A scenic horseback ride through Rio Nuevo's trails and coastline pairs with a peaceful bamboo raft float on the river. The day blends gentle adventure, beach time and Jamaican culture in one north coast outing.
The outing opens with a guided ride through lush vegetation toward the Caribbean shore at Rio Nuevo. Horses are matched to experience level, with opportunities to wade into clear water for photos when guides confirm it is safe.
After the ride, you step onto a 30-foot bamboo raft for a slow drift along the Rio Nuevo River. Your captain shares local history while you relax among tropical greenery, with optional limestone foot massage available on some trips.
Rio Nuevo sits east of Ocho Rios, where forest trails meet a beautiful stretch of north coast beach and a calm river suited to bamboo rafting. The area feels quieter than the main resort strip while still being an easy drive from your hotel.
The horseback route takes you from shaded inland paths to the shoreline, where horses may wade into the Caribbean on calm days. The bamboo raft section follows the Rio Nuevo River through lush banks, a classic Jamaican experience in one compact outing.
No previous riding experience is required. Guides match horses to ability and lead the group at a steady pace along forest trails and the beach. First-time riders receive help mounting and basic instructions before setting off.
Riders must weigh no more than 250 lbs (113 kg) for horse welfare and safety. Children aged 5 and over may ride when accompanied by a responsible adult. Wear long trousers, closed-toe shoes and clothes you do not mind getting damp.
Our experienced guides and raft captains know the horses, trails and river lines. Hotel pickup, matched horses and a paced day help beginners and families enjoy both the ride and the float.
Two iconic Jamaican experiences come together in one half-day trip. You ride through forest and beach, then drift on a handcrafted bamboo raft without arranging separate transport or activities.
Hotel collection brings you to the Rio Nuevo stables. Guides introduce your horse, help with mounting and explain trail etiquette before you set off through tropical forest toward the coast.
Ride along scenic trails and the beach, with a chance to wade into the Caribbean with your horse when conditions allow. Guides share local stories along the route.
Board a handcrafted bamboo raft on the Rio Nuevo River for a gentle float through lush scenery. Your captain poles the raft while you relax, take photos and enjoy the peaceful river atmosphere.
No previous riding experience is required. Guides match horses to ability and lead the group at a steady pace along forest trails and the beach.
First-time riders receive help mounting and basic instructions before setting off. Tell your guide if you feel nervous so they can keep you near the front of the group.
Children aged 5 and over may ride when accompanied by a responsible adult and when guides agree the child is ready. Life jackets are used where horses enter the water.
Share children's ages and riding experience with us so the stable can prepare suitable horses.
Wear long trousers, closed-toe shoes and clothes you do not mind getting damp. Bring sunscreen, a hat and a towel for after the beach section.
For rafting, light clothing and sandals that can get wet work well. A waterproof bag protects phones during the river float.
Allow about four hours including hotel pickup, the horseback ride at Rio Nuevo and the bamboo rafting session on the river.
Timing depends on your hotel location and how long the group spends swimming with the horses and relaxing on the raft.
Many rides include wading into the Caribbean with your horse for a memorable swim photo stop when conditions are calm. Guides decide on the day whether the water entry is safe.
You do not have to swim if you prefer to stay in the saddle on the beach. Life jackets may be available for confident swimmers.
After the ride, you board a handcrafted bamboo raft on the Rio Nuevo River with a local captain poling you through quiet tropical scenery.
The pace is gentle and cultural, with stories about the area and time to photograph the greenery along the banks.
Outdoor activities may be delayed if storms make trails or river conditions unsafe. Light rain often still allows riding with the right clothing.
Your guide makes the final call on beach and river sections. Dress for changing conditions and bring a light layer for the drive back.
Horses are matched to rider experience, from gentle mounts for beginners to more responsive horses for confident riders. Guides lead the group and set a comfortable pace throughout.
Tell the stable about any previous riding experience when you arrive. They adjust horse assignments so everyone feels at ease on the trails.
The raft is roughly 30 feet long and poled by a local captain along calm stretches of the Rio Nuevo River. The float is slow and scenic, with time to relax and take photos.
Some trips include an optional limestone foot massage in the river. Ask your captain on the day if you would like to try it.
Hotel pickup and drop-off in the Ocho Rios and Runaway Bay area are included. Your driver collects you at the agreed time and returns you after the rafting session.
Share your hotel name with us so the team can confirm your collection window and plan the route efficiently.
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
About the centre
Ocho Rios
Operated by Walpo Jamaica Tours, a partner of adventuro.
