Aruba Horseback Riding Tour to Hidden Lagoon

Planning a horseback ride in Aruba? This tour promises a scenic journey through the island’s countryside, ending at a secret lagoon teeming with wildlife. From detailed itineraries to honest reviews, we’ve gathered the essentials to help you decide if this adventure matches your travel style.

Two things we really like about this experience are the personalized small-group setting, which allows for more individual attention, and the stunning views of Aruba’s countryside and hidden lagoon, a true off-the-beaten-path highlight. One potential consideration is the limited ride length of about an hour, which might leave some looking for a longer adventure.

Still, for families, first-time riders, or wildlife enthusiasts, this tour offers a rewarding snapshot of Aruba’s natural side.

If you’re someone who appreciates a relaxed, scenic ride with a friendly guide and doesn’t mind a short but scenic outing, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially suitable for those traveling with children, beginners, or travelers seeking a taste of authentic Aruba away from crowded beaches.

Key Points

• Ideal for all riding levels including beginners and families
• Small-group tours ensure more personalized service and attention
• Scenic ride through Aruba’s countryside with wildlife sightings
• Round-trip hotel pickup adds convenience
• Limited ride duration of approximately 1 hour, perfect for a quick but memorable outing
• No galloping allowed, making it suitable for beginners or cautious riders

The Experience in Detail

Introduction to Rancho Notorious and the Itinerary

The adventure begins with hotel pickup from your Aruba accommodation, a thoughtful touch that removes the hassle of planning transportation. The tour operates from Rancho Notorious, a ranch that feels both rustic and welcoming. After meeting your guide, a safety briefing ensures everyone is ready — and confident — before mounting your chosen horse.

You’ll select from six departure times throughout the day: 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m., or 5 p.m., giving flexibility to fit your schedule. The entire tour lasts about an hour, which means you’ll spend roughly 40-45 minutes riding through the countryside, with plenty of time for photos and wildlife observation.

The Scenic Ride Through Aruba’s Countryside

Once mounted, your guide leads you through Aruba’s Cunucu, or countryside, where you won’t have to worry about traffic or busy streets — just open land, cacti, and the occasional curious donkey or iguana. The riding itself is designed to be accessible, with no galloping permitted, making it suitable for less experienced riders or those who prefer a gentle pace.

As you ride, you’ll notice the tranquility of the landscape. Several reviews mention the beautiful views of cacti, rocks, and the sea in the distance. One rider described it as a “wonderfully unique and peaceful horseback riding experience”, emphasizing how serene this trail is away from Aruba’s crowded beaches.

Wildlife and the Hidden Lagoon

The real treasure of this tour is reaching the secret lagoon, a place often overlooked by travelers. Your guide takes you off the beaten path to a location where donkeys, iguanas, and parakeets congregate. Many reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and the perfect photo opportunities at this scenic stop.

One traveler exclaimed, “The view of the trail was AMAZING, and we were able to get photos at the midpoint.” Wildlife sightings seem to be a common highlight, with reviews praising the friendly and well-trained horses and the informative, attentive guides who help you spot the animals.

The Horses and the Guides

The horses are described as gentle, well-trained, and happy, making them suitable for riders of all abilities. One review noted, “Our horses, Victoria and Jenifer, were well kept and provided an excellent ride.” Guides like Nelson and Nestor receive praise for their professionalism, friendliness, and helpfulness, often making the ride feel like a personalized adventure.

An authentic, personal touch is a recurring theme—many reviewers mention how guides share interesting facts about the landscape or help those less confident on horseback. This attention to detail enhances the overall experience, making it not just a ride but a bit of local storytelling.

End of the Tour and Drop-off

The tour concludes back at the ranch, with hotel drop-off about an hour after departure. The simplicity of the schedule and the small group size (max 5 travelers) help keep the experience intimate and manageable.

What the Reviews Say

The overall rating of 4.5 stars from 88 reviews reflects consistent satisfaction, especially regarding the knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and friendly horses. Many reviews emphasize how this activity feels safe, fun, and authentic, with comments like, “I had so much fun! I feel like a professional after this,” and “The horses are so happy and loved.”

However, some reviews point out hiccups, such as language barriers with guides, or concerns about care for the horses. A rare critique notes rough treatment, but most travelers seem pleased with the professionalism and gentle handling of the animals.

Pricing at $105 per person provides good value, considering the round-trip transportation, the guided service, and the scenic experience. It’s a short ride but packed with memorable sights and wildlife.

Practical Tips for Your Ride

• Book early, as this tour is popular and often booked 38 days in advance.
• Arrive a little early to confirm your pickup time, especially if you’re on a cruise schedule.
• Wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes suitable for riding.
• Helmets are included, but you might want to bring a hat or sunscreen for sun protection.
• The maximum weight limit is 200 lbs, so check if this applies to you.
• No drinks or food are included, so plan accordingly if you need hydration or snacks.
• Remember, no galloping — it’s about the scenery, not a race.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback ride suits beginners, families, and wildlife lovers looking for a calm, scenic excursion. It’s ideal if you want a quick, stress-free way to explore Aruba’s countryside and see some animals up close. Not suited for those seeking a long ride or high-adrenaline adventure, but perfect for those who want a relaxing, authentic experience in nature.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a wonderful balance of gentle riding, scenic vistas, and wildlife sightings, all wrapped in a friendly, small-group setting. It’s a great way to experience a different side of Aruba, away from the beaches, with knowledgeable guides who make the journey both informative and fun. The price reflects good value considering the transportation, safety gear, and personalized service.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, authentic, and family-friendly adventure that takes you through Aruba’s countryside and to a hidden lagoon teeming with life, this tour is an excellent choice. The stunning scenery, friendly horses, and expert guides make it a memorable part of any island itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed to be accessible for all levels, including those with no prior riding experience. The guide provides a safety briefing and helps match horses to riders’ comfort levels.

What is the duration of the ride?
The actual horseback ride lasts about 40-45 minutes, with the entire tour including pickup, briefing, ride, and drop-off taking approximately one hour.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, a helmet is included in the tour to ensure safety for all riders.

Can children participate?
Absolutely. The minimum age is 3 years old, and younger children can ride if a parent is comfortable riding with them on their lap.

What if I am late or miss my scheduled time?
The pickup window is between 20 to 45 minutes before departure, so arriving on time is important. The company states that missed tours due to late arrival or no-shows will not be refunded.

Is there a weight limit?
Yes, the maximum weight allowed per person is 200 pounds.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for riding are recommended. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are encouraged for sun protection.

Is this tour available if I am on a cruise?
Yes, but you must provide your ship’s name, docking, and re-boarding times at the time of booking. Be sure to arrive on time to avoid missing the tour.

This horseback riding tour to Hidden Lagoon offers a gentle exploration of Aruba’s rural beauty, wildlife, and quiet landscapes. It’s a fantastic way to see a different side of the island — one that’s peaceful, authentic, and picture-perfect.