Horseback Riding

Montego Bay

Although it doesn't have quite the long history of horseback rides as Ocho Rios (which began offering horseback swims at Chukka Cove after visitors saw the polo ponies being exercised in the sea), Montego Bay has a growing number of horseback options for both beginning and experienced riders.

Braco Stables. These stables are in the Braco area near Duncans in Trelawny, between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. Two daily estate rides ($70) include complimentary refreshments served poolside at the Braco great house. Experienced riders can also opt for a mountain ride ($100) for a more rugged two-hour tour. Braco, Duncans, Trelawny. 876/954–0185; www.bracostables.com, www.bracotours.com.

Chukka Caribbean Adventures. From its location west of Montego Bay at Sandy Bay, this outfit offers tours for riders of all levels. You travel through rain forest and open countryside before heading to the sea for an exhilarating ride through the surf. The two-and-a-half hour excursion is available for riders six and older. A horseback ride-and-swim is $139 Sandy Bay, Sandy Bay, Hanover. 876/619–1441; 876/656–8026; 877/424–8552; chukka.com. From $139.

Ocho Rios

With its combination of hills and beaches, Ocho Rios is a natural for horseback excursions. Most are guided tours taken at a slow pace and perfect for those with no previous equestrian experience. Many travelers opt to wear long pants for horseback rides, especially those away from the beach.

Chukka Caribbean Adventures. The two-hour ride-and-swim tour ($159) travels along Papillion Cove (where the 1973 movie Papillion was filmed) as well as to locations used in Return to Treasure Island (1985) and Passion and Paradise (1988). The trail continues along the coastline to Chukka Beach and a bareback ride in the sea. Chukka has a location west of Montego Bay and handles other activities and tours, too. Ocho Rios, St. Ann. 876/619–1441; 876/656–8026; 877/424–8552; chukka.com. $159.

Hooves. This stable offers several guided tours, including a popular 2½-hour beach ride ($95 from Boscobel, $85 from Ocho Rios, $90 from Runaway Bay—including transportation) suitable for adults and children taller than 3 feet. The trip begins with a visit to the Seville Great House estate before making its way to the beach for a ride. Hooves is home to many rescue horses that have been rehabilitated. Windsor Rd., St. Ann's Bay, St. Ann. 876/972–0905; www.hooves-jamaica.com.

Prospect Plantation. The plantation offers horseback rides for ages eight and older, including use of helmets; reservations are required. For the adventurous, there are also guided camel rides. Rte. A1, about 3 miles (5 km) east of Ocho Rios, 876/974–5335. $54.

South Coast

One of the best ways to tour the South Coast's pastoral landscape is from horseback. In addition to riding along the beach, area stables offer trails through farm and pasture areas, allowing an up-close-and-personal look at some of the island's most rustic landscapes.

Paradise Park. This working farm has been owned and operated by the same family for more than 100 years. Visitors can take horseback rides to explore the farm's fields and pastures and the beaches on the property. Afterward you can take a dip in Sweet River and have a picnic if you bring your own food. Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Rte. A2 , 1 mile (2 km) west of Ferris Cross, Westmoreland. 876/955–2675 . From $45.