Hawaii horseback riding tours

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.