Horseback Ride Joshua Tree Forest Buffalo Lunch Singing Cowboy

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of the American West, this Horseback Ride Joshua Tree Forest Buffalo Lunch Singing Cowboy tour offers a fantastic combination of scenic views, gentle adventure, and genuine cowboy charm. While it’s not a rugged, adrenaline-pumping ride, it’s a well-curated experience perfect for those who want to soak in the landscape and enjoy a slice of cowboy life without any fuss.

What really caught our eye are the beautiful landscapes — especially the towering Joshua trees — and the friendly, knowledgeable guides that make the experience not just scenic but also informative. Plus, the included Western breakfast and buffalo sightings add a unique touch. That said, the tour’s price point ($269 per person) might seem a little steep for some, but when you consider the included amenities and the personalized experience, it’s quite reasonable.

One thing to keep in mind is the group size — with only 13 travelers max, the tour feels intimate but might fill up quickly, so booking well in advance (average 17 days ahead) is smart. This experience suits travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, appreciate storytelling, and want a relaxed yet immersive day in Arizona’s wild landscape.

Key Points

• Scenic ride through Joshua Tree forests, perfect for nature lovers
• Guided by friendly, knowledgeable cowboy guides who add personality and insight
• Includes a Western-style breakfast and opportunities to see buffalo in their natural environment
• Round-trip hotel transfers make logistics easier
• Designed for beginners and all ages 9+, with gentle horses suitable for most
• Limited group size ensures a personalized, intimate experience

Discover the Magic of the Desert with a Guided Horseback Ride

We love the idea of starting the day with a Western-style breakfast—it sets the perfect tone for a day immersed in cowboy culture. Imagine sitting on a ranch, enjoying a hearty meal surrounded by desert scenery, before saddling up for an adventure. The tour’s early start at 7:00 am means you’ll beat the heat and have the quiet of morning wilderness all to yourself.

Once on horseback, you’ll follow an experienced cowboy guide along the historic Mormon Trail, a route teeming with stories and history. The horses are described as gentle and well-trained, making this suitable even for first-timers or those who aren’t regular riders. The ride itself lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to appreciate the landscape without feeling rushed. The highlight here is the chance to photograph wild buffalo and panoramic mountain views, adding a wild-west authenticity to your day.

We’ve read reviews praising the knowledge and friendliness of the guides—they’re not just leading rides but sharing stories and insights that deepen your appreciation for the land. As one traveler put it, the guide was “super punctual, very kind, and extremely knowledgeable about the area.” This personal touch makes all the difference in making the experience memorable.

Walking Through the Joshua Tree Forest

After the ride, you’ll head into the Joshua Tree Forest at higher elevation, where trees over 600 years old bloom into a stunning natural display. The journey to this part of the tour is about an hour long, but it’s well worth it for the views and the chance to see these iconic, uniquely shaped trees.

Many guests comment on how serene and photogenic the landscape is. The Joshua trees seem to stretch endlessly, one reviewer describing it as a “magnificent forest,” and another calling it “a wonderful experience.” The elevation change adds a different dimension to the scenery, making it feel like stepping into a different world.

Visiting this forest offers a peaceful moment to breathe in the desert air and enjoy the quiet beauty of this unique ecosystem. The scenery is particularly striking in the morning, before the sun gets too hot, and it’s a perfect setting for photos or just soaking it all in.

Buffalo Viewing and the Ranch Experience

One of the tour’s most unique features is the chance to see buffalo roaming free in their natural habitat. The ride to Buffalo Point takes you through rugged terrain where these majestic animals often graze. Many reviews mention spotting buffalo, adding an exciting wildlife element to the trip.

The tour’s itinerary includes stops at a gallery showcasing local art, which is a nice cultural touch and a chance to browse handmade crafts after the ride. The entire experience is designed to be relaxed, with enough time to take photos, chat with guides, and enjoy the landscape.

Food, Comfort, and Logistics

The inclusions—bottled water, air-conditioned vehicle, hand sanitizer, and lunch—make the day comfortable and straightforward. The Western-style lunch is a highlight, often praised for its hearty and satisfying qualities that complement the morning’s adventure.

The round-trip hotel transfers are a real perk, especially if you’re staying in Kingman or nearby. It simplifies logistics so you can focus on enjoying the day instead of worrying about transportation.

The tour is priced at $269 per person, which might seem a bit high for a half-day activity, but when you consider the inclusive nature of the experience—rides, meals, guided commentary, wildlife sightings, and transportation—it offers good value. Plus, the small group size (max 13 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, and many reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides as a major plus.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Booking in advance — most travelers book about 17 days ahead, so plan early, especially during peak seasons.
• Physical requirements — suitable for most travelers over 9 years old who are comfortable in pants and closed-toe shoes. The horses are gentle, but good footwear is recommended.
• Weight limits — not available for guests over 250 lbs, but there’s an option to discuss this directly with the provider.
• Weather dependence — the experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
• Group size — with a maximum of 13 travelers, expect a friendly, intimate vibe, but this also means booking early is wise.

What Reviewers Say

The consistent praise from guests highlights the guides’ friendliness and expertise, with comments like “Susan was super punctual, very kind, and extremely knowledgeable,” and “Bob was very friendly and knowledgeable about the area.” Guests also mention the lunch and entertainment, especially the singing cowboy, adding fun and entertainment to the day.

One reviewer even called it “a glimpse into The cowboy life,” emphasizing how authentic and immersive the experience feels. Families also seem to enjoy it, with several noting how easy and enjoyable the horses are, along with the beautiful scenery and relaxing pace.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This tour is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to experience the essence of the West without roughing it. It’s ideal for beginners, families with children (over 9), or travelers who prefer a relaxed, scenic adventure with plenty of photo opportunities. If you’re craving a day of nature, wildlife, and cowboy culture, this tour delivers in a friendly, accessible package.

It’s less suited for those seeking adrenaline-fueled rides or rugged terrain, or travelers with mobility issues that prevent horseback riding. But if you want a calm, informative, and picturesque journey that combines history, wildlife, and desert landscapes — this is a solid pick.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, all rides are designed for beginners, with gentle horses suitable for most riders over 9 years old. Guides will help you feel comfortable throughout.

What should I wear?
Wear pants and closed-toe shoes; the terrain and riding conditions make these essentials. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is also recommended.

Can I bring snacks?
Snacks are not included in the tour price, so you might find it useful to bring some if you want to nibble between stops, though bottled water is provided.

Is there a weight limit?
The tour isn’t available for guests over 250 lbs, but you can call the provider directly to discuss other options.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within that window won’t be refunded, but weather cancellations will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

How long does the tour last?
Overall, it lasts about 5 to 6 hours, including transportation, riding, and breaks. The riding itself is around 1 hour, with additional stops for sightseeing and the gallery.

Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers are offered, making it convenient to start and end your day comfortably.

If you love the idea of riding through iconic desert landscapes, spotting wildlife, and enjoying a taste of cowboy hospitality, this tour offers a memorable way to spend a day outside Kingman. It combines gentle adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of Western charm — just enough to make your trip special without overwhelming.