Beach Horseback Riding and Swim Horse in Puerto Plata

The most unusual part of this Puerto Plata outing comes at the shore: you can leave the saddle, ride bareback into the sea, and let your horse wade through the warm water. It is a rare beach-riding option, and guides such as Juanito and Nico are known for calm instruction and an upbeat manner.

I like two things here: horses are matched to your riding level, and the route mixes nature trails with Bergantin Beach rather than staying in a fenced riding area. The main catch is that meals, extra drinks, photos, tips, and transportation are not included, and ocean riding is not allowed when a yellow or red flag is flying.

Key points to know before you book

• Bareback ocean riding: The tour’s signature moment is riding your horse into the sea, weather and flag conditions permitting.
• Horses matched to your ability: Beginners and experienced riders are placed on horses selected for comfort and skill level.
• A small group setting: The maximum group size is 15 people, which helps guides keep an eye on the line.
• Bergantin Beach break: You get about two hours at the beach for riding, relaxing, and possible swimming.
• Useful inclusions: A helmet, guide, seasonal fresh fruit, and a shot of mamajuana are included.
• Transportation costs extra: You must reach Rancho Montecarlo LyS in Puerto Plata unless you arrange private transport separately.

Why the sea ride is the real attraction

Many horseback rides near resort areas follow the sand for a short stretch, take a few photos, and return to the ranch. This experience offers something more memorable. At Bergantin Beach, you can ride your horse into the ocean without a saddle, provided conditions are safe and the beach flag allows it.

That bareback portion changes the feel of the ride. You are closer to the horse, the water, and the movement of the waves. It is also the reason to choose this tour over a standard trail ride. You should not expect a long swim across open water, though. The information describes riding into the sea, not a full horse-swimming session in deep water.

Safety rules matter here. A yellow or red flag means the horse cannot enter the water. If the sea is too rough or weather turns poor, the most distinctive part of the outing may not happen. I would book this for the full beach experience, but keep enough flexibility in your expectations that a safe shore ride still feels worthwhile.

Starting at Rancho Montecarlo in Puerto Plata

The activity begins at Rancho Montecarlo LyS, S.R.L.C. Principal, in Puerto Plata. This is also where you finish, so the outing is a loop from the ranch rather than a one-way beach transfer.

Private transportation is not included. The ranch can assist with arranging it, but you should settle that detail before the day of the ride. This matters if you are staying at a hotel, arriving from a cruise port, or traveling with a group that does not have its own vehicle.

The total outing takes about three hours. That is a useful length for a half-day plan. You still have room for lunch, sightseeing, or a beach afternoon, but the ride is long enough to include a trail section and a proper stop at the coast.

On arrival, the team selects a horse for each rider. That is especially helpful for first-time riders, who may not know what size, temperament, or pace suits them. The tour accepts beginners, and children age eight and older ride their own horse. The maximum listed weight is 260 pounds.

Choosing a horse for your riding level

The matching process is one of the strongest practical features. A nervous beginner does not need the same horse as someone who rides regularly, and the provider says each horse is chosen according to ability and comfort.

The guides explain what to do and stay with the group during the ride. The supplied feedback repeatedly points to horses that are healthy, well kept, well trained, and easy to steer. That does not remove the normal risks of horseback riding, but it suggests this is designed as a controlled recreational ride rather than a fast or demanding equestrian outing.

You receive a helmet, and the guides help you get settled. The tour is suitable for most people, but you should disclose special physical or mental conditions in advance. The provider says requests can be accommodated with prior notice.

Riders over 65 are asked to have a good tax status, which appears to be unusual wording in the booking information. I would confirm the exact requirement before paying if that applies to you. The same advice makes sense for anyone with mobility concerns or limited riding experience.

One hour through Puerto Plata’s natural routes

The first part of the route takes about an hour. You ride from the ranch through nature trails toward the coast. This section gives you time to get comfortable with the horse before the beach portion begins.

Do not expect a technical mountain ride or a fast gallop based on the information provided. The emphasis is on an accessible outing for mixed abilities. The horses are described as easy to steer, and the guides set the pace.

That slower format is a plus for beginners and families. You can pay attention to your balance, learn how your horse responds, and enjoy the surroundings without feeling pushed. Experienced riders may find the trail section gentle, but the later beach and sea ride provide the unusual element.

Guides including Juanito and Nico have been singled out for being polite, calm, fun, and effective trail leaders. Those qualities matter more than constant narration on a ride like this. You need clear directions, patient help, and someone watching the group as horses move over changing ground.

Two hours at Bergantin Beach

The second stop is Bergantin Beach, where you spend about two hours. This is not just a quick photo stop. You have time to ride by the sea, take a break, relax, and possibly swim.

The beach section gives the outing its sense of place. Instead of viewing the Dominican coast from a bus or a resort chair, you arrive on horseback and spend time alongside the water. The route is described as reaching a pristine beach, though conditions can change with weather and sea activity.

This is also where you should pace yourself. Three hours in the sun, including time on horseback, can feel longer than expected. Bring the practical beach basics you normally need, though the supplied information does not specify a locker, changing room, or towel service. Ask the operator about those points before you go rather than counting on them.

The tour includes seasonal fresh fruit and water is mentioned in the experience feedback. A mamajuana shot is also included. Extra drinks and meals cost more, and the authentic Dominican beach restaurant is an optional part of the stop rather than a meal included in the $79 price.

Riding bareback into the ocean

The ocean entry is done without a saddle. You take your horse toward the water and ride in under the direction of the guides. This is the moment that separates the tour from a routine beach horseback outing.

Bareback riding requires more balance than riding with a saddle. If you are new to horses, listen closely to the guide and do not treat the sea ride as a chance to improvise. The horses are selected for riders and described as well behaved, but the water adds movement, waves, and a new surface underfoot.

The beach flag controls whether this section can go ahead. A green or otherwise permitted condition is needed, while yellow and red flags stop ocean entry. Weather also affects the entire activity. If poor weather cancels the tour, you can receive another date or a full refund.

You may also want to clarify what swim access means for your group. The tour gives you the option to swim and to ride into the sea, but it does not promise that every participant will spend a set amount of time swimming with a horse. Those are different experiences, and the final plan depends on safety conditions.

What is included for $79

At $79 per person, the price is reasonable if you want three distinct elements: a guided trail ride, a beach stop, and the chance to ride bareback into the sea. The horse matching and small maximum group also add value, particularly for first-time riders.

Included items are:

• A guide
• A helmet
• Fresh seasonal fruit
• A shot of mamajuana

The price does not include private transportation, meals, extra drinks, souvenirs, photos, or tips. The restaurant can make the beach stop more convenient, but budget separately if you want a full meal or a piña colada.

Photos may be available at an extra charge. The tour information specifically notes photos as an additional cost, so ask about the price before agreeing to a photo package. That small step avoids an awkward surprise at the end.

For a couple or family already near the ranch, the value is stronger because the main activity is included in one straightforward fee. If you need paid transport from far outside Puerto Plata, the total cost rises. Compare the full door-to-door price, not just the advertised activity rate.

Who will enjoy this ride most

This tour is a good match for you if you want a relaxed horseback outing with a memorable water feature. Beginners are welcome, and the provider selects horses according to ability. The guides’ patient style is useful for anyone riding for the first time.

Families should note the age rule. Children eight and older ride their own horse, so this is not a pony ride or a parent-and-child saddle arrangement. Adults should also review the 260-pound weight limit before booking.

Experienced riders may enjoy the unusual setting but should not expect an advanced riding lesson, high-speed gallop, or long open-water session. The route is built for a broad range of abilities, which means the pace needs to work for the whole group.

The group limit is 15 people. That is not a private ride, but it is small enough for guides to provide basic support. If you want a fully private schedule or a custom riding pace, this may not be the right format.

Practical details that affect your day

Wear clothing you can get wet and dirty. The ocean section makes ordinary dry riding clothes a poor choice, and loose items can be inconvenient around horses. The supplied information does not list a formal clothing requirement, so ask about footwear and storage if those details matter to you.

Plan around the weather. This activity requires good conditions, and cancellations caused by poor weather qualify for a different date or a full refund. You can also cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations or changes made inside that 24-hour window are not refunded or accepted.

Confirmation arrives when you book. The experience ends back at the ranch, not at a separate beach location. That makes onward planning easier, but only if your transportation is arranged in advance.

The tour provides a helmet, but the details do not say whether towels, lockers, changing areas, or hotel pickup are included. Ask before departure if you need any of those items. A few simple questions can make the beach stop much more comfortable.

Should you book the Rancho Montecarlo ride?

Book it if the idea of riding bareback into the sea appeals to you, especially if you are a beginner who wants patient guides and a horse chosen to suit your level. The combination of trail, beach time, and ocean riding gives you more variety than a short shoreline loop.

I would hesitate only if you need guaranteed swimming, included hotel transportation, a full meal, or an advanced riding workout. Ocean access depends on the flag, and several common extras cost more.

For most people, $79 is a fair price for a three-hour outing with a helmet, guide, fruit, and mamajuana included. Confirm transport, beach conditions, and photo costs before you go. If the sea ride is available, this can become one of the more distinctive half-day activities near Puerto Plata.

FAQ

Where does the horseback ride begin and end?

The activity begins and ends at Rancho Montecarlo LyS, S.R.L.C. Principal, Puerto Plata 57000, Dominican Republic.

How long does the experience last?

The full experience lasts approximately three hours. About one hour is spent on the route toward the beach, followed by about two hours at Bergantin Beach.

Can beginners join the horseback ride?

Yes. Horses are selected according to each rider’s ability and comfort, and the experience is designed for beginners as well as experienced riders.

Can children participate?

Children age eight and older can participate and ride their own horse.

Is ocean riding always available?

No. You cannot take the horses into the sea when a yellow or red flag is flying. Poor weather can also cause the activity to be canceled.

Is transportation included?

No. Private transportation is not included. The provider can assist with organizing transport, but you must arrange and pay for it separately.

What is included in the price?

The price includes a guide, helmet, seasonal fresh fruit, and a shot of mamajuana. Meals, extra drinks, photos, souvenirs, tips, and private transportation are not included.