Horse Back Ridding Tour on the Pacific Ocean & Desert

If you’re considering a unique way to explore the rugged coastlines and arid landscapes of Cabo San Lucas, a horseback riding tour along the Pacific Ocean and nearby desert sounds promising. While we haven’t personally saddled up on this specific tour, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal a surprisingly well-rounded experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and friendly guidance.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning views of the Pacific from the beach and cliffs are a highlight. Second, the experienced bilingual guides make the journey both educational and entertaining. Third, the no experience necessary approach means anyone from seasoned riders to complete beginners can enjoy it. On the flip side, travelers should keep in mind the $25 conservation fee and the fact that the tour is relatively short — about 3 hours — which might feel limited for those craving a longer adventure. This experience seems ideal for families, couples, or friends seeking a relaxed, scenic outing in Cabo that’s accessible to all.

Good To Know

• Scenic Views: Experience breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and desert landscapes.
• Inclusive for All Skill Levels: No prior riding experience needed, making it suitable for beginners.
• Expert Guides: Bilingual guides provide informative commentary and support throughout.
• Transport & Convenience: Pickup from your hotel and round-trip transportation simplify logistics.
• Additional Fees: Be aware of a $25 USD land conservation fee per person.
• Authentic Experience: Less commercialized than larger outfits, offering a more intimate encounter.

A Deep Dive into the Horseback Riding Experience in Cabo

Starting Point: Margaritas Ranch and the Pickup Process

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, which adds a layer of convenience and comfort. Transportation takes you roughly 15.5 miles north of Cabo San Lucas to Margaritas Ranch, situated on the Pacific side. From the reviews, we gather that the pickup process is smooth, with friendly drivers who help set the tone for the adventure. This door-to-door service means you won’t have to worry about arranging transport—plus, it’s one less thing to think about.

The Journey to Migriño and the Rancho

Once at the ranch, you’ll find yourself near some of the most picturesque scenery Cabo has to offer. The ranch serves as a base where the horses are well cared for, and guides prepare you for the trail ahead. The setting is described as a perfect mix of desert, mountain, and beach views, which makes for a diverse and engaging backdrop.

The Horses and the Ride: What to Expect

Guided by an expert, often bilingual, the ride lasts around 3 hours. As one reviewer, Dennece_K, pointed out, “the horses were easy”, indicating that the horses are well-trained and suitable for riders of varying experience levels. This is great news for beginners who might feel a little nervous, knowing they’re in capable hands.

The route takes you along sandy beaches, where you can enjoy the refreshing ocean breezes and panoramic views of the Pacific. Riders are matched with horses that fit their comfort level, and guides keep a close watch to ensure safety and engagement. The ride also includes insights into the natural and cultural history of the area, making the journey not just scenic but also enriching.

Highlights of the Landscape and Views

Travelers consistently mention the stunning vistas, especially the views from cliffs overlooking the beach. One reviewer, Martha_O, loved that the tour took them around “a cliff on the beach,” offering picture-perfect moments that are hard to find elsewhere. These views are especially rewarding for those who love landscape photography or simply want to soak in natural beauty.

Cultural and Natural Commentary

Along the way, guides share stories about the area’s early settlers and natural life, adding depth to the experience. This element of cultural storytelling enhances the ride, making it more meaningful than just a scenic trek. The guides, like Gabriel, are praised for matching riders well and keeping a careful, engaging watch over the group, regardless of varying riding experience.

The Experience Back at the Ranch

After the ride, many reviews mention the warmth of the people back at the ranch, where friendly staff and guides create a welcoming atmosphere. The common thread is a sense of authenticity — this isn’t a overly commercialized tourist trap but a genuine, intimate experience that leaves visitors with memorable stories.

Included and Additional Costs

Your tour fee of $85 per person includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, bottled water, and the horseback riding experience itself. However, be prepared for an extra $25 USD land conservation fee per person, which is standard for environmental preservation efforts in the area. This fee isn’t included in the initial price and should be factored into your overall budget.

Note: Food, drinks, and gratuities are not included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan for a meal afterward. The tour’s short duration makes it easy to combine with other Cabo activities.

Group Size and Booking Details

The tour accommodates up to 15 travelers, ensuring a relatively small and intimate group that allows for personalized guidance. Booking is usually done at least 60 days in advance, which indicates its popularity, especially among those wanting a reliable, organized experience.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Weight limit: The maximum weight per person is 120 kg or 265 pounds, so plan accordingly.
• Weather dependence: The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are poor, your booking can be canceled for a full refund or rescheduled.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for riding.
• Additional fees: Remember the $25 conservation fee — it’s paid directly at the ranch before the ride.
• Experience level: No prior riding experience necessary, but if you are an experienced rider, you might find the ride relaxed and more about the scenery than pure adventure.

Authentic Reviews: What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently highlight the guides’ professionalism and warmth. Dennece_K praised Gabriel for matching everyone well and maintaining a careful watch, which is reassuring for nervous first-timers. Martha_O shared that they loved the “hidden gem” vibe of the tour, appreciating the less crowded environment and the stunning views from a cliff on the beach.

The scenery itself is a major hit. The ride along the beach and on cliffs offers spectacular photo opportunities, and many mention the cool ocean breezes that make the ride comfortable even on warmer days.

Another point of praise is the friendly staff and authentic feel of the ranch experience. Many reviewers express a desire to return, citing the natural beauty and personalized attention as key reasons.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This horseback riding tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic experience that balances adventure with comfort. It’s particularly suitable for families with children, couples, or groups of friends who want to enjoy a beautiful outdoor activity without the need for advanced riding skills.

Those with a love for natural landscapes, photography, or cultural stories about the area will find this tour especially rewarding. Since the experience isn’t overly long, it fits well into a broader day of exploring Cabo’s other attractions.

Final Thoughts

For around $85, this horseback riding adventure offers a genuine touch of Cabo’s natural beauty, blending beach, desert, and mountain landscapes. The expert guides, beautiful scenery, and authentic atmosphere create a memorable outing that caters to all experience levels.

While the $25 conservation fee adds a small extra cost, it supports preserving this stunning environment. The short duration makes it a perfect add-on to other activities, especially if you want a leisurely, scenic break from more adrenaline-pumping pursuits.

In summary, this tour is a great value for those who want to see Cabo from a different perspective — on horseback, with plenty of photo ops, and with knowledgeable guides to enhance the journey.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel to Margaritas Ranch is provided, making the experience hassle-free.

Do I need riding experience?
No. The tour is suitable for all levels, including beginners, and horses are matched to your comfort.

What is the tour duration?
Approximately 3 hours, including transportation, riding, and the return trip.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, there’s a $25 USD land conservation fee per person, payable at the ranch.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for riding are recommended.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on safety and no experience required suggests it’s family-friendly, but check with the tour provider for age restrictions.

What do I need to bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, and any personal items; snacks or additional drinks are not included.

Is this experience good for photography?
Absolutely. The scenic views along cliffs, beaches, and desert landscapes are perfect for photos.