Riding a Horse in Hawaii
Horseback riding tours are a very popular activity in Hawaii. It is
for those of you who love nature and horses. You will find many horseback
tour providers in the Main Hawaiian Islands of Oahu, Maui, Kauai and
the Big Island. Usually a horseback riding tour is at least one hour
long. There are two-hour, three-hour and even longer tours as well.
The pace is slow and the horseback tour providers welcome both experienced
and first-time riders.
Horseback riding is a unique way to get close to nature and explore
the islands. To guarantee the satisfaction of their customers, the horseback
tour companies organize tours in small groups (private tours are offered
as well). An experienced tour guide leads the group and gives detailed
information. Stops are made at scenic points; so take your camera with
you because you will have the chance to take plenty of pictures.
Before you book your horseback riding tour, check if your tour company
has any restrictions. Some of the companies have age, height and weight
restrictions you should be aware of before you book your tour. It’s
also recommended that you wear closed-toed shoes and long pants. Some
of the companies provide their customers with a bottle of water, snacks
or lunch. But in case your company does not do so, make sure you have
at least a bottle of water with you.
The horses are friendly and well-mannered. So don’t be afraid to get
on the horse if you are a novice. Your tour guide will provide you with
clear instructions before the ride. At some stables you can even get
a private horseback lesson if you want to.
Horseback Riding Tours on Oahu
On Oahu, one of the most spectacular horseback riding sites is Kualoa
Ranch, located on the eastern coast of the island. This is a place where
besides beautiful ocean and valley views, you will come across famous
movie locations you have seen in Jurassic Park, Godzilla,
Windtalkers
and 50 First Dates.
Other companies will take you for a horseback adventure on the North
Shore of Oahu. There some of the highlights include views of Kaena Point
(northwestern tip of Oahu), Sunset Beach, Banzai Pipeline and Turtle
Bay.
You can find ranches all over Oahu, so the abovementioned places are
not the only horseback riding locations. Some of the horseback tour
companies provide free (or for a small additional fee) transportation
from Waikiki.
Horseback Riding Tours on Maui
Maui’s most spectacular horseback riding location is Mount Haleakala.
There are many companies on the island that will be happy to take you
for a horseback ride there. Mount Haleakala is the largest dormant volcano
on Earth and it is a must-see if you are on Maui. While riding on Mount
Haleakala, you will see amazing flora you can’t see anywhere else in
the world, such as the endemic flower named silversword. Besides the
unique views, your guide will tell you about the island’s history, flora,
fauna and the geology of the volcano. Don’t feel shy to ask questions.
Your guide will be more than happy to answer.
Another remarkable horseback riding location on Maui is Kipahulu – an
ancient land filled with hidden stories and historical events. You will
see legendary sites and battlefields and you will have the chance to
learn about the culture and the history of the ancient Hawaiians.
Upcountry Maui, home to the Mauian paniolo (cowboy), also offers exciting
horseback riding opportunities through a tropical rainforest.
Horseback Riding Tours on Kauai
Kauai’s beauty is endless. There are numerous ways of exploring it.
And riding a horse is just one of them. You’ll ride off the road and
into the green to explore lush tropical rainforests, cascading waterfalls
and hills.
You can find popular horseback riding tours in Princeville. The natural
scenery there is breathtaking and you’ll enjoy both mountain and Pacific
Ocean views. Some of the highlights in the area are Anini Reef, which
is the largest reef in Hawaii, Kilauea Lighthouse, a bird sanctuary
and much more.
Horseback Riding Tours on the Big Island
On the Big Island, the best horseback riding locations are in northern
part of the island. Waipio Valley is the most popular and favorite horseback-riding
site. Your guide will take you deep into the valley where no car can
go. There the views are truly stunning – lush tropical valleys, cascading
waterfalls, cliff edges, taro patches and much more.
Approximately 72 miles (115 km) from Waipio Valley is Kona. There are
a few horseback riding companies that can take you for a horseback adventure
to Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook’s Monument.
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Whether
you need transportation to and from Honolulu Airport or want a
customized, private tour of Oahu, Island Express Transport covers it
all. 
