Krakow: Zakopane Horseback Ride & Cheese Tasting & Cable Car

Planning a day trip from Kraków that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and local flavors? This private tour to Zakopane ticks all those boxes. It offers a personalized experience with a personal driver, making every step relaxed and flexible. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned explorer, you’ll find plenty to love in this well-rounded day out in the Tatra Mountains.

What really stands out is the chance to enjoy horseback riding through rivers, forests, and mountain trails, paired with tasting authentic Highlander cheese (oscypek). Plus, the panoramic views from the Gubaówka cable car are simply unforgettable. That said, the tour packs a lot into just nine hours, so it’s best suited for those who aren’t seeking a slow, leisurely pace.

If you’re craving a taste of mountain life, stunning vistas, and local traditions—all wrapped into a private and comfortable day—this experience will likely suit you perfectly. Just be prepared for a full day of outdoor fun and scenic sightseeing.

Key Points

• Tailored Experience: Private transport and flexible itinerary ensure a personalized day.
• Authentic Activities: Horseback riding and cheese tasting bring you closer to local traditions.
• Spectacular Views: The Gubaówka cable car offers breathtaking Tatra Mountain panoramas.
• Beginner-Friendly: No experience needed for horseback riding, with instructor guidance.
• Time-Efficient: All this packed into a 9-hour window, with options to extend.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pick-up/drop-off with snacks and drinks included.

An Honest Look at the Experience

This tour offers an appealing blend of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty, all tailored to a private group. From the moment your personal driver picks you up in Kraków, you’re treated to a scenic drive that sets the tone for a day of exploration. Expect a comfortable ride, with the option for drinks and snacks in the car, which really helps keep everyone energized.

The Early Stop: Highlander Cheese Tasting

Your first stop is a traditional shepherds’ hut, known locally as a bacówka. Here, you get to see how Highlander cheese, or oscypek, is made—an experience in itself. You’ll have the opportunity to grill the cheese yourself, then taste it paired with cranberry sauce. This authentic experience is more than just a snack; it’s a glimpse into mountain culture that’s both tasty and memorable. Reviewers appreciated the relaxed pace here, noting that the hosts were friendly and eager to share their craft.

Horseback Riding: A Gentle Adventure

Next, the focus shifts to horseback riding—one of the tour’s main highlights. The ride lasts about 1.5 hours, taking you through rivers, meadows, and forest paths. What makes this special is the inclusive approach: even beginners are welcomed, thanks to pre-ride training and instructors guiding you along the way. Several reviewers highlighted that the horses are calm and well-trained, making it a stress-free experience for first-timers.

Multiple guests mentioned that the scenery during the ride is breathtaking, with lush greenery and the distant peaks of the Tatra Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. The ride isn’t a rigorous trail—it’s designed for enjoyment and photo ops, so don’t worry about speed or stamina.

Gubaówka Cable Car & Scenic Views

After riding, you ascend aboard the Gubaówka cable car, which takes you high into the mountains. The ride itself is short but offers spectacular panoramic views of Zakopane and the surrounding peaks. Once at the top, you’ll find a self-guided area where you can soak in vistas, browse local shops, or enjoy some summer activities like a giant slide (summer) or light displays (winter).

Guests mention that the views are absolutely worth the trip, with some calling it “the highlight of the day.” Even those who are not avid hikers find this part of the tour rewarding, thanks to the ease of the cable car and the accessible viewing platforms.

Exploring Zakopane’s Krupówki Street

The final stop is the bustling Krupówki Street, Zakopane’s main promenade. Here, you’ll have free time to stroll, shop for souvenirs, or sample more local food. The street’s wooden houses and lively atmosphere give a real sense of mountain life. Reviewers appreciated the chance to soak in the mountain town’s vibe and pick up unique crafts or snacks to take home.

Returning to Kraków

After a full day, your driver will bring you back comfortably, with some light refreshments available in the vehicle. The entire experience is designed to be seamless and personalized, with the flexibility to extend the tour from 8 to 10 hours if you wish to spend more time exploring Zakopane.

In-Depth: What Makes This Tour Valuable?

What sets this experience apart is the combination of activities—each one complements the next, creating a well-rounded day that’s both active and relaxed. The horseback riding gives you an authentic taste of mountain life, especially since no prior riding experience is needed. Many reviews mention that the instructors are friendly and make beginners feel comfortable, which is crucial for a seamless experience.

The cheese tasting at a traditional bacówka adds cultural depth, allowing you to connect with local Highlander traditions. Plus, grilling your own cheese enhances the sensory experience beyond just eating.

From a scenic perspective, the Gubaówka cable car offers not just stunning views but a sense of elevation that makes you appreciate the grandeur of the Tatra Mountains. Several guests comment that the vistas are unforgettable, especially when the weather cooperates.

Value for Money

At $333 per person, this tour offers good value for a full day of private, personalized activities. The inclusion of transportation, guided horseback riding, cheese tasting, cable car tickets, and free time in Zakopane makes it a comprehensive experience. Compared to group tours or independent trips, the private aspect ensures your itinerary is flexible and tailored.

Some reviewers noted that the experience is perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace over a hectic schedule, allowing you to enjoy each activity at your own speed. While the price is on the higher side compared to solo transportation or basic sightseeing, the added value of authentic experiences and comfort justifies it.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable outdoor clothes and sturdy shoes suitable for riding and walking.
• Check the weather forecast; activities may be adjusted in bad weather.
• Even if you’re inexperienced, don’t worry—guides are attentive and supportive.
• Extend the tour if you want more time in Zakopane’s charming streets.
• Bring a camera—scenery and moments worth capturing are everywhere.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip appeals most to travelers who love nature, scenic views, and cultural authenticity. It’s ideal for those who want a personalized, relaxed experience that combines activity with leisure. Because of the beginner-friendly horseback riding and flexible itinerary, it suits first-time visitors or families.

It’s also a great choice for adventure seekers who want to explore the mountains without strenuous hiking, and for anyone eager to taste local foods in an authentic setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a slow-paced, museum-type experience or are looking for activities that are accessible for all mobility levels, this might not be the best fit.

In summary, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of mountain adventure, cultural insight, and stunning scenery—delivered with a personal touch that makes it stand out.

FAQ

Is the horseback riding suitable for beginners?
Yes. No prior experience is required. An instructor provides pre-ride training to ensure everyone is comfortable.

How long is the horseback ride?
The ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, taking you through rivers, meadows, and forest trails.

What can I expect at the cheese tasting?
You’ll visit a traditional shepherd’s hut, grill and taste fresh Highlander cheese, known as oscypek, paired with cranberry sauce.

Is the Gubaówka cable car ride worth it?
Absolutely. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains and Zakopane, often highlighted as a tour highlight.

How much free time do I have in Zakopane?
You’ll have around an hour to explore Krupówki Street, shop, or grab a bite.

Can I extend the tour?
Yes, the experience can be extended from 8 to 10 hours for an extra fee, allowing more time in Zakopane.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, along with sturdy shoes for riding and walking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for those comfortable with outdoor activities; however, very young children might need to be evaluated based on the activity’s nature.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, snacks and drinks are available in the private car, making the day more comfortable.

What languages does the driver speak?
The driver speaks English, Polish, Russian, and Ukrainian, ensuring smooth communication.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this private trip to Zakopane means opting for a personalized, relaxed adventure in Poland’s stunning mountain scenery. You’ll enjoy a mix of authentic cultural experiences—cheese grilling, horseback riding—and breathtaking views from the cable car. It’s a well-rounded day that balances activity with leisure, perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with the landscape and local traditions.

The flexibility of the itinerary, the friendly guides, and the focus on comfort make it stand out among mountain excursions from Kraków. It’s especially suited for travelers craving scenic beauty, mountain air, and authentic moments without the stress of a large group or rigid schedule.

Whether it’s your first visit to Zakopane or a repeat trip to the Tatra Mountains, this tour offers enough variety and intimacy to make your day memorable—and maybe even leave you planning your next mountain adventure.