Side by Side Cabo Adventure

Introduction: A Thrilling Ride or a Bumpy Affair?

If you’re dreaming of feeling the wind in your hair while exploring Cabo San Lucas’s rugged landscapes, the Side by Side Cabo Adventure might catch your eye. This tour promises to take you on an exciting 3-hour excursion through desert trails, towering sand dunes, and along white-sand beaches, all aboard a side-by-side (SXS) vehicle.

What we like about this experience is that it offers small-group intimacy, meaning you’ll get more personalized attention from your guide, and the scenic views of the Pacific Ocean are hard to beat. Plus, the included hotel transfers make it easy to just show up and enjoy. However, some travelers have found that the duration can be shorter than expected, with reports of 1/2 hour less than the advertised time. This might be a consideration if you’re hoping for a full 2-hour ride.

This adventure suits adventure seekers and nature lovers who enjoy a bit of adrenaline mixed with striking scenery. If you’re in Cabo and craving a mix of excitement and authentic outdoor exploration, this tour could be just the ticket — but do keep the potential for shorter ride times in mind.

Key Points

• Small-group experience means more personalized guide attention
• Includes hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Scenic routes across desert, dunes, and beaches provide fantastic photo opportunities
• Delicious tacos are offered post-ride, adding authentic flavor to your day
• Price point of $169 offers a balanced mix of adventure and value
• Duration of approximately 3 hours may be shorter in practice, so plan accordingly

Exploring the Cabo Landscape: What to Expect

When you book the Side by Side Cabo Adventure, you’re signing up for more than just a ride — it’s a chance to see some of the most rugged and beautiful parts of the area. The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, which means you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics. Once at the starting point, you’ll check in, get a locker, and meet your bilingual guide.

Safety gear and instructions are provided, reassuring even the most cautious thrill-seeker. The actual ride takes you through desert trails and towering dunes, offering wide-open spaces for your vehicle to carve out a bit of dirt and sand. And for those who love coastal views, there’s the chance to glimpse the Pacific Ocean from vantage points along the route.

The Ride Experience

The ride itself is designed to be exhilarating but accessible. Most travelers can participate, and the small group size — capped at 15 — means your guide can tailor the experience a little more to your comfort level. Expect to feel the wind and the thrill of crossing uneven terrain, which is part of the fun.

One reviewer noted that the beach ride was “pretty” and praised the guide, but also pointed out that they were not placed in the correct group and that their ride was shorter than the advertised two hours. This highlights the importance of setting expectations about the actual duration and organization of the tour.

Post-Ride Refreshments and Photos

After the adventure, you’ll have some time to clean up and relax. The opportunity to look at your pictures and enjoy a cold drink makes for a nice wind-down. The inclusion of water helps stay hydrated after the dusty, adrenaline-filled ride.

The Food and Atmosphere: Tacos and Authentic Flavors

One of the unexpected delights of this tour is the inclusion of delicious tacos after the ride. It’s a simple yet authentic touch that adds a lot of value, especially for those craving a hearty, local-style meal after outdoor activity. While food and beverages are not included in the price, the tacos are a recommended highlight — a perfect way to refuel and enjoy authentic Cabo flavors.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included in your $169 ticket are round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, security equipment, and water. The convenience of hotel pickup is a big plus, removing the hassle of finding your way to the starting point.

However, be aware that gratuities are not included, and you’ll need to budget for food and drink if you wish to dine post-ride. Also, there’s a Cabo San Lucas entrance fee of $25 per person that’s payable on-site, which is typical for many attractions in the area.

Optional Insurance and Additional Fees

The tour offers an optional collision insurance per vehicle, giving peace of mind in case of minor mishaps. For those concerned about safety and potential costs, it’s worth considering.

The Booking and Cancellation Policies

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book with some confidence. Just remember, if you cancel less than 24 hours before the scheduled time, your payment is non-refundable, so plan accordingly. The tour also depends on good weather; poor weather could lead to cancellation or rescheduling, with full refunds or alternative dates offered.

The Realities: Weighing the Pros and Cons

The tour’s atmosphere and scenic value are definitely appealing. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction with your guide and fewer crowds. The scenic routes across varied terrain are a visual treat, and the inclusion of tacos adds a taste of local flavor.

That said, some reviews point out shorter ride times than advertised, with one traveler mentioning only half the expected duration. If you’re expecting a full two-hour adventure, it’s wise to clarify this with the provider beforehand. The price tag of $169 seems fair considering the transportation, guide, and included snacks, but travelers should consider the actual ride duration when assessing value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure lovers who enjoy off-road driving and scenic outdoor environments. It’s also great for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and local touches like tacos after their ride. Families with older children or teens, as well as couples or small groups of friends, will find this a fun, memorable activity.

However, if you’re a very time-sensitive traveler or expecting a full 2-hour ride, be aware that some participants have found the actual time shorter. It’s a good idea to confirm the duration and clarify any expectations before booking.

The Sum Up: Is the Side by Side Cabo Adventure Worth It?

In the end, the Side by Side Cabo Adventure offers a solid outdoor experience that combines scenic views, a bit of adrenaline, and authentic local flavors. The small group setting and inclusive transfers make it convenient, and the chance to explore the rugged terrain of Cabo San Lucas makes it memorable.

While some travelers have expressed disappointment about ride duration, the overall package remains a fun, value-packed option for those seeking an active outing. The inclusion of delicious tacos and scenic viewpoints adds a nice touch of local flavor, making this a good choice for adventure-seeking travelers who don’t mind some minor uncertainties.

For those craving an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience with a chance to see Cabo’s wild side — and enjoy a tasty meal afterward — this tour can deliver. Just double-check expectations about the total time and plan for a shorter ride if that’s a concern.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel is included, making it a hassle-free experience.

How long does the tour last?
The advertised duration is approximately 3 hours, but some reviews mention the actual ride can be about half that time, so it’s good to clarify this when booking.

Do I need prior experience to ride the SXS?
Most travelers can participate, and safety equipment is provided. Guides will give instructions, so no prior experience is necessary.

Are food and drinks included?
Food and beverages are not included, but you will be offered tacos after the ride, which is a nice local touch.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour has a maximum of 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging.

Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, there’s a $25 fee per person for entry into Cabo San Lucas, payable on-site.

In summary, the Side by Side Cabo Adventure is an energetic and scenic way to explore the less-traveled parts of Cabo San Lucas. It’s best suited for those who value small groups, authentic experiences, and a bit of adrenaline, all at a reasonable price. Just keep your expectations in check regarding the ride length, and you’ll likely walk away with a fun story and some great photos.