Cabo San Lucas: Santiago & Santa Rita Hot Springs Rural Tour

Exploring Santiago & Santa Rita Hot Springs: An Honest Review of This Day Trip from Cabo San Lucas

If you’re looking for a way to step outside the usual Cabo San Lucas scene and experience a taste of authentic Baja life, the Cabo San Lucas: Santiago & Santa Rita Hot Springs Rural Tour might just be what you need. Designed as a full-day adventure, it offers a well-rounded mix of scenery, local culture, and relaxation—all at a reasonable price of around $185 per person. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on what travelers say and the detailed itinerary, it sounds like a solid option for anyone wanting to get a different perspective on Baja.

What stands out? First, the tour’s focus on beautiful landscapes and relaxing hot springs truly appeals; many reviews mention the stunning views and the soothing waters as highlights. Second, the opportunity to enjoy homemade snacks and a BBQ adds a lovely personal touch, making it feel more genuine and laid-back. A potential downside? The tour is quite structured and long—7 hours in total—so if you’re not into full-day outings or prefer a leisurely pace, it might be a bit much.

This trip suits those who appreciate nature, scenic drives, and local culture without having to plan every detail themselves. It’s great for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and relaxation but don’t mind a busy schedule. If you’re traveling with family or looking for an immersive experience beyond the beach resorts, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Guides, transportation, and some food are included, making it straightforward to enjoy without extra planning.
• Scenic Stops & Landmarks: Stops like the Tropic of Cancer, Santiago’s church, and Mirador de Santiago offer photo opportunities and cultural insights.
• Hot Springs & Waterfalls: The Aguas Termales de Santa Rita and nearby waterfalls provide relaxing spots and a chance to cool off or jump into nature.
• Local Flavors & Snacks: Enjoy ice cream, handmade snacks, and the option to make your own BBQ, giving a taste of Baja’s culinary charm.
• Flexible Food Options: You can bring your own food or buy from local spots, which adds to the flexibility—just be prepared for additional costs if you opt for meals.
• Private Group & Live Guides: Personalized attention and bilingual guides in Spanish and English enhance the experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Start with Hotel Pickup & the Journey to Santiago
Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo. No need to worry about logistics—your private driver, who is also a guide, will take care of the transportation, making the ride comfortable and relaxed. The journey itself is part of the fun, giving you a chance to settle in and get oriented before the day’s explorations.

Stop at the Tropic of Cancer
One of the first stops is the Tropic of Cancer—a noteworthy geographical marker. Here, you’ll get a chance for some photos and a quick lesson about the area’s significance. It’s a photo-worthy moment that also adds a bit of educational value, especially if you enjoy understanding the geography of where you’re traveling.

Exploring Santiago’s Charm
Arriving in Santiago, you’ll visit the town’s beautiful church, which is often highlighted as a charming piece of local architecture. Many travelers appreciate the serene vibe of the town, with some mentioning that it feels authentic and less touristy than other spots. From there, the Mirador de Santiago offers sweeping views of the landscape that make for great photo ops and a little quiet time to soak in the scenery.

Taste of Local Life
A short stop for ice cream or handmade snacks gives you a sweet and savory break. Whether it’s a craft item from a local shop or a refreshing treat, these moments let you connect with Baja’s small-scale producers and taste something genuinely local.

Lunch & DIY BBQ at the Hot Springs
One of the tour’s most unique features is the opportunity to make your own BBQ outside at Aguas Termales de Santa Rita. You’re free to bring your own ingredients, or you can buy from a grocery store stop, which adds a bit of flexibility and fun. The hot springs themselves are a highlight—many reviews mention how soothing and warm the waters are, perfect for relaxing after some sightseeing. The setting feels natural and uncrowded, ideal for unwinding and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Waterfalls & Nature
After relaxing in the hot springs, the tour takes you to either El Cañón de la Zorra or the Sol de Mayo Waterfall. Here, you can dip into cool waters, jump off rocks if you’re feeling adventurous, or simply lounge in the sunshine. The area is praised for its natural beauty, and for those who enjoy being active outdoors, it offers just enough opportunity to splash around without feeling rushed.

Return & Reflection
As the day winds down, you’ll head back to your hotel, hopefully with a few good photos and a relaxed mindset. The entire trip is about balancing exploration with relaxation, and many visitors mention how well everything is coordinated for a smooth experience.

What Travelers Say & Why It Works (or Doesn’t)

Reviewers often mention the knowledgeable guides who go beyond just driving—they share insights about the area, making the stops more meaningful. The scenic views are consistently praised, especially the vistas from Mirador de Santiago and the waterfalls. Many agree that the value for money is good, considering the variety of activities packed into the 7 hours, including access to the hot springs and stops at notable landmarks.

Some guests have noted that the food options are flexible but that if you want a sit-down meal, you’ll have to either bring your own or buy from the local restaurant, which might add to the cost. Others mention that the trip’s pace can feel a bit rushed if you’re not used to full-day excursions, but most find it manageable and worth it for the sights and experiences.

In terms of safety and comfort, the tour seems well-organized, with clear instructions about what to bring (like sunscreen, swimwear, comfortable shoes). It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users, which is worth considering if you have mobility restrictions.

Is It Worth It? Analyzing the Value

This tour offers a good mix of culture, nature, and relaxation, making it suitable for travelers who want to see more of Baja beyond the beaches. The price point is reasonable for what’s included—guided transport, access to hot springs, and some snacks—especially considering it’s a private group experience, which tends to be more personalized and intimate.

If you’re seeking a day that combines a bit of sightseeing with soaking in natural hot springs and tasting local flavors, this trip hits those marks. It’s not overly commercialized, and small touches like the optional DIY BBQ add a layer of authenticity.

However, keep in mind that it’s a full day with a packed schedule. If you prefer slow mornings or a more relaxed pace, this might not be your best fit. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts

The Cabo San Lucas: Santiago & Santa Rita Hot Springs Rural Tour looks like a solid choice for travelers wanting to explore Baja’s quieter side. It’s ideal for those who love scenic views, appreciate authentic local experiences, and enjoy a little adventure in nature. The mix of cultural stops, beautiful landscapes, and relaxing hot springs makes for a memorable day—especially if you’re keen on avoiding the crowded tourist spots.

The tour’s flexibility with food options and the private guide aspect add to its appeal, making it a relatively hassle-free way to see a different side of Baja. Just be prepared for a full day, and bring what you need to stay comfortable and sun-safe.

If you’re into natural beauty and small-town charm, this trip offers a taste that’s both enriching and relaxing, perfect for a getaway that balances exploration with downtime.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour is a full-day experience with outdoor activities, it might be best for older children or teenagers, as some stops involve physical activity and walking. Always check with the provider about age restrictions.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and comfortable clothes. These will help you stay comfortable throughout the day.

Are meals included in the price?
No, food is not included. You can bring your own or buy from the local shop or Rancho Agua Viva, which has a menu that costs extra.

Can I make my own BBQ?
Yes, you have the option to make your own BBQ outside at the hot springs if you bring your own ingredients. Alternatively, you can buy food at a local grocery stop.

Is there an option to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, a private driver and air-conditioned vehicle will take you from your hotel to all stops, making the journey comfortable and stress-free.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, making the tour accessible for most travelers.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, so plan your day accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women.

Are there any physical restrictions?
People with back problems or mobility issues might find some stops challenging, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

This tour offers a good opportunity to see a different slice of Baja, combining scenic beauty with local life and relaxing hot springs. It’s a solid pick for those wanting a day away from the beaches, packed with enough activities to keep everyone engaged without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here: