Tapalpa: Private Day Trip from Guadalajara with Horseback & Ecopark

Summary

Cool Tapalpa air, horseback rides at Las Piedrotas, local bites & mountain views

You’ll feel Tapalpa’s cool mountain breeze as you ride horses among ancient stones at Las Piedrotas, taste roasted lamb in the village center, and watch paragliders leap from La Ceja viewpoint. With a local guide handling all transport and lunch details, you can just soak up each unexpected moment along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the air changed as we left Guadalajara behind — it’s cooler up in Tapalpa, kind of piney, almost sweet. Our guide (Miguel, born here — he pointed out his old school on the way) handed us warm pan dulce before we even got to the viewpoint. There’s this spot called La Ceja where paragliders just run off the cliff like it’s nothing; I watched one take off, and honestly my stomach dropped for them. The Sayula Lagoon looked silver and flat from up there. It felt like we were standing at the edge of something bigger.

We wandered through Tapalpa’s historic center after that. The buildings are whitewashed with these red tile roofs — not fancy but somehow perfect. Miguel told us about how Tapalpa became a Pueblo Mágico, and I tried Pulque for the first time (it’s… different, kind of earthy-sour). Lunch was roasted lamb and goat birria at a little place where an abuela kept bringing extra tortillas. I still think about those smoky smells drifting out onto the street.

At Las Piedrotas ecopark, I actually laughed when my horse stopped to nibble grass instead of following the trail — apparently he does that with everyone. The stones are massive, just scattered around like some giant dropped them by accident after a volcanic tantrum a thousand years ago. We hiked a bit too; pine needles underfoot and that resin smell everywhere. There were families picnicking, kids climbing rocks, vendors selling milk candies near the entrance — so yeah, it’s not exactly silent but it feels real.

On the way back to Guadalajara I realized my jeans smelled faintly of wood smoke and horse sweat. Not sure what I expected from a day trip to Tapalpa but it wasn’t this mix of quiet moments and odd little surprises. Kind of makes you want to stay longer next time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Tapalpa's nature and culture

• Visit viewpoint and paragliding launch
• Stroll historic center and have lunch
• Shop at Tapalpa Handicrafts Market
• Enjoy hiking and activities at Ecopark

Top questions

How far is Tapalpa from Guadalajara?

Tapalpa is located in Jalisco’s highlands, roughly 2 hours by car from Guadalajara.

Is horseback riding included in this day trip?

Yes, horseback riding at Las Piedrotas ecopark is included as part of the private tour.

What food can I try in Tapalpa?

You can enjoy traditional dishes like roasted lamb or birria goat stew, plus regional drinks such as Pulque and pomegranate punch.

Are there activities for families or kids?

Yes, activities like hiking, horseback riding, exploring giant stones at Las Piedrotas ecopark are suitable for families and children.

Is pickup included from Guadalajara hotels?

Private transportation with pickup is included in your day trip booking.

Can I see paragliding at La Ceja viewpoint?

If you visit on weekends (Saturday or Sunday), you may see paragliders taking off from La Ceja viewpoint.

What should I bring for this tour?

Comfortable clothes for walking or riding are recommended; water is provided during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

This tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with pickup from Guadalajara, entry to Las Piedrotas ecopark with a guided horseback riding circuit, purified water throughout the journey, and all the insights of a knowledgeable local guide who’ll make sure you don’t miss any flavors or stories along the way.