We found Rancho Tranquilo online when planning our trip. I was especially drawn to the name, as I was looking for some tranquilty. The owner, Linda, was very responsive in email correspondance. It was a lovely drive to the small ranch from the Dominical area. The horses were ready to go when we arrived in a nice staging area. The saddles have bags that hold frozen water bottles, which was great to quench yor thirst along the way. We were disappointed not to be able to meet Linda in person as we had heard so many interesting things about her and were interested in learning about relocation to CR. But she had a lovely young lady, Andrea, as a guide for us. She was super patient and accomodating. My husband is not really a rider and goes on these excursions to humor me:) We have a 10 year old who loves to ride as well. My husbands horse was a perfect match to his personality and as horses go, for him, he was very complimentary of Princessa. My horse was a spirited lad that likes to run. I would recommend that for anyone who likes spunky horses, request Rocky. Although he did not fit my riding personality, it was a lovely day to a 600' waterfall, San Luis (AKA: Angel Falls). The ride is mostly on a rocky dirt road and for the most part you are in the sun. Not an issue for us coming from frozen Maryland:) The vistas were lovely and at one point you can see to the ocean. We were also able to see El Diamante Waterfall in the distance, which is one of the largest waterfalls in C. America.I would suggest bringing sunscreen and a hat. This is not a nose to tail ride and there are many opportunities to trot and gallop. I would not recommend this ride for children younger than 8-9 years old and only if they have had some riding experience. My son loved his horse. At the waterfall, you tie up the horses and walk only a short way through some forest. It is a somewhat muddy cut trail, but not anything strenuous. At the top, you walk into the rocky stream area at the foot of the waterfall. It was peaceful sitting there looking up and listening to the falling water. We felt like we had ample time there relaxing as our son explored the stream bed. We were there in mid January, which is the beginning of dry season. Remarkably, this waterfall dries up until the rains usher in green season again. After returning to the ranch, you are served delicious fresh homemade pizza and cold drinks, which was served in Linda's open air kitchen with mountain vistas and cool breezes. Great hospitality! Thank you for a great and memorable day at Rancho Tranquilo!
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
February 3, 2012
Hi Faith Family! Thanks for the nice review. I am really sorry I wasn't able to meet you when you came, my cousin was here visiting that week and I had to take her up to the airport. Next time you come we'll definitely get together.
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