If you’re considering a ride on horseback during your visit to Playa del Carmen, this award-winning horseback experience might catch your eye. With a maximum of six riders per group, the tour promises a more personalized adventure — and based on the glowing reviews, it seems to deliver.
What really stands out to us are the well-cared-for rescue horses and the knowledgeable guides who make the journey interesting, safe, and fun. Plus, the chance to enjoy snacks or drinks afterward adds a nice touch of relaxation to the day.
That said, a potential point to consider is the group size limit, which while great for individual attention, means booking well in advance — on average about 22 days ahead. This experience caters well to beginners, those who love a calm ride, or anyone curious to learn more about local ranch life, but it might not suit those looking for a high-adrenaline adventure.
We had a great experience. The tour guide was very informative about the ranch as well as keeping us talking while sharing personal experiences with us. The horses were very well behaved and as a first time rider, I felt as if I’ve done this before. I love how these horses are rescued and given a new opportunity to thrive. 10/10 recommend to others.
This was a fantastic experience! Lisa was great. She went out of her way to make this tour special. She turned a horseback riding tour into an adventure. Our family made memories that will last a lifetime. I would definitely recommend this horseback riding tour!
Lisa was a wonderful guide and we loved hearing her stories and the history of the area. The horses were gentle and we felt very comfortable during the ride.
In the end, if you’re after a laid-back, intimate horseback experience with a social and supportive atmosphere, this tour could be just the thing. It’s especially good for travelers who appreciate thoughtful guides, rescued animals, and a mix of scenic trails and relaxed fun.
- Key Points
- What to Expect from the Ride
- The Meeting and Preparation
- The Trail and the Ride
- Stops and Highlights
- The Post-Ride Experience
- The Value of the Experience
- Overall Worth
- The Thorny Bits
- Who Is This Tour Best For?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
- More Horses in Playa del Carmen
- More Tour Reviews in Playa del Carmen
- Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Playa del Carmen we have reviewed
Key Points
- Small group size (max. 6 riders) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.
- Rescued horses are the stars, and they’re treated with care and respect.
- Two daily rides—morning and afternoon—allow flexibility in planning.
- Post-ride refreshments cater to different preferences, from pastries to beer and wine.
- Experienced guides make the journey safe, engaging, and informative.
- Booking well in advance is recommended, with an average of 22 days ahead.
What to Expect from the Ride
Getting into the details of this tour, it’s clear that the organizers prioritize a comfortable and engaging experience. The rides are about 90 minutes long, giving you enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed or exhausted.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Playa del Carmen
The Meeting and Preparation
You’ll start your adventure at the ranch, located conveniently near Playa del Carmen, with meeting times at 9:30 am or 2 pm daily (except Sundays). Arriving about 20 minutes early lets you sign a waiver, settle in, and get fitted with a helmet and mosquito repellent — a thoughtful touch, especially in jungle-like areas.
The Trail and the Ride
The trail itself combines narrow jungle paths and wider open spaces, offering a bit of everything. As noted in reviews, the horses are calm and well-behaved — a relief for first-time riders, but even seasoned equestrians will find something to enjoy. The staff carefully assign horses based on your level, size, and comfort, which contributes a lot to a stress-free ride.
For those with riding experience, there’s the chance to trot and canter when conditions permit; this isn’t a high-speed ride, but it offers moments of a little more excitement. Most of the journey is a gentle trek, perfect for appreciating the lush surroundings and the sounds of nature.
Stops and Highlights
A unique feature of this tour is the mid-ride stop, where guides often share stories or point out interesting things, like Mayan ruins or local flora. It keeps the experience lively and informative. As rider Fiona R pointed out, the horses are “funny characters,” which suggests a friendly, lively atmosphere.
A great day at Rancho Baaxal with Lisa, a very hard working woman, enjoyed our time with the rescue dogs at the ranch before our guided trek through the jungle on horseback. Lisa pointed out some interesting Mayan ruins along the route before stopping at one and getting an interesting bit of history This will be a highlight of our trip to Mexico and took away a couple of hand made souvenirs
This excursion was fantastic! The ranch was easy to book with and the staff were kind and informative. The animals are all treated extremely well and taken care of properly. The place is full of rescued horses and dogs, and it is obvious how much care and affection the staff has for the animals. They match you to a horse based on size as well as riding experience, and told us a bit about the horses past and personality. The tour guide even helped us sort out confusion with our cab as we don’t speak spanish. This was the only ride I could find where the sole focus is on the trail riding experience. I cannot recommend this place highly enough!
I scheduled my ride for the last day of my vacation. It was myself and two other guests on our ride. This place is by far the best run horseback riding tour that I have been to. You can 100% tell that they love and care for these animals. With all the horses being rescues, they vowed not to overwork their horses. They all look very healthy and happy. Throughout the ride, the guide chatted about all of the local vegetation, and animals we saw along the way. We stopped at an ancient Mayan ruin on the property, as well. It was very personal and interesting. It did not feel as if we were rushed or “ just another tourist “. They genuinely seemed to care about us enjoying the experience and ge…
The Post-Ride Experience
Upon returning, guests are greeted with refreshments — either a nice glass of wine, a cold beer, or non-alcoholic drinks. Morning riders enjoy pastries and coffee or juice beforehand, which sets a lovely relaxed tone before heading out.
Guests often mention how much they appreciated the personalized attention, especially since the group size is capped at six. This small-group setup means guides can tailor the experience, answer questions, and ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable.
The Value of the Experience
Priced at $87 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, but considering what’s included — helmets, snacks, beverages, and a guided ride through scenic trails — it offers good value. You’re paying for more than just the ride; you’re supporting a sanctuary that rescues and cares for horses, which adds a feel-good element to the experience.
Reviews consistently highlight the quality of the horses and the dedication of the staff. Many travelers mention how well the animals are treated, which reflects positively on the ranch’s ethos. Plus, the stories shared by guides like Lisa make the ride more meaningful, connecting you with the land and the local culture.
Overall Worth
For those wanting a relaxed, scenic journey on horseback, especially if you’re new to riding or prefer a small, intimate group, this tour hits the right notes. It's not a thrill ride but a chance to enjoy nature, meet rescued animals, and unwind with good company and drinks.
The Thorny Bits
If you’re craving an adrenaline rush or a more challenging ride, this tour might not be the best fit. The group size is limited to six, which is perfect for personal attention but means that availability may be limited, and booking in advance is wise.
While the tour is suitable for most travelers, there is a weight limit of 200 lbs (90 kg) and a BMI cap of 30, so it’s not ideal for everyone with specific physical considerations. Also, because it involves riding through jungle trails, you should be comfortable with uneven ground and some narrow paths.
Weather can be a factor too; the tour is weather-dependent, and if it gets canceled due to rain or storms, you'll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the forecast around your booking time.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience resonates well with travelers who enjoy peaceful outdoor activities, animal lovers, or those seeking a meaningful connection with rescue horses. It suits beginners and intermediate riders alike because of the personalized approach and the gentle pace.
If your goal is to have a relaxed day, enjoy beautiful scenery, and learn about local efforts to rescue horses, this is a strong choice. It also works well for small groups or couples looking for a quiet yet engaging adventure.
However, if you’re after a high-energy riding experience or are uncomfortable around horses or jungle trails, you might want to explore other options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the horseback ride?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery and experience a relaxed ride.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers riding helmets, bottled water, snacks, and either coffee, tea, or juice before the ride (morning) or beverages afterward (afternoon). You also get access to the rescue horses and guides' stories.
Are there age restrictions?
While specific age restrictions aren’t given, the focus on gentle, guided riding and group size suggests it’s suitable for most ages — especially those comfortable with riding.
Can experienced riders do more than walk?
Yes, experienced riders may have the chance to trot and canter when conditions allow, making the ride more lively for those who want it.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, closed-toe shoes, and a light layer for sun or mosquito protection. Helmets and repellents are provided.
How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to six riders, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, since the tour is very popular and bookings are typically made about 22 days in advance on average.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
The tour can be canceled due to poor weather, in which case you'll be offered a rescheduling or a full refund.
Is this experience family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the gentle pace and small groups make it suitable for most riders, but always check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs.
Award-winning Classic Horseback Ride (max. 6 riders)
"We had a great experience. The tour guide was very informative about the ranch as well as keeping us talking while sharing personal experiences wit..."
Final Thoughts
If you're after a laid-back, intimate horseback riding experience near Playa del Carmen, this tour offers a heartfelt way to connect with nature, enjoy scenic trails, and support rescue horses. The guides' storytelling, the well-treated animals, and the chance to unwind with a drink afterward make it stand out as a thoughtful, quality outing.
It’s perfect for those who value small groups, personal attention, and meaningful experiences over adrenaline rushes. While it’s not for thrill-seekers or those with specific physical constraints, most riders will find it a charming day out, full of gentle adventure and genuine connection.
For anyone looking to add a peaceful, scenic, and ethically-minded activity to their itinerary, this horseback tour is well worth considering.
Please note: Always check current availability and weather conditions closer to your trip, and book early to secure your spot, especially if you’re traveling during peak times.
