Camel Ride and UTV Combo Adventure, with Tequila Tasting

If you’re considering a half-day outdoor adventure in Cabo San Lucas that combines some of the region’s most iconic sights with a little adrenaline, the Camel Ride and UTV Combo Adventure with Tequila Tasting might catch your eye. This tour promises a mix of peaceful beach moments, rugged desert exploration, and a chance to sample authentic Mexican tequila—all wrapped into roughly three hours of fun.

What we like is the way it offers variety: you get to experience both the laid-back charm of a camel ride along Migriño Beach and the thrill of zipping through Baja’s desert terrain on ATVs. Plus, the included tequila tasting at Rancho de Migriño is a nice touch if you’re into trying local spirits. On the flip side, a potential downside is the extra fees that can add up—like park entrance fees and optional insurance—so it’s worth being prepared financially.

This tour tends to suit those who love outdoor adventures, scenic views, and a bit of cultural tasting, especially if you’re traveling with a group or family looking for a balanced, energetic day. It’s not perfect for travelers seeking a completely hassle-free experience or those wary of hidden costs, but it can be a memorable outing if you go in with clear expectations.

Key Points

• Variety of Activities: Combines beach rides, desert ATV adventures, and a tequila tasting for a well-rounded experience.
• Beautiful Scenery: Offers stunning views from Migriño Beach to ocean cliffs and desert landscapes.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Round-trip transportation and a safety briefing help make the day smoother.
• Additional Costs: Expect to pay extra for park entry and optional insurance, which can significantly increase the total cost.
• Photographs Extra: Professional photos are available for purchase—great for capturing memories, but pricey.
• Group Size & Safety: Limited to 50 travelers with safety gear provided, including helmets, though some reviews mention uncomfortable helmets.
• Timing & Pace: Roughly 3 hours from pickup to drop-off, so it’s a manageable half-day activity.
• Suitability: Best for outdoor lovers comfortable with off-road vehicles and minor additional expenses; not ideal if you dislike hidden fees.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point & Logistics

The tour kicks off at Cactus Tours in Cabo San Lucas, with a convenient pickup service included—no need to worry about arranging transportation. You’ll meet at the designated spot, where the staff will give a safety briefing before you start the adventure. The group size caps at 50, so it feels manageable without being crowded, though some reviews mention disorganization during check-in and check-out.

The transportation to Rancho de Migriño is typically prompt, but occasional delays like an hour-long shuttle wait have been noted. For most travelers, the hassle of a slightly delayed start is manageable, especially considering the scenic journey to the ranch.

The Camel Ride: Gentle and Scenic

Once on-site, you’ll be introduced to the camels, with guides explaining safety protocols. The camel ride itself is a highlight: it takes you along Migriño Beach—famous for its sweeping white dunes and panoramic Pacific views. Many reviews describe this as a peaceful, almost meditative experience, with some saying it’s a perfect way to enjoy the beach without the crowds.

The ride lasts about 20-25 minutes, which is enough to take in the scenery and snap some photos. According to one reviewer, “do not ride if you can’t tolerate sitting with your legs spread wide”—so if you’re uncomfortable with sitting astride a camel, consider that before booking.

Desert & Cliffs: High-Speed ATV Fun

After the camel adventure, you’re off to explore the Baja desert. The tour provides Side by Side vehicles or ATVs, with the option of single or tandem rides. Most guests go for the two-person ATVs, which allow you to share the thrill with a companion.

This part of the tour is where you’ll experience the adrenaline rush—driving through rugged terrain, sand dunes, and along dramatic ocean cliffs. The views here are stunning, and many reviewers mention the excitement of going fast in a safe environment. “Our guide made sure we got to go fast yet safe,” one person noted, emphasizing that safety gear and instructions are part of the package.

However, some reviews highlight hurdles like the need to pay extra for insurance or even to upgrade from stick-shift to automatic vehicles. One person was told they’d have to pay $75 more for a change, and others mention additional fees for collision insurance—something to clarify upfront to avoid surprises.

The Photo Opportunity

During the ATV ride, a professional photographer takes pictures of your group. These photos can be purchased after the tour for a hefty price, with some reviewers describing them as “expensive” and not worth the cost. It’s a nice souvenir, but if you’re on a budget, you might want to capture your own memories, if your camera or phone is allowed (some reviews mention restrictions on phones during the ride).

End with the Tequila Tasting

The final stop takes you back to Rancho de Migriño for a tequila tasting session. Here, you can unwind and sample up to three different types of tequila, choosing your favorites. Many guests enjoy this part as a chance to relax after the high-energy activities, and some reviews highlight the friendly staff and authentic flavors.

The tasting lasts about 20 minutes, with the option to purchase additional samples or souvenirs. It’s a good way to end on a laid-back note, especially if you’re into spirits or want to take home a memento of your trip.

Additional Fees & Costs

One of the consistent themes in reviews is the extra costs beyond the initial booking. For example, there’s a $25 per person park entrance fee that’s only paid upon arrival—so don’t be surprised if this catches you off guard. Insurance options are also available, with some guests opting for full coverage at $45 per vehicle.

If you want professional photos, be prepared to pay quite a bit—some reviews mention $110 for a download or $140 for a flash drive. This can add to the overall expense, making the tour more costly than the advertised price of around $102 per person.

Safety & Practical Tips

• Cellphones & Cameras: For safety reasons, phones and regular cameras are generally not permitted during the ATV rides unless mounted on GoPro-type mounts. This can be frustrating if you want photos, but it’s meant to keep everyone safe.
• Weight Limit: The maximum weight per person is 274 lbs (140 kg), so if you’re on the heavier side, double-check that.
• Clothing & Gear: Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities. Helmets are provided but some reviews mention uncomfortable helmets, so consider bringing your own padding if allowed.
• Timing & Group Size: The tour lasts about three hours, including pickup and drop-off, making it a manageable half-day outing. Smaller groups tend to have a more personalized experience.

Overall Impression & Who Should Consider This Tour

This combo adventure offers a lively, diverse mix of scenery, adventure, and cultural experience—perfect if you’re after a full sensory experience in Cabo. It’s especially appealing to outdoor lovers who enjoy a bit of everything, from serene beach rides to adrenaline-pumping ATV excursions. The tequila tasting at the end adds a fun, authentic touch that many travelers find memorable.

That said, it’s essential to be aware of the extra fees and some logistical quirks, like disorganized check-ins or optional insurance upsells. The cost can add up quickly if you opt for photos and insurance, so budget accordingly. The experience seems best suited for those who don’t mind small inconveniences or hidden costs and are excited by adventurous outdoor activities.

If you’re traveling with a group or family that enjoys active outings, this tour can generate some great memories and scenic photos. However, if you prefer a completely hassle-free, all-inclusive package with no surprises, this might not be the best choice.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes. Round-trip transportation from your hotel or designated pickup point is included, making it convenient.

How long does the tour last? About three hours, including pickup, activities, and return.

Are there any additional costs? Yes. Park entrance fees ($25), optional insurance ($45), and photos (cost varies). Be prepared for these expenses.

Can I bring my phone or camera? Cellphones and regular cameras are generally not allowed during ATV rides for safety reasons. They’re only permitted with GoPro-type mounts.

What’s the maximum weight allowed? 274 lbs (140 kg) per person.

Is the tour suitable for children? It is suitable for most travelers but is best for those comfortable with outdoor adventures. No specific mention of children’s age restrictions, so check with the provider if traveling with kids.

Are the helmets comfortable? Some reviews mention helmets being uncomfortable or worn out. It might be worth bringing your own padding if possible.

Are the guides knowledgeable? Yes. According to reviews, guides like Marisol and Herrera are friendly, helpful, and make the experience enjoyable despite some organizational hiccups.

What is the best part of this tour? Many agree that the scenic camel ride along Migriño Beach and the views from the ocean cliffs are the most memorable parts.

To sum it up, the Camel Ride and UTV Combo Adventure in Cabo offers a lively, scenic, and authentically Mexican outdoor experience. It’s a good pick for travelers looking for variety and adventure in a manageable half-day outing. Just go in aware of the extra costs and some logistical quirks, and you’ll likely find it a memorable part of your Cabo trip.