Exploring Bonaire's countryside from the back of a horse is a great way to discover a side of the island that you will never experience from the main roads!

 

At the end of the trail ride, you, as well as our horses, will enjoy a cool swim in the quiet, shallow waters of Lac Bay.

In fact, if you live near an ocean, lake, or pond, you might be tempted to try your own swimming program. Swim parallel to shore just beyond the point where your horse can touch the bottom. This allows the animal to quickly reach ground should it become tired.

When crossing bodies of water that require swimming, look for a solid, non-slippery area to enter and exit the water. Keep in the center of balance on the horse--if you slip backwards, you could hamper the hindquarter thrust of the swimming motion. The horse's head should always be free to allow for proper breathing and balance in the water.

Be extremely cautious about crossing water alone and avoid natural water sources during flood seasons. Finally, remember to keep swimming sessions short to prevent exhaustion.

This should be a positive experience for both you and your horse--not an exhausting ordeal. Horses are natural swimmers, although they can become more confident in their abilities if they are gradually acclimated to the water.