Horseback Riding Tours In Panama You Must Try

So, you are thinking about going to Panama, and you are researching all the pastime activities that are actually worth your time. The good thing is that Panama is a paradise for adventure seekers, and there are plenty of things to do.

But have you ever thought about horseback riding? Yes, it might not be the most popular activity here, but hear me out. Horseback riding is the best way to experience what Panama has to offer. So, if I were you, I’d skip the beach day and go on one of the many horseback riding tours. It will give you a totally new perspective of the country.

The good thing is that most of these horseback riding tours are beginner friendly. So, you don’t have to be a professional equestrian rider, even first-timers are welcome!

With that said, we decided to highlight some of the best horseback tours in Panama. These tours will get you close to nature, and give you a totally new experience, something very different than traveling by car.

Boquete

We start in Boquete, up in the hills, which is actually a rider’s dream. Why? Well, you get cool air, which is perfect for the hot summers, lush greenery, and incredible views of Volcán Barú.

The Caldera Cloud Forest tours will take you on misty trails, go over streams, and rolling hills. You’ll get a chance to cross lava rock fields and climb to lookout points where the views are stunning.

Which tours are best? Well, you have Franklin’s Horseback Riding, which is a place where most tourists go, but there are more options like Full Adventure Boquete, and Exlora Ya Eco-Tours & Adventure.

It all depends on what your plan is. Is it only horseback riding, or do you want something even more adventurous? 

It’s a half-day escape, perfect for a morning or afternoon thrill.

Santa Fe

Santa Fe, a sleepy mountain town 90 minutes from Santiago, is home to Horseback Panama—run by Elizabeth Wilkinson, a lady obsessed with trail riding. 

Her full-day ride winds through the continental divide’s foothills, fording rivers and galloping past cattle outposts. You might spot petroglyphs or canter with Calypso, their star horse who’s won local endurance races. 

This is a perfect way to spend your day, especially if you are a horse racing enthusiast who is constantly browsing for horse racing promos. Who would have thought that you could actually ride a horse that’s won a race?

She keeps small groups (2-4 riders) and tailors the pace—beginners get gentle mounts, experts get a kick.

Why you must try it: It’s raw, rugged, and real—plus, lunch at an organic farm adds a local flavor you won’t forget. The scenery’s a stunner, from pine forests to desert-like peaks.

Bocas del Toro

Over on Isla Colón in Bocas del Toro, Bluff Beach Retreat offers a coastal ride that’s pure magic. You’ll trot along golden sands, weave through jungle paths, and stop at ocean pools for a swim or snorkel. 

Guides point out sloths and monkeys as you go, and the horses—rescued and rehabbed—are chill enough for novices but game for a beach gallop if you’re up for it. It’s a 3-hour loop with a laid-back island vibe.

Beach and jungle in one ride? That’s a rare combo. The seclusion and wildlife make it feel like you’ve stumbled into a tropical secret.

San Cristobal

Also in Bocas del Toro, Panama Horseback Adventures on Isla San Cristobal dives deep into rainforest territory. Narcisco and his crew lead you from Dolphin Bay across the island, up to jaw-dropping viewpoints.

The horses are jungle-tough, fit for steep trails, and the tour supports the local indigenous community. Half-day rides keep it simple; full-day treks add a boat trip and lunch at a village spot.

It’s an immersive jungle jaunt—close to nature, far from crowds. The cultural tie-in gives it heart, and the vistas are unreal.

Azuero Peninsula

Down south in Cambutal, Azuero Adventures runs a sunset ride along the Pacific coast. You’ll start on the beach—waves crashing, breeze in your face—then climb hills to an archaeological site with ancient petroglyphs. The horses are steady, the guides are pros, and the golden-hour glow over Los Buzos Bay is pure Instagram gold. It’s a shorter tour, about 2 hours, but packs a punch.

The wild coastline and history combo is unique, and that sunset finish feels like a movie scene. Perfect for a romantic or chill evening.

El Valle

In the crater of a dormant volcano, El Valle de Anton’s horseback tours weave through a lush, quirky landscape. You’ll ride past waterfalls, coffee farms, and maybe even the famous square trees. Local stables like those near The Golden Frog Inn offer 2-3 hour loops—gentle trails for beginners, steeper paths for a challenge. The vibe’s relaxed, with guides who know every nook of this green bowl.

Riding in a volcano crater’s a bucket-list flex, and the small-town charm makes it feel personal. Add a thermal pool stop, and you’re golden.

So, if you are up for adventure, going on a horseback riding tour in Panama might be the ultimate way to get close to nature and experience what this country has to offer. After all, most tourists miss the true beauty of Panama, so don’t get stuck on a beach and go explore!