Our trip to Costa Rica provided our family with lots of new experiences and adventures.  When we were in Cahuita, we went horseback riding on the beach and through the rainforest. It was amazing and the view from the top of the horse gave us a magnificent perspective. Nevertheless, I have to admit, I am still torn about the environmental impact the horses make on the beach and rainforest.

There are two beaches in Cahuita, Playa Blanca, where the Parque Nacional Cahuita (National Park) is, and Playa Negra which is more rugged and where they allow horseback riding. There are two companies that provide horseback riding in Cahuita we chose Brigitte’s Tours. I had never ridden a horse on the beach nor through a rainforest before and it was a fantastic experience. Mathew had a ball, as this was the first time he rode a horse all by himself. We even trotted a couple times along the beach. He did great and kept saying, “This is AWESOME!” And it really was.

I was grateful the beach was rather deserted and we weren’t interrupting other people’s fun. Then one of the horses relieved himself, it made me even happier that people weren’t around and would not need to negotiate where there were walking. However, it did make me think about the environmental impact we were making. Sure, the companies are small and are limited by the number of horses they own, so most horseback riding parties are rarely larger than 6.  Yes, the solution to pollution is dilution and most of the waste left on the beach washes away, but I am sure there is a negative impact nonetheless.

I have to say that Costa Rica is one of the most environmentally conscious countries I have ever visited. They do walk the talk and it was obvious everywhere we traveled; recycling and conservation was practiced and preached far and wide. I guess I need to believe they have weighed the pro and cons and decided to allow horseback riding because it has a minimal impact – it really was AWESOME and I am so grateful that we had the opportunity to experience it.

Taking a break and enjoying some coconut water.

Do you think of the impact you are making when you travel or explore beautiful areas? Please share, and I will continue to share.