4WD Tours
5–6 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 91% of travellers
91% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
₹16,785
per adult
The Gold Mine Ranch
The Gold Mine Ranch
5
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
The Gold Mine Ranch is a small family owned ranch aiming to provide the best service to all guests. We have AMAZING adventure trails, and friendly well-trained horses. If you want to experience awesome horseback riding, on the beach and coast of Aruba, look no further. Let us be the highlight of your vacation! Photographers available on site.
Arikok National Park, Aruba
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Improve this listingTours and Tickets by The Gold Mine Ranch
Pack Animal Tours
90–120 minutes
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 96% of travellers
96% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
₹8,608
per adult
4WD Tours
3 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 95% of travellers
95% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
₹8,177
per adult
Pack Animal Tours
90–120 minutes
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
₹8,608
per adult
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
1,289 reviews
Excellent
1,182
Very good
67
Average
15
Poor
12
Terrible
13
Laurene T.
Austin, TX71 contributions
Oct 2020 • Couples
We booked a 2 hour private hours each tour of the island and were promptly picked up right on time at our hotel. Our driver was so sweet, and gave us great facts about the island and even stopped on the side of the road as we drove to the ranch, to tell us about unique things along the way. We were introduced to our guide, Andreas, who made sure we were comfortable and confident with our horses. We set out along the cliff side and once he felt confident in our riding, let us start to canter with the horses. He talked with us about the horses, the island, it’s history and landscape. We stopped all along the way and he was very particular in positioning us and the horses for the most amazing photo opportunities! He kept encouraging and guiding us along the ride, preparing us for changes in the terrain and readying us to gallop. He broke into several full speed gallops and had the time of our lives!! He assured us we would get the hang of it still yet, and he was NOT wrong! He took us up a mountain side and through the dessert, overlooking the ocean, for even more amazing photos. We worked our way down and took several exhilarating gallops through the dessert, while he yelped and laughed with us. I cannot recommend Gold Mine Ranch enough! Everyone there was amazing, friendly and accommodating. Our driver gave us some great dine recommendations that I couldn’t even find online, and we can’t thank them each enough!
Written 31 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brian L
3 contributions
Jan 2020
We booked a private tour due to our different experience.The hotel pick up (by Kurt if I remember his name right - also the photographer for the tour) was right on time, we had a pleasant drive to the ranch.
We were set up with our guide (Andres) and our horses. Andres was extremely accommodating with my less experience and being tentative to move faster. He arranged a couple of points where I could hang back on a different trail (otherwise the horse would want to stay with the others) which allowed my wife to take a few segments at a faster pace.
The tour itself was relaxing, the countryside offers some nice views, and we did get to briefly ride on a small beach into the shallow water.
Two comments; one, as horse owners, we agree with other reviewers that it appears these horses are well cared for and seem to enjoy their job, they are on the smallish side, I would classify them as ponies. That was a good thing though, I get uncomfortable on larger horses. They were a bit smaller than our horses at home. There was nothing hidden, we were even allowed to roam around the stalls after our ride.
Second, photos are offered at the outset. Contrary to other tours, I found these to be an amazing bargain and strongly encourage you to opt in. Instead of a photo print for $10 or $20, the photographer drives and runs around the area to capture photos through a good part of the start of the ride. He gets many angles and locations including at the water. The number of photos may vary, in our package he had over 80 which for $50 are sent as a download to your device or computer where you can save or print them. And they came out great, terrific memory at a great price.
Remember to wear long pants and good shoes, no flip flops here. I did suffer saddle sores as I was getting bounced around a bit, don't be afraid to tell your guide to slow down if that's an issue. You will be given your own locker to store anything that might fall off - really, leave the phone, if you opt for the photos you won't need to take pictures and you shouldn't 'text and drive'.
This was my wife's favorite activity in our stay, and she rated it much higher than our previous trip with another provider 17 years ago, thanks to the condition of the horses and how they are cared for, and the courtesy of the men at the ranch. I admit I enjoyed the UTV adventure more, but that's because I'm comfortable behind the wheel much more than in a saddle.
We were set up with our guide (Andres) and our horses. Andres was extremely accommodating with my less experience and being tentative to move faster. He arranged a couple of points where I could hang back on a different trail (otherwise the horse would want to stay with the others) which allowed my wife to take a few segments at a faster pace.
The tour itself was relaxing, the countryside offers some nice views, and we did get to briefly ride on a small beach into the shallow water.
Two comments; one, as horse owners, we agree with other reviewers that it appears these horses are well cared for and seem to enjoy their job, they are on the smallish side, I would classify them as ponies. That was a good thing though, I get uncomfortable on larger horses. They were a bit smaller than our horses at home. There was nothing hidden, we were even allowed to roam around the stalls after our ride.
Second, photos are offered at the outset. Contrary to other tours, I found these to be an amazing bargain and strongly encourage you to opt in. Instead of a photo print for $10 or $20, the photographer drives and runs around the area to capture photos through a good part of the start of the ride. He gets many angles and locations including at the water. The number of photos may vary, in our package he had over 80 which for $50 are sent as a download to your device or computer where you can save or print them. And they came out great, terrific memory at a great price.
Remember to wear long pants and good shoes, no flip flops here. I did suffer saddle sores as I was getting bounced around a bit, don't be afraid to tell your guide to slow down if that's an issue. You will be given your own locker to store anything that might fall off - really, leave the phone, if you opt for the photos you won't need to take pictures and you shouldn't 'text and drive'.
This was my wife's favorite activity in our stay, and she rated it much higher than our previous trip with another provider 17 years ago, thanks to the condition of the horses and how they are cared for, and the courtesy of the men at the ranch. I admit I enjoyed the UTV adventure more, but that's because I'm comfortable behind the wheel much more than in a saddle.
Written 13 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear guest,
Thank you for your wonderful review. It's true, the horses in Aruba are smaller breeds, which is why we have strict weight & height limits. We're all animal lovers and we take very good care of all the animals on the farm. We also have rescued horses, dogs, and cats.
About the photos- those who opt for them know that it's a great deal! It's not an easy job running around back there to capture all those great memories. And it's really an added service for your convenience. All you have to do is relax and enjoy the ride. We really shouldn't be texting and driving lol!
Greetings from Aruba : )
Written 23 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Steven D
Cold Lake, Alberta, Canada21 contributions
Jun 2023
We booked the private paradise tour. It was fantastic, it was only my wife and I and our guide, Jesus. The horses were great (although my wife's horse, Napoleon, didn't like going in the water!). It is on the windward side of the island (so obviously, very windy), so don't wear anything that can blow away. All the staff wear long sleeve shirts and face covers, I would recommend doing that too (some ATV tours use the same area, and they kick up a lot of dust). I would recommend paying the extra for the private tour, it was really nice to not have to go in a larger group.
Written 9 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
michema5
Bridgeport, WV9 contributions
Jul 2022
Our family group of 8 people really enjoyed our private horseback tour with GoldMine Ranch. The friendly, enthusiastic owner picked us up at our hotel in his van and told us about the history of the island along the way. After a short drive to the ranch, we were given safety instructions and provided helmets for anyone that wanted one. We enjoyed the the beautiful coastal scenery, so different from the other side of Aruba near the resorts. Our 10 yr old daughter was able to ride by herself. The three Ranch employees that led our group were fun, skilled, and professional and made sure that we arrived safely back at the ranch. Would highly recommend this tour.
Written 2 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting, and for your kind review.
Written 4 August 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kimberly R
Milford, CT24 contributions
Nov 2020 • Family
Knowledgeable crew and great photographs made this trip memorable. The guides were great, even with a little girl crying on her horse halfway through - they were able to encourage her and by the end she was smiling so much. Thanks for the experience!
Written 22 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you, means a lot to us, especially during these hard times.
Written 15 December 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
marvajondagunda
Central Connecticut12 contributions
Jun 2023
Our first time in Aruba and my wife's first time on a horse. We decided to do the "Regular Morning Ride". We set it all up online and they picked us up at the hotel and dropped us off at the hotel after. Our driver (I'm terrible with names) was a great guy too! 8th generation fishing family in Aruba and very interesting to talk to so catch his ear if you want to learn some neat stuff about the island and his family. The guides were great also, Very capable of keeping everything in control and the horses in line when needed which was very little. The horses for the most part seem to know their roles and they pretty much do what they are used to doing. We saw some incredible sights and had a great time. I would definitely do this again when I go back and the tour is good for anyone from beginner to expert. I would definitely recommend wearing long pants. One of the gals had shorts on and her legs were irritated from the saddle. Sunscreen too, no shade out there!
Written 18 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Penni A
St. John's, Canada7 contributions
Feb 2023 • Couples
We've participated in many horseback trail rides in various countries while on vacation but this has definitely been the best so far. Right from the pickup which we entered the wrong hotel but they still sorted it out for us and came to get us. The horses are well loved and looked after and the guide was amazing. He had complete control of the horses with just his voice and signals. This is the first tour that we've done that they allow you to gallop. There was a couple on our tour that had never been horse riding before and he had them galloping like they were pros. The tour is the perfect length, taking us to see the gold mine ruins, the baby bridge, the beach, even riding through the water. The guide stopped to take pictures on our phone throughout. Would highly recommend this tour and would book it again next time we are in Aruba.
Written 7 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Melissa F
35 contributions
Nov 2020 • Couples
This small family owned business is great. It was easy to use the online booking system. And transportation was provided and they came and picked us up from our hotel and about a 15 minute ride later we were at the farm. The staff are all very friendly and caring. We started off our horseback riding adventure with a little bit of light rain that slowly turned into a downpour, but it was a beautiful and wonderful experience. I felt very safe on the horses and I felt the staff were all very knowledgeable. They really care about their animals here at this farm. The farm is strict about the weight limit on the animals so the horses doesn’t get hurt. You won’t be disappointed in the experience.
Written 10 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you this really means a lot to us.
Written 15 December 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
David F
South Carolina89 contributions
Jun 2024 • Couples
Great way to end a two week trip in Aruba! The staff was extremely helpful in rescheduling our ride due to a very rare rain day. The guides were pleasant, knowledgable and fun. It had been over 20 years since either of us had ridden, but no issues. Mainly walking, some trotting and a couple of canters, but they really gear the ride to your skill level. Wear long pants, if possible, because some of the tackle for the stirrups is not as smooth as others. Gorgeous afternoon ride with stunning scenery and beautiful animals that are well taken care for.
Written 14 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Apw
21 contributions
Dec 2020
We were picked up promptly at our hotel for the morning ride on Christmas day.. Johnny, our driver was nice and fun. The facility is clean and the horses looked healthy. Our horses were Elegance, Baby, Maria and Colorado :) There were 7 adults and 3 kids (8,9,10) in our group with 2 guides. Our guides Candy and Andre were attentive to the children and yet the children did have room to control the horses themselves. The scenery was beautiful. Curt followed the group and took amazing photos for us to purchase if you like it at the end. We recommend this experience for those interested!
Written 26 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for riding with us!
Written 28 December 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We are wanting to book a horseback tour but when I try to book I am only offered the Morning Tour. We want to do the afternoon tour. Can you help me with the booking? We are visiting Aruba in January 2020.
Written 12 October 2019
Hi Tammy,
The afternoon tour is the Cool paradise tour that starts at 4:00pm
You can also book it directly on our website if it's easier.
Thank you,
Gill
Written 13 October 2019
I have a 3 year old kid. Can I have him sit with me on same horse. If yes then how much more would it cost?
Written 26 September 2019
We have a minimum age requirement of 6 to ride. Children 4-5 years-old can ride with a parent on a private tour. As young as 3 is not recommended.
Written 26 September 2019
From people that gave up. Because the money time and maybe a lot of job sickness ect.. And some time when we see a mal nutricion horse by people that realy can not, we suggest them to deliver the horse to us. If they dont we tell them that we will call the police for them because animal abuse. And some time people that go back to their country call us to come pick up theire horses. We start 4th of january 2004 with 4 horses. I must say also that a bal hey cost on this Island 34 dollars every ting is inportant. Not every body can affort a horse. We rescue every thing now a day. We love animals. Because they are god creation. Now a day we breedted our own horses. We cure sick horses that the vet canot cure any more, like open face parasit nails problem ect.. also with natural medicine plant like aloevera oil sea salt water and other plant. Also by insident we got expensive horses because defect like bad nees or legs or hips. And we cure all them. Therefore now a day we have beautyfull horses. Colombian trocha mostly.
Written 20 February 2019
Is a real ride in the beach or nearby the beach ? Your guides speak English ?
Written 12 February 2019
Hello,
Yes our guides speak English. We are located on the coast with ocean view during the full tour. You also get to ride in the water with the horse (up to knee height).
Best regards
Written 12 February 2019
We are a family of three. Is there a better time to participate in the store? I noticed that there are morning and afternoon towards available. I’m also reading conflicting reports about wearing a hat. Can you please confirm? We are staying at the Marriott Aruba and want to confirm that pick up is available as well.
Written 13 December 2018
A hat is difficult to wear as it's very windy as it is in Aruba, plus on horseback it'll likely fly right off. When you book, make sure to request a pick up and they will come to the hotel to come get you.
Written 2 January 2019
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