Horseback riding in Boavista for beginners

The best part of this Boa Vista outing is simple: you sit on a horse and move slowly beside the sea, with wind, sand, and open sky around you. I like the peaceful beach setting and the chance for beginners to take the reins under a guide’s watch. I also like that the guides take photographs, giving you a useful souvenir without needing to manage a camera from the saddle.

The main thing to consider is the care and pace of the operation. Some riders have found the horses tired or poorly trained, and the guides may not stay close enough for every nervous beginner. The beach can also be busy, so this is not always the private desert escape the pictures may suggest.

At a glance

• Beginner-friendly pace: No previous riding experience is required, and the ride is designed mainly for walking.
• Two striking settings: You may ride along the beach or through Boa Vista’s white sand dunes and desert.
• Simple meeting point: Meet five minutes early at the bus station opposite Riu Palace.
• Photos included in practice: Guides have taken photographs for riders during the outing.
• No hotel transport: You must arrange your own way to the meeting point.
• Room for experienced riders: A small gallop may be possible if you ask for it.

Riding beside the sea on Boa Vista

This is a small-scale horseback outing rather than a long, demanding equestrian trip. The appeal comes from the setting and the unusual way you experience it. From a horse’s back, the shore feels different from a beach walk: you hear the animal’s breathing, feel each step through the saddle, and move at a quiet pace beside the water.

The beach ride is the more popular choice in the available descriptions. Fine sand and good weather make the outing pleasant, and a calm horse gives you time to look around rather than concentrate on speed. I would choose this setting if you want photographs, a gentle holiday activity, or a first taste of riding without committing to a full day in the saddle.

Do not expect an empty stretch of coast every time. One rider found the beach crowded with other tourists, which took away some of the feeling of being in a remote place. If solitude matters to you, ask about the earliest available departure. An early start may also be more comfortable under Boa Vista’s strong sun, though the exact departure times are not provided here.

What the desert and dunes add

The other setting is Boa Vista’s white sand desert, with rides passing through dunes or open sandy ground. This option gives you a stronger sense of the island’s dry interior. The pale sand, wind, and broad views make a striking backdrop for photographs, especially if you want something different from a standard beach excursion.

The information does not confirm that you can choose the beach or desert in advance, so ask when booking or at the meeting point. The actual route may depend on the day’s plan and local conditions. You should also avoid assuming that the desert option means a fast or adventurous ride. The experience is primarily a slow walk, even in the dunes.

I like this setting for riders who want the scenery to do most of the work. You are not signing up for technical riding, long-distance trekking, or a lesson in advanced horsemanship. You are there for the sensation of moving through open sand on horseback.

Your meeting point at Riu Palace

There is no hotel pickup or included transport. You meet at the bus station opposite Riu Palace, where the guide waits with the horses five minutes before the scheduled start. The activity returns to this same point at the end.

That arrangement keeps the price clear, but it matters if you are staying elsewhere on Boa Vista. You need to reach the bus station on your own, and you should allow extra time to find it. Do not arrive at the last second, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the resort area.

The setup is straightforward once you arrive. You fill out a security form before riding, then receive directions and a briefing. The guides speak English, French, and Portuguese, although one rider found the English limited. If you have never ridden before, tell the guide clearly. Ask them to explain how to stop, turn, and keep your seat before you leave the meeting point.

The first minutes in the saddle

The opening briefing is important because this is a real animal, not a sightseeing vehicle. You will be shown how to handle the horse and are given instructions as the ride begins. The guides remain involved and check safety, but the amount of close support can vary.

For a first ride, keep your hands calm and follow the guide’s directions. Do not pull hard on the reins or make sudden movements. If your horse behaves oddly, tell the guide at once rather than trying to solve the problem yourself.

The ride is deliberately slow. That suits complete beginners, couples, and anyone who wants a relaxed outing. It may disappoint you if you are hoping for a lively trail ride. One rider described the pace as very slow and ideal mainly for people who had never been on a horse.

For experienced riders, a small gallop may be available on request. Treat that as an option, not a promise. The principal experience is walking, and the guides decide what is suitable for the horses, route, and group.

How much supervision should you expect?

The guides accompany the group and give instructions so you can control the horse yourself. That balance is useful: you get the satisfaction of riding rather than simply sitting on an animal led by someone else.

Still, supervision has been uneven. One rider wanted the guide to accompany the group more closely, while another felt that a horse lifted its legs unexpectedly. A horse was also reported to have fallen on its own. These comments do not mean every ride is unsafe, but they are reasons to take the briefing seriously and speak up if you feel unsure.

The condition and training of the horses are the biggest practical concern. Some riders felt that certain horses looked tired or were not in good shape. One person was especially concerned that horses appeared to be swapped straight from one group to the next without enough time to drink.

I would ask a simple question before mounting: Have the horses had water and a rest? You can also look at the animal you are assigned. If it seems unwell, unsteady, or unsuitable for your size or confidence level, tell the guide before the ride starts. The $81 price is not a reason to ignore a basic safety concern.

Photos, scenery, and the value of the outing

The guides have taken photographs of couples during the ride, and this is one of the nicest practical touches. It lets you enjoy the outing without trying to hold a phone while managing a horse. Photo quality and the number of images are not specified, so consider this a helpful gesture rather than a formal photography service.

At $81 per person, the value depends on what you want from a short activity. You are paying for the horse ride, a guide, liability insurance, and the setting. You are not paying for hotel transport, a meal, or an extended riding lesson.

I think the price makes sense for a couple who wants a memorable beach activity and values the photographs. It is less convincing if you mainly want riding instruction, a long route, or a fast gallop. In that case, ask about the duration and route before paying, since those details are not supplied.

The overall rating is 4.3 from 17 ratings, which suggests a generally positive experience with some clear reservations. The strongest praise centers on the beautiful beach walk, friendly guides, useful briefings, and photos. The weakest points concern late starts, limited English from some guides, horse condition, and a lack of energy or explanation during the ride.

Who should book this horseback ride?

This outing suits you best if:

• You are a complete beginner and want a gentle introduction.
• You like beaches, sand, and quiet outdoor activities.
• You are visiting as a couple and want photographs together.
• You are comfortable with a slow pace.
• You can reach the Riu Palace meeting point yourself.
• You want a short experience rather than a full-day horse trek.

It may not suit you if you are an experienced rider looking for serious trail work. It may also frustrate you if you expect a guide to provide a detailed talk about Boa Vista, the dunes, or local wildlife. The supplied information promises directions and safety checks, not a cultural or naturalist tour.

Families and nervous riders should use their judgment. The activity accepts beginners, but the comments about horse behavior and uneven supervision mean you should be direct about your level of confidence. Ask for a calm, suitable horse and stay close to the guide.

Practical tips before you go

Wear clothes that let you move easily and shoes that will stay secure. The information does not give a dress code, but you should plan for sun, wind, and sand. Bring sun protection and water for yourself, even though the tour details do not state that drinks are provided.

Arrive at least five minutes early, as requested. Have the meeting point clear before you leave your accommodation, because transport is not included. If you are staying away from Riu Palace, check your route and allow enough time to find the bus station.

Be honest on the security form and with the guide. Tell them if you have never ridden, if you are nervous, or if you would prefer to remain at walking pace. Experienced riders should ask about a short gallop rather than assuming one is part of the standard route.

If the beach is your priority, ask whether the route will be coastal. If you prefer the dunes, ask if that option is available. The supplied details describe both settings but do not guarantee a choice.

You can reserve now and pay later, which helps if your plans are still changing. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. That gives you a little room to adjust around weather or other plans.

My verdict on the Boa Vista horse ride

I would book this for the scenery, gentle pace, and photographs, not for advanced riding or a polished equestrian operation. The beach and white dunes offer a memorable setting, and beginners get a chance to control the horse with guidance rather than simply watch a demonstration.

I would proceed carefully if horse welfare and close supervision are your top concerns. Ask about water, rest, the route, and the guide’s language before you commit. Choose an early departure if possible, especially if you want cooler conditions and fewer people on the beach.

At $81, it is a fair choice for a relaxed couple’s activity if the meeting point is convenient. It is not the best match for anyone seeking a long, fast, highly instructional ride. Know that distinction, and you will have a much clearer idea of what you are buying.

FAQ

Where does the horseback ride start?

It starts at the bus station opposite Riu Palace. The guide waits there with the horses five minutes before the scheduled time.

Where does the activity finish?

The ride finishes back at the same meeting point opposite Riu Palace.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and transportation are not included, so you must reach the meeting point yourself.

Do I need previous horseback riding experience?

No. Beginners can participate, and the guides provide directions and safety guidance during the ride.

Can experienced riders gallop?

Experienced riders may ask for a small gallop. The standard outing is mainly a slow walk, so a gallop should not be assumed.

Where does the ride take place?

The experience may take place on the beach or in Boa Vista’s white sand desert and dunes.

What languages are available?

The activity is offered in English, French, and Portuguese.

Is insurance included?

Yes. Liability insurance is included in the price.

Do I need to complete any paperwork?

Yes. You fill out a security form before the experience begins.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.