Never ridden a horse? 10 tips for your first ride

Most of the people who join our sunset ride have never been on a horse, or haven't since a pony ride as a kid. That is exactly who the ride is designed for. The horses are calm, they know the trail, and the pace is relaxed. Still, knowing a few basics helps you relax and enjoy the scenery instead of worrying. Here is what our guides teach first-timers.

Before you get on

1. Tell your guide you're a beginner

There's no shame in it. Guides match horses to riders, and knowing your level helps them pick the calmest one and keep an eye on you.

2. Approach from the side, never from behind

Horses can't see directly behind them, and a surprise from that angle can startle them. Walk up to the shoulder where the horse can see you, and speak calmly.

3. Get the stirrups right

When you're sitting in the saddle with your legs hanging, the bottom of the stirrup should be around your ankle bone. Stirrups that are too long make you feel unstable, and too short ones make your knees ache. Ask your guide to adjust them. It takes a minute.

In the saddle

4. Sit tall and relax your hips

Imagine a straight line from your ear through your shoulder and hip down to your heel. Let your lower back and hips move with the horse's walk instead of bracing against it. Stiff riders get sore. Loose riders don't.

5. Heels down, balls of your feet in the stirrups

Rest the widest part of your foot on the stirrup and let your heel sink slightly lower than your toes. This keeps you stable and stops your foot from slipping through. It's also why we recommend shoes with a small heel.

6. Soft hands on the reins

Hold the reins loosely. The horse needs some freedom to move its head, especially in the river and on uneven ground. To steer, move the rein gently in the direction you want to go. To slow down or stop, sit back and draw the reins gently toward your belly. Never yank.

On the trail

7. Let the horse pick its footing

In the river and on the jungle trail, the horse knows where to put its feet better than you do. Keep a light contact with the reins, look ahead, and trust it.

8. Lean with the hills

When the trail goes uphill, lean slightly forward. Going downhill, sit back a little and keep your heels down. Small adjustments make a big difference to your balance.

9. Keep your distance

Leave about one horse length between you and the horse in front. Some horses don't like being crowded, and the space gives yours room to stop.

10. Breathe and look up

Horses pick up on tension. If you notice yourself gripping, take a deep breath and drop your shoulders. Then look around: iguanas on the river rocks, parrots in the trees, and the Pacific opening up ahead. That's why you came.

Will I be sore the next day?

Maybe a little in your inner thighs, especially if you've never ridden. Long pants, correctly adjusted stirrups and a relaxed posture help a lot. A swim in the ocean the next morning helps too.

Is the private ride OK for beginners?

Yes. All levels are welcome on the private ride too. It is longer and wetter, with two river crossings and horses that swim across the lagoon, and you'll have a personal guide the whole time. The minimum age is 8.