Casagua Horses Tours
Casagua Horses Tours
5
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The Best Horseback Riding! Casagua Horses Tours at the Painted Pony Guest Ranch, a complete Equestrian Center providing high quality horseback riding tours lessons,and training, is just minutes from Tamarindo and Flamingo beaches on Route 155. Ride comfortable, well trained horses with professional bi-lingual guides. Favorite tours include the Old Spanish Trail,Forest to Sea, Natural History Tour, the popular Cantina Tour & local fiestas and Topes. Experience a real taste of Guanacaste's famous horse culture. GPS N10.35186 W85.72683
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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5.0
143 reviews
Excellent
137
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4
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1
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0
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1
sorayagirl61455
Macomb, IL28 contributions
Jan 2023
We had the pleasure of a return trip to Costa Rica in late January. As always, Casagua Horse Tours was a major part of our trip. We cannot imagine visiting the country without at least a few days at this beautiful place. This is Costa Rican hospitality at its very best from the lovely rooms and great food to the wonderful riding. The horses never disappoint, and it’s due to the careful, compassionate training they have received and the daily care they receive. Kay and Esteban’s attention to every little detail always ensures that our stay is comfortable and fun. Trip #9 is in the works!
Written March 6, 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.
Tripmama18
Ventura, CA164 contributions
Sep 2016
Being a regular rider ( I ride English and cowboy dressage ) I wanted a place to ride where I could learn and have a good time. And boy did I find it! I went on a 2 hour morning ride with Estaban and Rojo (my horse) through towns and forests and mud puddles :) Rojo was just amazing to ride! I loved his smooth gait that I didn't need to post! He was a lovely horse and I felt very comfortable on him and with my nice guide. We trotted through towns, cantered up hills, walked and talked about horses (my favorite subject) and it was a great, fun experience and I can't wait to return. Kay is also a great lady and I enjoyed talking to her about her love for horses while she drove me to my hotel. Truly, the best ride, people, and ranch I've ever experience in Costa Rica, and possibly anywhere.Thank you!
Written October 4, 2016
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.
We are always happy to provide private or semi private rides to more experienced riders and well as other rider levels. Matching horse and riders is very important to provide a good experience for all riders. We specialize in small group rides so we can tailor each ride to rider's wishes. Rojo is a great example of a smooth gaited criollo horses. We enjoyed having you ride with us and getting to know you.
Written October 23, 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rzanjo
Ada, OK18 contributions
Jul 2013
My 8 and 9 year-old wanted to go ride horses when on vacation in Tamarindo. I chose Casagua after seeing it's high rating on TripAdvisor. I was impressed. The grounds are beautiful. The horses are well trained and cared for. My daughter rides English and her horse was saddled that way. Kay and her husband led the way thru beautiful scenery, wildlife, and passed many small dwellings where the locals lived. They were great tour guides and the kids got to see, first hand, what children live like in poorer countries. We parked our horses and ate lunch at a small village cafe - Fried chicken and fried plantains, then rode back to the ranch. It was an enjoyable educational experience for all of us.
Written July 8, 2013
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.
It is always nice to hear from families that ride with us. We always try and match rider to horse to provide a more positive experience for all. You daughter's lessons have helped her become a poised, confident rider. These skills will last a lifetime.
Written August 23, 2013
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
amvco22
4 contributions
Apr 2022
I never write reviews but for some reason this experience left a bad taste in my mouth. I called the ranch yesterday to see if they had any availability for a tour today. They said they’d recommend 3pm since it won’t be too hot - I was apprehensive since it had rained everyday around that time and told them so. They said they could offer 11am as well but it is the hottest part of the day. I asked them if it was possible to schedule for 3pm but if the weather was looking bad in the morning for the afternoon, I would call to come at 11am. She said no problem - it would be 80 USD in cash. I ended the call with, “I’ll see you tomorrow at 3”. Today, I wake up, weather looks fine for the afternoon so I make no call. I head to an ATM and take out 55,000 colones since I have not had to use cash for anything else on my trip thus far. I drive 30 minutes from Tamarindo to the ranch and arrive a few minutes after 3pm. I get to the ranch and get puzzled looks from some workers - one tells me to call the person I talked to yesterday, and I do. She says “we waited for you at 11am, you were supposed to call”. I figure that there’s been some miscommunication on both our parts. For that I would take a star or two off because if there was a more official booking system, this would never have happened. But I’m standing outside my car looking around talking to this person while she tells me there’s nothing she can do. Never once does she come outside to speak to me face to face, take any sort of responsibility, or act sincere in any way. So now I’m left with $80 in a currency I will not need after tomorrow and have wasted an hour of gas. There are other places that offer a more professional service.
Written April 30, 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.
C Felton F
Grand Rapids, MI8 contributions
Aug 2012 • Friends
Our fantastic and gracious hosts, Kay and Estaban, provided us with the experiences and adventures of a lifetime! The horses were great, and considerate even to an old "tenderfoot" like me who hasn't ridden in 40 Years. The breakfasts at the ranch and the foods of the area were incredible, plus the accommodations at the ranch were first rate. I loved going in the off season because of the lack of tourists in the area, and little rain we received had no affect on our fun and enjoyment. Without a doubt, the Painted pony Guest ranch was the "coolest" place I've ever stayed! Thank You so much Kay and Estaban! CF
Written September 1, 2012
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.
it was great having you come back to Costa Rica after so many years and enjoy riding again. We did have a great time in Arenal and the volcano was quite a sight, no clouds. Please don't wait so long for your next visit. Hasta pronto!
Written September 2, 2012
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
DocWard
Bellingham, WA68 contributions
Apr 2018
Let me preface this by saying I am not a big horse person. My daughters ride a fair bit and really like it, so when on vacation they always want to find a place to ride, and I usually tag along somewhat reluctantly. The honest truth is that many horseback riding outfits are in it to maximize profits and don’t take great care of their animals, I end up feeling moderately guilty about the whole affair all too often.
Casagua is NOT that kind of place!! This is a family run operation, a bit away from the main tourist route. The horses are beautiful animals that are lovingly cared for. This is not just a touristy traipse down the beach: we got to ride up into the mountains through a couple little villages, with a guide who had been born and raised in the area. It’s so worth the half hour drive from Tamarindo.
Casagua is NOT that kind of place!! This is a family run operation, a bit away from the main tourist route. The horses are beautiful animals that are lovingly cared for. This is not just a touristy traipse down the beach: we got to ride up into the mountains through a couple little villages, with a guide who had been born and raised in the area. It’s so worth the half hour drive from Tamarindo.
Written April 13, 2018
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.
Thanks for your kind thoughts. We do care for our horses and proud that so many have been born and raised on the ranch. Finca Casagua is a paradise for horses as it is for humans. I appreciate it when parents make their children's dreams come true riding horses. My parents did the same, and I didn't own my own horses till I was almost 50, however I rode all my life. Come back soon.
Written April 14, 2018
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
mccormackgj
Noblesville, IN2 contributions
Apr 2018
My daughter and I did this ride today. It starts in a village and ends on the beach. You get to see less touristy areas and have plenty of room to ride once on the beach. This is an amazing ride and some very nice Andalusian bred horses that have a smooth trot. Loved it!
Written April 3, 2018
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.
So happy you and your daughter enjoyed your beach ride. It is a popular ride, but only offered at low tide and not on holidays when there are too many people on the beaches. Other rides are offered from the ranch daily. Please come back soon, Thanks for your kind comments.
Written April 10, 2018
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bemorecowgirl
Portland, OR4 contributions
Feb 2018 • Solo
I have my own horses at home and am leery of dude ranch situations. Nose to tail rides are fine for novices but are usually not worth time and expense when hay burners wait back home in the barn. But every positive review of this ranch and its owners are absolutely true. The horses are well bred, trained and generously cared for. They are healthy and in good shape, unlike so many seen on the beach and other tourist areas.
There are horses for all levels of riders and first timers. Check your bathroom scale honestly. The ranch is serious about weight limits since the horses aren’t huge and might be harmed if they exceed stated requirements.
I enjoyed three different rides over three days through area ranches, villages and along beaches. We enjoyed breaks at small local bars and cafes. The horses rested in shade while we refreshed with drinks and snacks. It was wonderful to meet neighbors, learn about the area and see so much luxurious tropical life from horseback. It was my first time ever seeing monkeys from horseback!
Kay and Estevan are not only wonderful horse people, they are also gracious hosts. I stayed in their charming casita and enjoyed the relaxing, gorgeous setting, good food, and even a night playing Caton on the outdoor patio.
They are a wealth of information about local culture, practical travel matters and have a wealth of tips on where to go and what to see. Visit them at the beginning of your trip, if possible. They will steer you well for the rest of your journey.
My time with Kay and Esteban was a pleasure and the highlight of my time in Costa Rica.
There are horses for all levels of riders and first timers. Check your bathroom scale honestly. The ranch is serious about weight limits since the horses aren’t huge and might be harmed if they exceed stated requirements.
I enjoyed three different rides over three days through area ranches, villages and along beaches. We enjoyed breaks at small local bars and cafes. The horses rested in shade while we refreshed with drinks and snacks. It was wonderful to meet neighbors, learn about the area and see so much luxurious tropical life from horseback. It was my first time ever seeing monkeys from horseback!
Kay and Estevan are not only wonderful horse people, they are also gracious hosts. I stayed in their charming casita and enjoyed the relaxing, gorgeous setting, good food, and even a night playing Caton on the outdoor patio.
They are a wealth of information about local culture, practical travel matters and have a wealth of tips on where to go and what to see. Visit them at the beginning of your trip, if possible. They will steer you well for the rest of your journey.
My time with Kay and Esteban was a pleasure and the highlight of my time in Costa Rica.
Written April 3, 2018
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.
WOW, we are so pleased that you enjoy your stay. I'm sure your comments will be of help for other riders whether they stay with us or just come out for day rides. We do appreciate your comments concerning our weight limits of 210 lbs. We are actually breeding our horses with more Andalusian blood to accommodate larger experienced riders. Again, thanks for your kind comments. Come back soon. Kay and Esteban
Written April 10, 2018
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Reiseruud
Stabekk51 contributions
Apr 2016 • Solo
Luckily I did not book a touristic tour "nose-tail" by some of the companies offering riding tours near Tamarindo. I wanted a good ride with some challengers and a nice tour.
At first, I send a mail to the ranch. But nobody answered my mail. Then I called them, and was warmly welcomed to a ride the next day.
So I turned up and the owner, Esteban, took me for a 2,5 hour ride in different terrain, from sloppy hills to nice little villages.
Esteban had found a strong horse for me. She was something to work with. My horse did not have any problems with loose dog barking, busses or cows. This was ok for her. But she needed me to ride her with contact. It took med over an hour to figure out how we could cooperate well. But we did. And the second part of the tour we was quite a couple. I am so lucky Esteban encouraging me to try to work with my horse, in stead of changing to another horse. I improved my riding skills and spent 2,5 hours in the hills, learning a lot of the nature and people living there.
Thank you Esteban for giving me such a good lesson.
And yes, during the tour you can trot and canter.
It was a lovely ride - strongly recommended to you who will develop riding skills and have a great tour on wonderful horses.
At first, I send a mail to the ranch. But nobody answered my mail. Then I called them, and was warmly welcomed to a ride the next day.
So I turned up and the owner, Esteban, took me for a 2,5 hour ride in different terrain, from sloppy hills to nice little villages.
Esteban had found a strong horse for me. She was something to work with. My horse did not have any problems with loose dog barking, busses or cows. This was ok for her. But she needed me to ride her with contact. It took med over an hour to figure out how we could cooperate well. But we did. And the second part of the tour we was quite a couple. I am so lucky Esteban encouraging me to try to work with my horse, in stead of changing to another horse. I improved my riding skills and spent 2,5 hours in the hills, learning a lot of the nature and people living there.
Thank you Esteban for giving me such a good lesson.
And yes, during the tour you can trot and canter.
It was a lovely ride - strongly recommended to you who will develop riding skills and have a great tour on wonderful horses.
Written April 26, 2016
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.
Thanks for your kind comments. We are happy you were able to have a private ride with Esteban, he is a great teacher and trainer. Our horses are well trained, but they are more of a challenge than the "nose to tail" variety tourists often ride. It is good to learn the basics of riding to prepare you for future rides, and you will know the right questions to ask to have a safe, enjoyable ride. Come back soon.
Written July 6, 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JMSanJose
San Jose, CA287 contributions
Mar 2016 • Couples
I like to do a horseback ride on every vacation, and sometimes even do vacations just to ride horses for a week. So, when we decided on Costa Rica, I started researching options to ride horses once while we were in Tamarindo. I found this Casagua Horse Tours here on Tripadvisor and emailed them to find out what was available. Kate replied very quickly to let me know what we could do, wich was the Tico Tour ~ a two hour ride through the country with a stop at a local cantina.
Finding the ranch was easy, she gave me the GPS coordinates and I plugged that into my phone. Once we arrived, Kate greeted us and then asked more about our riding ability. After discussing it for a few minutes and signing the release form, we were introduced to her husband that would be taking us on the ride.
The ride was lovely, and the horses were spirited and seemed happy. We rode along dirt roads, through the trees, along creek beds and saw birds, a monkey and just quiet serene backcountry. My horse wanted to GO, so I spent the better part of the ride making sure she didn't overtake my other half's horse and cause a ruckus. I think they were ready to go because the Easter holiday weekend just finished and they hadn't been out for a few days.
The stop at the local cantina was great - we tied the horses up and went inside a typical cantina that a tourist would never venture in, I imagine. We had a quick beer and Coke, chatted about horse training and then headed off back to the ranch.
If you want to ride horses while in Costa Rica, go here - it was great and the people are friendly and kind.
Finding the ranch was easy, she gave me the GPS coordinates and I plugged that into my phone. Once we arrived, Kate greeted us and then asked more about our riding ability. After discussing it for a few minutes and signing the release form, we were introduced to her husband that would be taking us on the ride.
The ride was lovely, and the horses were spirited and seemed happy. We rode along dirt roads, through the trees, along creek beds and saw birds, a monkey and just quiet serene backcountry. My horse wanted to GO, so I spent the better part of the ride making sure she didn't overtake my other half's horse and cause a ruckus. I think they were ready to go because the Easter holiday weekend just finished and they hadn't been out for a few days.
The stop at the local cantina was great - we tied the horses up and went inside a typical cantina that a tourist would never venture in, I imagine. We had a quick beer and Coke, chatted about horse training and then headed off back to the ranch.
If you want to ride horses while in Costa Rica, go here - it was great and the people are friendly and kind.
Written March 29, 2016
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.
We are happy you could find us. Our riders can book directly with us or with one of the agencies we work with world wide. We can individually design your riding vacation whether a day ride or an extended stay. Thank you for the detailed description of the tour, I'm sure it will be very helpful to other riders. Come back soon.
Written March 31, 2016
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mistymilo
Lincolnshire, UK51 contributions
Do you have to book a day in advance or more as we leave the riu palace nxt Monday and would like a tour or a lesson or maybe both ?
Exploration544439
1 contribution
Hello, my husband and I are staying near Playa Panama and our hosts say you are only about 1 1/2 hours from their home. We are interested in a forest and beach ride (if possible). We are open to a 2-5 hour trip, depending upon what you suggest, perhaps Thursday or Friday next week. We are both experienced horsemen - we have Dutch Warmbloods which we keep at home and show dressage. Is Thursday or Friday next week possible for a ride, and what type of ride would you suggest?
Thank you!
casaguahorses
Tamarindo, Costa Rica22 contributions
Hello,
Thank you for your inquiry. If you want a longer ride I suggest our Old Spanish Trail to the Beach which is about 3 1/2 hours ending at the beach. Because of the rains it is best to do in the morning. It is nice too because you can have lunch at a typical beach restaurant at the end of the ride, then we truck the horses back. We could start at 9am. The price for the private ride is $120 per person. We also can one of our popular rides from the ranch for experienced riders for $85 per person.
We recommend long pants and closed shoes for riding, and need each rider's height weight and experience to match you to your horses. Please note, we take cash only and have a 210lb weight limit.
Please let me know if you have questions or would like to book your ride. The beach ride only on Thrusday, and ranch ride either day.
Regards,
Kay
Casagua Horses Tours
Cindy M
Johannesburg, South Africa3 contributions
My brother and I are experienced riders (show jumpers) and would love to be able to canter along the route especially on the beach. Is it possible to do this in your set rides or so we need to book a separate ride for just us two with a guide? Thanks.
casaguahorses
Tamarindo, Costa Rica22 contributions
Hi, We specialize in small group or private tours and match rider abilities. I would suggest a semiprivate ride for the two of you. We do offer our Forest to Sea ride, but only offer it at low tides and not during holidays when the beaches are crowded. Let me know when you have your dates and I can let you know what we offer. Our rides from the ranch are popular too and have opportunities for canters and faster paces.
Hope this helps.
Kay
Lejeune1969
Ghent, Belgium1 contribution
Hi,
we are staying in Tamarindo but have no car. If we make a reservation for 2 persons can you pick us up en bring us back in Tamarindo?
casaguahorses
Tamarindo, Costa Rica22 contributions
Hi, From Tamarindo our clients usually take a taxi here, about $20, and we can arrange a ride back after the tour for $20.
Kay
Carina J
2 contributions
My brother is five is that a problem?
casaguahorses
Tamarindo, Costa Rica22 contributions
Dear Carina,
Thank you for the inquiry. We do not take little ones on trail rides, but we do offer children's lessons in the ring to introduce them to horses and give them a safe ride in the ring. At times, if they have had lessons and ride we do pony them on a short ride. It is never safe to ride double with a child unless it is your own horse. I hope this helps.
Kay
Steve C
1 contribution
HI! I like to ride several times a week in Canada. Can I arrange to ride with you when I am there Jan and Feb ???
Thanks!
Debbie
casaguahorses
Tamarindo, Costa Rica22 contributions
Hi,
Thank you for your inquiry. Certainly, we would love to have you ride with us while you are here. We offer a variety of day rides for all levels of riders. We just need to know your experience, height and weight to match you to your horse. You can book in advance by emailing or calling us. Our website for Casagua Horses or the Painted Pony GUest Ranch.
Kay
Freellie
Black Diamond7 contributions
I am 76 years old, I have ridden in my younger days & still love to ride but have only gone on trail rides the past few years.. I have a 8 year old Great Grandaughter who is as horse crazy like me.. She has ridden solo on trail rides as well. We will be staying @ Sunrise,Tamarindo, Guanacaste Costa Rica. I am wondering how far you are from where we will be staying, ways of traveling available, also rates for the different tours.. We are book Feb 24-2017 to Mar 6- 2017. I would appreciate any info you could give me.. Thanks very Much.. HUggs Ellie
casaguahorses
Tamarindo, Costa Rica22 contributions
Hi Ellie,
Thank you for your inquiry. We certainly invite you and your grand daughter to come to the ranch and ride with us. We have young seniors stay with us and also come for day rides if they stay elsewhere. We can match you both to horses for your level of experience and what kind of ride you would like. If you email me through our website, I will send you a list of rides and transfer information. We are located about 25 minutes before Tamarindo on the main road Route 155. You likely will pass us on your way from the airport. You can also see us on our Casagua Horses Tours website.
Hope to hear from you and ride with you the end of February.
Regards,
Kay
(also a young senior)
leenie2kailyn
beachwood, nj15 contributions
Hello: My wife and I are staying at the Jardin Del Eden in Tamarindo today through Saturday morning. We are interested in your forest to beach ride, at sunset. Would this be possible to book either tomorrow or Friday? We would need transportation between your ranch and our hotel. Can you also let us know your rates? We are advanced begginers-we ride 1-2 times a year. Thank you for your courtesy. Steve & Colleen Yost
Sue W
Warnham, UK39 contributions
Can you collect from Rui Palace Guanacaste ? I am an experienced rider and would love to ride out in the wonderful scenery/beaches for 2 or 3 hours, probably more than once during our stay from 25th January.
Many thanks
Sue Wainwright
England
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