Horseback Riding in Ixtapa with Hotel Pickup

If you’re considering adding a horseback riding adventure to your Ixtapa getaway, you’re in the right place. We’ve taken a close look at this popular tour to help you decide if it fits your travel style and expectations. While we haven’t personally ridden these particular horses, the reviews and details paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

What really catches our eye about this experience are the convenient hotel pickup and the chance to gallop along the shoreline, all while enjoying a relaxed, beginner-friendly ride. Plus, the possibility of spotting dolphins from the beach adds an extra touch of magic.

That said, there’s a mention of some organizational hiccups in reviews, so if you’re someone who needs everything to run like clockwork, it’s worth weighing that. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a short, scenic ride that doesn’t take up too much time but offers a memorable moment on horseback. It could be a fantastic choice for those looking for a gentle adventure with beautiful views.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup, making the start of your day seamless and relaxing
• Calm, beginner-friendly horses are suitable for most riders
• About 1 hour 10 minutes of riding, balanced to fit into a busy vacation schedule
• Opportunities to see dolphins while riding along the shoreline
• Good value for the price of $65 per person, with helmet and saddle provided
• Limited to 12 guests, ensuring a more intimate experience

An Honest Look at the Horseback Riding Tour in Ixtapa

Taking a break from sunbathing or swimming, a horseback ride along Ixtapa’s beaches can add a special touch to your vacation. This particular tour offers a decent mix of scenic views, gentle adventure, and convenience—an easy way to try horseback riding if you’re new to it or just want a relaxed experience.

The Booking and Price

At $65 per person, this tour sits in a reasonable price range for a quick, guided outdoor activity. It’s worth considering that the cost includes helmet and Western saddle, so you don’t need to worry about extra gear. The tour’s popularity—booked an average of 13 days in advance—indicates it’s a well-loved option, especially for those seeking a straightforward beach activity.

The Experience and Itinerary

The tour lasts roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes, which strikes us as a perfect duration—long enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or exhausted. It begins with a pickup from your hotel, removing any hassle of organizing transportation, and takes you to the stable where the adventure starts.

Once there, you’ll meet calm, docile horses, ideal for beginners but easy for more experienced riders to enjoy as well. Riding through coconut plantations and along the famous Playa Larga, you’ll get a different perspective of Ixtapa’s natural beauty. The stretch along the beach offers soft, golden sands and the chance to spot dolphins, which travelers have mentioned as a delightful bonus.

The Guides and Organization

According to reviews, the guides—Pablo and Angel—are highly praised for their friendly, attentive nature and their ability to lead a scenic and enjoyable ride. One reviewer notes, “Pablo and Angel were great guides that led us on this beautiful beach walk!” This personal touch can make a big difference when you’re not accustomed to riding or unfamiliar with the area.

However, some reviews point out organizational issues, such as delays in pickup. One traveler mentions waiting an hour at the hotel lobby before being contacted, so if punctuality is critical for your planning, it’s something to keep in mind. It’s clear that the tour provider is responsive but could improve on coordination.

The Highlights: Views and Wildlife

What makes this experience stand out are the stunning views of the coastline and plantations and the chance, albeit not guaranteed, to see dolphins swimming nearby. Several reviews mention the secluded, gorgeous beach setting—a quieter alternative to more crowded tourist spots.

The ride itself is described as very gentle, making it accessible to anyone with moderate physical fitness. Riders are provided helmets, and the Western saddles feel sturdy and comfortable for the duration of the ride.

Who Is It Best For?

This tour is ideal for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a short, scenic beach ride without a lot of fuss. If you want a relaxed activity that pairs well with your vacation schedule and offers beautiful views, this fits the bill. It’s less suited for those seeking a more adventurous or longer riding experience, or for people who are very particular about punctuality.

The Real Edge: What to Expect from the Tour

The itinerary begins with hotel pickup—an advantage for those who want to avoid organizing transport. Once at the stable, the guides introduce you to your horse, ensuring you’re comfortable before starting out. Riding through coconut plantations offers a cool, shaded break from the sun, and the stretch along Playa Larga promises picture-worthy views.

Travelers have mentioned that the beach is quite secluded, making it feel like a private escape. Along the way, if conditions are right, you might even catch sight of dolphins—a special treat that adds a bit of excitement to the ride.

The horses are described as sweet and tame, suitable even for those who have never ridden before. The use of Western saddles and helmets adds to the sense of safety and comfort. The ride is mostly along flat, soft sands, which reduces the risk of discomfort or difficulty.

The Reviews Speak for Themselves

One traveler raved, “No Title” by Elise_M, called their guides “great,” and described the beach as “secluded and one of the most gorgeous I’ve ever seen.” This captures the essence of what many appreciate—the chance to enjoy untouched scenery with friendly guides.

Another reviewer, though mentioning some organizational hiccups, summed it up as “definitely money worth it,” appreciating the “beautiful ride” and attentive staff. These honest insights remind us that while everything might not be perfect, the experience still holds true to its core value.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Just over an hour, perfect for fitting into a busy day
• Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers, which helps keep things personal
• Price: $65, which includes helmet and saddle; consider whether this is good value based on your interests
• Pickup: Offered from your hotel—convenient and stress-free
• Physical Fitness: Moderate level recommended; manageable for most
• Weather: The tour depends on good weather; if canceled, you’ll get a full refund or a chance to reschedule

What to Bring or Prepare

Bring sunglasses, sunblock, and perhaps a camera—though be careful on the horse! The ride is straightforward, but comfortable clothing and closed shoes are advisable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re seeking an activity that combines gentle adventure with beautiful scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s great for beginners, couples, or solo travelers wanting a peaceful, scenic ride. Families with older children might enjoy it too, as long as everyone’s comfortable on horseback.

It’s less suitable for thrill-seekers or those wanting an extended or more vigorous ride, but if you’re after a relaxing, picturesque experience with a touch of wildlife, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

Horseback riding in Ixtapa offers more than just a fun activity—it’s an opportunity to see the coastline and plantations from a different angle, all while enjoying the company of calm, friendly horses. The hotel pickup simplifies logistics, and with a duration of about an hour, it’s a good way to add variety without overcommitting your day.

The experience’s biggest strengths are the beautiful, quiet beaches and knowledgeable guides, which seem to make up for minor organizational flaws. If you’re someone who values comfort, scenic views, and a bit of wildlife spotting, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

While it may not be perfect, it offers great value for the price and can serve as a memorable, laid-back adventure for most travelers wanting a taste of horseback riding and beach scenery.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup is offered, making it easy to start your adventure without extra planning.

How long does the horseback ride last?
The ride is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery without it feeling rushed.

Are the horses suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The horses are described as calm and docile, making them ideal for those new to riding.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable clothing, closed shoes, sunglasses, and sunblock are recommended. Helmets are provided for safety.

Can I see dolphins during the ride?
While not guaranteed, some travelers have mentioned spotting dolphins while riding along the shoreline.

Is this tour good for families?
It’s suitable for most people comfortable on horseback, but check the physical fitness requirement if traveling with children or elderly companions.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic ride on soft sands with friendly guides and the chance to see dolphins, this horseback tour in Ixtapa could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a simple, enjoyable experience that adds a special touch to your Mexican beach holiday.