Planning a trip to Oaxaca and craving a memorable adventure that combines nature, culture, and a touch of romance? The Sunset by Horse on the Beach tour offers exactly that. While we haven’t personally saddled up, this experience scores an impressive 4.4 out of 5 based on 19 reviews, and from what we’ve gathered, it promises a blend of scenic riding, local authenticity, and breathtaking views that make it a standout activity for travelers seeking something different.
What draws us to this ride? First, the chance to ride horses guided by local experts who know their ecosystem inside out. Second, the variety of landscapes—from lush farmland and river crossings to the expansive virgin beach. Last, the unforgettable experience of watching the sunset while galloping along the shoreline. The only caveat? The tour lasts about four hours, which might be a lot for very casual riders or those with limited mobility. Still, for those ready to embrace the outdoors and a bit of adventure, this tour feels tailor-made. It’s especially suited for beginners and experienced riders alike who want authentic guidance and stunning scenery in one go.
Good To Know
- Authentic local guides with a deep knowledge of the ecosystem enhance the experience.
- The tour includes horse riding through farmland, river crossings, and beach—offering diverse scenery.
- Suitable for all skill levels, from nervous beginners to seasoned riders.
- The sunset views and riding along the shoreline create a magical atmosphere.
- The small group size (limited to 10) ensures personalized attention.
- The experience offers great value at $115, with transportation, a drink, and bilingual guides included.
What to Expect from the Sunset Horseback Ride
This tour offers a well-rounded adventure that hits all the right notes for lovers of nature and authentic experiences. Starting with a pick-up at your accommodation around 3 PM, the experience begins with a comfortable 30-minute drive from Puerto Escondido to San Jose Manialtepec, heading toward one of Oaxaca’s less-traveled yet stunning spots. The early afternoon pickup is a smart move—it leaves plenty of time for the scenic ride and sunset without feeling rushed.
Once you arrive, you’ll meet your guides—local horse riders who are proud of their ecosystem and eager to share their knowledge. They’re fluent in both English and Spanish, making the experience accessible to a diverse range of travelers. We appreciate that the guides are authentic horse riders, not just tour operators; this lends a genuine touch to the adventure.
Like evening activities? More San Jose Manialtepec twilight tours we've written about
The Horse Riding Experience
The ride begins with a quick briefing on horseback basics—perfect for beginners, but also reassuring for more experienced riders. The tour guides take care to teach riding fundamentals, which makes the ride enjoyable for all. The route takes you through farming fields and cattle lands, crossing a river to reach the pristine beach. The scenery here is truly captivating—the lush green fields, cattle grazing peacefully, and the gentle rush of the river.
Travelers report that the horses are healthy and well looked after, with one reviewer noting that the horses even went for a swim—a fun and unique addition that adds a playful element to the ride. The guides’ evident care for the animals reassures those worried about the animals’ wellbeing, making the experience feel respectful and authentic.
The Beach and Sunset
Reaching the beach, you’ll be riding along soft sands, with the ocean stretching on either side. As sunset approaches, your guides will encourage you to trotting or galloping in front of the sea, creating an almost cinematic scene. One reviewer, Maja from the U.S., mentioned doing “trots, canters, and even swims,” highlighting the versatility of the ride.
The sunset itself is a highlight—a vibrant display of colors reflected on the water, creating perfect photo opportunities. The guides help capture those moments, and you’ll have plenty of time to absorb the stunning views before heading back along a shorter route.
The Return Journey and Logistics
After sunset, the ride takes a shorter route back to the starting point, ensuring you’re not riding in darkness. You’ll arrive back around 7 PM, and expect to be dropped off at your hotel roughly 30 minutes later. The entire experience spans about four hours, balancing adventure, scenic beauty, and relaxation.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyItinerary Breakdown
The tour kicks off with one of 26 pickup options across Puerto Escondido, including hotels like Villa Bonobo, Casa Kuaa, and La Casona Hostel, demonstrating the tour’s accessibility. After a 30-minute van transfer, you’ll arrive at Laguna de Manialtepec, where the guided tour begins.
The horse riding segment lasts approximately 30 minutes, during which you’ll explore farmland, cross a river, and reach the beach. The sunset spectacle lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views and take photos. The return trip is shorter, using a different route to bring you back comfortably.
More tours and activities we've covered in San Jose Manialtepec
What’s Included and What’s Not
The cost of $115 per person covers transportation from Puerto Escondido, a bilingual guide, and one drink—likely a refreshing beverage to toast the sunset. The tour also emphasizes its small group size, limited to 10 participants, which helps create a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
However, food at the beach restaurant is not included—so if you want to grab a bite afterwards, bring cash for extra meals or snacks. You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes, long pants, sturdy closed-toe shoes, and don insect repellent—especially since the area is lush and insect-friendly.
What the Reviews Say
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One reviewer from Australia, Blaze, said, “Horses were well looked after, and guides were great,” emphasizing the care taken during the ride. A U.S. traveler, Maja, shared that she was “worried as a good rider,” but found the whole experience fantastic, highlighting the healthy and happy horses and the variety of riding—trotting, cantering, and even swimming.
Irish guests appreciated the overall experience, calling it “absolutely brilliant,” and noting that from pickup to guide interaction, it was a smooth, enjoyable process. The consistent praise for authentic guides and the beautiful landscapes makes this tour stand out among many in the Oaxaca region.
Practical Tips for Booking and Participation
- Book in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.
- Bring cash for extra food or souvenirs at the beach.
- Wear comfortable, long clothes and closed shoes for safety.
- Use insect repellent to avoid bites in the lush environment.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 1 year or people over 275 lbs.
- Expect a small group setting—so you’ll get personalized attention but also need to be ready for a limited size.
The Sunset by Horse on the Beach tour offers an authentic, scenic adventure that combines the joy of horseback riding with the beauty of Oaxaca’s natural landscape. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a relaxed yet memorable experience—whether you’re a horse enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to enjoy the region’s stunning coastlines.
You’ll love the care and expertise of local guides, the diverse scenery, and the breathtaking sunset views. Plus, the fact that the horses are well cared for and the experience is designed to accommodate all skill levels makes it accessible and enjoyable for most.
The only consideration is the duration—it’s a solid four hours—and some may find the physical activity a bit demanding if they’re not used to riding. Still, for value, authenticity, and scenery, this tour earns a spot on the must-do list in Oaxaca.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are experienced and will teach you the basics of horseback riding, making it great for beginners as well as experienced riders.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, long pants, and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Don’t forget insect repellent and to bring cash for extra expenses.
How long is the horseback riding portion?
The ride lasts approximately 30 minutes, but the overall experience, including transfer and sunset viewing, is about four hours.
Can I ride horses that swim?
Yes, some horses go for a swim during the ride, adding a fun twist to the adventure as reported by a guest.
Are the horses well cared for?
Reviewers consistently mention that the horses are healthy, happy, and well looked after, with guides showing genuine concern for their welfare.
What is included in the price?
Transport from Puerto Escondido, a bilingual guide, and one drink per person are included. Food and additional beverages are not.
What is not allowed during the tour?
Swimming and touching plants are discouraged for safety and preservation reasons.
Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.
How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made in advance with the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
Overall, the Sunset by Horse on the Beach tour shines as a wonderfully balanced experience—offering adventure, scenic beauty, and genuine local insights. Perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, authentic moment during their Oaxaca trip.
You can check if your dates are available here: