The Best Places for Horseback Riding in Vanuatu

Horseback riding in Vanuatu LINK#TT059 offers a unique way to explore the islands’ diverse landscapes, from coastal beaches and open plains to rural villages and tropical trails.

Across several islands, local operators provide guided rides suitable for different experience levels, allowing visitors to discover both scenic natural areas and cultural surroundings on horseback.

It’s a distinctive outdoor activity that combines exploration, nature and a touch of island adventure, giving travellers a different perspective of Vanuatu beyond the usual road and sea routes.

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1.Club Hippique Horse Riding

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Horse riding along Efate’s coastline offers a unique way to experience Vanuatu’s landscapes, combining ocean views, tropical scenery and open trails on a single journey.

Set on a beachfront property and with 30 years of experience, Club Hippique offers riders of all skill levels adventures ranging from 45-minute introductory rides to full-day discovery tours through a lush coconut plantation and rainforest terrain.

The signature experience is horseback swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Etmat Bay, where every tour concludes with 15 minutes of bareback riding in the water with your horse. You might spot turtles and dugongs in the bay if you're lucky during certain seasons.

The two-hour tour is the most popular, though visitors can choose from several ride durations, including the romantic sunset ride complete with refreshments, or extend to half-day and full-day adventures.

Each experience showcases Efate's diverse landscapes from beach to rainforest, with the unique 45-minute "Quick Time" option perfect for those wanting a taste of both bush trails and ocean swimming. Refreshments including soft drinks, beer, wine and snacks are available, with hot food options during cruise ship days.

For more adrenaline-filled experiences across the islands, explore The Best Adventure Tours in Vanuatu LINK#TTD009.

Location:

Etmat Bay, Port Vila, Efate Island. The turn-off to Etmat Bay can be found in Ekasup. Follow the signposts with spray-painted arrows through the gated entrance (not the one with palm fronds) to the beach. Transfers are provided within Port Vila and to nearby resorts.

Price Range:$$

2.The Riders' Club

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Exploring Efate’s natural surroundings on horseback offers a different perspective of Vanuatu, where open landscapes and quiet trails set the scene for a memorable outdoor experience.

Experience the beauty of Efate's wilderness from the saddle with The Riders' Club, where safe, healthy and well-trained horses await your private group adventure.

Led by knowledgeable local guides, these 1 hr 30 mins trail rides cater to all riding levels, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced equestrians.

What sets this experience apart is the intimate, private group setting that ensures personalised attention and a pace suited to your comfort level. Children from age six are welcome to join the adventure, and with horses carefully selected for their gentle temperament, you're guaranteed a memorable ride through Vanuatu's stunning landscapes.

The club offers more than just trail rides, providing a comprehensive range of equestrian services, including group lessons and monthly memberships for those staying longer term.

For more outdoor adventures across the islands, explore The Best Things to Do in Vanuatu LINK#TTD066.

Location:

Bellevue Park, Port Vila, Efate. Turn left at Bellevue after USP, continue up the hill until Manaro, turn left at Manaro and take the second road on the left at the bottom of the hill. The club is 50 m (55 yards) down that road on the left-hand side.

Price Range:$$

3.Sea Saddles Horse Riding Tours

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Horse riding in Port Olry offers a scenic way to explore one of Santo’s most beautiful coastal regions, where long beaches and rural landscapes create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure.

Sea Saddles Horse Riding Tours offers horseback riding experience along the pristine white sands of Port Olry, combining the thrill of equestrian adventure with one of Santo's most iconic coastal destinations.

With four distinct tour options ranging from 30-minute beach rides to full-day mountain expeditions, riders can explore tranquil riverbanks, breathtaking beaches and charming villages while enjoying delicious seasonal produce.

The "Sandy Saddles" 30-minute tour follows spectacular beach trails along turquoise waters, whilst the three-hour "Trails and Tides" experience blends riverbank serenity with coastal landscapes. For those seeking a more immersive adventure, the half-day "Banks, Beach and Bites" tour combines picturesque scenery with village visits and local cuisine, while the full-day "Hooves, Heights and Bites" expedition takes riders through majestic mountains, serene forests and whimsical waterways.

As long as you have patience, as this provider isn't the most punctual (which isn't the worst when you have Port Olry Beach and the Chez Louis Restaurant to enjoy).

For more encounters with nature and native species across the islands, explore 10 Best Nature & Wildlife Tours in Vanuatu LINK#TTD075.

Location:

Port Olry, Santo. Tours depart from next to Chez Louis Restaurant.

Price Range:$$

4.Santo Horse Adventures

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For a scenic and immersive way to explore Espiritu Santo, Santo Horse Adventures offers a relaxed horseback experience through some of the island’s most untouched environments.

Located just 10 minutes from Luganville, this rustic ranch-style experience begins with a warm welcome and a short riding introduction before setting off on the trails. Suitable for all levels, horses are carefully matched to each rider, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

The ride takes you along freshwater creeks, through traditional villages and past coconut plantations, before climbing to panoramic viewpoints over the island. From there, trails descend through rainforest paths leading to a white-sand beach with clear blue waters.

Small group sizes allow for a personalised experience, while facilities such as showers, refreshments and transfers add to the convenience.

Location:

Luganville, Espiritu Santo.

Price Range:$$

5.Ratua Private Island Resort

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For a truly unique island experience, Ratua Private Island Resort offers horseback riding with a memorable twist in one of Vanuatu’s most picturesque settings.

Set on a private island, this experience takes you along scenic trails through coconut plantations and across pristine white-sand beaches, showcasing the natural beauty of Espiritu Santo. The pace is relaxed, allowing you to fully take in the surroundings as you ride beneath swaying palms and along the shoreline.

The highlight comes at the end of the journey, where you’ll guide your horse into a calm, turquoise lagoon for a rare and unforgettable swim.

Riding bareback through the water creates a unique connection between rider and horse, making it a standout experience unlike any other in Vanuatu.

To learn more about the accommodation and its amenities, check out the 20 Best Luxury Accommodations in Vanuatu.

Location:

Ratua Island, just off the coast of Aore Island, Espiritu Santo.

Price Range:$$$

More About Horse Riding Tours in Vanuatu

That’s it for the best horse riding tours in Vanuatu. For more adventures like this, check out the following guides:

Finally, see more amazing experiences in theĀ 101 Best Things to Do in Vanuatu LINK#TTD066. Plus, getĀ evenĀ more tips fromĀ The Complete Travel Guide to Vanuatu LINK#TT059.