Horseback Riding in Puerto Rico

Puerto Ricans have always had a special love of horses. The tradition of breeding and showing gentle Paso Fino horses has been maintained for generations and important horse shows are held each year. Serious equestrians can contact the Equestrian Center at Palmas del Mar in Humacao for a schedule of its competitions.

On weekends you will often encounter large groups of families and friends riding together through the country towns. You may even find a horse grazing next to a downtown shopping center! For a day at the races, El Comandante, in Canóvanas, is the only choice. Thoroughbreds are raced every day except Tuesdays and Thursdays at the modern track.

You can go horseback riding along a beautiful beach, follow a trail through a tropical rain forest, or amble through a coffee plantation high in the mountains. Several ranches rent horses by the hour and offer guided tours and classes for beginners.

For the adventurous, the most spectacular horseback rides are in the area around Cerro de Punta near Jayuya, the highest mountain on the island. Trails cross countless creeks and flowery meadows, and you can admire the breathtaking view of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

Most hotels and inns can coordinate horseback riding outings to the most popular settings. For information on equestrian events you can contact the Puerto Rico Equestrian Federation (787) 269-7700.