travelers. This relatively small group size means you’re not just another face in a crowd, which helps the guides tailor the experience to your needs.

Transportation: Included in the price is a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle pickup from your Port Vila accommodation or designated meeting point, saving you the hassle of finding your way.

Cost and Value: For $135 per person, the tour covers everything from transportation to riding fees, plus the unique opportunity to swim with your horse. Several reviews highlight the value, especially considering the scenic variety and tailored guidance.

Physical Requirement: Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level. The ride involves walking and some light riding, so if you’re comfortable with light outdoor activity, you’re likely suitable.

Weather and Cancellation: The tour is weather-dependent—poor weather conditions may cause cancellations, but you’ll be offered a different date or full refund if that happens. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

What do past riders say? Kristin appreciated the trail ride with a beach segment, mentioning the excitement of riding bareback into the water. James described the experience as “beautiful, tranquil, and magical,” emphasizing the mix of forest and beach scenery. Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides for their friendliness and attentiveness, ensuring safety and enhancing enjoyment.

Leroy highlighted that his partner, a first-time rider, was well-supported, calling the experience “enjoyable” and expressing a wish to return. However, Rhiannan mentioned she was a bit disappointed not to get the chance to swim in the water at the end, but appreciated the refund process. The consistent positive feedback suggests this tour balances adventure, scenery, and safety effectively.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This horseback riding trip is particularly valuable for travelers wanting a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and local flavor. It’s ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and are open to trying something new in a relaxed setting. Families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a memorable experience that combines nature, culture, and a bit of fun in the water will find this tour rewarding.

The small group size and guided support ensure a personal touch, making it suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. The inclusion of transport and the opportunity to swim with your horse add to the overall value, making it a nicely balanced outing for a reasonable price.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for an authentic, scenic riding experience in Vanuatu, this tour delivers. Its combination of lush rainforests, beach rides, and water swimming creates a unique adventure that’s both fun and relaxing. The guides’ knowledge and support make it beginner-friendly, while the beautiful scenery is enough to satisfy seasoned riders.

For active travelers craving a taste of the island’s natural beauty on horseback, this experience strikes a good balance of fun, safety, and value. It’s especially well-suited for those who don’t mind a bit of physical activity and love the idea of exploring Vanuatu’s landscapes from a different perspective.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from your Port Vila accommodation or designated meeting point.

How long is the ride?
The ride lasts approximately 2 hours, depending on rider experience and group pace.

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely. Horses are matched to rider experience, and guides are attentive to beginners’ needs.

What should I bring?
Bring bathers and towels for the water swim opportunity at the end of the ride.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Generally yes, but travelers should have moderate physical fitness—it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor walking and riding.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How much does the tour cost?
The standard price is $135 per person, providing a full scenic riding experience with transportation included.

This guided horseback adventure in Port Vila offers a wonderful way to connect with Vanuatu’s natural beauty, combining scenic landscapes with a touch of fun in the water. Whether you’re a first-time rider or just looking to enjoy a peaceful ride with stunning views, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day on the island.