Horseback Riding

The ride from Monteverde to La Fortuna can be dangerous with outfitters that take inexperienced riders along steep trails. Desafío should be your only choice for getting from Monteverde to La Fortuna on horseback. During rainy season (July–December), book horseback trips in the morning, since rains usually begin around 2 pm.

Caballeriza El Rodeo. Escorted 1½-hour horseback-riding tours ($30) with Caballeriza El Rodeo are on a private farm. Excursions are for everyone from beginner to experienced riders. A two-hour sunset tour ($35) begins at 3:30 pm. West entrance of town of Santa Elena, Santa Elena, Puntarenas, 60109. 2645–5764. $5.

Sabine's Smiling Horses. Owner Sabine—who speaks English, French, German, and Spanish—offers two-hour treks starting at $50. In addition to the regular waterfall and canyon tours, excursions at full moon are also offered once a month. Experienced riders can make reservations to go on longer, faster rides. 1 km (½ mile) west of the cemetery, Santa Elena, Puntarenas. 8385–2424; www.horseback-riding-tour.com. From $50.