Playa Samara Tours
Safari & Barigona Beach on horseback
4.5
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Safari & Barigona Beach on horseback

By Horse Jungle
Recommended by 94% of travelers
94% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
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About
Barigona beach is a deserted beach. You will love to gallop on the white sand and its crystal clear water. We also cross the rivers, the jungle and the forest of Guanacaste to observe the Wildlife of Costa Rica. We will stop to talk about the fauna and flora as well as to make photo breaks and a small snack. A wonderful beach, white sand, animals through a wild forest where we will feel like alone in the world, lulled by the rhythm of the horses
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 16-99, max of 15 per group
Duration: 3h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: English, French, Spanish
More


  • snack
  • Helmet (not required)
What's not included
  • Bottled water


Start:
  • Horsejungle, Provincia de Guanacaste, Sámara, Playa, 50205, Costa Rica
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Service animals allowed
    • Near public transportation
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 159948P3

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • Not recommended for travelers with back problems
    • Most travelers can participate
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

    • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 159948P3

    From
    $69.00
    $62.10
    per adult
    Select date and travelers

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    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • Horse Jungle
      523
      Playa Samara, Costa Rica
      Joined in August 2013
    • Q7265UVryanl
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      We had a great time.
      We booked this tour the morning of and so glad we did. this was a great trip and our guide was so knowlegeable and great at multi tasking. As he was guiding our group of 7 he was also holding the on to two younger kids horses and making sure they were safe and secure all while looking to spot wildlife and plants to tell us about. By the end we all wished that we would have booked a longer ride.
      Written September 3, 2024
    • 731arthurf
      0 contributions
      4.0 of 5 bubbles
      Nice safari ride crossing waters and visiting the beach. 2.5hrs ride.
      Trip with a family of five of which two the youngest of eleven and the mother are experienced. Other three not. Guide listened well, although some of us could have done more experienced things he took it easy. Good attention for and interest in environment. Two times crossing water, some steep climbs but nothing extreme. Horses in good shape, good attention for their characters. Family felt relaxed. First impression of stables raised some questions about animal welfare but we came away very positive.
      Written August 13, 2024
    • edrM7669PF
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Exceptional
      Melissa was so accommodating and the horses were wonderful. Galloping on the beach was life-changing. We love her so much we go 2-3 times a week and highly recommend her.
      Written July 21, 2024
    • jenniferbU8190WF
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great food and company!
      This was so much fun! My partner and I did this together. Jorge is a wonderful cook and teacher. Not only was the food amazing, but Jorge is lovely company. He allowed us to customize our menu. We chose ceviche, patacones, and some sort of juice with ginger. Literally the best ceviche I’ve had!
      Written July 20, 2024
    • jenniferbU8190WF
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Amazing!
      I love this tour! Beautiful scenery, knowledgable guides, safe, well cared for horses! This tour was 3 hours and began through the jungle. We arrived at the beach which was stunning. Some of us were able to gallop on the beach while others chose to walk.
      Written July 20, 2024
    • jenster317
      0 contributions
      3.0 of 5 bubbles
      Likely will never try horseback riding again after this
      Our group was a bunch of beginners and I was put on the horse named Halumi, he is not a beginner horse. A motorcycle pulled up and was talking to the horse trainer as I was mounting and then he revved his engine to spook the horse which made it rear up on me which was terrifying to which the man started laughing at me so it was a terrible start. I regained my confidence and we started out after getting no training other than left right slow down and stop. My horse apparently loves water, when we got to the water stop he started kicking water up which totally fine but the guide didn’t explain how to get him to stop and that if we didn’t stop him I’m time that he would have rolled me into the water, so again another high stress situation overcome. Then a branch snapped to which he rested up on me again and freaked out and then lost his footing to which I completely was over the whole situation. We switched horses but by that point I was shaking scared and would have rather just walked. Got on a different horse and that one tippy was much better but if he got between Halumi and his buddy then Halumi got aggressive which was very uncomfortable. The beach portion was all of about 15 minutes, the horses getting pushed together for the picture was uncomfortable for them and us. Then while our guide was making a phone call two of the horses kept going and we were told to wait, tried to get tippy to stop and he wouldn’t so perhaps they could use some more training. Overall what was supposed to be a 2 1/2 journey turned into over 4 hours and we got picked up after leaving the beach since we didn’t want to ride anymore. The horses could use more training or perhaps use ones that don’t get easily spooked and more guidance before taking off especially for the horses that do get spooked, and for the water crossing part of the trip because not knowing what to do in the moment it could have been a much worse outcome should the horse have rolled over on top of me. The best parts were seeing some monkeys, stopping for coconut water in real coconuts that were nice and cold and getting a ride back to our vehicle, those saddles felt like you were sitting on straight metal so prepare to not be comfortable sitting for the next few days.
      Written May 28, 2024
    • M3802AGlaurar
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Beautiful beach horseback ride
      I went on a horseback ride this morning and loved to see the peaceful and remote area around Samara. We encountered some beautiful animals along the way and the guide was very knowledgeable. Highlight was the beautiful white sand beach. The horses are in great condition and the experience felt very safe. Highly recommend to join this tour with all experience levels. Will definitely return on my next trip
      Written May 23, 2024
    • Tour249824
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Amazing family experience!
      We had an amazing time on our hour ride. We took our three kids, ages 3-10, and saw all sorts of wildlife and natural scenery. Melissa was incredibly knowledgable and made us first-timers feel very comfortable. We were able to book our tour less than 12 hours in advance, which was wonderful.
      Written May 21, 2024
    • Sylvain H
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Beautiful 2,5 hours ride
      Very satisfied with our 2.5-hour horseback ride with a group of eight. Everything was ready when we arrived. They quickly determined the best horse for each person based on their experience and fear level. The guide took great care of the more nervous riders. We crossed two small rivers and rode along the beach, enjoying beautiful scenery. A memorable experience.
      Written December 28, 2023
    • MShahinCO
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      If you are new to horses, don’t worry
      Definitely worth leaving your oceanfront resort for! I paid a little extra to get picked up from my hotel. I had ridden a horse only 2 times before and both times were 20 years ago, so I was totally new to this. They were great about selecting an accommodating horse and getting my helmet situated. I don’t have a particular affinity for riding horses, but I enjoyed this as a way to see things I wouldn’t have otherwise. We did get to a secluded beach where you could go faster if you wanted. Highly recommend!
      Written November 15, 2023
    • Trine K
      0 contributions
      4.0 of 5 bubbles
      Nice horseride
      Great horses and nice staff. The tour was very nice. Though a difficult road to get there and not a lot of signs on the Road to help.
      Written July 12, 2023
    • marZ4357ZF
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Best horseback in Samara
      Nicest staff and great tour near river, jungle and beach. We met howler monkeys, exotic birds, horses and cows. Also had the nicest fresh coconut water from the tree.
      Written April 25, 2023
    • I4755ZBrebeccae
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Unforgettable experience with my family
      Wow what an incredible experience! Was the highlight of our trip to Costa Rica. Jungle Horse takes such good care of their animals and you can tell they are well loved. Our guide pointed out various plant and animal species during our ride. We rode to a beautiful beach and had an opportunity to gallop back and forth which was my favourite part! Would recommend to this tour to anyone who loves horses and enjoys nature. Please don’t support the horse tours on the tourist beaches that make them stand out in the sun all day, support Horse Jungle instead!
      Written April 25, 2023
    • G8092CVsaraht
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      An unforgettable experience
      My daughter Emily (9) and I went on a one hour ride through the jungle with our guide Soren. It was so peaceful. We crossed the river and saw so much wildlife. Soren was amazing, so patient and relaxed with us. He pointed out the howler monkeys and a new born foal which my daughter loved. The horses were very relaxed and they enjoyed drinking from the river. You can tell the company treat the horses exceptionally well. Emily enjoyed giving her horse a shower with the hose after the ride. I chose this tour as I felt the other companies tended to offer 2.5 hour tours which would have been too much for my daughter who is a beginner. The premises are a couple of miles out of town down dirt track roads but easy to find. An unforgettable experience.
      Written April 3, 2023
    • wendysH3483EJ
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Amazing
      I visited Horse Jungle today , and what an amazing experience… Rebecca was my guide for the whole day ride, 7hrs we were out … From the beginning to the end I can’t rate Rebecca highly enough, she pointed out so many interesting facts , kept checking I was ok ( I haven’t ridden for 20 years ) .. My horse Evron was the perfect gentleman, sure footed , kind and safe , but boy could he pick up the pace when we galloped on the glorious beaches , Magew , Rebecca’s mount what a character .. We had a lovely lunch supplied , plus fresh coconut , the horses loved the coconut, plus mangoes a very well deserved treat …River crossings , tracks to the forest , dropping down to glorious beaches , Such a variety and just stunning .. Todays memories I will never forget .. So a huge thank you once again to the fabulous Rebecca, and our wonderful horses
      Written April 1, 2023
    See all 523 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

    Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

    Popular mentions

    4.5
    4.5 of 5 bubbles68 reviews
    Excellent
    59
    Very good
    5
    Average
    0
    Poor
    1
    Terrible
    3

    These reviews have been automatically translated from their original language.
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    Lidija Pejic
    4 contributions
    1.0 of 5 bubbles
    Me and my friend were so excited to ride with these horses but in the end we were incredibly disappointed and this is why we want to share our experience with you. The nature was very beautiful and we even had the opportunity to have a coconut. The way the horses were treated during the tour made us very sad. The tourguide was very rough to the horses because he grabbed them by the ropes and kicked them either with his feet or a stick. The horses seemed very hungry/thirsty because they always wanted to drink some water but they weren't allowed. I really tried to trust my horse but it continiously pulled away my rope and without the rope I couldn't hold on to anything and the horse just kept going because the tourguide wasn't with us at the moment. Luckily the tourguide caught my horse but again, very roughly. When we came back from the tour it was dark outside and that made us question the tour we booked because we booked a tour at 3 pm for 2 hours but we came back at 6:30 pm and then we were told that they just put us to another group that did the longer tour. We booked the shorter one so that we wouldn't have to drive home in the dark as we are two young girls and we even had to show them proof on our phones. When it was time to pay the tourguide demanded the full price but we tried to explain that we booked another tour and that this wasn't our fault and that we didn't know that. After a long discussion the tourguide was 'so nice' and we only had to pay the normal price. We gave him the money but told him that we will get 2000 colones change back because we gave him too much. He could not return it even after a long discussion and in the end we just told him to keep it because we just wanted to leave this ranch and go home.
    Written May 24, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    The guide was very hard on the horses, grabbing them by the ropes and kicking or beating them with sticks. Sorry but the way you exaggerate things is really strong! The guide grabbed your reins to help you steer the horse. The guide didn't kick or poke! The guide used a flexible twig to extend his arm to move the horse forward. After repeatedly asking you to squeeze your legs to move him forward, you were afraid of hurting your horse. So inevitably beh... If you don't ask, the horse doesn't do anything..... Squeezing the legs is just the code we present to our horses to make them move forward, nothing else! I remind you that he weighs 400 kg, it's not you with your little muscles that's going to hurt him by squeezing your legs.....) In short, when customers don't want to do what you ask, a small, flexible stick can be useful to touch the horse so that he activates forward motion. That's all, for pity's sake, you're totally distorting reality with your ignorance. The horses seemed very hungry/thirsty because they always wanted to drink water, but they weren't allowed to. The horses have unlimited water in their park, they are offered water before the start, during the ride, and when they return from the ride. They can drink absolutely whenever they want, we cross several rivers from which they can drink as they wish. I'd be very surprised if they ran out of water. A horse drinks 60 litres of water a day for information purposes. I really tried to trust my horse but he continually pulled on my rope and without the rope, I couldn't hold on to anything. Uh.... Yes, that's what your saddle is for, because of course you never hold on to the reins, which are directly linked to the horse's mouth. If need be, you hold on to the saddle so as not to disturb the horse's movements. As far as the rides are concerned, to be perfectly honest, we display the time ON HORSE, but we forget the time it takes to get on the horse, prepare the helmets, adjust the stirrups, give directions, take a pee break, apply sun cream, etc..... so, well, to tell the truth, it doesn't really depend on us :) And in terms of price what you didn't understand is that you wanted to pay with the lucky rate of your application on your phone but as a company we are obliged by law to use the exchange rate of the banco nacional, so you can't invent your own exchange rate, or else pay in $ . And indeed we did finally give you your exchange rate, so we didn't have the money to give it back to you, sorry. Like you, it was getting dark, and after a whole day's work, we wanted to go home too. So because you didn't want pay 2000 C you didn't enjoy the ride and you point 1 star in TripAdvisor, thank you for we know what we sell and every client really appreciate the treatment and the amazing tour we offer
    Written July 2, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Carolyn W
    2 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Mar 2022
    Enjoyed the scenery and guide was very good about pointing out trees and birds and the Howler monkeys. Galloping on the beach is great. The horses were thin although there was a lot of hay out. The quality was poor. The guides horses that got grain were in much better shape. Also they switched our ride from Barragona Beach to Playa Beuna Vista which was still a great ride but half an hour shorter. No refund was given for the difference in ride prices. It was really fun to share our coconuts with the horses. Who knew horses love coconut meat!
    Written April 8, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    capucine d
    Amiens, France3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jun 2022
    What a wonderful horse ride for our small group of friends in complete confidence with Mélissa : our nice guide .A walk in the shade that ends on this white sand beach : What a beauty !!
    What about horses : they are very nice , very quiet , and perfectly adapted to our levels . In great security , Melissa explains so much things about trees , flowers ,animals . Mélissa made this moment unforgettable !!
    Back at the ranch , we enjoyed taking care of our horses .
    Thanks to them and to Melissa .
    Not to be missed in Playa Samara .
    Written July 8, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Julien D
    Boulogne-Billancourt, France1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had the pleasure to ride with my girlfriend and Melanie only. We had a great time.
    Melanie knew how to adapt to our levels (one experienced and one quite beginning) and told us a lot of things about the fauna and flora around us.
    It is obvious that the horses are well treated and enjoy being ridden on the beach. (Ask to ride Mandy, you'll see the reaction when arriving on the beach ;))
    Thanks a lot horsejungle
    Written January 24, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Susanna d
    Grand Cayman6 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Wonderful ride through jungle and rivers to beautiful empty beach. Jorge was a great guide, made us feel very safe and shared lots of information about trees and animals. Galloping in the beach was exhilarating and stopping for fresh coconut water on the ride back was a nice touch.
    Written July 11, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Zana M
    Aberystwyth, UK23 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Our guide Jorje was wonderful, his English good and gave a lot of information about the local trees and the area, found us iguana and monkey to look and the beach is beautiful and a coconut water drink on the way back. . The horses well cared for. Only let down was that I’d advise you to confirm exactly what trek your doing and the exact cost to avoid confusion. We asked for a sunset one and told yes. Left at 2.30 and back by 5pm so no sunset and then charged for the 3 hour trek plus tax. Had then to go find an ATM as cash only. Also I said I was intermediate l, which I am, but had to walk the whole way.
    Written March 12, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    blanc m
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jul 2023 • Family
    We were with family in Samara, and without regret we were recommended Horse Jungle. What a wonderful way to discover the surroundings of Samara. We were lucky to be accompanied by a local guide who knew a lot about plants and animals. We saw lots of things and the horses look really good in their bodies and heads
    Google
    Written September 27, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    GwenHayes
    Manchester, UK11 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Dec 2023 • Family
    Wonderful experience! Honest horses who looked after us, meaning our two children (5 and 10) felt safe throughout. We enjoyed wildlife and beautiful scenery. Soren and Melissa were professional and extremely helpful. We would thoroughly recommend!
    Written December 31, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Connector746994
    14 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    WoW magnificent experience of pure happiness on horseback! The horses are very well cared for and in good shape. The hike is magical in the beautiful nature to see lots of animals and on the wonderful beach for a great gallop 🤩 the guide was kind and interesting. My 13-year-old daughter and I are truly delighted with this enriching activity. 🐒☀️🐴😎✌️
    Google
    Written March 31, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Alice M
    4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Mar 2022 • Couples
    I went to barrigona beach with Melissa and 2 other people. The tour was amazing. We were crossing rivers, and jungle to get there. Once on the beach we could galop if we wanted to.
    She explained so much about the animals and the local plants. We saw lot of birds, and monkey we even got the chance to see a crocodile in while crossing the river.
    The horses are well taken care of and they have food materials.
    The tour was the best I've ever done.
    Written March 17, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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    Safari & Barigona Beach on horseback provided by Horse Jungle

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