Playa del Carmen: Small Group Horseback Ride with Drinks

Summary

Horseback riding in playa del carmen with snacks and drinks included

You’ll ride gentle rescue horses through Playa del Carmen’s jungle trails in a small group (max 6), guided by locals who know every twist in the path. Expect snacks before you saddle up (if you go in the morning), water during your ride, and drinks waiting at the ranch when you return — plus plenty of time to connect with both animals and people along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the soft shuffle of hooves on packed earth — not loud, just steady, almost like a heartbeat under the trees. We’d barely arrived at Rancho Baaxal near Playa del Carmen when one of the ranch dogs trotted over and leaned against my leg. It smelled like warm hay and something sweet, maybe from the pastries they set out for us (I grabbed one, couldn’t resist). Our guide, Ana, asked about our experience and matched each of us to a horse — she said mine was “a bit stubborn but loyal,” which felt weirdly accurate.

I’d done a couple horseback rides before but never through jungle trails like these. The air was thick and green, with flashes of sunlight cutting through leaves. Sometimes it got so quiet you could hear birds arguing somewhere above us; other times Ana would point out a plant or tell a story about one of the horses’ rescue stories. She laughed when I tried to pronounce “Baaxal” right — I definitely didn’t nail it. There’s something about moving slowly through that kind of landscape that makes you notice small things: how the saddle creaks, or how your horse flicks its ears back when you talk to it.

We stopped halfway for water (they handed out cold bottles from a little pack) and Ana showed us some weird-looking fruit growing wild along the trail. I still think about that view through the trees — all tangled roots and sudden shafts of light. On the way back, a couple people who were more experienced got to trot ahead for a bit while the rest of us just took it slow. Back at the ranch, there was chilled wine and beer waiting if you wanted it (I went for juice because I was already sweaty enough). The horses got their treats too, which honestly felt fair.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Classic horseback riding experience

• Arrive 20 minutes before ride
• Sign waiver
• Receive helmet and mosquito repellent
• Get horse assigned based on profile
• Attend rider briefing
• Ride through jungle trails
• Stop midway to explore points of interest
• Experienced riders trot and canter
• Return to ranch
• Enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks

Top questions

How long does the horseback ride last?

The ride lasts about 1.5 hours, not including time before/after at the ranch.

What is the maximum weight limit for riders?

The maximum permitted weight is 200lbs (90kg) with a BMI limit of 30.

Are helmets provided for horseback riding?

Yes, riding helmets are provided for all guests at Rancho Baaxal.

Is food or drink included on this tour?

Yes—morning rides include coffee/tea/juice and pastries; afternoon rides offer drinks and light snacks after returning.

How many people are in each group?

The horseback ride is limited to six riders per group.

Do I need previous horseback riding experience?

No—horses are matched to your experience level; beginners are welcome.

Are there any age restrictions?

No specific age restriction is listed; suitability depends on size/weight/fitness as assessed by staff.

Is transportation included from Playa del Carmen hotels?

No hotel pickup is included but public transportation options are available nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes matching with a suitable rescue horse based on your experience level, use of riding helmets, bottled water during your jungle ride, plus coffee, tea or juice with pastries before morning rides—or chilled wine, beer or non-alcoholic drinks with light snacks after afternoon rides back at Rancho Baaxal.