Part of the Hawaiian archipelago in the Central Pacific, the island of Maui is an intrepid traveller’s paradise. From the sprawling Haleakala National Park, to volcanic Haleakala, to the dramatic pools and waterfalls of Ohe’o Gulch, there’s ample opportunity to get active and explore the myriad of natural landmarks that encapsulate the island. Meanwhile for the more sedate minded, 30 miles of beaches offer plenty of respite.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply a seeker of pure relaxation, there’ll be something on Maui to suit your tastes. The activities here are almost endless, and among the most popular are horseback riding tours around the island. If this takes your fancy, we’ve selected 5 of the best Maui horse riding tours currently available.
Horseback Waterfall and Ocean Tour
From $147 per person
Embark on a 2-hour horseback adventure in Maui on this action-packed, fully guided tour. After being matched with a suitable horse based on your ability, you’ll ride up into the valley of the West Maui Mountains through gulches to see captivating waterfalls in the distance. Next, you’ll head down the trail to the oceanfront to ride alongside the Pacific Ocean – weather permitting, there’ll be opportunities to run your horses if you’re confident enough. The tour also includes a visit to a local petting zoo, featuring sheep, miniature horses and rabbits.
Cowboy for a Day
From $349 per person
Step into the boots of a real life Hawaiian cowboy and take part in the day-to-day operations of a working Piiholo Ranch on this captivating 2½ hour tour. During the tour, you’ll don classic cowboy garb, mount a horse and ride through lush green pastures and fragrant eucalyptus forests, set against the backdrop of majestic ocean and Haleakala mountain views. At the ranch itself you and your group of up to 6 guests will get to join in the task of cattle sorting, riding into open pasture to round up the cattle. After the cattle work is finished, you’ll return to the Ranch Headquarters for a picnic lunch at the pavilion. This is a great way to experience authentic Paniolo practices and traditions in a safe and exciting setting. Tours run on Tuesdays and Thursdays only, and start at 10am. Picnic lunch and water are included in the price.
Ranch Picnic Tour
From $125 per person
Experience the real beauty of Old Maui on this half-day boutique tour experience, which includes a delicious picnic lunch amid stunning surroundings. Departing from one of the remaining Paniol’o working cattle ranches on Maui, either in the morning or afternoon, your private party will set off on horseback from the backside of Haleakala, winding through Maui’s cattle country and past historic sites, before stopping at a designated lookout point offering amazing views of Koho’olawe and Molokina. Under the shade of giant Ki’awe Trees, you’ll sit down to a fully catered lunch, featuring hearty beef burgers, others savoury treats, fresh fruit and delicious desserts. Afterwards, you’ll head back up to the ranch to relax and unwind before your journey home. Open range tours lasting 1.5 hours ($135) or 2 hours ($160) are also available.
The Sunset Ride
From $150 per person
This magical 1.5-hour tour invites you to ride through thick lush forest, ferns and grass lands while enjoying spectacular panoramic views of the outer islands, and closing with the chance to witness the brilliance of a Maui sunset. Tours start from Ironwood Ranch, nestled amid unspoiled mountain, rain forest and farmland above West Maui’s main resort towns, with transfers to and from the ranch available for an extra cost. Once at the ranch, you and your small, personalised group of up to 6 people will all be designated a suitable horse according to your ability before heading off on your adventure. During the tour your experienced guides will regale you with tales of the area’s ancient history. Children aged 7 and above are welcome on the tour.
Horseback Riding Tour
From $115 per person
Run by real ‘paniolos,’ the Hawaiian cowboys who make their living by ranching, roping and riding, this 2-hour tour offers guests an authentic taste of Hawaiian horse riding culture. During the tour you’ll canter across pastures with sweeping views looking out at the island’s north shore, and trek towards a valley with hidden waterfalls that splash through the West Maui rainforest. You’ll also pass through taro patches, past plantation homes and along scenic trails while enjoying spectacular sights of the countryside and the Pacific Ocean. Be sure to ask your guides to take photos of you during the adventure.
