Award-winning Private Classic Horseback Ride

A Closer Look at the Award-winning Private Classic Horseback Ride

If you’re considering a horseback riding adventure outside Playa del Carmen, this private tour at Rancho Baaxal could be just what you’re looking for. It’s praised for its personalized approach, compassionate horse care, and scenic jungle trails. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, this experience promises a relaxed, yet memorable, connection with nature and animals.

What really draws us in are two standout features: first, the private, tailor-made ride that ensures a more intimate and flexible experience; second, the fact that the horses are rescues, which adds a layer of meaningfulness to your ride. But, it’s worth noting that the weight limit of 200 lbs (90 kg) might exclude some guests, and the ride is primarily designed for those comfortable with horses, so it’s less suited for very young children or those with mobility issues. Overall, if you enjoy nature, history, and animal encounters, this tour will fit quite well into your itinerary.

Key Points

• Personalized experience tailored to your riding level and interests.
• Horses are rescues, offering a chance to support humane treatment.
• Scenic trails through a 400-acre jungle, with options for trotting and cantering.
• Includes post-ride drinks and snacks, making it a relaxed outing.
• Guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights about Maya culture and local flora.
• Private tour ensures a quiet, exclusive experience without crowds.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This horseback riding excursion begins with clear instructions and a quick safety briefing, so even if you’re new to riding, you’ll feel prepared. The tour runs twice daily—at 9:30 am and 2:00 pm—excluding Sundays, with guests advised to arrive 20 minutes early to sign a waiver and get settled. It’s a good idea to arrive on time, especially since the ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Once underway, you’ll be riding on a well-chosen horse based on your personality, experience, and physical stats—this personal touch is a big plus. The horses have faced neglect or abuse in the past but are now carefully rehabilitated using non-violent training methods. Many riders comment on how friendly and well-cared-for the horses are, which speaks volumes about the farm’s compassionate approach.

Trail Variety and Midway Stops

The trail map is a mix of narrow jungle paths and wider trails, providing a good variety of scenery and riding challenges. We love the way this keeps the ride engaging without being overwhelming. Riders with more experience will find opportunities to trot and canter, conditions permitting, which adds a bit of excitement.

Midway through, there’s usually a stop where guides share stories, point out interesting flora or cultural tidbits, and sometimes show unique sights. This personalized approach means no two rides are exactly alike—they focus on what interests you most, whether that’s Maya tales, nature, or local plants.

Comfort and Safety

Helmets are provided, and the guides are attentive, ensuring everyone’s safety. The tour also supplies mosquito repellent, which is handy given the jungle environment. After the ride, guests can enjoy complimentary beverages—wine, beer, or non-alcoholic drinks—and light snacks during the afternoon ride or just coffee, tea, and pastries if you opt for the morning.

The Experience Beyond the Trail

Reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and passion. One reviewer especially appreciated the guide’s stories about Maya culture and the flora around the ranch. The atmosphere is friendly and unhurried, making it easy to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

The horses are a true highlight. As one reviewer pointed out, many of them are rescues from terrible homes, and they’re now healthy, happy, and eager to share the experience. The care taken in training and rehabilitating the horses is evident, and it adds a layer of respect and warmth to the ride.

Cost and Value

The price of $145 per person may seem steep at first glance, but considering the private setting, personalized attention, and the quality of the horses and guides, it offers good value. Plus, the inclusion of drinks and snacks makes it a leisurely, all-in-one adventure. For those wanting a deeper connection to the land and animals and appreciating a quieter, more intimate ride, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ride suits travelers who prioritize personalized experiences and enjoy scenic, nature-based outings. It’s particularly appealing if you’re interested in supporting ethical animal treatment, as many horses are rescues. While the tour is open to most, the weight limit and riding proficiency might exclude very young children or those with limited mobility.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Reservation & Arrival

Booking about 12 days in advance is recommended, reflecting the tour’s popularity. You’ll receive a confirmation, and the tour provider, Rancho Baaxal, is approachable via phone or email if you have questions. Arriving 20 minutes early is advised, so you can sign a waiver and get fitted with a helmet.

The Meeting Point

The tour begins at the private ranch located at P2X8+5X Punta Maroma, which is conveniently accessible from Playa del Carmen. The private setting ensures a quiet, peaceful start, away from busy tourist areas, helping you settle into the experience.

Pre-Ride Briefing

Guides are attentive and friendly, providing a quick but thorough safety briefing. They will ask about your riding experience, preferences, and concerns, so they can match you with the right horse and tailor the ride accordingly.

Trail Riding

Expect a combination of paths that weave through lush jungle, offering glimpses of local flora and possibly wildlife. The trails are chosen to give a varied riding experience—they’re not all smooth or wide, but that’s part of what makes it interesting. For more experienced riders, trotting and cantering are available, making it more dynamic.

Midway Stop & Cultural Insights

The guides often share stories about the local Maya culture, and point out interesting plants and features along the way. This personalized storytelling adds depth and context, enriching your ride beyond just the scenery.

Post-Ride Relaxation

After returning to the ranch, guests can unwind with beverages. The afternoon ride includes wine or beer—always a nice touch for relaxing after a scenic adventure—while the morning ride offers coffee, juice, and pastries for a gentle start.

Riding Equipment & Comfort

Helmets are provided, and the guides keep a close eye on safety. Mosquito repellent is included, which is great because jungle environments can be mosquito-prone. The horses are friendly, well-trained, and clearly loved, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Authentic Feedback from Riders

The reviews paint a compelling picture. Johnny W raved about the guides, Jade and Chino, emphasizing their warmth and professionalism: “they welcomed us with a smile and hot coffee,” he said, adding that the ride was “simply incredible” and memorable for a lifetime.

Michelle H highlighted the guide’s storytelling about Maya culture, as well as the horses’ well-being. She noted, “Many of them are rescued from terrible homes,” which adds a meaningful touch to the experience.

Most travelers agree that the personalized attention and passionate guides make this tour stand out. The sense of caring for the horses and sharing stories about the land creates a more authentic experience than a cookie-cutter ride.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This horseback riding tour offers a thoughtful, intimate experience that combines scenic trails with the opportunity to support rescued animals. It’s perfect for travelers who value personalized attention, ethical animal treatment, and a relaxed, culturally enriching atmosphere. If you’re seeking a peaceful ride in nature with friendly guides and well-cared-for horses, this is an excellent choice.

While it’s not designed for very young children or those with mobility challenges, it’s well-suited for anyone comfortable on horseback and eager to enjoy a tranquil, scenic adventure. The included drinks and snacks turn a simple ride into a full, leisurely outing. For those interested in a meaningful, personalized experience outside the typical tourist spots, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this tour private? Yes, it’s a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, which offers a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

What is the duration of the ride? The actual ride lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with additional time for preparation and post-ride relaxation.

Are helmets provided? Yes, riding helmets are included and are mandatory for safety during the ride.

What should I bring or wear? Comfortable clothes suitable for riding, closed-toe shoes, and insect repellent are recommended; the tour provides helmets and repellent.

Can beginners join this tour? Absolutely, the guides tailor the experience based on your comfort level and riding experience. They also assign horses accordingly.

Is there a limit on weight or height? Yes, the weight limit is 200 lbs (90 kg), and there’s a BMI limit of 30, to ensure safety and comfort for both rider and horse.

What beverages are included? Guests can enjoy wine, beer, or non-alcoholic drinks during the post-ride relaxation, depending on the ride time.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

If you’re looking for a more personal, ethical horseback experience close to Playa del Carmen, this tour offers plenty of value—beautiful scenery, caring guides, and rescued horses all rolled into one memorable outing.