What to wear for horseback riding in Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is hot, and the temptation is to show up for a ride in shorts and flip-flops. Please don't. A few simple clothing choices make the difference between a comfortable four hours and a sore, sunburned one. Here is what our guides recommend for the sunset ride through the river, the jungle and onto the beach.

Long pants, even in the heat

This is the one rule our guides repeat the most. In shorts, the saddle and the stirrup leathers rub against the inside of your knees and calves, and after an hour it hurts. Jeans or other sturdy long pants protect your legs from the saddle and from branches on the jungle trail.

Lightweight hiking pants are a good compromise if you hate jeans in the heat. Avoid very thin leggings, which can bunch up and don't protect much. The afternoon ride starts at 3:00 PM, when the sun is already lower, and the jungle section is shaded and noticeably cooler.

Closed-toe shoes with a small heel

Your feet rest in the stirrups for the whole ride. Sandals and flip-flops can slip through the stirrup, which is unsafe, and they leave your toes exposed. The ideal shoe is closed-toe with a small heel, like a boot or a sturdy walking shoe. The heel stops your foot from sliding forward through the stirrup.

Sneakers are fine if that is all you packed. Just make sure the laces are tied and tucked in.

Expect a splash

The trail follows a river and the horses wade through shallow water. You will most likely stay dry, but splashes happen, especially if your horse decides to have a drink. Bring:

• A change of clothes for the drive home.
• A swimsuit under your clothes if you'd like a quick dip at the beach.
• A small zip bag for your phone.

Sun and bugs

Put on sunscreen before pickup. The beach section is open, with no shade and the low sun reflecting off the sand and water. A riding helmet is included and you'll wear it in the saddle, so sunglasses are more useful than a hat. Insect repellent is worth applying too: the river and jungle sections have mosquitoes, especially as dusk comes.

Phones and cameras

You will want photos of the sunset. Keep your phone in a zipped or buttoned pocket, or in a small cross-body bag worn tight against your body. Don't hold it while the horse is moving through the river. Your guide knows the best viewpoints and will stop so you can take pictures with both hands.

What to leave at the hotel

• Large bags or backpacks. They throw off your balance in the saddle.
• Dangling jewelry and loose scarves that can catch on branches.
• Anything you can't afford to get wet.

Quick checklist

• Long pants
• Closed-toe shoes with a small heel
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Swimsuit and a change of clothes
• Phone in a secure pocket

New to riding? Read our tips for first-time riders before your ride.