Cabo San Lucas: Horseback Riding Beach & Desert with Tequila

Summary

Ride horses by Cabo’s wild Pacific, desert trails and open beaches

You’ll ride horseback from desert trails to open Pacific beaches near Cabo San Lucas with a local guide who knows every horse by name. Feel ocean breezes, listen to stories along the way, then finish with a tequila tasting back at the ranch. Expect moments of quiet awe—and maybe even laughter if your horse has opinions.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to smell salt in the air before we even saw the ocean. We’d just bumped along a dusty road outside Cabo San Lucas, sun already high, when our driver grinned and pointed out a line of horses waiting under some scraggly palms. The horses looked relaxed—one even flicked an ear at me like he knew I was nervous. Our guide, Jorge, handed me the reins and said, “This one’s called Capricho. He’s stubborn but sweet.” I laughed and tried to say his name right. Not sure I nailed it.

The first bit took us through these dry desert trails that felt almost silent except for hooves crunching on sand and the odd cactus shadow stretching across the path. Jorge kept up this steady stream of stories—about how Monica the vet knows every horse by heart, about whales you can sometimes spot from shore if you’re lucky (we weren’t, but I kept scanning the waves anyway). The air changed as we got closer to the beach—cooler, with that sharp sea smell mixing into everything. Suddenly it opened up: endless flat sand, wild blue water pounding in waves so big you could feel them in your chest.

We rode along the edge of the surf where the sand gets hard and dark. Capricho snorted every time spray hit his nose; I probably made a face too because Jorge laughed and said, “He likes it more than most people do.” There was this moment where everyone just got quiet—just wind, horses breathing, ocean roaring—and honestly I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Back at the ranch they handed us little clay cups for a tequila tasting (I tried not to make a face at my first sip—no promises). Kids ran around chasing chickens near a shaded patio while someone explained how each bottle was made. It all felt unhurried in that way Mexico does so well. I left with sand in my shoes and horse hair on my shirt—wouldn’t have traded either.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback riding and tequila tasting

• Meet and know your horse
• Ride through mountains and desert trails
• Enjoy views of Pacific Ocean
• Spot humpback whales (seasonal)
• Feel refreshing ocean breeze
• Conclude with tequila tasting

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Cabo horseback riding tour?

Yes, round trip transportation is included with your booking.

Are bilingual guides available on this tour?

Yes, professional bilingual guides lead all rides.

Is there an age limit for children on this horseback ride?

The minimum age is 7 years old and children must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear for horseback riding in Cabo?

Dress appropriately for weather; closed shoes and comfortable clothes are recommended since tours operate in all conditions.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

The activity is wheelchair accessible; infants or small children can use a pram or stroller if needed.

Does this tour include food or drinks?

Water is provided during the tour and there is a tequila tasting at the end.

Can pregnant travelers join this horseback riding tour?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with recent surgeries or spinal injuries.

Will we see whales during this Cabo horseback ride?

You might spot humpback whales from shore during season but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Cabo San Lucas, safety equipment for riding, water along the way to keep you cool under that Baja sun, a professional bilingual guide who knows each horse personally (really), kids club and nanny service if you need it, plus tequila tasting back at the ranch before heading home.