When you see the mountains from a horse’s eye view, it clicks fast. This 2-hour ride takes you through the East Coast area and inner mountain trails around Las Palmas, with options that range from an easy stroll to a bit more adventurous riding. I like that it’s truly beginner-friendly without feeling dumbed down, and I also like the clear safety focus with the guide and proper gear.

You start in the countryside at Horse Riding Canaria, where you’ll get kitted up and taught how to lead your horse before moving out onto trails that go both uphill and downhill. The scenery payoff is real, with viewpoints that can stretch from Las Palmas toward Arinaga, plus an alternate route that heads toward caves and deep rocky cliffs.

One consideration: this is active time on uneven ground, so it’s not a fit for everyone. It also has specific limits, including not suitable for kids under 10, people over 65, those with altitude or motion sickness, and anyone over 100 kg or 200 cm tall.

Key highlights to know before you book

• Beginner coaching first, then real trail time with up and down terrain
• Las Palmas to Arinaga viewpoints, depending on the route you choose
• Optional cave route, including very deep cliff viewpoints and an ancient rock-village look
• Gear included (helmet, vest, and riding boots), so you can travel lighter
• Small group of up to 8, which makes the guide’s attention feel closer
• English, French, Italian, and Spanish instruction, so you can follow the safety talk

Horse Riding Canaria in Ojos de Garza: where the adventure begins

The meeting point is at the main barn of Horse Riding Canaria. When you enter the gate, park in the car park and walk to the right, where your instructor will be there waiting for you.

I like this setup because it keeps things simple. You are not hunting for a random pickup spot or trying to decode a timetable. You’re just in the riding center, horses nearby, and the day’s focus stays on getting you comfortable fast.

Also, the activity is based in the countryside around Ojos de Garza, which matters. You’ll feel like you’re out in the open air quickly, before you ever start moving. That helps a lot if you’re coming from more crowded areas and want something that feels grounded.

Your first 15 minutes: the short lesson that makes everything easier

Before you head off, you’ll get a brief class on the basics, including how to lead your horse. It’s not a long classroom session, but it is enough to help you avoid the most common beginner mistakes, like pulling at the wrong moment or stepping into the wrong space.

Then you ride with safety equipment and a guide. That combination is a big deal for value, because it reduces stress. You can focus on what the horse is doing, rather than constantly wondering what you should be doing.

And because the group is small, you’re more likely to get quick corrections if something feels off. That makes a difference when you’re learning something physical, not just sightseeing.

Two hours on horseback: what the ride feels like

Expect a ride that includes uphill and downhill terrain. That means you will feel the slope and how your balance needs to adjust, especially when you transition between steeper stretches and flatter parts.

The tour moves you through a couple of different types of trail experience. First, you head toward a viewpoint route where the reward comes from the climb and the open sightlines. After that, you choose between a path that goes further up or a route that takes you toward caves.

If you want one practical mental picture: this is not a flat, slow parade. It’s a guided trail ride with changing ground, so wear shoes that grip and clothes you can move in.

The main viewpoint route: Las Palmas up close, with Arinaga in the distance

One of the biggest reasons this tour gets a high score is the viewpoint goal. You ride until you reach a spot with sweeping views that can stretch from Las Palmas toward Arinaga.

That kind of payoff is exactly what you want from a short horse tour. You don’t have time for a long detour, so the best rides make sure the most dramatic views happen within the total 2-hour window.

On this route, the pacing works well for mixed comfort levels. Beginners can enjoy strolling and relaxing. Advanced riders have the option to trot and canter on parts of the track, as long as the trail and conditions allow it.

So you get options without the day becoming two separate experiences. Everyone is still on the same general tour flow, and the guide can adjust what happens on your specific stretch.

The caves option: green trails, deep cliffs, and an ancient rock-village feel

If you choose the second option, you’ll head into a very green and wild-feeling area. The trail leads toward very deep cliffs, where you get views that feel dramatic and close to the rock.

This route also has a cultural visual point, an ancient village inside rocky caves that you can see along the way. You’re not touring inside a museum, but the sight gives you a sense of how people used the terrain for shelter and defense.

On the way back, the ride passes close to olive orchards. I like this small shift, because it adds variety. One moment you’re thinking about cliffs and caves, and the next you’re in a softer, agricultural setting.

If you’re choosing between routes, pick based on what you want most:

• If you want the big city-to-coast view, go for the viewpoint direction.
• If you want a wilder feel and cliff-and-caves scenery, go for the caves path.

Riding levels: what beginners and advanced riders should expect

This tour is designed to be suitable for both beginners and advanced riders, with different riding styles depending on your comfort.

Beginners should plan for a comfortable pace and a guided experience. You’ll get the short class, then stroll and relax through the trail sections that match your level. The guide and the safety equipment are there to support confidence, especially when the terrain tilts.

Advanced riders have more movement options, including trotting and cantering on part of the track. That means you’re not locked into a slow pace if you ride often, and you can enjoy more of the horse’s natural rhythm on the right sections.

One thing to plan for: even if you’re a beginner, the terrain includes uphill and downhill. Comfort comes from being guided, not from assuming the ground will be flat.

Price and value: is $96 worth it?

At $96 per person for a 2-hour guided horseback tour with a small group, I think the value is strong, mainly because several key costs are already handled.

Here’s what you get in the price:

• A guided horseback tour
• A guide who leads you and supports safety
• Helmet, vest, and riding boots

That included gear is not just convenient, it’s a real cost saver. It also means you’re not trying to guess which size equipment you can rent elsewhere.

What’s not included is also clear. You’ll want to budget separately for food and drinks, and you’ll handle your own transportation to and from the meeting point. If you’re staying without an easy ride-share option, plan for that.

Given the small group size (limited to 8 participants) and the fact that beginners get instruction before moving out, this feels like a fair price for an activity where supervision and safety actually matter.

What to bring and what to wear for comfort on uneven ground

The essentials are simple, and the rules are practical:

• Comfortable shoes
• Comfortable clothes
• Closed-toe shoes

You’ll be wearing riding boots you’re provided (as stated), plus a helmet and safety vest. Still, your shoes matter for any walking around the barn and for keeping you steady while you wait or adjust your position.

I’d also recommend dressing in layers. Mountain air can feel different depending on the time of day, and you don’t want a chilly ride where you keep thinking about warmth instead of enjoying the views.

One more tip that helps your guide help you: when you book, tell the rider level and the age of participants. That lets them match your group and coaching style more effectively.

Group size, languages, and how the guide keeps things smooth

The group is limited to 8 participants, which is a sweet spot for this kind of activity. You can hear directions, and the guide can manage spacing with fewer people to track.

Language support is also a plus: the instructor is available in English, French, Italian, and Spanish. That matters for the safety briefing at the start and for any adjustments you need once you’re riding.

You’ll get a short briefing on how to lead a horse, then you’ll head out onto the trails. If you’re anxious about communication, this tour’s language options make it easier to follow along.

Who this tour is best for

This is a good choice if you want:

• A guided horse ride with clear beginner support
• A short time commitment (2 hours) that still delivers big views
• Options for a calmer stroll or for more riding action if you’re comfortable

It’s also a good match for couples, friends, or solo travelers who like small groups and want to spend their time outside in fresh air.

This is not a fit if:

• You’re under 10 years old
• You’re over 65 years old
• You’re over 100 kg (220 lbs)
• You’re taller than 200 cm (6 ft 6 in)
• You have altitude sickness concerns or motion sickness concerns

If any of those apply, it’s worth looking for a different kind of outing that better matches your body and comfort needs.

Should you book the 2-hour Green Mountains Horse Riding Tour?

If you’re deciding between a short viewpoint day and a more active nature moment, I’d lean toward booking this. The mix of included safety gear, a quick start lesson, and a small group makes it feel more controlled and beginner-safe than many “quick adventure” activities.

You should especially book if you care about views. The idea of seeing Las Palmas stretching out toward Arinaga in a limited time window is exactly the kind of payoff that justifies the ride.

Choose the caves option if you want something more wild-feeling, with deep cliff views and that ancient rock-cave village look. Choose the main viewpoint route if you want the classic big-sight panorama.

FAQ

How long is the horseback tour?

The duration is listed as 2 hours. Check availability to see the starting times.

Where do I meet the guide?

Meet in the main barn of the Horse Riding Canaria center. When you enter the gate, leave your car in the car park and walk to the right. The instructor will be there waiting.

What is included in the price?

The tour includes the horseback tour, a guide, and helmets, vest, and boots.

Do I need to bring food or drinks?

Food and drinks are not included, so you’ll need to plan your own.

What riding level is it suitable for?

It is designed for both beginners and advanced riders. Beginners can stroll and relax, while advanced riders may have the option to trot and canter on part of the track.

Is there a class before riding?

Yes. There is a short class (15 minutes) that covers how to lead a horse before you head out on the trail.

How big is the group?

The group is small, limited to 8 participants.

What languages are the instructors available in?

The instructor is available in English, French, Italian, and Spanish.

Is it suitable for children or older adults?

It is not suitable for children under 10 years, and it is not suitable for people over 65 years.

What health or body limits should I know about?

It is not suitable for altitude sickness or motion sickness. It is also not suitable for people over 100 kg (220 lbs) or over 200 cm (6 ft 6 in).