Horseback Riding Tour in Cabo San Lucas

If you’re considering a horseback riding excursion in Cabo San Lucas, you’re likely after a mix of scenic views, gentle adventure, and a memorable connection with the land and animals. This tour, offered by Rancho Carisuva, has been highly recommended for its authentic experience and friendly guides. With a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars from hundreds of reviews, it sounds like a worthwhile option—especially if you’re looking to see a different side of Cabo beyond the usual beach lounging.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the chance to explore Baja California’s diverse landscapes—from desert cacti to ocean cliffs—on a well-paced ride. Plus, it’s a small-group tour, which usually means more personalized attention and fewer crowds. On the flip side, some reviews mention logistical hiccups and safety concerns that are worth thinking about before booking. So, if you’re someone who values smooth organization and safety, keep reading.

This tour suits those who love nature, want a relaxed yet scenic ride, and don’t mind a bit of adventure. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, it offers a chance to connect with the land in a way that’s both peaceful and exciting.

Key Points

• Authentic Baja Experience: Ride through a traditional ranch and along the Pacific coast, soaking in the landscape.
• Personalized Service: Small group size means guides can give individual attention and tailored instructions.
• Scenic Variety: Expect to see beaches, deserts with towering cacti, and ocean cliffs, all in one ride.
• Family-Friendly: Minimum age is 6, making it accessible for families with kids who can ride.
• Value for Money: At $56 per person, participants rave about the quality of the experience and the guide’s knowledge.
• Safety and Organization: Some reviews highlight issues with timing and safety, so stay attentive if you decide to go.

What to Expect from the Tour

The adventure kicks off with pickup from your Cabo San Lucas hotel, which is included in the price. You’ll hop into a comfortable air-conditioned minivan and head to a charming Baja Californian ranch, where the real fun begins. Here, the ranch staff will give you a quick orientation and match you with a horse suited to your skill level—whether you’re a complete beginner or have some riding experience.

Once on horseback, the tour takes you along the breathtaking Pacific coastline. You’ll get to canter along the beaches, an experience that many reviews describe as memorable and even a little magical. The guide will stop intermittently, offering opportunities for photos and to marvel at the dramatic landscapes—think cliffs dropping into the ocean, and desert flora including impressive 20-foot cacti.

The ride typically lasts around 45 minutes, though the total tour duration is about 3 hours and 35 minutes, including transportation and breaks. Along the way, you might also get glimpses of local wildlife, such as lizards, birds, and, if you’re lucky, a sea turtle hatchling (which some guests found to be a touching highlight).

Stops and Highlights

• Ranch Orientation & Horse Assignment: The staff are welcoming and focus on safety and comfort.
• Beach Canter: One of the most talked-about parts—riding on the sand with the ocean beside you. Many guests have described this as a standout moment.
• Desert Flora & Cactus Views: Expect to stop and take photos of towering cacti and other desert plants, which give you a sense of the local ecosystem.
• Scenic Lookouts: Panoramic views of the Pacific make for great photo ops, and many reviewers have praised the “breathtaking” scenery.

Additional Considerations

The tour includes snacks and a professional guide, with transport covered from your hotel. You’ll need to wear comfortable pants and shoes, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light jacket—especially if the weather gets breezy. For those planning to take photos, the guide and a dedicated photographer are on hand, and many reviews remark on the quality and value of these pictures.

The tour’s price also covers a park entrance fee of $20, although going with your own transportation gets you a $10 discount on this fee. Some guests enjoy the added flexibility of arranging their own transport.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Feedback

Many travelers have raved about the genuineness of this ranch. One reviewer, Ariel, called it “fun, gentle, relaxing, and loved being out in nature with these calm and beautiful horses.” They emphasized the “amazing and friendly staff” and highly recommended the experience.

Eric shared that he “had a blast,” especially noting the ride along the beach and the guide’s friendliness. His review highlights how the landscape felt untouched and authentic—an important point if you’re after a genuine connection to Cabo’s natural beauty.

Several reviews mention the care of the horses. For example, McKenna appreciated the “superb” animal care, and others highlighted how knowledgeable and kind the guides are. This can really make or break a horseback tour, especially if you’re new to riding.

Some Less Favorable Experiences

It’s fair to mention that not all reviews are glowing. A few guests pointed out issues like the late transportation, or in one case, a serious safety incident where a horse was spooked by dogs, leading to a fall. The management responded to this last review by offering free tickets for a turtle release event, but it’s a reminder to stay vigilant and listen carefully during the ride.

A common criticism was that the ride felt too short—some guests expected more than 45 minutes of riding time, especially given the overall tour length of nearly four hours including transport and breaks. Also, a couple of reviews mentioned that the horses were not always perfectly trained, and that safety procedures could be clearer.

The Value of This Tour

At $56 per person, this experience is quite reasonable considering the stunning scenery, the small-group setting, and the personalized attention. Many guests say the quality of the guide, the horses, and the views make it well worth the price. The tour also includes snacks and scenic stops that add to the overall value.

If you’re someone who appreciates a laid-back, scenic adventure with friendly guides and beautiful landscapes, this tour hits most of those marks. The fact that it’s suitable for kids over 6 makes it accessible for families looking to share a memorable outdoor activity.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This horseback riding tour is perfect for travelers who want more than a typical beach day and enjoy being out in nature. It’s particularly suited for those who want to see Cabo’s desert, cliffs, and beaches in one go. If you love animals and are comfortable around horses, you’ll appreciate the attentive care and gentle rides.

However, if safety is a top concern, some reviews suggest staying alert, especially during cantering, as horses can get spooked by external factors (like dogs on the beach). Also, be prepared for some logistical hiccups, like transportation delays, which are mentioned occasionally.

This is a genuinely scenic and relaxing experience, rather than an adrenaline-filled adventure. So, if you’re after a peaceful ride with spectacular views and friendly guides, this is a solid pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour price, making it convenient to get to and from the ranch.

How long does the actual horseback riding last?
Most of the riding—on the beach and through the desert—lasts about 45 minutes. The total tour duration is around 3 hours and 35 minutes, including transportation, breaks, and photo stops.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable pants and shoes suitable for riding. Remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a light jacket, especially if you plan to stay out longer or if the weather is breezy.

Can kids participate?
Yes, the minimum age is 6, making it suitable for children who can ride. Kids must be accompanied by an adult.

Are there any safety concerns?
While most reviews are positive, there have been some reports of horses spooking or incidents during cantering. It’s important to listen carefully to instructions and stay alert.

Is it suitable if I have back problems or am pregnant?
This tour is not recommended for pregnant women or participants with back issues due to the nature of horseback riding.

What’s the cost of the park entrance fee?
It’s $20 per person, but if you go with your own transportation, you get a $10 discount.

What’s included in the tour?
Snacks, a professional guide, transportation, and scenic stops are included. Photography services are available for an additional fee.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour in Cabo San Lucas offers a genuine taste of Baja’s landscapes, combining serene animal interactions with breathtaking views of beaches and deserts. The small-group setting and friendly guides make it a comfortable and personalized experience, especially for those new to riding or looking for a relaxed adventure.

While some reviews mention minor organizational issues and safety concerns, the overall sentiment is positive, with many guests describing it as a highlight of their trip. The quality of the horses, the scenery, and the guide’s knowledge stand out as key strengths. It’s an experience best suited for travelers who enjoy nature, scenic landscapes, and gentle rides, rather than adrenaline junkies or those seeking a highly structured activity.

If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic ride that captures the natural beauty of Cabo, this tour is worth considering. Just keep in mind the occasional logistical hiccup and ensure you’re comfortable with basic riding safety.

Whether you’re hoping to snap some incredible photos, enjoy a peaceful connection with horses, or simply see a different side of Cabo, this tour can deliver a memorable day out in the wild.