Puerto Escondido: Horseback Riding Along the Countryside

If you’re looking to see a different side of Puerto Escondido beyond its famous beaches, this horseback riding tour offers a peaceful yet adventurous glimpse into the rural heart of Oaxaca. Partnering with Puerto Journeys, this experience combines scenic trails, local agricultural insights, and an unforgettable sunset on a pristine beach. It’s a well-rated activity, bringing a mix of nature, culture, and a touch of tranquility – perfect for those craving something authentic and active.

We love how this tour combines learning about local agriculture with stunning views and a relaxed pace. The chance to cross rivers and explore trails away from the crowds is a real highlight. However, with a duration of almost five hours and a moderate price, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with outdoor activities and a bit of a time commitment. If you’re after a peaceful, nature-filled experience that’s more about exploration than thrill-seeking, this tour will suit you nicely.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience: Ride through trails and rivers, away from Puerto Escondido’s busy beaches.
• Scenic sunset: End the day with a breathtaking view on a virgin beach, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.
• Local insights: Learn about Oaxaca’s agricultural practices directly from knowledgeable guides.
• Comfortable setup: Trained horses and round-trip transportation make the experience smooth and enjoyable.
• Flexible and convenient: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with options to cancel or reschedule easily.
• Limited food options onsite: Bring snacks or buy from a small local restaurant after your ride.

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An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Your Adventure: Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup from your Puerto Escondido accommodation, a benefit for those who prefer to skip the hassle of transportation planning. After a 30-minute drive into the countryside, you’ll arrive at the starting point where your guides will assign you a trained, experienced horse. This setup ensures that even beginners can feel confident, while seasoned riders will appreciate the well-trained animals. The convenience of round-trip transportation adds real value, especially in a place like Oaxaca where local transport options might be more complex.

Riding Through Trails and Rivers

Once mounted, the real magic begins. The guide leads you through scenic trails that wind past local farms and small rural communities, offering a rare glimpse into the everyday life of Oaxaca’s countryside. The ride takes you across rivers feeding into the Manialtepec lagoon—a highlight for many. These crossings aren’t just scenic; they give a tangible sense of adventure and connection to nature.

The trail riding itself is gentle but engaging. You’ll love the way the landscape shifts from lush greenery to riverbanks, providing plenty of photo opportunities. Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making sure everyone feels comfortable and informed throughout the journey. As one traveler mentioned, the guides “taught us about local agriculture and made the ride both fun and educational.”

Reaching the Virgin Beach of PuertoSuelо

After about three hours of riding, you’ll arrive at PuertoSuelо, a pristine, less-developed beach perfect for watching the sunset. Here, the group takes a break at a small local restaurant. This is a nice chance to stretch, hydrate, and enjoy some local flavors—although snacks and drinks are available for purchase rather than included in the ticket price.

The charm of this part of the tour lies in its peacefulness. Compared to Puerto Escondido’s bustling surf scene, this secluded stretch of sand feels like a secret spot. The guides help set up your cameras for sunset shots, and you’ll love the way the sky turns gold and pink while you’re comfortably seated on your horse.

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Sunset and Photos

As the sun dips below the horizon, the guides often capture videos and photos, giving you a chance to relive the moment later. Many reviews praise the stunning views and the relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a serene end to their day.

Returning to Puerto Escondido

After sunset, the group mounts the horses again for a brief ride back to the starting point, followed by a short transfer back to your accommodation. The entire experience lasts about 4.5 hours, a good length for those wanting a substantial ride without it becoming overly tiring.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee ($120 per person) covers round-trip transportation, the use of trained horses, bottled water, and the sunset viewpoint. It’s a fair price considering the scenic value, the guided insights, and the convenience of pickup and drop-off. Food and drinks aren’t included but can be bought at the small restaurant, giving you the option to choose what suits your taste and budget.

Practical Tips

• Dress comfortably in breathable clothes and wear a sun hat, sunscreen, and biodegradable insect repellent for protection.
• Bring cash for purchases at the restaurant if you want snacks or drinks.
• The tour is not suitable for people over 70 years old or those with mobility issues.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, appreciate scenic views, and want a relaxed, authentic connection to Oaxaca’s rural life. It’s perfect for those looking for a gentle ride rather than a rugged adventure, and for anyone eager to witness a beautiful sunset from a quiet, untouched beach. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers will find this a memorable way to combine nature, culture, and a peaceful moment away from the crowds.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $120, this tour offers a thoughtful blend of scenic riding, cultural insights, and a stunning sunset. The experience is well-organized, with knowledgeable guides who enhance the journey with local stories and support. The chance to traverse rivers and trails, combined with the peaceful setting of PuertoSuelо, provides a genuine slice of Oaxaca’s countryside that’s often missed by most visitors.

While it’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, it’s a wonderful choice for those seeking a calming, scenic outing that enriches their understanding of local life. The highlight for many is the sunset on the virgin beach—a picture-perfect ending to your day.

If you value authentic experiences and are open to a leisurely ride that emphasizes views, nature, and local culture, this tour will deliver a memorable slice of Oaxaca’s countryside.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, including pickup, riding, and return transportation.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel or Airbnb in Puerto Escondido is included, making logistics simple.

Can beginners participate?
Yes, the tour provides trained and experienced horses, and guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making it suitable for riders of all levels.

How much riding is involved?
You’ll spend about three hours riding through trails and rivers, ending at a virgin beach. The ride is gentle and scenic.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, biodegradable insect repellent, and comfortable, breathable clothes. Snacks and drinks can be purchased at the onsite restaurant.

Is this tour suitable for older travelers?
It’s generally not recommended for people over 70 years old due to the physical nature of riding and outdoor activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This horseback riding tour in Oaxaca offers a peaceful escape into nature, with the bonus of a stunning sunset on a secluded beach. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious beginner, it’s a chance to see a different, quieter side of Puerto Escondido—and experience some of the best views in the region.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby