Bijagual Waterfall Horseback Tour 2025: A Must-Do Experience?

So you’re looking at pictures of Costa Rica, right? And you see these epic shots of people on horseback, you know, trotting in front of some massive waterfall. It’s almost the classic Costa Rican adventure photo. Well, I wanted to find out if that experience was as good as it looks. I went on the Bijagual Waterfall and Horseback Riding tour to give you a really honest picture of what it’s like. Honestly, it’s not just about getting from point A to point B on a horse. The entire day is a story, a feeling. It’s about the sounds of the forest, the kindness of the guides, and of course, that really jaw-dropping moment when you first see the waterfall. This isn’t just a list of facts; this is pretty much what it felt like to be there.

First Impressions and Getting Started

Okay, so the day usually starts with a pickup from your hotel, which is super convenient. The ride itself is actually part of the fun. You leave the beach town vibes of a place like Jaco and head up into the hills. The scenery changes so fast, you know? One minute you’re seeing surf shops, and the next, you’re looking at these really green, rolling pastures and little villages. It’s a very cool way to see a different side of the country. Arriving at the ranch, or ‘finca’, has a genuinely welcoming feel. It’s not some sterile, corporate setup. It’s more or less a family-run operation, and you can sort of feel that right away. You’re greeted by the guides, who, in my case, were just incredibly friendly people, and of course, by the horses.

Now, let’s talk about meeting your steed for the day. The guides are pretty great at matching riders to horses. They’ll ask about your experience level – whether you’re basically a pro or have literally never sat on a horse before. Don’t be shy here; to be honest, it’s much better for everyone if you are truthful about your abilities. The horses themselves seemed really well cared for and calm. They know these trails like the back of their own hooves. After a quick, clear briefing on how to handle your horse – basic commands, safety tips, and stuff like that – you’re ready to get going. There’s a bit of an excited, slightly nervous energy in the air as everyone gets settled in their saddles. It’s a really unique start to an adventure.

The Ride Through the Rainforest

The first part of the journey on horseback is, in a way, a slow reveal of the incredible nature you’re about to be surrounded by. You start off in open fields, which gives you a chance to get comfortable with your horse. The views from here are already pretty stunning, looking out over the landscape and towards the ocean in the distance. But then, you enter the rainforest proper. It’s like stepping into another world. The air gets a little cooler, it smells earthy and damp, and the light filters down through a seriously thick canopy of green leaves. The path itself can be a bit challenging in spots, with some muddy patches and some up-and-down sections, but the horses handle it so easily. It’s kind of amazing to feel how sure-footed they are.

What I mean is, this part of the trip is an overload for the senses, but in the best way possible. You’re just surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. It’s not quiet at all. There’s a constant chorus of insects, birds calling from high up in the trees, and maybe, if you’re lucky, the distinct sound of howler monkeys in the distance. A good guide will be constantly pointing things out. “Look, a toucan over there!” or “See that tree? That’s a Guanacaste tree.” They can spot animals that you would absolutely miss on your own. You’re not just riding; you’re actively seeing and learning. This ride is more or less a nature walk on horseback, and it is a really special way to connect with the Pura Vida lifestyle.

The Main Event: Arriving at Bijagual Waterfall

You’ll hear the waterfall before you see it. Seriously. It starts as a low rumble, just a little different from the other jungle sounds. As you get closer, that rumble gets louder and louder, building anticipation. The guide will usually have you tie up the horses a short walk away from the main viewing area. And then, you walk through a final bit of foliage and… wow. There it is. Bijagual Waterfall is absolutely massive. It drops over 600 feet down a sheer rock face, surrounded by incredibly lush greenery. The photos you’ve seen online? They literally do not do it justice. The sheer scale of it is kind of hard to process at first. You just stand there for a minute, feeling the light spray on your face.

Of course, this is the part where you can take a dip. There’s a natural pool at the base of the falls. The water is definitely refreshing—okay, it’s pretty cold, but in the jungle heat, it feels amazing. Swimming in that pool, looking up at the colossal curtain of water crashing down, is an experience you won’t forget. It’s powerful and a little humbling, you know? You’ll have plenty of time here to swim, explore the area around the base, and just take a million pictures. It’s the big reward after your trek through the jungle, and honestly, it completely lives up to the hype. It is the highlight of the day for just about everyone on the trip.

The Journey Back and a Taste of Local Life

After you’ve had your fill of the waterfall’s magic, it’s time to head back. The ride back often feels a little different. You’re more confident on your horse, the group is chatty and relaxed, and you’re all sharing in this really cool, collective experience. You tend to notice different things on the way back, too. Maybe the light has changed, or different animals are out and about. In some ways, it’s just as enjoyable as the ride there, but with the added glow of having seen something spectacular. It’s a nice, peaceful way to wind down the horseback portion of the day.

As a matter of fact, the adventure usually doesn’t end when you get off the horse. Most of these tours wrap up with a traditional Costa Rican lunch. This is often a ‘casado,’ which translates to ‘married man’s meal.’ It’s a simple, yet incredibly satisfying plate of food. Typically, you’ll get some rice, beans, a salad, fried plantains, and a choice of protein like chicken, fish, or beef. It’s the kind of home-cooked meal that tastes absolutely perfect after a few hours of riding and swimming. Sitting down to eat with your guides and fellow travelers is a very nice way to finish the tour. You get to chat about the day and just enjoy a final moment of authentic local culture.

What You Should Know Before You Go

Alright, so if you’re thinking about booking this trip, here’s some practical advice. This isn’t a stroll in the park, so a little preparation goes a long way. Thinking about what to bring and whether this tour is a good fit for you will make your experience much better, right?

What to Wear and Pack

Basically, you want to be comfortable. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting a little sweaty or muddy. Lightweight pants or long shorts are a good idea to protect your legs from the saddle. Quick-dry materials are your best friend here. For your feet, you’ll need closed-toe shoes; think hiking shoes, sturdy sneakers, or even water shoes with a good grip. Definitely no flip-flops. You’ll wear your swimsuit under your clothes so you can hop right into the waterfall pool. You should also bring a small backpack with sunscreen, bug repellent (really important), a towel, and your camera or phone in a waterproof bag. A change of clothes for after the swim is also a pretty smart idea.

Who is This Tour For?

This tour is, you know, sort of for everyone, but with a few exceptions. It’s fantastic for families with older children, couples, and solo travelers looking for a bit of adventure. You absolutely do not need to be an expert horse rider; beginners are very welcome and well looked after. On the other hand, you should have a moderate level of physical fitness. You’ll be on a horse for a few hours, which uses muscles you might not be used to, and there is that short walk to the waterfall. At the end of the day, it’s for people who enjoy nature, don’t mind getting a little dirty, and want to see a side of Costa Rica that’s off the beaten path.

A Word on the Horses

For many people, the welfare of the animals is a very big consideration. The good news is that the operators for the Bijagual tours generally have a reputation for taking really good care of their horses. These animals are not just tools; they are part of the family and their livelihood. They appeared healthy, strong, and well-fed. They also have a very calm temperament, which is reassuring for nervous riders. When you book your tour, you can always ask questions about their animal welfare practices. A good operator will be happy to tell you about how they care for their animals.

“At the end of the day, this experience is less about the activity and more about the feeling. It’s the sound of the jungle, the power of the water, and the quiet rhythm of your horse carrying you through a truly magical place.”

• The Star Attraction: The Bijagual Waterfall is genuinely breathtaking and worth the journey.
• Be Prepared: The horseback ride is fun but requires a moderate fitness level. It’s not just a flat, easy path.
• Pack Smart: Bring swimwear, closed-toe shoes, bug spray, and sunscreen. A dry bag for electronics is a very good idea.
• Beginner Friendly: You don’t need riding experience; the guides and horses are great with novices.
• Embrace the Culture: The included local lunch is a simple but delicious part of the experience.

Read our full review: Bijagual Waterfall & Horse Back Riding Full Review and Details

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