Wild West Riding Tour

Experience the Wild West Without Leaving Durango
If you’re into cowboy movies or just love a good storytelling adventure, the Wild West Riding Tour offers a fun, well-rounded glimpse into the Western film industry right in Durango, Mexico. While I haven’t taken the tour myself, from what I’ve gathered, it’s a popular choice among travelers wanting to see famous film locations and soak in the Old West atmosphere.

What really shines about this tour is the professional guides—many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly they are, making the day more enjoyable and informative. On top of that, the authentic sets and live shows bring a sense of stepping into a Western movie, which is pretty rare outside of Hollywood.

A possible consideration is the moderate physical activity involved—so if you’re not comfortable walking or standing for periods, it’s worth keeping that in mind. This experience seems best suited for fans of movies and Western lore, families, or anyone curious about Durango’s historic connection to Hollywood.

Key Points

• Authentic Western sets bring the Old West to life right in Durango.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with rich stories and insights.
• Variety of stops, from movie sets to small historic towns, offer a well-rounded tour.
• The price point of $75.50 is quite reasonable considering the included activities and access.
• Live shows and costumes add a fun, immersive element to the experience.
• The tour is around 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

What to Expect from the Wild West Riding Tour

This tour is a solid choice if you’re curious about the movies that shaped the Western genre or simply want to enjoy Durango’s film-related history. It packs several highlights into about five hours, and with recommended booking 32 days in advance, it’s a popular option for travelers planning ahead.

Starting Off in Durango

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am, right in Durango, Mexico. You’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes a big difference after a morning of exploring. The group tends to be a maximum of 40 people, so you’ll get a decent mix of friendly faces without feeling crowded.

The First Stop: Paseo del Viejo Oeste

This is the highlight for many. Think of it as stepping into a living Western movie scene—a beautifully crafted set that perfectly captures the Old West vibe. Here, you can enjoy horseback riding, wagon rides, and cowboy shows. Several reviewers mention that it’s “better than on film,” emphasizing the attention to detail in the set design and live performances.

You’ll spend about two hours here. The admission is included, so all you need to do is soak in the scene, take photos, and enjoy the entertainment. The looks of excitement and nostalgia are common; many say the atmosphere makes you feel like you’re part of a Western movie.

Small Town Charm at San Vicente de Chupaderos

Next, the tour takes you to this historic town, which has been a filming location for over 250 movies. It’s more than 200 years old, so you’re also getting a dose of local history. Visitors often highlight the explanations of the locations’ significance—many of the movies shot here starred stars like Charlton Heston, John Wayne, and James Coburn.

A full hour is spent walking through the town. It’s a great chance to see where Hollywood’s legends once roamed, and some reviews note that guides provide great insights into the industry’s past.

The Durango Set and Film History

The last major stop is Durango itself, famous for being a studio set built by John Wayne for his movies. Several classic films, like The Sons of Katie Elder and Giant among Men, were shot here. The set is expansive and detailed, giving visitors a true sense of the Eastwood-style Wild West.

You get about two hours exploring this area, with free admission. It’s especially appreciated by fans of Western movies, as they get to walk around the actual filming locations and see where Hollywood’s cowboys once rode.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a hiking bag for your convenience, all access passes, and bottled water—pretty standard but thoughtful touches to keep you comfortable. Plus, the admission tickets to the set and town are included.

The cost of $75.50 per person offers good value considering the many locations, shows, and stories you’ll experience. Compared to similar tours, this price covers a lot—making it appealing for budget-conscious travelers seeking a rich cultural experience.

Not included are things like meals or additional personal expenses, so plan accordingly if you want snacks or souvenirs. Many reviews mention that the tour’s timing allows enough freedom to grab lunch afterward, especially since the tour ends around early afternoon.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews consistently highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides. For instance, one reviewer said, “Jacob and Helena far surpassed our expectations. They were so friendly and pointed out many things on the way to the Wild West show.” Others mention how the guides go beyond just showing locations, sharing interesting facts about the film industry and local history.

Many travelers praise the authenticity and attention to detail in the sets and shows. One commented that the themed environment feels like being on a movie set—with costumes, live shows, and even horseback riding. The live performances are described as “fun, attractive, with people well characterized,” making it a lively part of the day.

The scenery and landscapes are also a hit, with reviews noting the vintage vibes and the overall atmosphere of the Old West are “more than just on film.” It seems that the visuals really transport you, especially if you’re a movie buff or someone who appreciates historic authenticity.

Food and Facilities

While not part of the tour, some reviews mention that the timing allows for plenty of time to eat afterward. The transportation is described as clean and comfortable, which enhances the overall experience.

Overall Impression

Most agree the tour is well-organized and punctual. Several reviews call it “super recommended” and highlight how guide Neftali makes the experience memorable with his knowledge and friendly attitude.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re looking for a cultural outing with a cinematic twist. Fans of Western movies or history will find it particularly engaging, but it’s also a fun family outing if your kids are into cowboy shows and costumes.

Travelers who appreciate good value for their money and want to see multiple film sets and historic locations in one day will find this tour very satisfying. It’s also suited for those who enjoy live performances and immersive environments—the kind of experience that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a Western film set.

FAQs About the Wild West Riding Tour

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 9:00 am in Durango, Mexico.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, which adds comfort to the day.

What’s included in the price?
All access to the sets, live shows, bottled water, and the transportation are included. Admission tickets for each location are included too.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Less than that, and the refund isn’t available.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the overall family-friendly vibe—live shows, costumes, and accessible locations—suggests it’s suitable for most ages, as long as guests are comfortable walking and standing.

Are meals provided?
No, meals are not included, but the timing allows for a meal afterward if you wish.

Is the tour guided?
Yes, guides are highly praised for their friendliness and knowledge. Many reviews mention how much they enjoy the guiding.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and outdoor exploration are best. Remember, you might be outdoors for some parts, so check the weather.

Final Word

The Wild West Riding Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging look into Durango’s cinematic past and its authentic Old West charm. The mix of vintage film sets, live shows, and historical towns makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a story-telling journey that transports you back in time.

If you’re a movie lover, interested in Western history, or looking for a fun, reasonably priced tour in Durango, this experience will likely deliver. The guides are often praised for their expertise and friendly attitude, making the day even more memorable.

While it’s not overly strenuous or complex, it’s a good option for anyone wanting a taste of Hollywood’s Western roots with plenty of scenic and cultural highlights along the way. Just keep in mind, it’s a tour that’s best enjoyed with an open mind and a sense of adventure.