Saddle up, feel the island beneath your feet, and discover all that Vanuatu's landscape has to offer on horseback. From rainforest trails to open coastline, the trails that wind across the islands lead to some of the most unforgettable views just waiting to be explored.
Efate
The Riders' Club, based in the hills above Port Vila, is one of Vanuatu's most complete equestrian facilities, offering everything from casual trail rides to structured lessons and full club membership. The club has built a strong reputation for its well-trained, healthy horses and knowledgeable guides, with options suited to complete beginners right through to experienced riders.
Riders are matched to a horse based on ability and weight (riders must be under 90kg), with children welcome from age 6. Beyond the standard trail ride, the club also runs show jumping, dressage, cross-country events, orientation races, and pony games for younger or more playful riders — so it's worth asking what's scheduled on the day you visit.
The Riders' Club is about a 15 to 20-minute drive from central Port Vila, making it a straightforward half-day activity. Group lessons and casual rides typically run during the morning and afternoon, with monthly memberships available for visitors staying longer in Vanuatu.
Bookings can be made directly with the club or arranged through your accommodation, and it's recommended to book ahead given the range of activities on offer beyond trail riding alone.
Efate
Bellevue Horse Ranch, tucked into the hills above Port Vila, is one of Vanuatu's most established horse riding operations, 100% Ni-Vanuatu owned and run by Tom Nangam and his sons. The ranch has been welcoming riders for years, offering guided trail rides through rainforest and countryside that's only accessible through the property itself, with horses suited to everyone from young children to riders well into their 60s.
Rides typically begin at the ranch, where guides pair you with a horse suited to your experience level before setting off on trails through the surrounding hills and forest. Along the way, riders take in sweeping views over Port Vila harbour, with the ride finishing back at the ranch's bar area — a relaxed spot to unwind and watch the sunset.
Bellevue Horse Ranch is about a 20-minute drive from central Port Vila, making it an easy half-day activity rather than a full-day excursion. Most operators can arrange hotel pick-up and drop-off as part of the booking.
While rides run throughout the day, the late-afternoon slots are especially popular, timed so the ride wraps up around golden hour, with soft light over the harbour as you make your way back.
Rides can be booked directly through the ranch or arranged through your accommodation or a local travel agency.
Santo
Santo Horse Adventures, based on Espiritu Santo's East Coast, is one of the island's leading horse riding operators, known for guiding both first-time riders and experienced equestrians through some of the region's most scenic terrain. The operation is built around well-trained horses, proper riding gear, and knowledgeable local guides who tailor each ride to the group's experience level.
Rides typically begin with a briefing and horse pairing, before setting off along the East Coast — winding through lush forest, past hidden beaches, and along stretches with sweeping ocean views. The route varies depending on tides and conditions, giving each ride a slightly different feel.
Santo Horse Adventures is located a scenic drive from Luganville, making it a popular half-day or full-day activity depending on the package chosen. Many riders combine the experience with a stay at the nearby Lope Lope Adventure Lodge, turning it into an overnight escape rather than a single outing.
Rides run with flexible scheduling throughout the day, though early morning and late afternoon slots are often preferred for cooler temperatures and softer light along the coast.
Bookings can be arranged directly with the operator or through your accommodation, and it's worth booking ahead during peak travel periods given the popularity of the East Coast route.
Santo
Ratua Island, a private island just off the coast of Espiritu Santo, offers one of Vanuatu's most unique horse riding experiences home to around 15 free ranging horses based at Manade Ranch. Unlike mainland rides, this experience begins with a scenic boat crossing, setting the tone for a ride unlike anywhere else in the country.
The journey to Ratua takes roughly 35 minutes by boat from Luganville, after which guests are introduced to their horse before setting off on an hour-long ride that crosses the entire island. The route passes centuries-old trees and opens onto a shimmering emerald lagoon, with the ride finishing in true Vanuatu style a bareback swim alongside your horse in the lagoon itself.
Because access is by boat only, rides here are typically arranged as part of a day visit or overnight stay on the island, rather than a quick drop in activity. Many visitors pair the ride with lunch or a longer stay at Ratua's resort, making the most of the crossing.
Given the limited number of horses and the island's exclusive setting, rides are best booked in advance, either directly through Ratua Island or via your accommodation on Santo.