Horseback Riding Tour at Rancho Bonanza and Cenote Swim

A lively and engaging horseback riding tour at Rancho Bonanza in Cancun offers an exciting way to explore the Riviera Maya’s lush landscapes. Priced at $149 per person, this 4.5-hour experience provides a balanced mix of nature, culture, and fun activities. The tour includes round transportation, a cenote swim, lockers and towels, and security gear, making it a convenient choice for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without hassle.

With a high recommendation rate of 91% and a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11 reviews, this tour stands out for its friendly guides, comfortable horses, and rich explanations about local flora, fauna, and Mayan legends. Suitable for people with moderate physical fitness, it’s ideal for beginner riders and families seeking a safe, educational adventure. The only notable consideration is that private transportation and photos are not included in the package.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $149 per person for 4 hours 30 minutes of adventure, including transportation.
• Activities: Guided horseback riding through jungle landscapes, swimming in a cenote, and sampling natural snacks.
• Location: Starts at El Dorado Royale, in the heart of Riviera Maya.
• Highlights: Educational guides explain local plants, animals, and Mayan culture, plus the opportunity to see monkeys and learn about native honey and chewing gum.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Suitability: Perfect for beginners or those with little riding experience; maximum weight 220 lbs/100 kg.

Starting Point at El Dorado Royale

The tour kicks off at El Dorado Royale, a well-known resort in Cancun’s Riviera Maya area. From here, guests are transported to the ranch, where the adventure begins. The pickup service simplifies logistics, ensuring a smooth start to the journey. Once at Rancho Bonanza, the environment is vibrant and welcoming, setting the tone for an engaging outdoor experience.

Exploring Rancho Bonanza’s Jungle Trails

The core of the tour involves a guided horseback ride through the exotic jungle landscapes of Riviera Maya. The guides, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, lead you through lush greenery and point out local trees, animals, and legends. It’s a calm, enjoyable ride designed to be accessible even for those new to horses and riding.

The horses are described as well cared for, and the guides provide informative explanations, making the ride both fun and educational. During the trail, guests often mention seeing monkeys, which adds a memorable touch to the scenery. The activity lasts approximately 4 hours, including transit and the riding experience, making it a comfortably paced excursion.

Learning About Local Flora, Fauna, and Mayan Culture

One of the tour’s standout features is the informative guidance from staff like Paula and Fabian, who share stories about Mayan folklore, local plants, and animals. Visitors appreciate the personalized explanations, which deepen the connection to the environment. Guests also learn about honey produced from the melipona bee and native chewing gum, adding an educational layer to the adventure.

Swimming in a Natural Cenote

Following the jungle ride, the tour takes a refreshing break at a natural cenote, where guests can swim in clear, cool waters. The tour provides towels and lockers, making the experience convenient and comfortable. The cenote offers a stunning natural setting to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Riviera Maya’s underground waters.

Enjoying Natural Snacks and Free Time

After the swim, guests are invited to spend some free time enjoying the scenic views and delicious snacks prepared by the tour team. The snacks, which include water, soft drinks, palanquetas, and chocolates, complement the outdoor activities and give an authentic taste of regional flavors.

Practical Details and Group Size

This tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly, personalized atmosphere. The moderate physical fitness requirement ensures that most participants can comfortably enjoy the activities. The maximum weight limit of 220 lbs/100 kg is important for safety and comfort.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers round transportation, swim in the cenote, lockers and towels, security gear, and drinks and snacks. However, private transportation and photos are optional extras and are not included in the standard price. Guests can purchase photos separately, although some reviews note that photo packages may have issues with missing images.

Booking, Cancellation, and Additional Info

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change. Confirmation is received immediately at booking, and travelers should have a moderate fitness level to fully enjoy the experience. The tour runs with a small group size, emphasizing quality over quantity.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The combination of a relaxed horseback ride, educational storytelling, and cenote swimming makes this experience stand out. The friendly guides and well-cared-for horses contribute greatly to its positive reputation. The focus on local culture and nature makes it especially attractive for those wanting a meaningful outdoor activity in Cancun.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour is suitable for beginners, private transportation and photo packages are not included, which could be a downside for some. Also, the group size of 15 helps prevent overcrowding but may still be a limitation for those seeking a more private experience. The maximum weight limit ensures safety but is good to note for larger guests.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This adventure appeals most to families, nature lovers, and first-time riders eager to explore the jungle environment of Riviera Maya. The educational component and the relaxed pace make it accessible and engaging for a wide range of ages. It’s a great option for those wanting a mix of outdoor activity and cultural learning without the need for prior riding experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is horseback riding suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is explicitly designed to be accessible to people with little or no riding experience, with guides ensuring safety and comfort.

What should I bring for the cenote swim?
The tour provides towels and lockers, but guests may want to bring their own swimwear, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.

How long is the horseback riding activity?
The total experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, riding, cenote swimming, and free time.

Are there any physical requirements?
Guests should have a moderate physical fitness level, and the maximum weight limit is 220 lbs (100 kg).

What is included in the price?
The package includes transportation, horseback riding, cenote swim, lockers, towels, drinks, and snacks. Photos and souvenirs are extra.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time, offering flexibility for changes.

This horseback riding adventure at Rancho Bonanza offers a compelling mix of nature, culture, and outdoor fun, making it a worthwhile choice for those visiting Cancun and seeking an authentic, educational experience in the Riviera Maya.