Horseback riding & Temazcal combo with lunch and mezcal tour

Introduction

If you’re seeking an active, culturally engaging day near Mazatlan, this horseback riding and temazcal combo with lunch and mezcal tasting offers a well-rounded taste of local life and adventure. It’s a package that combines outdoor fun, traditional rituals, and flavorful food, making it ideal for travelers craving authentic experiences.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances adrenaline-pumping ziplining with the cultural richness of a temazcal ceremony, topped off with genuine Mexican cuisine and mezcal. The logistical ease—pickup from your hotel, condo, or cruise ship—makes it very accessible. However, keep in mind that the drive to the site can be over an hour and involves some winding roads, which might be a consideration if you’re sensitive to travel sickness or simply prefer shorter trips.

This adventure suits those who enjoy a bit of everything—nature, culture, and history—without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for active travelers, curious foodies, and anyone wanting to step off the usual tourist trail into real local moments.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Combines traditional Mexican rituals like temazcal with local food and mezcal tasting.
• Adventurous Activities: 12-zipline circuit offers sweeping views and thrills.
• Convenient & Hassle-Free: Includes round-trip transportation from your accommodation or cruise port.
• Balanced Duration: About 4.5 hours, enough for a comprehensive taste of Mazatlan’s countryside and culture.
• Group Size & Safety: Up to 25 travelers, guided by knowledgeable and professional staff.
• Value for Money: At $180, it’s an all-in-one experience, with food, drinks, and activities included.

A Comprehensive Look at the Horseback Riding & Temazcal Combo

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, condo, or cruise ship—convenience is key. Once on the road, you’ll travel approximately an hour into the Mazatlan countryside, passing through small towns, agave plantations, and scenic rural landscapes. For many, this drive is a highlight in itself, offering a glimpse into authentic local life away from the tourist areas. As one reviewer noted, the ride through the countryside was “amazing,” and it was a chance to see rooster farms, tequila plantations, and quaint villages like La Noria, where fresh blue corn tortillas and cheese are still made traditionally.

The core of the experience is the horseback riding. You’ll select your horse and explore the plantation and beach area, experiencing the landscape from a different perspective. While the reviews didn’t detail every aspect of the ride, the overall tone is positive, emphasizing the friendliness and professionalism of the guides, and the safety measures taken.

Next comes the temazcal ceremony, an ancient Mexican steam bath that offers physical and spiritual cleansing. Many reviews highlight the authenticity and relaxing nature of this ritual. It’s a chance to connect with indigenous traditions, and the experience is generally described as “authentic and enjoyable.”

Following that, the tour includes a generous Mexican lunch, often praised as “delicious” and “authentic,” and a mezcal tasting. You taste multiple flavors—white, reposado, almond, coffee, hibiscus, tamarind—offering a delightful introduction to Mexico’s iconic spirit. Several reviews mention the quality and variety of the mezcals, with some noting the friendliness of staff and the relaxed atmosphere.

Ziplining: The Thrill of Heights

One of the most popular features is the 12-zipline course set in the forest canopy. Travelers rave about the stunning views and the fun, safe experience. As Patty_G put it, “The ziplining crew was very professional and helpful.” The ziplines vary in length, with some over 300 yards, and several reviewers mention how exhilarating it is to fly across ravines and over treetops.

While a few reviews pointed out that the landscape during certain times of the year (June, in one case) can be dry and brown due to seasonal changes, many still found the experience thrilling and scenic. The guides’ professionalism and attention to safety are recurring themes, with many reviewers feeling reassured and enjoying the views safely.

Food and Beverage

The lunch is a standout feature—authentic Mexican fare served in a relaxed setting. Reviewers describe it as “plentiful,” “delicious,” and a highlight of the day. The fact that they accommodate dietary preferences like dairy-free options is a plus.

The mezcal tasting is not just a quick shot but an educational experience. The variety of flavors and the friendly staff make it a memorable part of the day. Some reviews mention the bottles were “dirty,” but most found the tasting enjoyable and informative.

Transportation & Group Dynamics

The round-trip transfer is straightforward, with a comfortable van taking you from your hotel or cruise port. Group sizes are capped at 25, ensuring personalized attention from guides, who are praised for their helpfulness and friendliness. The drive, while scenic, can be over an hour, so be prepared for some winding roads. Reviewers mention bringing a jacket for the air-conditioned van and having some patience during the journey.

Pricing and Value

At $180 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—adventure, culture, and cuisine. When you factor in the ziplining, temazcal, lunch, mezcal tasting, and transportation, the value is quite good for those wanting a full day’s exploration beyond typical beach or city tours. Several reviewers expressed satisfaction with the cost, especially given the quality and variety of experiences packed into the 4.5-hour timeframe.

What the Reviews Say

Reviews paint a mostly positive picture. Many travelers highlighted the professionalism of the guides and the safety measures, which is reassuring for adventure activities like ziplining. One reviewer called it “one of our favorite experiences,” emphasizing the authenticity and warmth of the staff.

Others appreciated the culture—learning about local traditions, tasting authentic food, and seeing scenic rural areas. Patty_G summed it up by saying, “The whole crew for ziplining were very professional and so helpful,” reinforcing the emphasis on safety and helpfulness.

However, a few comments point to some downsides. A notable one is about the landscape during certain seasons being dry and less lush, which could affect the visual appeal for some. A couple of reviewers expressed that the drive can be lengthy, and the equipment used for ziplining might seem a bit basic or aged, though still safe.

A standout negative review described the landscape as “super dirty” and the experience as “long and hot,” with some safety concerns about the zipline setup. This appears to be an outlier, perhaps influenced by seasonal conditions or individual expectations.

The Verdict

This tour offers a balanced blend of adventure, culture, and local flavor. The scenic drive, authentic traditions, and thrilling ziplining make it a compelling choice for active, curious travelers willing to spend a few hours outside the city. The inclusion of a traditional temazcal, delicious Mexican lunch, and mezcal tasting elevates it beyond a simple outdoor activity, turning it into an immersive cultural experience.

For those prioritizing value, the price covers a lot—adventure, cultural insight, and culinary delights—making it a good deal for an all-in-one adventure. The guides’ professionalism and the safety measures in place are notable positives.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure lovers, culture enthusiasts, and foodies eager to explore local traditions firsthand. It’s an excellent choice for families (with children over 15), groups, or solo travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Mazatlan’s countryside and indigenous customs. If you’re after a quick, surface-level activity, this might feel a bit long, but if you’re looking for meaningful, memorable moments, it delivers.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

Travelers sensitive to long drives or seeking lush, tropical scenery year-round might find the landscape less appealing during dry seasons. Also, those with mobility issues should consider the physical demands of horseback riding and ziplining.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transport from your hotel, condo, or cruise ship is included, making logistics hassle-free.
What is the tour duration? Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, enough time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.
Can children participate? Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the physical activity level is moderate.
How many ziplines are there? There are 12 ziplines, some extending over 300 yards, offering a mix of thrill and scenic views.
Are food and drinks included? Yes, a Mexican lunch and bottled water, plus mezcal tastings of multiple flavors, are part of the package.
What is the maximum weight allowed? Up to 130 kg (287 lbs).
What if I have dietary restrictions? The lunch is described as authentic and accommodating, with options for dairy-free diets.
Is the experience safe? Guides are professional, safety equipment is used, and many reviews emphasize feeling secure during ziplining and other activities.
How far in advance should I book? On average, it’s booked about 27 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.

To sum it up, this combo tour offers an engaging mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and culinary delight, all wrapped into a manageable half-day trip. It’s particularly ideal for travelers looking to experience Mazatlan beyond the beaches—delivering genuine moments, scenic views, and fun. Expect friendly guides, authentic experiences, and a memorable day that combines the best of tradition and thrill.