A Journey Through Time and Nature

The sun was just beginning to rise over the Pacific coast of Costa Rica as I found myself at the Pacific Paradise Resort, a charming family-run hotel nestled in the hills of northeast Quepos. The grounds were immaculate, with a waterfall cascading into an inviting swimming pool and an outdoor pavilion-style restaurant that promised a delicious lunch after our adventure. My wife, Nicole, and I were eager to embark on the Rancho Típico Don Juan Horseback Riding tour, a journey that promised to take us through the natural beauty and history of this stunning region.

Our guide, Randall Mora, greeted us with a warm smile and a van ready to take us to the ranch. As we left the paved roads behind, the landscape transformed into dirt paths and eventually a river, which we crossed with a sense of adventure. Randall’s skillful driving kept us safe, and his offer of fresh fruit was a thoughtful touch, though we were still full from breakfast.

Upon arriving at the ranch, we were welcomed by Randall’s father, who introduced us to the sturdy horses that would be our companions for the day. These horses, built for the rugged terrain, were treated with love and respect, a testament to the family’s deep connection to the land. As we mounted our steeds, Randall shared the history of the ranch, a legacy spanning five generations, and we set off on our journey.

Into the Heart of the Jungle

The ride through the pasture was a gentle introduction to the breathtaking views that awaited us. As we ascended the narrow cattle trails, worn into the landscape over decades, the panorama of the Pacific coast unfolded below. The horses, with their endurance and agility, carried us effortlessly through the mountainous terrain, their good nature shining through even in the heat of the sun.

We paused to rest under the shade of towering trees, where Randall’s keen eye spotted a well-camouflaged scorpion. His enthusiasm for the natural world was infectious, and as we continued on foot into the forest, he revealed the hidden wonders of the jungle. From rocket frogs to poisonous dart frogs, spiders to iguanas, Randall’s knowledge of the flora and fauna was impressive, and his respect for the environment was evident in every word.

The forest was alive with the sounds of nature, and as we explored, Randall shared the Latin names and habitat requirements of the creatures we encountered. His passion for the natural world was a reminder of the delicate balance that exists in these ancient ecosystems, and I felt privileged to witness it firsthand.

A Taste of Costa Rican Culture

Our descent back to the pastures was marked by a refreshing stop at a stream, where we waded in the cool water and enjoyed a “Costa Rican massage” under a waterfall. The horses drank deeply, and we took a moment to appreciate the tranquility of the setting before continuing our journey.

Back at the ranch, we were treated to a taste of local culture with freshly harvested gauba, a fruity legume with a sweet, vanilla flavor. Randall’s father collected the horses, and we savored the fruit, a perfect end to our adventure.

The day concluded with a return to the Pacific Paradise Resort, where a delicious lunch awaited us. The meal, a choice of chicken or Mahi with rice, black beans, and fresh salsa, was a delightful culmination of our experience. The staff even accommodated my gluten-free dietary needs, a thoughtful touch that added to the overall enjoyment of the day.

Reflecting on the experience, I was struck by the harmony between the land, the animals, and the people who call this place home. The Rancho Típico Don Juan Horseback Riding tour was more than just a ride through the countryside; it was a journey into the heart of Costa Rica’s rich cultural and natural heritage. For those seeking a unique adventure that combines history, nature, and a touch of local flavor, this tour is not to be missed.