Horseback Riding and City Highlights in Ocho Rios: Fern Gully, Coyaba Gardens & Wassi Art
Ride a horse through rainforest trails and into the Caribbean, then tour Ocho Rios’ Fern Gully, Coyaba Botanical Gardens and Wassi Art in a single half-day. This guided excursion pairs a horseback ocean swim with local history, botanical calm and curated craft shopping.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear water shoes
Trails and the ocean entry can be rocky—water shoes protect your feet during the horseback swim and while dismounting on the shore.
Bring cash for haggling
Small vendors at craft markets prefer cash for quick purchases and bartering—carry Jamaican dollars or small USD notes.
Morning departures are cooler
Book an early pickup to avoid midday heat and have more relaxed time in the botanical gardens and shops.
Tip your guides
Guides handle horses, photography and logistics—plan on tipping for good service to acknowledge local expertise.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small mahogany overlook near Coyaba Gardens for quieter ocean views
- •Wassi Art’s studio space—ask for a demo or explanation from the artist when possible
Wildlife
- •Green herons and frigatebirds along the coast
- •Butterflies and hummingbirds at Coyaba Botanical Gardens
Conservation Note
Respect local ecosystems by keeping to designated trails and not touching coral during the ocean swim; local operators emphasize small-group stewardship and follow reef-safe guidelines.
Coyaba Botanical Gardens and the Museum of Island History showcase Spanish-period architecture and artifacts alongside Jamaican plant collections, offering a compact narrative of colonial and indigenous history.
Photographer's Notes
- • On horseback at the waterline for dramatic horse-and-sea photos
- • Fern Gully road for leafy tunnel compositions
- • Coyaba’s museum steps overlooking the gardens
What to Bring
Water shoesEssential
Protect feet on rocky shoreline entries and provide grip during the horseback swim.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated in the tropical heat—refill from provided bottled water at stops if needed.
Lightweight rain jacket
Afternoon showers are common; a packable layer keeps you dry without bulk.
Sunscreen and hatEssential
Shield skin from strong equatorial sun during coastal and garden portions of the tour.
Common Questions
How long is the horseback portion of the tour?
The ride and supervised ocean swim take about 90–120 minutes total, including safety briefing and photo stops.
Do I need prior riding experience?
No advanced skills required—guides lead and control the horses, but basic balance and the ability to follow instructions are necessary.
Are life jackets provided for the ocean swim?
Yes—participants are fitted with life jackets and guided into shallow water; the swim is supervised by trained staff.
Is food included on the tour?
Entrance fees and bottled water are included, but lunch and additional meals are typically not—there is a stop where you can buy local cuisine if you wish.
Can the tour accommodate children or infants?
Infant seats are available for transport; riding suitability depends on age and weight—check with the operator when booking.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5–6 hours
Location
Ocho Rios, Saint Ann
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average physical condition who can mount and sit comfortably on a horse for up to two hours; minimal walking otherwise.
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