Horseback Riding Tour to the Hot Springs in Puerto Escondido

If you’re planning a trip to Oaxaca and looking for a day that combines adventure, nature, and a bit of relaxation, this horseback riding tour to the hot springs in Puerto Escondido might just be what you need. It promises a mix of scenic trails, river crossings, and soothing hot springs—an experience that appeals to anyone wanting to connect with Mexico’s natural beauty in an active way. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve looked into what it offers and how it might fit into your travel plans.

What I really appreciate about this experience are the guided horseback rides through lush landscapes and the opportunity to unwind in natural hot springs. Both elements offer a genuine sense of connection—whether to the land, the local culture, or simply to a moment of peace in nature. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the moderate physical fitness requirement and outdoor nature of the activity mean it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some movement and uneven terrain.

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and relaxing hot springs—perfect if you’re after a full day of active outdoor fun with a touch of wellness. If you’re traveling with people who love nature and don’t mind a bit of riding and river crossing, this could be a highlight of your trip. But if you’re not comfortable on horseback or prefer more leisurely experiences, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Guided by local community members for an authentic connection.
• Includes a scenic drive with panoramic views on the way back.
• Ideal for outdoor lovers comfortable with moderate activity.
• Crosses three rivers for an adventurous twist.
• Relaxation in natural hot springs for about 1 to 2 hours.
• Pickup available and mobile tickets add convenience.

What to Expect from the Tour

This experience kicks off early at 9:00 am, making it a great way to start your day with something active and scenic. The total duration is around 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving you a decent chunk of time to enjoy each step without feeling rushed.

The Horseback Ride

The core of the tour is a guided horseback ride that lasts about an hour. Led by local community members, it’s a chance to see the lush greenery of Manialtepec up close. Expect trails that wind through dense vegetation, offering plenty of shade and natural beauty. The crossing of three rivers adds a splash of adventure—this isn’t a flat, easy ride; it’s designed to get your heart pumping a little and your senses alert to the environment around you.

The horses are generally well-behaved, and guides will help with any beginners or nervous riders. If you’re an experienced rider, you’ll find the trails relaxing and scenic, but if you’re new to riding, don’t worry—this isn’t a race or a difficult trek.

Reaching the Hot Springs

After the ride, you’ll arrive at the natural hot springs, which are described as stunning and tranquil. Here, you’ll have roughly 1 to 2 hours to soak in the warm waters, which are said to have healing properties. The setting is natural, serene, and picturesque—perfect for floating and unwinding after the physical activity. This part of the trip is less about adventure and more about enjoying the peaceful environment and the soothing effects of the mineral-rich waters.

Many reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and relaxing atmosphere at the hot springs, making it clear that this is a highlight of the experience. The combination of nature, quiet, and the warm waters offers a real sense of rejuvenation—whether for tired muscles or just mental refreshment.

The Return Trip

On the way back, the fun continues with a scenic drive through the area. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the landscape, which are perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery. This part of the tour adds a visual element that complements the outdoor activities and helps you appreciate the region’s natural beauty.

The Logistics: Details That Matter

Price: $92.76 per person. When you consider this includes horseback riding, river crossings, hot springs relaxing time, and scenic return views, it’s quite reasonable for a half-day adventure. The cost covers guided service and transportation, making it an easy all-in-one outing.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, which is a good length for a full morning or early afternoon activity without feeling like you’re sacrificing the rest of your day.

Pick-up: Available, which adds convenience, especially if you’re staying some distance from the meeting point. Confirming the pickup details ahead of time is probably worthwhile.

Group Size: Max of 100 travelers, so it’s a relatively intimate setting, although the actual group will likely be smaller and more manageable.

Weather: The activity is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s wise to keep an eye on the forecast as the date approaches.

Physical Fitness: Described as moderate, so you’ll want to be comfortable with some walking and riding. The rivers crossings and trail terrain require a bit of stamina but aren’t overly strenuous.

Authenticity and Guide Quality

One of the standout features is that the tour is guided by local community members. This adds an authentic touch, allowing you to learn about the region and its traditions directly from residents. It’s a meaningful aspect that enhances cultural appreciation and supports local livelihoods.

Reviews note knowledgeable guides—they are often praised for being friendly, helpful, and informative. This makes the experience more engaging and educational, which we always appreciate when exploring new places.

Overall Value and Considerations

At just under $93, this tour offers a combination of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and relaxation that would be hard to match if you tried to piece it together yourself. It’s a well-rounded experience, especially if you enjoy active outings and natural hot springs.

Potential downsides could include the moderate physical activity required and the outdoor nature, which might not suit travelers with mobility issues or those expecting a more leisurely, seated tour. Weather can also impact the experience, so it’s wise to plan for a day with favorable conditions.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience works well for adventurous travelers who want to enjoy nature actively and relax afterward. It’s also ideal for those interested in local culture, given the involvement of community guides. If you’re comfortable riding horses and walking on uneven trails, you’ll find it enjoyable.

If you prefer more relaxed sightseeing or have mobility constraints, you might find the physical aspects challenging. Families with older children who enjoy outdoor activities could find it a memorable day, provided they’re okay with riding and river crossings.

FAQ

• Is transportation included? Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient to get to the starting point.
• How long do we spend at the hot springs? About 1 to 2 hours of relaxing time.
• What’s the total duration of the tour? Around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
• Is this suitable for beginners? Yes, guided by local community members, the ride is manageable for most comfortable riders.
• What should I wear? Casual outdoor clothing suitable for riding and walking, plus swimwear for the hot springs.
• Are there any age restrictions? Not specified, but given the activity level, older children or teens who enjoy outdoor adventures should be fine.
• Can I cancel? Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• What’s the cancellation policy? If canceled less than 24 hours before, no refund. Changes are also not accepted within that window.
• What’s the weather policy? If canceled due to bad weather, you are offered a different date or full refund.
• How many people can join? Up to 100 travelers, but actual group sizes are usually smaller.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this horseback riding tour to the hot springs in Puerto Escondido is a compelling mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable riding horses and crossing rivers. The involvement of local guides ensures an authentic experience, and the natural hot springs provide a perfect opportunity to unwind after some moderate exertion.

If you’re after an active day that takes you through lush scenery and ends with a peaceful soak, this tour could be a memorable highlight of your Oaxaca trip. Just keep an eye on the weather and your comfort level with outdoor activities, and you’re likely to come away with some lovely memories—and maybe even some great photos of scenic views.