Horseback Riding in San Gerardo de Dota: From the Hotel to the Savegre River
Horseback riding at Savegre runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., with rides of 30, 60, or 90 minutes to choose from. The trails lead down to the bank of the Savegre river and to the valley's lookouts, on well-trained horses and always accompanied. It is the hotel's most flexible activity: you can decide on the day and it does not take up your whole schedule.
- Hours
- 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Durations
- 30 min · 1 hour · 1 hour 30 min
- Difficulty
- Easy — no experience required
- Route
- Valley trails and the Savegre riverbank
- Groups
- Small and large
- Prior experience
- Not needed
- Minimum age
- None · small children ride with an adult
- Weight limit
- None
- Price
- Per person · ask us
Tour details
Why on horseback
On foot you watch the ground; on horseback you look around. In a valley like this one, where the landscape is as much in the slopes and the sky as on the trail, that shift in perspective matters. You also cover more ground with less effort, which opens up routes that would take a whole morning on foot.
The route
The trails descend towards the bank of the Savegre river, through oak forest and open ground, with stops at the valley lookouts. The river is the axis of this whole place: it rises in the heights of Talamanca and runs through a watershed designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
The same route the founders took
Before the road existed, moving through this valley meant horseback or on foot. The Chacón brothers, who founded San Gerardo de Dota in the 1950s, crossed these slopes exactly that way. The ride is not a themed re-enactment, but it is the closest thing to how this place was first come to know.
No prior experience needed
The horses are trained and you are accompanied throughout. You do not need to have ridden before. The pace adjusts to the rider.
What to bring
Long trousers — essential — and closed shoes with a defined heel that will not slip through the stirrup. Layers, a waterproof jacket, and sun protection. Weather in the valley changes quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to know how to ride?
No. The horses are trained for beginners and you are always accompanied.
Is there a weight or age limit?
Neither. Small children ride with an adult, and no previous experience is required.
Which duration should I choose?
With limited time or no experience, 30 minutes is enough to reach the nearby lookouts. To ride down to the riverbank without rushing, 90 minutes.
Interested in this experience?
Check availability
