Carabali Rainforest Horseback Riding Tour San Juan
4.8 (1,186 reviews) from travellers who booked this experience
Overview
This two-hour guided horseback ride explores the rainforest trails of Carabali Rainforest Park in Luquillo, on the north-east coast of Puerto Rico. An English-speaking guide leads the group along shaded paths through tropical vegetation, with helmets provided and no previous riding experience needed. It suits couples, friends and families with children who meet the weight limit and enjoy nature at a gentle pace. Hotel pickup is not included, so you meet at the park.
Highlights
- Two-hour guided horseback ride through the rainforest trails of Carabali Rainforest Park
- Live English-speaking guide who leads the group and looks after beginners
- Riding helmet included
- Shady tropical paths with views of the forest, hills and the coast nearby
- Suitable for beginners, with calm horses chosen for the group
- Child rate available, subject to the park's rules and the weight limit
- About an hour from San Juan, easy to combine with El Yunque and the beaches of Luquillo
Full Description
Carabali Rainforest Park in Luquillo
Carabali Rainforest Park is an adventure and nature park in Luquillo, on the north-east coast of Puerto Rico, at the foot of the hills of El Yunque. It has trails, forest and open land where horses, quad bikes and other outdoor activities operate, and it is one of the most convenient places to ride near San Juan.
The drive from San Juan takes around an hour, so the park works as a half-day trip. If you are wondering how to get to Carabali Rainforest Park, it is reached by car along the highway east towards Fajardo, and the exact directions are in your confirmation.
The two-hour rainforest horseback ride
The ride lasts two hours and follows trails through the rainforest, passing tall trees, tropical plants and shaded clearings. The guide leads at a walking pace, so you can relax, look around and take photos, even if you have never been on a horse before.
A horseback riding tour in the rainforest is a calmer way to experience the landscape than a hike, and the horses do the work on slopes and muddy sections. Wear long trousers and closed shoes, and listen carefully to the guide's instructions at the start.
Safety, helmets and the weight limit
A riding helmet is included, and the guide explains how to hold the reins, how to sit and how to steer before you set off. The horses are used to groups and follow the leader, which makes the ride safe and calm for beginners.
For the horses' welfare, there is a weight limit of 235 pounds (106 kilograms) for riders, and guests are weighed on arrival. Please check this before booking, because riders who exceed the limit cannot take part. Children can ride in the child category shown in the booking panel, subject to the park's rules.
Best time to ride and what else to do nearby
The best time to visit is generally the drier months from December to April, and mornings are cooler and usually clearer. Showers can happen at any time in the rainforest, and the ride normally continues in light rain. The tour starts in the morning, which leaves the rest of the day free.
Luquillo has wide beaches, kiosks serving local food and the forest of El Yunque close by, so a Carabali horseback ride fits well into a day out east of San Juan. Opening hours at the park can change by season, so always check your confirmation.
Itinerary
- Arrival at Carabali Rainforest ParkMeet your guide at the meeting point and check in, with weight check on arrival.
- Helmet and safety briefingReceive your helmet and learn how to hold the reins and ride safely.
- Mounting and setting offGet on your horse with help from the staff and leave in a line behind the guide.
- Rainforest rideRide along the shaded trails for about two hours, with stops for views and photos.
- Return to the stablesDismount and thank your horse before the tour ends.
What's included
- Guided 2-hour horseback ride
- Riding helmet
- Live English-speaking guide
Not included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and beverages
- Tips
Not suitable for
- Riders heavier than 235 pounds (106 kilograms)
- Pregnant women
- People with back, neck or hip problems
- Anyone with serious fear of horses
- Travellers who cannot follow the guide's safety instructions
Meeting point
Meet at the meeting point at Carabali Rainforest Park in Luquillo. Exact directions and the check-in time are in your confirmation. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan your own transport.
Important information
- The weight limit for riders is 235 pounds (106 kilograms), and riders are weighed on arrival
- Wear long trousers and closed shoes with a small heel, and avoid sandals
- Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, water and a light rain jacket
- Hotel pickup, food and drinks are not included
- Arrive early to complete check-in and the weight check
- The ride normally runs in light rain but can be changed for unsafe weather
- Gratuities are not included
- Check your confirmation for directions and the exact start time
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the horseback riding tour cost?
The price depends on the number of riders and their ages. The booking panel on this page shows the current price for each option, adult and child.
Is hotel pickup included?
No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You meet at Carabali Rainforest Park in Luquillo, with directions in your confirmation.
How long is the horseback ride?
The ride lasts about two hours on the rainforest trails, and you should add time for check-in and the briefing.
Is the ride suitable for children?
Children can join in the child category shown in the booking panel, subject to the park's rules and the weight limit. Please check this before booking.
Do I need riding experience?
No. The guide explains everything and leads the group at a walking pace, so beginners are welcome.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear long trousers and closed shoes, and bring insect repellent, sunscreen and water. A helmet is provided.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
You can book when the calendar in the booking panel shows availability. Short-notice dates depend on free places.
What is the weight limit?
The limit is 235 pounds (106 kilograms) for riders, and guests are weighed on arrival.
How far is Carabali from San Juan?
The park is in Luquillo, around an hour's drive east of San Juan, depending on traffic.
What happens if it rains?
The ride normally continues in light rain because the rainforest is wet by nature. If conditions are unsafe, the park may change or cancel the ride.