Horseback Riding Beach and Desert in Cabo by Cactus Tours Park

If you’re considering a horseback riding adventure in Cabo San Lucas, you’ll find plenty of options, but this tour by Cactus Tours stands out for its unique mix of desert terrain and beachside gallops. While we haven’t personally saddled up on this ride, it’s clear from reviews and tour descriptions that this experience can offer a memorable, scenic, and engaging outing — especially if you’re a confident rider craving a bit of variety.

What we love about this tour? First, the small-group setting ensures more personalized attention from guides, which can make a big difference in safety and enjoyment. Second, the chance to explore both rugged desert landscapes and sweeping Pacific beaches in one trip truly sets this experience apart. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour is geared toward intermediate and advanced riders, which means beginners or those less comfortable on a horse might find it less suitable.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy riding confidently and want a mix of adventure and natural beauty. If you’re looking for a relaxed, beginner-friendly ride, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re eager to canter along the coastline and explore Baja’s diverse terrains, this could be just what you’re after.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances personalized attention and safety.
• Mixed terrain offers a diverse experience, from desert to beach.
• Professional, bilingual guides bring valuable local knowledge.
• Two departure times daily provide scheduling flexibility.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics.
• Designed for intermediate/advanced riders, so some riding experience is necessary.

What to Expect from the Tour

This 2.5-hour adventure begins with a hotel pickup, where a driver will collect you from your Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo accommodation. From there, expect to be taken to a trail riding base camp in the Baja desert — note that entrance fees to the trail riding area are an extra $25 per person. Once there, you’ll receive a safety briefing, which is crucial for setting expectations and ensuring everyone’s comfort.

You’ll greet your horse, which is carefully prepared for the ride, and then head out into the rugged landscape. The guide leads you through desert mountains and trails, offering a chance to see Baja’s natural scenery in a way that’s both immersive and exhilarating. The routes are tailored for riders with some experience, so if you’re confident on horseback, you’ll feel right at home.

The highlight of the tour is reaching the coast, where wide, flat beaches with rolling waves await. Here, you can enjoy a good gallop or a faster-paced ride along the shoreline, feeling the sea breeze and taking in panoramic views of the Pacific. The beaches are described as some of the nicest in Cabo, making this a truly scenic stop.

Once you’ve soaked in the views and enjoyed some riding on the sand, the guide leads you back to the starting point. The return trip is straightforward, with transportation provided, and you’ll be dropped back at your hotel.

The Rider Experience

The tour is explicitly designed for intermediate and advanced riders, which means you should be comfortable riding at all paces, including canter or gallop if you wish. As one reviewer pointed out, the group isn’t divided based on skill levels despite the marketing, so if you’re a beginner or not very confident, you might find the pace a bit much.

One reviewer, Merrill, shared that the guide was “wonderful,” but also noted that the ride is mostly walking on trails, with some cantering, and only a short time on the beach. This suggests the ride offers a good balance of terrain but isn’t an all-out adrenaline rush. Robin, on the other hand, said she enjoyed a “wonderful gallop along the beach,” indicating that experienced riders can get a good burst of speed if they want.

Another thing to keep in mind is the weather. The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for the conditions is wise. It’s also noted that the tour runs regardless of weather, which means a rainy day might slightly change the experience but won’t cancel it.

The Cost and What’s Included

At $72.25 per person, this tour hits a reasonable price point considering the experience it offers — especially with hotel pickup and drop-off included. For that price, you get a round-trip transportation, safety equipment, a bilingual guide, and water to stay hydrated. Plus, there’s a tequila tasting session, which is a fun local touch and a bonus for many travelers.

However, keep in mind that the entrance fee to the Baja desert trail area is an extra $25, which isn’t included in the price. You may want to budget for that additionally. Also, if you’re interested in souvenirs or photos, those are available for purchase but aren’t included.

The tour offers some flexibility with two departure times daily, making it easier to fit into your schedule, whether you prefer morning or afternoon rides.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 30 travelers, and often fewer (most reviews mention small groups of around 10), this ride feels more intimate than larger tours. The guide’s attentiveness is a significant plus, especially for less experienced riders who might need extra reassurance.

That said, some reviews mention that the group includes riders of varying skill levels, which can affect the experience. For example, one guest noted that a rider who didn’t want to gallop impacted the entire group’s pace and experience. So, if you’re very particular about your riding, it’s worthwhile to communicate your expectations when booking.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Robin summed it up well: “The ride and guide were very knowledgeable,” highlighting the value of a good guide. Merrill’s comment about the group not being separated despite advertised for intermediate/advanced riders is worth considering if you’re an experienced rider looking for a faster pace. Meanwhile, Dave appreciated that the tour went ahead in rain — showing the tour’s reliability regardless of weather.

The beach itself receives high praise, with comments about it being one of the nicest in Cabo. The horses were also described as well cared for, saddled with large western saddles — a detail that might appeal to seasoned riders.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

• Book in advance, as most trips are scheduled about three weeks ahead.
• Choose your preferred departure time during booking — morning or afternoon.
• Dress for the weather; layers and sun protection are smart choices.
• Bring cash if you want to purchase photos or souvenirs.
• Confirm your skill level aligns with the tour’s expectations; communicate any concerns beforehand.
• Be aware of the additional $25 fee for area entrance — budget accordingly.
• Children must be at least 7 years old and accompanied by an adult, so this isn’t a tour for very young kids.
• No alcohol or drugs are recommended before riding, ensuring safety for everyone.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback ride is perfect for those who have riding experience and are comfortable at various gaits. If you’re someone who loves a scenic adventure that combines desert landscapes with beach riding, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a more personalized experience.

However, if you’re a beginner or looking for a relaxed, slow-paced ride, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s emphasis on intermediate and advanced riding means you should feel confident on a horse and comfortable moving at different speeds.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a genuine sense of Baja’s natural beauty, combining desert and beach in a way that few other experiences can match. The knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and varied terrain make it stand out as an adventure worth considering — especially if you’re confident on horseback and craving a bit of excitement.

The modest price, inclusive transportation, and the chance to gallop along the Pacific coast make this a solid choice for experienced riders looking for a memorable ride in Cabo. Just keep in mind the skill level requirements and extra fees, and you’ll be well prepared to enjoy this scenic adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Not quite. It’s designed for intermediate and advanced riders who feel confident at all riding paces. Beginners might find the pace too fast or the terrain challenging.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, transportation to and from your Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo hotel is included, making the logistics simple.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Children aged 7 and above can join, provided they are accompanied by an adult. It’s best suited for those with some riding experience.

How long is the ride?
The total experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, safety briefings, riding, and return.

Is there an additional cost?
Yes, the entrance fee to the Baja desert trail area is $25 per person, paid on the day of the tour.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather — lightweight clothing, hats, and sunblock are recommended. Closed-toe shoes are required for riding.

Can I take photos during the ride?
Photos aren’t included in the price, but they are available for purchase afterward. It’s a good idea to bring your phone or camera to capture the scenery.

What happens if it rains?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so it will go ahead rain or shine. You might find the experience slightly different in wet weather, but the guides will keep safety a priority.

If you’re up for a riding adventure that combines Baja’s rugged outdoors with scenic beach walks, this tour by Cactus Tours could be just the thing. It’s a chance to experience Cabo’s natural beauty on horseback, with knowledgeable guides and a memorable setting.