Horseback Riding on the Beach

If you’re looking to combine the thrill of riding a gentle horse with the visual splendor of Mexico’s Pacific coast, this horseback riding tour in Zihuatanejo might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t personally saddled up on this adventure, the consistent glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers a relaxing, scenic experience suitable for a wide range of travelers.

What we love most is how it balances authentic natural beauty with user-friendly riding—perfect for first-timers or those who just want a peaceful ride along the shore. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds a layer of convenience that makes the day feel effortless.

One potential consideration is the group size—with a maximum of 12 participants, it’s not a crowded experience but still popular enough to book well in advance. This tour tends to appeal most to those craving a taste of rural Mexico, scenic landscapes, and a break from busy tourist spots, especially if you’re comfortable with a moderate activity level.

Key Points

• Gentle horses suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
• Scenic route passing Playa Larga beach, coconut plantations, and mangroves.
• All-inclusive with transportation, safety briefing, and a water bottle.
• Flexible departure times allow you to choose what suits your schedule best.
• An authentic experience that combines nature, culture, and adventure in one ride.
• Well-reviewed guides who are friendly, knowledgeable, and keep safety a priority.

An In-Depth Look at the Horseback Riding Experience

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off with a pickup at your hotel or cruise terminal in Ixtapa or Zihuatanejo, making logistics one less thing to worry about. The air-conditioned van whisks you away to the southern part of Zihuatanejo County, where the stables are located. The ride from your hotel to the stable is not just transportation—it’s part of the experience, offering glimpses of local life and the lush landscape.

Once at the stable, you’ll receive a safety briefing and riding instructions. The guides are known for their kindness, and the horses are described as gentle and well-cared-for—important details for anyone nervous about riding. Riders are paired with a horse that matches their experience level, so beginners won’t feel out of place, and seasoned riders can enjoy a comfortable, relaxing trot or even a gallop if conditions allow.

The actual riding lasts about 1 hour and 10 minutes, which is a generous amount of time to explore without feeling rushed. You’ll start by passing through a quaint community near Playa Larga beach—here, you can imagine local life unfolding just beyond your saddle. Then, you’ll venture onto the beach, where the waves wash over your horse’s feet, creating a memorable moment that many reviews highlight as a favorite.

Beyond the beach, your route takes you past a lagoon filled with birdlife and into a coconut plantation, where the lush palms sway and give a sense of tranquility. The guide often shares insights about the local flora and fauna, making the ride both scenic and educational.

The Highlights of the Tour

The beach portion of the ride is what most travelers seem to love. As one reviewer exclaimed, riding along the shoreline while the Pacific Ocean laps at the horses’ hooves feels like a dream—”walking along the beach as the waves came in made it a beautiful experience.” For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the guide often encourages some trotting or cantering, adding excitement to the ride.

A unique feature is the opportunity to bring apples or carrots for the horses—an extra touch that many riders appreciate and that guides are happy to facilitate. The connection with the animals often becomes a highlight, with reviewers praising how “the horses were very sweet, gentle & well cared for.”

The return journey heads back through the coconut plantation and lagoon, wrapping up the scenic tour. Afterwards, you can unwind with a cold beer or bottled water before your comfortable ride back to your hotel—a thoughtful touch appreciated by many travelers.

The Value for Your Money

Priced at around $72.49 per person, this experience offers solid value—especially considering the included transportation, safety equipment, and the guided nature of the ride. Plus, booking is typically done 17 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. For the price, you get a personalized, scenic adventure that’s more than just a simple ride; it’s an immersive experience into the local landscape and way of life.

Why Guests Love It—and Why Some Might Not

The reviews consistently praise the professionalism of the guides, with many mentioning how “Ramon was an amazing tour guide” and how the horses were “so well-trained and smart.” Participants often note the stunning scenery—from the beach to the lagoon and plantations—as well as the informative commentary that enriches the ride.

However, a few reviews mention that “the description was misleading,” or that some expectations were not fully met. For example, not everyone was able to gallop, and some found the experience less thrilling than hoped. It’s worth remembering that this is a gentle ride designed for all; it’s not a high-adventure or speed-focused tour.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback riding experience is best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a calm, scenic adventure. It’s ideal if you want to see the coastal landscapes and enjoy a relaxing ride without the need for advanced riding skills. Those who appreciate guided local insights and authentic rural scenery will find it especially rewarding.

It’s also a great way to add a memorable highlight to your trip without overexerting yourself. Keep in mind that children must be at least five years old and accompanied by an adult. The maximum group size of 12 keeps things intimate enough for personal attention but lively enough to be social.

Practical Tips for Your Ride

• Wear closed-toed shoes and pants for comfort and safety.
• Don’t forget sunblock and mosquito repellent—the outdoor environment offers plenty of both.
• Bring a camera to capture scenic shots, especially on the beach and among the trees.
• If possible, bring apples or carrots for the horses—they love a treat!
• Confirm your departure time when booking, as multiple options are available.
• Be aware that most travelers book about 17 days in advance, so plan accordingly.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, or the cruise ship terminal in Zihuatanejo. The ride to the stable is part of the experience.

Can children participate?
Children aged 5 and above can join, but must be accompanied by an adult. Child rates apply when sharing with two paying adults.

How long is the horseback ride?
The actual riding lasts about 1 hour and 10 minutes, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Are the horses suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The horses are described as “gentle” and “well-cared-for,” and riders are paired according to their experience level.

Is it safe?
Yes. A safety briefing is provided before the ride, and guides prioritize safety and comfort. The tour is designed for all skill levels.

What should I wear?
Pants and closed-toed shoes are recommended. Don’t forget sun protection and mosquito repellent.

What do reviewers say about the overall experience?
Most reviews are highly positive, with many praising the friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and well-behaved horses. A few noted that the experience was not as fast-paced as some might expect, emphasizing its relaxed nature.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour in Zihuatanejo offers a blend of natural beauty, gentle adventure, and authentic charm. For those wanting to experience the coast from a different perspective—riding along the sand, passing through coconut groves, and exploring mangroves—this is a solid choice that doesn’t overpromise but delivers on its quiet magic.

It’s especially well-suited for families and casual riders seeking a scenic, safe, and memorable outing. The included transportation and friendly guides make it a hassle-free way to enjoy the outdoors without strenuous activity.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic ride that combines beach, lagoon, and plantation views, and you’re willing to book a little in advance, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to enjoy some authentic coastal Mexico.

Remember: Book early, prepare for a relaxing time, and enjoy the kindhearted guides and beautiful landscapes that make this horseback adventure a memorable highlight of your trip.