Lomo Forest on horseback is the antidote to a rushed Tenerife day. I like how first-timer friendly the ride is and how Nicole Werner and her team keep everything calm and step-by-step from the moment you arrive.

The biggest upside is that the trail is walk-only and designed for non-riders, with well-trained, calm horses and patient instruction. The main consideration: this tour is not for people who want speed or advanced riding, and you need to speak English, German, or Spanish because the guides do not speak French.

Key things to know before you go

• Walk-only trail: no trot, no galop, just a steady pace.
• Beginner and family setup: kids from 5 can join on the calm route.
• Language matters: you must understand English, German, or Spanish.
• Weight cap is real: up to 85 kg.
• You’ll handle the horse yourself: extra help is available, but costs more.
• Big friendly dogs live here: if you’re nervous around animals, mention it early.

Why this Lomo Forest ride works so well for first-timers

If your idea of horseback riding is a sweaty movie scene with whips and galloping horses, adjust your expectations here. This is a slow, controlled ride through the Lomo forest area, built for people who want nature time plus the comfort of a guided plan.

What I like most is the way the experience is structured for confidence. You get instruction before you ride, a helmet and gloves, and a calm horse matched to your group. The vibe stays friendly rather than tense. That matters when it’s your first time on a saddle.

The second big win is the small group limit (6 participants). With fewer people, the guide can actually pay attention to what you’re doing. In practice, that means quicker corrections, more reassurance, and less waiting around while you wonder if you’re doing it right.

Timing at Finca Estrella: the 11:00 start isn’t wasted time

Plan to arrive at 11:00 at Finca Estrella. The morning isn’t just check-in and go. It starts with cleaning the horse, saddling, and helmet prep, with explaining along the way. It’s a smart setup because it helps you get comfortable with the animal before you’re on the move.

Then the trail ride begins around 12:00, and runs until about 14:00. The overall activity window runs through the early afternoon, with the stated end time around 13:45. In other words: bring the mindset that this is a real half-day experience, not a quick 60-minute detour.

If you’re wondering whether you’ll feel rushed, the answer is usually no. The early steps take the pressure off. You’re not thrown onto the trail with zero prep, and that’s exactly what first-time riders appreciate.

What actually happens on the trail: walk-only, safe in step

The ride is intentionally simple: only walk. There is no trot and no galop. It’s designed so you can focus on staying balanced, listening to instructions, and enjoying the forest scenery rather than thinking about speed control.

The horses are described as calm and well-trained, and the guidance is steady and supportive. You’re expected to ride by yourself, but the team can help in multiple ways if you need it. Think of this as a spectrum:

• The guide can walk alongside and help with your horse.
• They can hold your horse or guide you through a tricky moment.
• You can request a full help setup with a dedicated leading person.

Just know that the more hands-on help you want, the more it costs. That’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to decide upfront.

Lomo forest scenery: nature time at a human pace

This is the kind of nature experience that works because you’re not zooming through it. At walking speed, you notice details you’d miss otherwise: the texture of the path, the shade shifting under trees, and the quiet rhythm of the group.

In several accounts, the route is also described as scenic and well-chosen. You may even get paired with horses guests have called out by name, like Coco and Romey, though your exact horse assignment depends on the day.

A practical note: since it’s a forest trail, the best approach is comfy footwear and a jacket if the weather swings. I treat this like an outdoor walk first, with the fun part (horse time) added on.

Getting help for kids and non-riders (and what costs extra)

This tour is built for beginners and people who have never ridden before, including children from 5 years old. The pace stays calm, and the structure supports families riding together. If a child is not ready to manage the ride alone, extra help is available.

Here are the stated options:

• Leading the kids on the trail costs 15 EUR extra.
• Adults can also help kids if you’re comfortable doing that.
• If you need a person walking beside you the whole time, that is also 15 EUR extra.

If you’re traveling with a mix of ages, decide early what level of support everyone needs. It’s easier to plan once you know whether you want the team to provide extra guidance or whether you’ll handle it as a family.

Language and rules: you’ll need to follow instructions fast

This is not a freestyle ride. You must speak and understand English, German, or Spanish. The team also states that they don’t speak French, so don’t count on translation.

That might sound strict, but it’s really part of the safety logic. On a horse trail, quick communication matters. You’ll feel safer when you can understand instructions the moment they’re given.

Also note that the tour is not suitable for some groups:

• Pregnant women
• People with mobility impairments, wheelchair users
• People with epilepsy
• People with animal allergies
• People who are sick or have a cold
• People over 70 years

And there’s a weight limit of up to 85 kg. One practical tip: if you’re near the upper limit, don’t wait last-minute. Confirm that you fit before you plan other activities around it.

The dogs on site: friendly, but still a factor

Finca Estrella has dogs, including big ones. The ride team notes that the dogs are friendly, but the presence matters if you’re nervous around animals.

If dogs are a trigger for you, talk to the team beforehand. That simple conversation can prevent an awkward start and help the staff set expectations for you (and for the kids).

In a place where you’re meeting horses and learning a new routine, it’s smart to keep your mind calm and focused. Handling your comfort levels early makes the ride more enjoyable.

What to bring, what to wear, and what not to do

The dress code is straightforward and practical. The goal is closed-toe protection and grip.

Bring:

• Long trousers
• Outdoor shoes (comfortable and closed-toe)
• Water
• A jacket
• Comfortable clothes

Not allowed:

• High-heeled shoes
• Sandals or flip-flops
• Pets
• Baby strollers
• Swimwear
• Alcohol and drugs
• Speakers

Small things like slippers indoors or chewing gum might sound picky, but on a stable property they keep the area clean and safe. Treat it like any outdoor animal activity: wear what you’d wear for hiking, not what you’d wear for dinner.

Price and value: why $51 can actually feel fair here

At about $51 per person, this tour is good value because the key essentials are included:

• Horse ride
• Instructor
• Helmet and gloves

You’re also getting the real “service value,” which is planning and supervision, not just access to a horse. The walk-only format, small group size, and the structured prep time all add effort behind the scenes.

What’s not included:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Food and drinks

So the true cost depends on what you need to add for your day. If you’re already able to drive or reach the meeting point, you’re set. If you need transport, budget time for the short drive and bring your own water.

Meeting point in El Amparo: avoid the steep shortcut

Getting to the stable matters because the directions are specific. The start is on the main road in El Amparo, La Vega, Cruz del Camino.

The key instruction is to stay on the main road. The team warns that using Camino el Lance is too hilly and steep, and mentions that navigation can accidentally send people that way. They also say to park uphill in front of their sign.

It’s an easy way to lose your head on a day when you’re already coordinating horses and timing. Give yourself buffer time. If you arrive early, you’ll feel calmer for the horse prep.

Who should book this horseback tour

This is a great match if:

• You’re new to horseback riding and want an easy start
• You want a calm, guided nature walk from the saddle
• You’re traveling with kids and want a route that stays controlled
• You prefer a small group and attentive instruction

It may not be for you if:

• You want trot or galop (this is walk-only)
• You need accessibility accommodations (the tour lists limits)
• You have animal allergies or strong discomfort around dogs
• You’re over 70 years old or outside the stated health limits
• You don’t speak English, German, or Spanish

If you’re fit enough to ride independently and follow instructions, you’ll likely enjoy it. The ride isn’t positioned as a medical or therapeutic activity, so think of it as an outdoors skill-building experience in a friendly setting.

Final verdict: should you book the Tenerife Lomo Forest ride?

I’d book it if you want a gentle, well-run first horseback experience with real nature time, especially if you value patient guidance. The combination of small group size, walk-only pace, and included helmet and gloves makes it feel more “organized” than many casual tours.

I’d skip it if you’re expecting excitement like a fast gallop, or if you need extra help beyond what’s available (and beyond the extra fee). Also, if dogs stress you out or you can’t communicate in English, German, or Spanish, plan a different activity.

If you decide to go, do two things for best results: wear the right shoes with long trousers, and get to Finca Estrella early so the 11:00 routine can stay relaxed. That early calm is part of what makes this ride work.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding experience?

The activity is scheduled for about 1.5 hours of horseback riding. You should plan to be at the stable at 11:00, with the trail starting around 12:00 and running until about 14:00, and returning to the stable afterward.

Is the ride only a walk, or are there faster paces?

The trail ride is walk-only. There is no trot and no galop.

Do I need any prior experience to join?

No. It’s described as suitable for non-riders and beginners, including children from 5 years old, as long as you meet the weight limit and other requirements.

What language do the guides speak?

The live guide speaks English, German, or Spanish. French is not spoken, and you need to be able to speak and understand one of the supported languages.

What is the maximum weight for the tour?

The maximum weight limit is 85 kg.

Do you offer hotel pickup and drop-off?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What should I wear and what should I avoid?

Wear long trousers and closed-toe outdoor shoes. Bring water and a jacket if needed. Avoid sandals or flip-flops, high heels, and anything that doesn’t fit the outdoor closed-toe requirement.