Follow trained horses through private rainforest trails to La Fortuna Waterfall, a 65-meter cascade carved by Arenal’s geology. This four-hour ride combines wildlife viewing, a moderate stair descent, and a swim-ready plunge pool.
Follow trained horses through private rainforest trails to La Fortuna Waterfall, a 65-meter cascade carved by Arenal’s geology. This four-hour ride combines wildlife viewing, a moderate stair descent, and a swim-ready plunge pool.
The first hoofbeats fall into the humid air as riders leave the farm and enter a corridor of green—banana palms brushing your shoulder, heliconia flashing, and the river’s rumble growing louder with every turn.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Varco Travel · La Fortuna, Alajuela
The first hoofbeats fall into the humid air as riders leave the farm and enter a corridor of green—banana palms brushing your shoulder, heliconia flashing, and the river’s rumble growing louder with every turn.
This guided horseback route threads private trails through secondary rainforest toward La Fortuna Waterfall, a roughly 65-meter cascade born of Arenal’s volcanic past. The falls cut into basalt and volcanic ash deposits; centuries of eruptions and erosion shaped the steep gorge you’ll descend to reach the plunge pool. Local guides often point out how soil from Arenal feeds the fertile lowlands, supporting cattle farms and smallholder agriculture around La Fortuna town.
Culturally the area is rural and pragmatic: riding is both transport and tourism, and many guides are from nearby communities with generations of horse experience. Expect to encounter toucans, iguanas, parakeets and, if you’re patient, a slow-moving sloth hanging from a canopy limb.
Practically, the outing runs about four hours door-to-door. Horses are trained and the ride is on private trails—no road miles—followed by a moderate descent on steps to the waterfall and a chance to swim in the natural pool. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes for the tack and the stair hike, bring a quick-dry swimsuit, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle. Note it’s not recommended for pregnant guests or people with serious back or heart conditions. Arrive with light layers for variable weather and expect muddy sections after rain. Move at the guides’ pace and leave wildlife undisturbed; the trail rewards patience with close-up jungle life and a powerful, refreshing finish at the base of the falls.
The full experience is about four hours, including transport, the mounted section to the trailhead, a moderate hike down to the waterfall, and time to swim and return.
Yes—there is a natural pool at the base suitable for a quick swim; follow guide instructions about currents and recommended depth areas.
Policies vary by operator but children often ride; ask at booking about minimum age, weight limits, and whether a two-person saddle is available.
Guides monitor conditions and may cancel for heavy rain; light rain makes trails slippery—bring a waterproof layer and expect muddy sections.
Varco Travel operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The first hoofbeats fall into the humid air as riders leave the farm and enter a corridor of green—banana palms brushing your shoulder, heliconia flashing, and the river’s rumble growing louder with every turn.
The first hoofbeats fall into the humid air as riders leave the farm and enter a corridor of green—banana palms brushing your shoulder, heliconia flashing, and the river’s rumble growing louder with every turn.
This guided horseback route threads private trails through secondary rainforest toward La Fortuna Waterfall, a roughly 65-meter cascade born of Arenal’s volcanic past. The falls cut into basalt and volcanic ash deposits; centuries of eruptions and erosion shaped the steep gorge you’ll descend to reach the plunge pool. Local guides often point out how soil from Arenal feeds the fertile lowlands, supporting cattle farms and smallholder agriculture around La Fortuna town.
Culturally the area is rural and pragmatic: riding is both transport and tourism, and many guides are from nearby communities with generations of horse experience. Expect to encounter toucans, iguanas, parakeets and, if you’re patient, a slow-moving sloth hanging from a canopy limb.
Practically, the outing runs about four hours door-to-door. Horses are trained and the ride is on private trails—no road miles—followed by a moderate descent on steps to the waterfall and a chance to swim in the natural pool. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes for the tack and the stair hike, bring a quick-dry swimsuit, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle. Note it’s not recommended for pregnant guests or people with serious back or heart conditions. Arrive with light layers for variable weather and expect muddy sections after rain. Move at the guides’ pace and leave wildlife undisturbed; the trail rewards patience with close-up jungle life and a powerful, refreshing finish at the base of the falls.