Is previous horseback riding experience required?

No prior experience is needed, but basic comfort with horses helps; guides provide full assistance.

Can children participate?

Yes, the tour welcomes riders aged 4 and up with appropriate supervision.

Bring closed-toe shoes, a swimsuit, a change of clothes, and sun protection.

Are the waterfalls safe for swimming?

Yes, both falls have calm mineral pools suitable for swimming under supervision.

How difficult is the ride?

The trail is moderate with mostly forest paths and a short steep descent near the waterfalls.

Is transportation provided from Liberia or nearby towns?

Transportation is not included; visitors typically arrange their own transfers to Hacienda Guachipelin.

Exploring Rincón de la Vieja: Horseback Riding to Las Chorreras and La Victoria Waterfalls | Horse

Set in the heart of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, the Rincón de la Vieja region offers a thrilling blend of volcanic landscapes and lush tropical foliage, making it a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. One of the standout experiences here is the horseback riding tour from Hacienda Guachipelin to two breathtaking waterfalls: Las Chorreras and La Victoria. This two-hour journey invites travelers aged four and up to explore serene forest trails and crystal-clear mineral pools in an intimate, almost untouched setting.

The tour begins with a scenic 30-minute ride through shaded forest paths to Las Chorreras Waterfalls. Here, two side-by-side cascades pour into a mesmerizing sky-blue pool filled with mineral-rich water, ideal for a refreshing swim. The surrounding volcanic rock canyon with its shallow, narrow crevices creates a secluded oasis that feels worlds away from the daily grind.

Next, riders continue for about 20 minutes to the impressive La Victoria Waterfall, where waters plunge 115 feet into the Rio Negro (Black River). This site marks the start of popular tubing trips down the river, offering a chance to witness a unique ecosystem shaped by volcanic geology and tropical flora. The waterfall’s base features a crystal-clear swimming hole, perfect for cooling off after the descent to the river via a brief, steep trail.

Guided by seasoned ranch cowboys, this horseback adventure emphasizes trails shaded by vibrant forest and avoids busy ranch roads, ensuring a peaceful connection with nature. The experience strikes a perfect balance between gentle riding and opportunities to explore and relax in natural pools.

Located near Liberia, Guanacaste’s largest city, this tour offers convenient access for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural richness. Hacienda Guachipelin, the tour’s starting point, is renowned for its dedicated team and environmental stewardship, helping preserve the local wilderness and promote sustainable tourism. Visitors benefit from expert equestrian guidance, making this a safe and memorable outing for riders of many levels.

Ideal for nature lovers, families, and anyone wanting a calm yet invigorating excursion, this trail showcases the vibrant biodiversity and dramatic volcanic landscape that define Rincón de la Vieja National Park. The blend of horseback riding and waterfall swimming is a uniquely Costa Rican way to engage with the outdoors.

Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of riding through tropical forest or the lure of swimming beneath dramatic cascades, this horseback tour stands out as an authentic gateway to Guanacaste’s wild heart.

About Hacienda Guachipelin

Hacienda Guachipelin is an adventure and wellness destination located in Liberia, Provincia de Guanacaste, Costa Rica. The property operates a wide range of guided tours, private excursions, and spa services centered around Rincón de la Vieja National Park and nearby natural attractions.

Guests can choose canopy and canyoning adventures, horseback rides to waterfalls, multi-length hikes to Las Pailas, La Oropéndola, La Cangreja and Las Chorreras, river tubing, mountain biking, and bird watching. Spa and thermal offerings include Simbiosis Spa, Río Negro hot springs and mud baths, volcanic mud treatments, magnesium massages, facials, body exfoliation, and specialized masks and wraps.

Many experiences are available as private or group options, including private canyon canopy tours, private horseback rides, private hikes, and private river tubing adventures. Multi-activity passes such as one-day nature and adventure passes combine waterfall visits, hot springs, and lunch options for full-day itineraries. Hacienda Guachipelin lists duration-flexible experiences from short spa treatments (45 minutes) to longer outings like a 5.5-hour horseback riding half-day tour.

The business provides entrance and combo packages for popular sites—Oropéndola, Chorreras and Victoria waterfalls—and offers equipment rentals such as mountain bikes. All descriptions and offerings correspond to the tours, thermal experiences, and spa services available at the Hacienda. Information is presented to help travelers select hiking routes, canopy tours, horseback excursions, tubing trips, and restorative spa treatments in Liberia, Guanacaste. Booking options include private and group reservations, and the property lists entrance fees and combo lunches for select waterfall and hot spring visits via Hacienda channels.