The Basics
- Where: Finca La Yolanda, about 1.3 km west of La Fortuna’s Central Park
- Cost: $75 per person (what we paid) for the waterfall ride, about 3.5 hours
- Our tour time: 8:30 AM
- Includes: Horse, guide, and time at La Fortuna Waterfall
- Requirements: Minimum age 5, maximum rider weight 220 lbs, minimum 2 people per booking
- Book: horsebackridingarenal.com
The ride starts at Finca La Yolanda and winds through forest and farmland with views of Arenal Volcano along the way. You’ll cross a suspension bridge, then dismount for a short walk down to the waterfall itself, where you can swim before heading back.
Our Experience
My friend Kat and I LOVE horses. She used to ride a lot when she was younger, and while I didn’t, I take every chance I get to get on one. Originally, we had planned to hike the area around the volcano, but due to some health issues Kat was experiencing, plus realizing a hike plus Mistico Park would be a ton of walking, especially for the 5-year-old. So researched all the horseback riding options in the area. This one was actually recommended to us by another place that could not accommodate our needs. After a chat with them on WhatsApp, we knew this was the right tour. You can tell the care given to the business and the horses.
Originally when we booked that had planned for my daughter to ride with me, she is the min age they allow and she hadn’t really ridden a horse before besides ponies at the fair. But upon our arrival, they felt she actually would be fine to ride her own, tethered to the guide’s horse. She loved every second of it.
Grandma was far less ecstatic. She was so nervous. The guide was great at introducing the horses, clearly explaining everything and ensuring her comfort. She ended up having a great time!
The pace was relaxed enough for beginners but still felt like a real ride, not just a lead-around. The horses know their stuff. And the adorable border collie leading the way was a cute bonus.
We stopped for coconut water along the way; it was so refreshing and so fun to drink straight from the coconut, which was a nice touch.
The waterfall itself has a nice lookout to see the waterfall from the top; if you want to dip your toes in the cold water, you will need to descend the stairs…. So many stairs…and back up again. At the bottom, you can see the river and the bottom of the falls. The bottom of the falls area was closed to swimming. I think it’s open sometimes, but less safe in rainy season.
Heading back to the farm was the same path as on the way there. It passes through private farms, so you get such a great view of the area, and you will see some cows on the way. You can also hear all the birds in the trees; sometimes you will see some animals (besides the cows), but we didn’t.
Tips for Visiting
- Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a swimsuit under your clothes if you plan to swim at the falls.
- Also recommend pants; the saddle can rub your thighs. David wore shorts and said he was ok but I was glad to have light pants.
- Pack a rain jacket if you’re visiting in rainy season. There’s little cover on the trail.
- Book at least a couple of days ahead. Tours require a minimum of 2 people to run.
- Bring cash for tips. Guides here work hard and appreciate it.
Read more about our time in La Fortuna, or see the full story of our 9 days in Costa Rica.
