Horseback Riding Tour in Cabo San Lucas

Experience the Beauty of Baja California with a Horseback Ride in Cabo San Lucas

For lovers of outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes, the Horseback Riding Tour in Cabo San Lucas offers a memorable journey through the region’s diverse terrains. Priced at $56 per person, this approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes tour provides a blend of desert, beach, and ocean views, led by knowledgeable guides. The tour is suitable for travelers aged 6 and above, with no experience required, thanks to the well-trained horses matched to each rider’s skill level.

This tour is especially popular, with over 379 reviews and a strong 4.5-star rating, and it’s booked more than 10 times last week. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes the logistics effortless, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the ride. While most participants praise the scenery, guide expertise, and the relaxed pace, some reviews mention occasional issues with organization or safety, so it’s wise to stay attentive during the experience.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $56 per person and lasts around 3 hours and 35 minutes.
• Pickup and Transportation: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cabo San Lucas via air-conditioned minivan.
• Scenic Routes: Ride past pristine beaches, desert landscapes with high cacti, and ocean-side cliffs.
• Expert Guides and Horses: Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and horses are suitable for all skill levels.
• Photo Opportunities: Stops are made to photograph dramatic landscapes and exotic flora.
• Additional Costs: There’s a $20 entrance fee for the park, with a $10 discount if you bring your own transportation.

Starting at Rancho Carisuva: A Traditional Baja California Ranch

The adventure begins at Rancho Carisuva, a genuine Baja California ranch known for conservation efforts and authentic atmosphere. Upon arrival, you’ll receive an orientation from a rancher who matches you with a horse suited to your experience, whether you’re a beginner or more seasoned rider. The ranch setting feels genuine, emphasizing respect for the land and animals.

The tour includes a professional guide who ensures your safety and comfort throughout. As the tour starts, you’ll be led onto your horse, and the guides take care to match your skill level, making this experience accessible for children as young as 6 years old. The ranch scenery sets a peaceful tone, with lush paddocks and an authentic ranch environment that enhances the overall experience.

Riding Along the Pacific Coast: Beaches and Cliffs

One of the highlights of this tour is the opportunity to canter along the Pacific coastline. Riders pass pristine beaches where they can enjoy sweeping ocean views, and cliffs that tumble into the sea create dramatic backdrops. The pace is controlled to cater to all skill levels, but for those who wish to gallop, the guides sometimes allow a brief run on the beach.

The coastal stretch provides excellent photo opportunities, with rocky cliffs and white sand beaches framing the journey. Participants often appreciate how the guides help them capture these moments, adding to the memory of the day. The combination of desert terrain with tall cacti and ocean vistas offers a varied landscape unlike any other in the area.

Stopping for Photos: Desert Flora and Panoramic Views

Throughout the ride, short stops are made at points of interest for photos and sightseeing. Riders can capture images of 20-foot-high cacti, exotic desert plants, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. These stops are spaced to allow riders to rest, take in the scenery, and get some memorable shots.

The lookout points offer sweeping vistas, where the desert meets the sea, creating breathtaking contrasts. The guides are knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna, often sharing interesting facts, which enhances the experience for those curious about the environment. These photo stops are a favorite among participants, offering both scenic views and unique flora.

The Experience of Riding Through Desert and Beach

The ride takes participants through a desert trail filled with cacti, then transitions seamlessly onto beachfront sections for a relaxing stroll or canter along the surf. Riders get a taste of the diverse landscapes that define Baja California.

Some reviews mention the horses’ well-being, describing them as calm and well cared for, which adds to the sense of safety and comfort. The tour also allows for some galloping on the beach for more experienced riders, making it a versatile adventure suitable for most.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a small-group experience with personalized attention from the guides. The pickup service is reliable, with transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan from your Cabo San Lucas hotel. The tour operates with a multilingual guide, making it accessible to a diverse group.

Most travelers find the timing well-paced, with enough stops to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The total trip includes transportation, the ride, and stops for photos, with a relaxed itinerary that balances adventure and leisure.

Food, Drinks, and Additional Costs

The tour includes snacks but does not provide full meals or beverages. It’s recommended to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light jacket, especially for early mornings or windy days. Participants are advised to wear pants and comfortable shoes suitable for riding.

An entrance fee of $20 applies to access the park, which is payable on-site. There is a $10 discount per person if you choose to come with your own transportation, offering some flexibility on costs.

Safety and Notable Incidents

While most reviews praise the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, a few reviews highlight safety concerns. One review describes an incident where horses were spooked by dogs on the beach, causing a rider to fall and requiring attention. Another review notes a situation where horses took off at full speed, with a rider falling and not receiving immediate medical help.

Although such incidents are rare, they emphasize the importance of paying attention during the ride and following guide instructions. The staff has a formal injury report system, but some travelers feel safety procedures could be improved.

Customer Service and Overall Satisfaction

The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and patience. Many reviewers note that guides go beyond the basics to share insights about local wildlife, history, and the environment. The staff’s genuine care for the animals and land is evident, adding authenticity to the experience.

Participants frequently mention the beautiful scenery, the opportunity to ride on both desert and beach terrains, and the high-quality horses as key highlights. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, making it suitable for families, couples, or groups celebrating special occasions.

Final Verdict: Balancing Adventure and Scenic Beauty

The Horseback Riding Tour in Cabo San Lucas offers a value-packed experience, blending natural beauty, friendly guides, and authentic Baja landscapes. It’s a great choice for those looking for a gentle ride that still offers exciting moments on the beach and photo opportunities of striking scenery.

While occasional safety concerns are noted, the overall experience is highly praised, especially for its scenic diversity and professional staff. The tour suits most travelers, from beginners to more experienced riders, and those interested in a relaxed, scenic adventure in a genuine ranch setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is horseback riding suitable for children?
Yes, children as young as 6 years old can participate, provided they are comfortable with riding and are accompanied by an adult.

Are the horses suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The horses are matched to your skill level, making this tour accessible for beginners and experienced riders alike.

What should I bring for the ride?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a light jacket, pants, and comfortable shoes suitable for riding. It’s also helpful to have your camera for photos.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there is a $20 entrance fee to access the park, with a $10 discount if you bring your own transportation.

How long is the entire experience?
The total tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes, including transportation, riding, and photo stops.

What safety measures are in place?
Guides are trained to ensure safety, but some reviews indicate that safety could be improved, especially in handling unexpected horse reactions.

Can I gallop on the beach?
Yes, experienced riders may be allowed to gallop at certain points, depending on guidance and horse behavior.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, a different date or full refund is offered.

How do I book and cancel?
Reservations can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds available if canceled in time.

Would we do this tour again?
Many participants express a desire to return, citing the beautiful scenery and friendly guides as reasons to repeat the experience.