Nancy's ride at the Calbagata in Arenal, Costa Rica

I had such a wonderful time at the Cabalgata here in Arenal! It was quite and experience with all of the “Tico” riders and their beautiful horses and attire! The ride began in El Castillo, a beautiful village on Lake Arenal and the Arenal Volcano.  They kick off the celebration with good food and lots of beer. It would be interesting to see what happens with all of that beer and then horses, but to my surprise, not an accident one! These cowboys can stay on their horses with their eyes closed riding backwards! They were amazing! We then rode down to lake and crossed several rivers into the tropical rainforest which surrounds the Lake and Volcano area..gorgeous! We saw the howler monkeys and lots of amazing birds… and then back up the “Mirador” at Rancho Margot for an amazing traditional lunch…and more beer. After a return back to the village, the real festivities really begin…D.J., dancing, raffles, etc. I won two tickets to the Eco Zoo!  Gurrion, my amazing horse and friend, took such great care of me on this all day event. I was so proud of him. This was my first event, so Gurrion was anxious to show me all of his fancy moves. He is a great dancer/rodeo horse, so this was right up his alley! I must admit, I don’t really know the drill, so Lilander, my close cowboy friend, got on him and showed everyone all of his fancy dancing…I was quite impressed with Gurrion, and Lilander too. It was a proud moment that I will cherish forever! I will do it again next year!

Nancy