Donkey Riding

Adventure Description:

Our donkey riding adventure starts from the Beach Pavilion and last about one and half to two hours. This is a trail ride though the interior of our 200 year old farm on our Dominican Donkeys with Dominican Wooden Saddles. We will ride though the pastures where you will see cows, bulls and horses as well as variety of birds. We have documented flora and fauna for those who are particularly interested in the same and you can ask your Guide for our unique booklet. Then we will cross over though our Teak Plantations until we reach the Rio San Juan River. We will then ride north all along the winding river. Then we will head west from the river and ride through a Caribbean forest where you can see a a variety of fruit trees including Orange and Gunavana growing in the wild. If you are interested in seeing our “Cacao” plantation, please let our Guide know in advance. Our Guide will be able to explain how we process each of our plantations. We also have an alternate trail that goes along the beach, then across the Cuaco Lagoon on a wooden bridge, then all along the winding Rio San Juan River and then through the interior roads of our farm. Donkeys ride similar to Horses (although a bit slower J). If you are a beginner to riding, please let your Guide know in advance, so that we can teach you the basics separately first.

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Adventure Safety Instructions:

• If your saddle is tilting or slipping, tell your Guide to tighten the saddle immediately.
• The trail goes through a Caribbean forest so it is important that you apply insect repellent to all exposed parts of your body. We recommend that you wear long sleeves shirts and long pants. A complimentary hat with face net is available to use if you are particularly sensitive.
• Apply sun tan lotion before you leave the Beach Pavilion. Not as vital as bug spray thanks to foliage, but you’re still going to get burned if you’re not careful.
• Stay within sight of Guide and listen to instructions of Guide
• Donkeys can be spooked and these are the instances in which the majority of injuries occur. Making sure all staff and riders are aware of the dangers posed by frightened donkeys and what actions can frighten them can help prevent injuries. Some examples of things that can spook a donkey include: Sudden or unexpected movements, Sudden changes in terrain like steep downhill slope, Loud, sudden noises (alarms, whistles, bells, cell phones, screams, etc.),Large crowds, Other animals (for example, unleashed dogs), Wasps, and other insects, Ocean waves, and Camera flashes.
• Stay on designated roads, trails and other areas open to donkey use. No going off trail.
• Riders should match their skill level to the temperament and ability of the donkey they ride. If you feel that your donkey is too difficult for your riding style, immediately let your guide know.
• Our Guide carries First Aid Kit and EpiPen and we have CPR training staff available on call.
• If you fall off the donkey, move out of the way of the donkey, remain calm & call your Guide for assistance
• If you feel ill, call out to your Guide who will help you down from the donkey & assist you
• If you get hurt, call out to your Guide for assistance
• Never mix alcohol or drugs (prescription or non-prescription) with this activity.