Sayulita: Horseback Riding Tour

Travelers looking for a genuine connection with nature and animals will find this horseback riding tour in Sayulita, Jalisco, quite appealing. It’s a chance to explore the lush jungle and sweeping beaches on well-trained horses, guided by friendly and knowledgeable staff. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete novice, this experience offers an enjoyable escape into some of Mexico’s most beautiful scenery.

What we love about this tour is its accessible approach—no prior experience is required, and the guides do a great job of making everyone feel comfortable. Also, the combination of riding through jungle trails and along the beach creates a varied and visually stunning route that appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

A potential consideration is the tour’s duration—it’s relatively short, maxing out around 2 hours—so if you’re craving a full-day adventure, you’ll need to look elsewhere. But for a relaxed, scenic outing, this tour hits the spot.

This horseback excursion is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, animal interactions, and beautiful landscapes, especially those visiting Sayulita for a laid-back, authentic experience that’s easy to fit into a busy itinerary.

Key Points

• No experience needed: The tour is designed for all skill levels, with basic instructions provided.
• Beautiful scenery: Ride through jungle trails and along sandy beaches, with plenty of photo-worthy moments.
• Small group setting: Tours are limited to 9 people, ensuring personalized attention.
• Includes tequila tasting: A fun local touch after your ride, adding flavor to the experience.
• Family-friendly: Kids over 5 can join, making it suitable for families.
• Highly trained guides: Guides are passionate about animals and share interesting insights during the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Scenic Ride for All Levels

If you’re considering whether this horseback riding tour in Sayulita is worth your time and money, it helps to understand what makes it special. The tour begins at Rancho Mi Chaparrita, where the staff matches horses to your experience level and age—so even complete beginners can feel confident. The guides are praised for their friendly professionalism and genuine love for the animals, which adds a warm, human touch to the adventure.

The core of the tour is experiencing Sayulita’s diverse landscapes. You’ll start in the jungle, where the thick foliage and chirping birds set a peaceful tone. Riders are given basic instructions at the start, so you’re not expected to be an expert. Many reviews highlight how patient and attentive the guides are, often tailoring the experience to beginners or nervous riders. One reviewer mentioned how Giovanni, their guide, paid special attention to her mom, who was riding for the first time, and assigned her a “super chill horse.”

Once the jungle trek concludes, you’ll travel onto the beach, where the wide sandy shoreline offers a totally different vibe. The opportunity to gallop on the sand and even pull up to a bar for a margarita on horseback are highlights that travelers rave about. Jessica, one reviewer, loved that her tour included galloping along the beach and even a stop for drinks—something quite memorable and uniquely Mexican.

The tour’s timing options—either 1 or 2 hours—allow you to choose based on your available time and energy. The longer option is perfect for those wanting a more expansive journey, but even the shorter ride covers the essential scenic highlights.

What to Expect During the Tour

Expect a relaxed start at the ranch, where your guides will brief you on safety and how to handle your horse. The small group size ensures you’ll receive personalized attention, making the experience less intimidating for first-timers. You’ll then ride through lush jungle paths, with gentle terrain suitable for all riders.

The jungle portion is shaded and cool, with guides pointing out local flora and fauna, adding an educational element. The terrain is manageable, so even kids from 5 years old up to senior adults can comfortably enjoy the ride—though those with mobility challenges should note the tour isn’t recommended for people with limited mobility or pregnant women.

After navigating the jungle, the scenery opens up to the beachfront, where the horses can stroll along the sand or even canter if you’re comfortable. The beach segment is typically calm and wide, providing ample space for a relaxed ride. During the reviews, many travelers mention the stunning views, the feeling of the wind in their hair, and the chance to see whales far offshore—a delightful bonus if nature aligns.

Once back at the ranch, you’ll be invited to enjoy a tequila tasting—a lively Mexican tradition—adding a flavorful finish to your adventure. Some reviews describe this as a highlight, praising the quality of the tequila and the friendly staff facilitating it.

Plus, the tour includes bottled water and access to the ranch’s swimming pool, offering some well-deserved relaxation after your ride.

The Guides and Their Impact

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the guides’ professionalism and friendliness. Multiple reviewers highlighted guides like Giovanni, Antonio, Guzmán, and Danny as being knowledgeable, personable, and attentive. Their love for horses and passion for sharing Sayulita’s beauty shine through, making the experience more than just a ride—it’s a memorable story.

For example, Andrea described Giovanni as “knowledgeable about the history of Mexico, incredibly polite, and had a great sense of humor,” which shows how guides elevate the outing. Jessica appreciated Juan’s patience when her partner was inexperienced, emphasizing the guides’ focus on safety and comfort.

Value and Practical Details

At $63 per person, the tour offers a solid value considering the scenery, the inclusion of tequila tasting, and the personalized attention given by guides. The price reflects the small group size and the quality of the horses and staff. The experience lasts 1 to 2 hours, fitting easily into a morning or afternoon slot, with flexible scheduling.

The tour includes all necessary equipment and ranch entrance, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs unless you want to buy photos or additional drinks. You should bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes, and arrive 30 minutes early to ensure a smooth start.

The meeting point can vary depending on your booking, so check your reservation details. Keep in mind that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or anyone with certain health concerns—always consult the specific recommendations if you have doubts.

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Authentic Experiences and Unique Touches

What makes this horseback riding tour stand out is how it balances scenic adventure with genuine local culture. The tequila tasting, the chance to see whales (seasonally), and the friendly guides all contribute to an experience that feels authentic rather than commercialized.

Many reviewers mention how the guides share insights into local flora, fauna, and even the history of Sayulita, enriching the journey beyond just riding. The stunning scenery, especially during the sunset rides (which some guides offer as an option), can turn this trip into a real highlight of your trip to Mexico.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for beginners, families with children over 5, and anyone wanting a relaxed yet scenic horseback adventure. If you love animals and are curious about the natural landscape of Sayulita, you’ll find this outing charming and rewarding. It’s also well-suited for travelers seeking a small-group experience with personalized attention.

While it’s not designed for those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or very young children, it offers a safe, enjoyable way to see the coast and jungle with minimal fuss.

The Sum Up

This horseback riding tour in Sayulita offers a wonderful introduction to the region’s natural beauty and local culture. With experienced guides, well-trained horses, and a scenic route that combines jungle and beach, it provides a relaxed yet memorable experience. The inclusion of tequila tasting, the opportunity to see whales, and the chance to gallop along the sand make it a versatile choice for many travelers.

Value-wise, it’s hard to beat for the price, especially when you consider the small group size and personalized attention. Whether you’re a first-time rider, an animal lover, or someone simply eager to enjoy Sayulita’s stunning landscapes, this tour delivers a laid-back adventure that’s both fun and authentic.

For families, nature lovers, and those craving a taste of rural Mexico, this horseback riding experience is a delightful way to spend a few hours outside the usual tourist spots. Just remember to bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure—you’ll leave with great stories, even greater photos, and perhaps a new appreciation for horses and Mexican scenery.

FAQ

Is prior horseback riding experience necessary? No, the tour is designed for all skill levels, with instructions provided at the start.

How long does the tour last? You can choose between a 1-hour or 2-hour experience, depending on your schedule and enthusiasm.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, breathable clothing, and cash or card for extras.

Are children allowed to join? Yes, kids aged 5 and up can participate; younger children should check specific recommendations.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women? No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.

What’s included in the price? Ranch entrance, bottled water, tequila tasting, all riding equipment, and access to the swimming pool.

Where is the meeting point? It varies depending on your booking, so check your reservation details.

Can I take photos during the ride? It’s not recommended for safety reasons; however, a professional photographer is available to capture your experience.

Are group sizes small? Yes, tours are limited to 9 people, ensuring personalized attention.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This horseback riding tour in Sayulita is about enjoying stunning landscapes, interacting with friendly guides, and experiencing a slice of authentic Mexican life—all at a reasonable price. It’s a ride that leaves many travelers with a smile, great photos, and stories worth sharing.

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