The north of the Costa Rica is the ranching region of Guanacaste, where the breeding of the Criollo horse is both a passion and a long-standing tradition of the area. This is a centre based equestrian adventure where both horseback riders and non-riders can enjoy the relaxed environment on the 50-acre family-owned ranch, an oasis of giant tropical trees and dry forest flora and fauna, just short distance from the beach. Wake to monkeys calling from the trees and horses in the pastures.

Additionally, from November to July, visiting horseback riders are offered the opportunity to join groups of locals and enjoy a traditional fiesta, including a colorful horse parade and a reception for riders, with music, food, dancing and prizes; this is a real highlight of the holiday and not to be missed. Accommodation is in delightfully presented, self-contained apartments, all ensuite, with a boutique feel to them. Many of the much-loved horses were bred on the ranch.

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from CT of Hittnau on 13/12/2021

Ride Summary
What was your overall impression of the holiday
Perfect, Paradise
Overall impression
Unicorn Trails sales staff

Riding tour leader

Additional Comments
Horses and Tack

Additional Comments
Meals

Accommodation

Miscellaneous

Was this trip accurately described to you beforehand?
YES
Please give more details to explain your response:
Was there anything you should have known and were not told? NO
Please give more details to explain your response:
What could we do to improve this ride?
Nothing, it's perfect
How would you rate the difficulty of this ride out of 10 where 1 is very easy and 10 is very advanced?
5
Please explain why you scored it as you did:
Esteban takes the rides depending on your level so from very easy to demanding everithing is possible.
Would you recommend Unicorn Trails to your friends?
YES
Please give more details to explain your response:
You say what you want, you get information what unicorntrails offer, you decide and pay and everything is done. No worrys no stress...
May we use you as a reference for other people wishing to go on this ride?
YES
Any other comments:
Unicorn comments: Thank you for your feedback. Glad you had a great time! :)

Day 1
Upon arrival at Liberia, and transport to the finca (45 min, by arrangement), located just minutes from the beaches of Guanacaste. Accommodation is provided in comfortable air-conditioned casa or casitas. In the late afternoon, guests will receive a ranch orientation and enjoy a Criollo horse demonstration, followed by a short introductory ride. These beautiful Spanish Criollo horses are renowned for their noble temperament and comfortable ride. Dinner will be served at the ranch or a favourite restaurant. Itinerary depends on arrival times.

Day 2
After breakfast, riders will have a private lesson with a trainer based at the ranch, focusing on Natural Horsemanship methods to build confidence and rapport with their horses in the ring. Following lunch, in the late afternoon, riders will embark on an excursion to the colourful town of Cartagena, riding the Old Spanish Trail. This historic trail follows the path of ox carts to the village, where riders can immerse themselves in the history and culture of this Guanacaste town. The horses are loaded into a truck, and then dinner is served at one of the hosts favourite canitnas.

Day 3
After breakfast, embark on one of the popular seasonal rides, exploring a large cattle ranch with spectacular wetlands, where you can observe numerous bird species and even spot alligators. For the adventurous, there is the option of a thrilling zip-line tour or the Tico Trails Ride, offering a colourful pueblo tour through typical villages. Then, saddle up for a ride through the beautiful ranch country, concluding with a visit to one of the most popular cantina stops at Chilito's in the village of El Llano, where you can sample their famous fried chicken before enjoying a sunset ride back.

Day 4
Today, riders will have an early breakfast before being picked up for a private tour to the Tenerio Volcano and the spectacular Rio Celeste waterfall, offering the best opportunity to spot sloths. Choose from a variety of hikes through the rainforest and visit the sloths before a lunch at a local restaurant. Dinner at the ranch.

Day 5 
After breakfast, visit Monkey Park Rescue Centre to see the local wildlife, or take a lesson from our trainer to improve your Centered Riding. After lunch, when the temperature is cooler, riders will journey to the cattle town of Tempate. Here, beautiful views of large working haciendas and the historic village, along with a refreshing stop for dinner.

Day 6
After breakfast, riders will be picked up for a half-day trip to Palo Verde National Park for a river tour, looking for monkeys, crocodiles, water birds and other wildlife from the covered motor launch. Experienced guides will explain the wonders of the tropical river ecosystem. Before dinner, the group can observe the trainer working with young horses using Natural Horsemanship methods, or spend the afternoon at the beach for a sunset dinner (meal on the beach not included).

Day 7
After breakfast, load the horses onto the truck and leave for the beach. When reaching the beach, saddle up and ride along the pristine beaches of Puerto Viejo, Conchal and Brasilito. There is time to play in the water before a picnic lunch or dinner at the beach. (Times depend on low tide)

Day 8
After breakfast say fond farewells before being transferred to the airport, or next destination.

During Fiesta Season (November 20-May 1): In the evening riders have the option to go to one of the colourful local fiestas to see the famous bull riding and cowboys showing off their lasso skills, and sample the local food and drinks. Participate or watch the Tope horse parades and fiestas available most Sundays during the fiesta season. Minimum 2 riders. Maximum weight 215lbs.
Days may vary depending on arrival times, fiestas and weather. Sequence of days may change depending on arrival day/time and beach ride times depend on low tides. Day 1 itinerary depends on arrival times, if late arrival the itinerary will be adjusted to include the activities.
Riders can add days with an additional all day ride or overnight at the beach, optional trips to Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud forest, Granada Nicaragua, National Parks, or Natural Horsemanship Training.

Non-riders and other activities:
Full day tour to Granada, Nicaragua, Arenal Volcano and hotsprings, and 1/2 - 2 day Yoga/Spa Experience, as well as add on days. Immerse yourself in the beautiful nature and wildlife of Costa Rica by hiking, enjoying island cruises, bird watching and rain forest tours to name but just a few activities. More activities which can be booked on site include: yoga, spa, National Park tours, Turtles Tour, Canopy Tours, rafting, Zip-Line Tour, kayaking, sport fishing, sailing, crocodile and mangrove swamp tours.

 

 

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

Horses & Riding

All the horses are loved and well trained. Most are 'gaited' offering an exceptionally smooth ride, have a noble character and are very willing and forward going.They range between 14hh and 16hh. The riding style is relaxed with neck-reining and light contact at all times. The riding pace is varied; walk, trot, and canter based on riders' experience and desires. On this ride you will cover country roads, back trails, beaches and coastal mountains.

Your guides are bilingual, highly trained professionals, and naturalists. Additional lessons and training are available by arrangement.


Rider requirements

Riders must have a secure seat at walk trot and canter and be comfortable riding over varied terrain
You can expect to ride for 2-5 hrs a day
There is a mounting block available at the ranch and help can be given out on trail
No walking beside horses is required
Some experience over steep/rough terrain is needed
An adventurous nature is recommended to enjoy the exciting riding and spectacular sights
Weight limit: 200lb for beginner riders, 215lb by arrangement for experienced riders

Weight Limit

The weight limit for this ride is 200 lb/91 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

Accommodation on the ranch is in a private house or 'casita', or beach hotel for extended beach rides. These rooms have queen, double and single beds with high quality linen, a private verandah, storage space, garden porch and outside bar with wifi. They all enjoy ranch and forest views. There is a splash pool for a refreshing dip after a ride and you will be able to relax in the peaceful surroundings with a host of natural sounds such as birds and monkeys.



Breakfasts are delicious and plentiful offering an array of fresh fruits and vegetables, free range eggs and various cold meats. Sample menu: Full ranch breakfast daily with many fresh tropical fruits and juices, home made breads, free range eggs as you wish, breakfast meats, oatmeal, special French toast, typical Costa Rican breakfast, yoghurt, or other special dishes.

Other meals offer a choice of salads, pastas, fresh fish, chicken or shrimp and rice, or others by arrangement. Some meals will be taken out at local restaurants – riders order from menu. Coffee, tea and juices available all day. Wine, spirits and sodas available for purchase.


Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Documents - Visa and Consulate Info

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip. NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures and requirements while travelling. Passport and Visa requirements can change regularly depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. There’s a departure tax due when leaving the country by air. Somes airlines include this in ticket prices; a few have still not done so. Check with your airline or travel company whether you need to pay this separately. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/costa-rica In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/CostaRica.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/costa-rica

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions

Climate Summary

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. May and June are also fairly nice along the West Coast. August through mid-November is known as the “Green Season”. Temperatures vary little from dry season to rainy season; the changing factor is the amount of rain. The elevated Central Valley has an average daytime temperature of about 72F (22C) and nights are cool, around 60 (15C). It is usually much warmer in the rainforest area with 100% humidity.

Climate Chart

Health

At Unicorn Trails, the health and safety of our customers is of paramount importance. COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

Health authorities have classified Costa Rica as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. Dengue fever, malaria and yellow fever are present throughout the country, although the coastal and southern states with lower altitudes are the most affected, especially during or shortly after the rainy season between April and November. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in Costa Rica and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.


Health (ride specific)

Please take along sun cream and anti-allergy medicine for possible insect bites.

Riders should not have health concerns that limit their riding and must be aware that this a tropical country with higher temperatures than they may be accustomed to.

Bring personal medications, other needs available at pharmacies near by.

Electricity

In Costa Rica the supply voltage is 120V. If the appliance or its power supply are not dual voltage rated, the single voltage appliance will have to be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly (unless the appliance operates at 120V).
WiFi and mobile reception is very poor in Costa Rica, It's also advisable to buy a local sim card AT THE AIRPORT BEFORE COMING THROUGH SECURITY/PASSPORT CONTROL as it's very difficult to buy one after.

Mobile, WiFi and charging

Wifi is available in the main house or garden porch. A computer is also available for email or Skype for international calls or video calls. Some phones work in the country, check with carriers. Don’t forget you camera and battery charger or extra batteries.

Packing List

- Riding Helmet - we strongly recommend that you wear a properly fitted riding helmet of the current standard which is PAS015 or BSEN1384 (One can be provided, but we recommend you bring your own)
- Gloves
- Jodhpurs - jodhpurs, breeches or other comfortable trousers (jeans may rub and can also be quite hot)
- Chaps
- Riding Boots - it is important to have correct shoes or boots for horse riding. Jodhpur or ankle boots with a rubber sole are recommended but sturdy shoes with a definite heel are acceptable (such as walking boots)
- Comfortable light weight riding clothes
- Casual wear
- Closed shoes
- Long trousers
- Light rain/wind proof gear is needed in the rainy season
- Hat
- Towel
- Swimwear
- Sunscreen
- Personal Items - toiletries, any medicines you require and please be sure to take insect repellent
- Refillable Water Bottle - it's very important to drink a lot of water when it's hot, especially when doing physical activities
- Camera, spare Batteries/Chargers - an absolute must! It is also a good idea to take a camera case you can strap around your waist or onto a belt for whilst you are riding
- Binoculars are a good idea

Provided by hosts:
Some sizes of riding helmets are available (not compulsory for over 17)
Guide books are available.

Programmes

8d / 7n programme with 5 riding days. Available from November to September with flexible start dates.

Departure Dates

2025: On request all year round (except October)

Pricing
No single supplement is charged if the rider is willing to share with someone of the same sex, and a sharer can be found.


No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description £
20258d/7n5double pp1,975
20258d/7n5non-rider1,579
20258d/7n5single supplement205
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description
20258d/7n5double pp2,375
20258d/7n5non-rider1,899
20258d/7n5single supplement245
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description US $
20258d/7n5double pp2,545
20258d/7n5non-rider2,039
20258d/7n5single supplement249
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description SEK
20258d/7n5double pp27,775
20258d/7n5non-rider22,219
20258d/7n5single supplement2,765
Recommended Reading

Additional information on travel in Costa Rica can be obtained from the Costa Rican National Tourist Bureau in Miami, Florida. Telephone 800.327.7033, www.tourism-costarica.com. There are also several excellent guidebooks on Costa Rica available at bookstores. Costa Rica Birds - Raymond Leung Costa Rica - A Journey through nature - Adrian Hepworth Costa Rica Culture and Traditions - Jack Donnelly Costa Rica - History, Travel and Tourism - Samuel Ash


Wildlife

This area of Costa Rica is the dry tropical forest ecosystem and contains rich biodiversity of tropical plants, birds, butterflies, insects and mammals. The ranch is an oasis of large tropical trees and lush pastures with tropical birds and howler monkeys in the trees. The ranch is located just 15 minutes from the Pacific ocean and an hour and a half from the spectacular volcanic mountain range with its own set of interesting wild life and vegetation.
Costa Rica's climate and geography are great for supporting a wide variety of wildlife. Sometimes known as the "biological crossroads" of the world, Costa Rica's inhabitants are made up of more than 500,000 species of animal.
Ecotourism is one of Costa Rica’s primary economic resources, and the country's butterflies add a lot to that. They bring life to rainforests, not only with the diversity in colour, but with the magnificence of the flowers that they help pollinate.

Birds of Costa Rica
Although Costa Rica is a small country, it is in the birdrich neotropical region, and has a huge number of species for its area. 894 bird species have been recorded in the country (including Cocos Island), with seven endemics. 19 species are globally threatened. Costa Rica's national bird is the ubiquitous Clay-colored Robin.

Some common butterflies and moths in Costa Rica include:
Thoas Swallowtail
Marpesia berania
Dotocopa laure
Banded Peacock
Zebra longwing
Morpho butterfly
Green Page Moth

Other Information

Costa Rica is a tranquil haven of democracy – known as the ‘Switzerland of Central America’. It has no army, excellent hospitals, well-educated people and a great respect for human rights. This little country, roughly the size of Scotland, has an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. There is a great deal to explore in Costa Rica; from active volcanoes to palm-fringed beaches. Twelve percent of the land has been set aside as national reserves to protect the astonishing number of plants, birds, reptiles, insects and mammals.

Ticos, as the Costa Ricans are known, are a friendly, helpful and tolerant people. They favor moderation, and therefore have managed to avoid the political fanaticism of their neighbors.

Manuel Antonio National Park
With the establishment of Manuel Antonio National Park in 1972, the people of Costa Rica decided to preserve, for future generations, one of the most beautiful and bio-diverse areas in the world. Although it is the country's smallest national park, the stunning beauty and diversity of wildlife in its 683 hectares is unequaled. Manuel Antonio contains a charming combination of rain forest, beaches and coral reefs. The beaches are the most beautiful in the country, lined with lush forest, and the snorkeling is excellent. The forest is home for sloths, iguanas, the rare and adorable squirrel monkeys and millions of colorful little crabs. And the trail that winds around Punta Catedral offers some spectacular views.

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve
Santa Elena Reserve is one of the first community managed reserves in the country. With the help of Youth Challenge International, a Canadian Non-profit Organization, the Costa Rican government, and the Santa Elena Community, the Reserve officially opened in March 1992. The philosophy of the Reserve is unique in that long term sustainability is not only a concern of the Reserve, but of the community as a whole. Proceeds from entrance fees, guided tours and the souvenir shop are either reinvested in the management of the reserve or are channeled to a local high school to help upgrade technology, and fund courses in environmental education, biology, agriculture, languages and tourism. In using the Reserve as a natural classroom, students and teachers harness an unlimited educational resource that can be used for anything from studying tropical plant ecology to leading tours. Conservation efforts in the area are concentrating on establishing forest corridors radiating from the central conservation area down to lower altitudes as many of the forest fauna, such as the Resplendent Quetzal, American Pumas, Jaguars, Ocelots, and Red Brocket Deer require large territories in which to forage and breed.

Other Country Information

In 1948 Costa Rica was the first country in the modern world to abolish its army. In that tradition, efforts to establish the University for Peace began at the United Nations under the leadership of the President of Costa Rica, Rodrigo Carazo.



Costa Rica is six hours behind GMT and they use the metric weights and measures system, so kilometres and kilograms instead of miles and pounds. There is approximately 1.6 kilometres in a mile and 2.2 pounds in a kilogram.


Travel Summary

Meeting-point (getting there):
Liberia Airport (LIR)
Transfer:
2025 Transfers not included: Private transfers to and from Liberia - $65 for 1-2 people; $75 for 3-4. From San Jose (SJO) $225, Tamarindo or area hotels $30. Payable on site. (subject to change)
Flight Guide:
2025: London to Liberia return from £1010 pp (Season Dependent)
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