Acapulco: Horseback Riding, Turtle Camp, and Crocodile Tour

Exploring Acapulco’s Natural Charm: Horseback Riding, Turtle Camp & Crocodile Sanctuary Tour

If you’re craving a different way to experience Acapulco, this Horseback Riding, Turtle Camp, and Crocodile Tour offers a compelling mix of nature, wildlife, and scenic adventure. It’s not the typical bustling city experience but a chance to connect with local landscapes and learn about conservation efforts.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its combination of engaging activities—helping baby sea turtles reach the ocean, meeting crocodiles in a sanctuary, and riding along some of the most stunning beaches. Plus, it includes some delicious food on the side, making the whole day feel well-rounded. That said, it’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included, so you might want to plan for a snack or meal afterward.

One thing to consider is the physical aspect—horseback riding and walking through sanctuaries require some mobility, so it’s not ideal if you have back problems or are pregnant. Still, if you’re into wildlife, scenic coastal views, and hands-on experiences, this tour could be a real highlight. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits and want a meaningful glimpse into local conservation efforts.

Key Points:
– Unique mix of wildlife visits, horseback riding, and scenic beaches
– Conservation focus with visits to turtle camp and crocodile sanctuary
– Scenic views along beaches and coconut plantations
– Includes beverages like beer and margaritas, with water provided
– Flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance
– Comfortable pickup and drop-off from any hotel in Acapulco

A Closer Look at the Experience

When you sign up for this 5.5-hour tour, the first stop is the Turtle Camp at Playa Larga, where you’ll learn about the important work of protecting three species of sea turtles. The highlight? Helping a baby sea turtle to reach the ocean—a moment that feels both meaningful and adorable. Many reviews mention how touching it is to be part of this conservation effort, with travelers describing it as a “special experience” that leaves a lasting impression.

Next, the tour takes you to the Crocodile Sanctuary (Cocodrilario Acutus). Here, you’ll see over 50 crocodiles housed in breeding ponds, hatcheries, and pens. Some of these crocs may have been rescued from lagoons or donated by locals who kept them as pets. This visit offers a behind-the-scenes look at the breeding process and gives insight into local wildlife management. Travelers often note that the guides are knowledgeable, making the experience both educational and interesting, especially if you’re curious about reptiles.

Following the wildlife visits, you’ll get to enjoy a scenic horseback ride along the beaches and through lush coconut plantations. This part of the tour is where the natural beauty of Acapulco really shines. Riding along the white sands and feeling the cool ocean breeze is a major highlight. The guides typically keep the group small enough to ensure personal attention, which enhances the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

The beach ride is complemented by the sights of the local landscape—waves crashing nearby, palm trees swaying overhead, and the occasional local fisherman passing by. Once you’ve had your fill of the ride, a delicious grilled red snapper awaits (lunch is on your own). Many reviewers rave about the flavor—some mention it as the best they’ve had in Acapulco—though it’s worth planning for this extra expense if you’re hungry.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins with pickup at your hotel or Airbnb in Acapulco, making it a hassle-free start. The first stop is the Turtle Camp at Playa Larga, where you get about an hour to learn about the conservation work and possibly join in helping baby turtles to reach the sea. This is a truly hands-on experience that many find rewarding.

Next, you’ll spend another hour at the Crocodile Sanctuary, which houses over 50 crocs and offers an up-close look at these fascinating reptiles. Visitors have described the guides as knowledgeable and engaging, making the visit both fun and informative.

A highlight for many is the camel ride with Beto Godoy, which lasts around 1.5 hours. While not every review mentions this feature specifically, it’s part of this particular tour package and adds a different flavor to the overall experience.

Finally, after the wildlife and riding activities, you’ll return to Acapulco, with plenty of time remaining for relaxation or exploring further. The tour concludes with the option to enjoy your own meal—specifically, some delicious red snapper on the grill, which many reviewers find to be a real treat.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $140 per person includes the entrance fees to the turtle camp and crocodile sanctuary, water, beer, margaritas, and the round-trip transportation service. This makes it quite reasonable considering the access to wildlife and guided experiences.

However, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for that separately. Many travelers choose to enjoy the grilled red snapper offered at the end of the tour, which is praised for its flavor and freshness. If you’re a foodie, this is a definite plus.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers the convenience of pickup and drop-off at any hotel in Acapulco. The guides speak both English and Spanish, making it accessible to a broad range of travelers.

The Pros and Cons: Is It Worth It?

Pros:
– The combination of wildlife, scenic riding, and conservation makes this a well-rounded day out.
– The guides are described as knowledgeable, adding educational value.
– The beach horseback ride offers fantastic views and a chance to relax by the sea.
– The cost includes beverages, which adds to the laid-back vibe of the tour.
– The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours beforehand is a big plus, especially if your plans shift.

Cons:
– The lunch is not included, which might be inconvenient if you’re hungry after the activities.
– The horseback riding may not be suitable for those with back problems or pregnant women.
– The tour’s overall pace is moderate, so if you’re looking for intense adventure or a packed itinerary, this might feel a bit laid-back.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor activities, wildlife encounters, and scenic coastal views, you’ll probably find this experience rewarding. It’s particularly good for travelers interested in conservation efforts and looking for a hands-on approach to seeing Acapulco’s natural environment.

Since the tour is family-friendly, it could be suitable for older children or teenagers who are comfortable with horse riding and wildlife. However, it’s not designed for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Travelers seeking a relaxed, nature-focused outing that combines education with scenic leisure will get plenty out of this tour. It’s also a good choice if you want a break from crowded city tours and prefer a more authentic, local experience.

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Final Thoughts

This Horseback Riding, Turtle Camp, and Crocodile Tour offers a refreshing way to experience Acapulco’s natural beauty and wildlife. It’s not just about sightseeing but actively participating in conservation efforts, which adds a meaningful layer to the day. The scenic beach ride is a definite highlight, paired with the chance to learn about local wildlife and enjoy a tasty grilled meal.

While it might not be the cheapest or most adrenaline-fueled option, its value lies in the combination of education, relaxation, and stunning scenery. If you’re looking for an activity that’s both engaging and laid-back, and you don’t mind organizing your own lunch afterward, this tour could be a memorable part of your trip.

Perfect for nature lovers, curious travelers, and those seeking a peaceful but enriching outing in Acapulco, this experience balances fun with purpose and offers a genuine taste of the local environment.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from any hotel or Airbnb in Acapulco are included, making it very convenient.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities and sun exposure.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll want to plan to buy your own meal, but many enjoy the grilled red snapper after the tour.

Is it suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for older children comfortable with riding and outdoor activities. Not recommended for very young children or pregnant women.

Are there any physical limitations to consider?
Yes, the tour may not be suitable for those with back problems or mobility issues, especially given the horseback riding component.

This tour strikes a neat balance of wildlife, scenery, and leisurely fun, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to experience Acapulco’s natural side with a personal touch.

You can check availability for your dates here: