Montego Bay: Horseback Ride and Swim Adventure

Travelers seeking a memorable way to connect with Jamaica’s landscapes often look for experiences that combine adventure, nature, and a touch of the local spirit. The Horseback Ride ‘N’ Swim in Montego Bay offers just that — a two-hour tour that takes you through lush backcountry terrain before finishing with a splash in the Caribbean Sea. While not a high-octane thrill ride, it’s an experience filled with genuine charm and a chance to see a different side of the island.

We particularly appreciate how this tour is designed for riders of all skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced equestrian or just looking to try something new, the well-trained horses and attentive guides make the experience accessible. Plus, the chance to swim atop a horse in the warm sea offers an unforgettable highlight that’s hard to find elsewhere.

That said, it’s worth noting that the overall provider rating is 3.8 — not perfect but still a solid choice, especially considering the personal and authentic touches. One potential consideration is the group size and the nature of the activity, which is relatively short. If you’re after a long, deep-dive adventure, this might feel a bit quick, but if you’re craving a fun, scenic, and family-friendly jaunt, it hits the right notes.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a lighthearted, scenic, and memorable activity that pairs well with other explorations of Montego Bay. It’s especially suited for families, first-time riders, or anyone eager to see Jamaica from a different perspective while enjoying the sea in a playful and natural way.

Key Points

• Accessible for all skill levels with well-trained horses and attentive guides.
• Combines backcountry riding with a unique swim in the Caribbean Sea.
• Short, two-hour experience — perfect for fitting into a busy cruise or day trip itinerary.
• Professional guides ensure safety and comfort throughout.
• Family-friendly activity with opportunities for fun and memorable photos.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour

The Montego Bay Horseback Ride ‘N’ Swim is a straightforward but delightful outing that offers more than just a ride — it’s a small window into Jamaica’s natural beauty and relaxed vibe. Over two hours, you’ll traverse the lush backcountry of Cornwall County, a landscape that features dense foliage, gentle hills, and tranquil rural scenes. Our sources note that the horseback ride is spectacular, providing opportunities to enjoy Jamaica’s vibrant flora and peaceful countryside away from the tourist-heavy beaches.

The riding portion is described as suitable for all skill levels, thanks to the well-trained horses and guides who prioritize safety. This is perfect if you’re traveling with beginners, kids, or those who simply want to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about technical riding skills. Expect a gentle, scenic trek that allows you to take in the natural sights and sounds of Jamaica’s interior.

The highlight for many is the bareback ride into the Caribbean Sea atop a specially trained, swimming horse. The horses used for this part are trained to enter the water calmly, and the guides will instruct and assist as needed. It’s a playful, family-friendly experience that feels both authentic and slightly adventurous. As one reviewer put it, “We loved the way the horses just casually waded into the water, and the whole experience felt like a true Jamaican treasure.”

From the practical perspective, this part of the tour offers a refreshing break from the land-based portion, especially on a warm day. The water is described as warm and inviting, perfect for wading and splashing around. Some visitors mention that no previous riding experience is necessary, making it accessible for many.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with a short transportation from your pickup point (often a hotel or cruise port) to the riding location. Once there, guides introduce the horses, give a brief safety overview, and prepare everyone for the ride. The horseback portion lasts roughly an hour, during which you traverse gentle trails, open fields, and shady spots that showcase Jamaica’s natural beauty.

After the land ride, you’ll proceed to the water’s edge, where the horses will be guided into the sea. The bareback swim lasts about 10-15 minutes, during which you’ll be riding atop a horse that’s comfortable in the water, giving you a rare chance to combine riding with ocean fun.

Finally, you’ll be gently guided back to land, where you can rinse off and take some photos before returning to your pickup point. The entire experience wraps up in around two hours, making it a manageable outing even for those on tight schedules.

The Experience from Reviews

Feedback from travelers paints a picture of a friendly, relaxed environment. One reviewer shared, “Our guide was attentive and made everyone feel safe, even the kids,” which speaks to the tour’s family-friendly nature. Others appreciated the authenticity of the experience, mentioning how it felt like a glimpse into everyday Jamaican life away from the beaches.

Some travelers did note that the provider rating is 3.8, which indicates room for improvement but doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment. A few mentioned that the group size could be large, so those seeking a more intimate experience might want to inquire beforehand. The activity is also priced in a way that offers good value, especially considering the inclusion of the water ride, which is not always available in similar tours.

Logistics and Practical Details

• The tour lasts about 2 hours; check availability for specific starting times.
• Reserve now, pay later options provide flexibility for your travel planning.
• The tour is conducted in English, with guides who are attentive to all participants’ needs.
• The cancellation policy allows free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.
• The activity is suitable for families, first-timers, and casual riders alike.
• Expect group sizes to vary, but guides prioritize safety and friendliness.
• The experience is located in Cornwall County, a scenic part of Jamaica’s interior, quite different from the beaches.

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Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers eager to add a touch of adventure and a dose of authentic Jamaican flavor, this Horseback Ride ‘N’ Swim offers good value. It’s less of a high-adrenaline activity and more of a relaxed, scenic, and fun outing that connects you with the island’s natural environment.

The opportunity to swim on horseback is genuinely special and often cited as a highlight. The guides’ friendly approach and the well-trained horses help create a safe, enjoyable environment — making it an ideal choice for families or those new to riding. Its short duration makes it a great option for fitting into a busy cruise day or combining with other excursions.

However, if you’re a seasoned rider looking for an extended, more challenging ride, or if you prefer activities with more thrill, this might not fully satisfy those needs. The experience is designed to be accessible, lighthearted, and memorable rather than intense.

This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxing, scenic, and slightly adventurous taste of Jamaica’s countryside and coast. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a family-friendly activity or just a fun way to see more of what Jamaica has to offer beyond the beaches.

FAQs

Is previous riding experience required?
No, the tour is suitable for riders of all skill levels, including complete beginners, thanks to well-trained horses and careful guidance.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately two hours — enough time to enjoy the ride and swim without it feeling rushed.

Can children participate?
Yes, this activity is family-friendly, making it a good choice for children who are comfortable with horses and water.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for riding and water, such as shorts or quick-drying pants, along with sunscreen. You’ll want to bring a hat and possibly a change of clothes for after the swim.

Is transportation included?
Many providers arrange pickup and drop-off from your hotel or cruise port, but it’s best to confirm when booking.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

How do I know if this experience is right for me?
If you enjoy scenic outdoor activities, are open to riding and swimming in the sea, and appreciate a laid-back, authentic experience, this tour is a good fit.

The Montego Bay Horseback Ride ‘N’ Swim provides an appealing blend of adventure, nature, and local flavor. It’s a lighthearted tour that allows you to experience Jamaica’s countryside and coastline in a memorable, relaxed manner. Whether you’re traveling with family, seeking a gentle outdoor activity, or simply want to tick “horseback riding in the sea” off your bucket list, this adventure offers good value in a beautiful setting.

While it may not satisfy those craving intense riding or longer excursions, its authenticity and fun factor make it a worthwhile addition to your Jamaica itinerary. It offers a taste of the island’s natural beauty, a splash of adventure, and plenty of opportunities for great photos and stories to tell back home.

If you’re looking for a familial, scenic, and genuinely Jamaican experience, this tour might just be the highlight of your trip. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure and a camera to capture the smiles and splashes.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby