Climbing and Rappel for Beginners in Peña de Bernal Queretaro offers an exciting way to see one of the world’s tallest monoliths. This tour is perfect for those who want a taste of adventure without prior experience, thanks to professional guides and all the necessary equipment included.
What we love about this experience is the combination of accessible adventure, spectacular scenery, and the chance to learn new skills in a safe environment. The views from the top of Peña de Bernal are nothing short of breathtaking, and you get to enjoy them from over 250 meters high. Plus, the guides are certified, making safety a clear priority.
One thing to consider is the early start time—at 7:00 am—meaning you’ll want to wake up a little earlier than usual. It’s a small trade-off for the cooler morning air and quieter setting. This tour is especially suited for active travelers looking for an adrenaline rush paired with natural beauty, and those eager to tick off a unique experience in Mexico.
Good To Know
- Beginner-friendly: No prior experience needed, with full safety instruction.
- Stunning vistas: Panoramic views of Querétaro from over 250 meters high.
- All-inclusive: Equipment, access, and guides are provided.
- Small group size: Max 20 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
- Early start: Begins at 7:00 am, ideal for cooler, less crowded conditions.
- Weather dependent: Activity may be canceled in poor weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds.
An Overview of the Experience

This tour promises a full morning of adventure, starting with an easy 35-minute walk through beautiful surroundings to reach the climbing site. As a beginner-friendly activity, it prioritizes safety and clarity—your guides will explain and demonstrate each step before you start, so no worries if you’ve never rappelled or climbed before.
The highlight is reaching the summit of Peña de Bernal, one of the tallest monoliths in the world, standing at over 250 meters. From here, you’ll have a panoramic view of the Querétaro landscape—something many visitors might never get to see without this ascent. The climb itself involves hiking, climbing, and rappelling at a basic level, making it accessible for most fitness levels and ages, provided you’re comfortable with a bit of physical activity.
After reaching the top, you’ll descend via two rappels, one of 60 meters and the other 25 meters. Expect incredible landscape views from these heights, with guides ensuring all safety protocols are followed. The entire process is designed to be beginner-friendly, with safety and fun as priorities.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Queretaro.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Start at Peña de Bernal: The experience kicks off early, at 7:00 am, when you’ll meet at the base of Peña de Bernal, in Queretaro. The morning start helps avoid the midday heat and the larger crowds that tend to arrive later in the day.
Walking and gearing up: The first part of the activity involves a 35-minute walk to find the climbing wall. During this time, guides will give safety instructions and introduce you to the technical gear, which is included in the price. Expect a relaxed, friendly environment where questions are encouraged.
Climbing and summit: Once at the climbing wall, over 100 meters high, you’ll begin your ascent with your guide’s supervision. The route is designed for beginners, meaning the difficulty level is kept manageable. As you climb, you’ll get a sense of achievement and enjoy the ever-changing landscape around you.
Panoramic views: Reaching the summit, you’ll experience sweeping vistas of Querétaro and its surrounding valleys. The guides often describe this as a moment of “spectacular beauty,” with some reviews mentioning how the early morning light enhances the scenery.
Rappelling down: Descending involves two rappels—first 60 meters, then 25 meters. Guides will walk you through each step, ensuring safety and comfort. Reviewers have mentioned that even first-timers felt confident and well-supported during this phase.
Return to the base: The activity wraps up with a 35-minute walk back down, allowing you to reflect on the experience and soak in the scenery. The entire tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, making it a substantial half-day adventure.
What Travelers Can Expect

Stunning views: The adventure’s biggest highlight, according to reviews, is the “spectacular landscape” visible from the summit. Many mention that the sunrise or dawn light adds a magical touch, making the early start worthwhile.
Safety and guidance: The certified guides from Lobo Apha Expeditions emphasize safety, explaining each step thoroughly. Several reviews have praised guides for their professionalism and patience, making the experience accessible even to complete beginners.
Equipment and access: All gear needed for climbing and rappelling is provided, removing the hassle of bringing your own equipment. The access fee to Peña de Bernal is included, so you won’t need to worry about additional costs for the monument.
Group size: With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour provides a personalized experience. Guide attention and safety measures are well maintained, which is important in activities involving heights.
Weather considerations: As the activity depends on good weather, cancellations may occur if conditions are poor, but refunds or rescheduling options are available, according to the policy.
Analyzing the Value

At $111.17 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience combining adventure, natural beauty, and professional guidance. Including all necessary equipment and access fees, the price reflects good value for the unique opportunity to climb one of the world’s tallest monoliths.
Compared to more general tours of Queretaro, this activity delivers a memorable, hands-on experience that’s accessible regardless of previous climbing experience. For travelers craving a physical challenge without the intimidation of advanced climbs, this is a perfect fit.
Practical Details

Timing: Starting at 7:00 am, the tour fits well into a morning schedule, allowing you to explore other attractions later in the day. The early start also means cooler weather and fewer crowds, making the experience more enjoyable.
Duration: About 4.5 hours, including the walk, climb, and descent, strikes a good balance for a half-day adventure with enough time to relax afterward.
Group size: Limited to 20 travelers, ensuring that everyone receives attention from guides and that safety protocols are maintained.
What’s included: All technical equipment, access fees, and a certified guide. Snacks are not included, so consider bringing a water bottle or small snack if needed.
Transport: The tour begins and ends at Peña de Bernal, within walking distance of local amenities, so no transportation issues are expected.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This climbing and rappelling adventure is ideal for active travelers eager to try something different and enjoy spectacular views from above. It’s particularly attractive to those who appreciate well-organized, beginner-friendly activities that don’t compromise on safety or fun.
If you’re visiting Queretaro and looking for a memorable, adrenaline-pumping experience that combines physical activity with natural beauty, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy the outdoors, are comfortable with a bit of physical effort, and want to learn new skills in a supportive environment.
However, if you’re sensitive to early mornings or have mobility issues, you might want to consider that the start time is quite early. Also, keep in mind that the activity depends on good weather—so flexibility may be necessary if conditions turn unfavorable.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is previous climbing experience required?
No, this tour is designed for beginners, with safety instructions and training provided by certified guides.
What should I wear?
Comfortable active wear suitable for outdoor activities is recommended, along with closed-toe shoes. The guides will provide all technical gear.
Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age or height restrictions aren’t detailed. It’s best to check with Lobo Apha Expeditions beforehand if you’re bringing young children.
How difficult is the climb?
The climb is at a basic level, suitable for most fitness levels. Guides ensure the route remains manageable for beginners.
What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or other conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is transportation provided?
The tour starts and ends at Peña de Bernal, which is accessible on foot or via local transportation. No mention of additional transport is provided.
To sum it up, this tour offers a fantastic blend of adventure, natural beauty, and educational guidance, making it a worthwhile experience for anyone visiting Queretaro. From the stunning vistas to the sense of achievement, climbers of all levels will find this activity rewarding. It’s a chance to see Peña de Bernal from a fresh perspective, leaving you with lasting memories and perhaps a new hobby.
More Tour Reviews in Queretaro
- Climb the historic Via Ferrata when visiting Peña de Bernal!
- Two-day canyoneering experience in Cañon del Infiernillo
- Traditional Mexican Cooking Classes
- Magic Christmas Tour in Bernal
- Bungee Jumping Full Day Adventure in Santiago De Querétaro
- 2-Day Tour With Canyoning and Rappelling to the Infiernillo Canyon
