The best tour to “Tail of Horse”, + Guide + transportation + Tickets

Discover the Magic of Monterrey’s Natural Treasures: A Detailed Review of the Horsetail Waterfall Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Monterrey that combines stunning natural scenery, cultural charm, and a touch of adventure, this tour to the “Tail of Horse” Waterfall, plus Boca Dam and the picturesque town of Santiago, is worth a look. From the moment you arrive at the meeting point, you’ll be treated to a balanced mix of outdoor exploration, local flavor, and comfortable transportation—all for just $83.64 per person.

What we love about this tour are its emphasis on authentic natural landscapes—particularly the impressive Cascada Cola de Caballo (Horse Tail Waterfall) — and the expert guidance that makes each stop meaningful. The tour’s inclusion of free time for walking and souvenir shopping helps balance structured activity with personal exploration. One potential consideration? The itinerary involves a fair amount of walking, so those with mobility issues might want to prepare accordingly. Ideal for families, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a full day outdoors, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of Monterrey’s scenic side.

Key Points

• Natural Highlights: You’ll visit the stunning 27-meter high Cascada Cola de Caballo within a canyon setting.
• Cultural Charm: The walk through Santiago offers a taste of local traditions and vibrant scenery.
• Flexible Activities: Free time for shopping, taking photos, and optional activities like ziplining or horse carriage rides.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle with a small group size (max 12 travelers) enhances the experience.
• Value for Money: Admission tickets, transportation, guides, and some activities are included.
• Good for All: Most travelers find this tour accessible and engaging, though some reviews mention minor issues with guide preparedness.

What to Expect from the Tour: A Deeper Dive

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Cascada Cola de Caballo

This is the star of the tour—a 27-meter-high waterfall located in a scenic canyon between mountains. The terrain offers an easy walk up to the falls, with many reviewers mentioning how accessible the hike is. One traveler noted, “It’s a fairly easy hike and very beautiful,” which makes it suitable for most fitness levels. The waterfall’s impressive cascade is a perfect backdrop for photos, and the surrounding natural environment provides a peaceful escape from city life.

The included admission ticket ensures you won’t need to worry about extra costs here. Expect around three hours to explore, soak in the views, and perhaps capture some memorable images. Several reviews highlight the stunning scenery, with one saying, “Every point shows a spectacular scenario, surrounded by nature.” If you’re a fan of photography or just love the sound of rushing water, this stop will not disappoint.

Stop 2: Presa La Boca (Boca Dam)

Next, you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for a short drive to Boca Dam, an area famous for its natural lake and reservoir. Here, you have the option to take a catamaran ride or simply enjoy the tranquil scenery. The admission is free, so if you prefer, you can just relax and take in the mountain views or snap some photos of the calm waters.

A notable feature here is the serenity of the reservoir, which offers a different perspective on the region’s natural beauty. One reviewer described it as “a natural lake charm,” emphasizing its peaceful appeal. The one-hour stop allows for a relaxed visit—ideal for those wanting to breathe in mountain air and enjoy the outdoors without rushing.

Stop 3: Santiago – The Magic Town

After the natural landscapes, you’ll wander through Santiago, a colorful town with cobblestone streets, lively squares, and local shops. Walking through its main square and alleys, you’ll get a sense of local traditions and charm. Reviewers appreciated this stop, with one noting, “We enjoyed free time to shop and sample traditional snows,” highlighting the opportunity to taste local treats.

This provides a welcome cultural contrast to the scenic nature stops and an opportunity to pick up souvenirs or just soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The walk is leisurely and allows you to appreciate the town’s character at your own pace.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides air-conditioned transportation, making the journey comfortable and refreshing, especially on warm days. Guided commentary enhances the experience, with knowledgeable guides adding context and stories about each site.

Admission tickets to Cascada Cola de Caballo and Boca Dam are included, but lunch is not, so plan accordingly. You might want to bring snacks or plan a meal afterward, especially if you’re hungry after all the walking and sightseeing.

The Group Size and Flexibility

With a maximum of 12 travelers, this tour maintains an intimate and personalized atmosphere. Many reviewers remarked on the guides’ friendliness and helpfulness, often mentioning their knowledge about local history and areas. One reviewer said, “Our guide, Johnathon, felt like hanging out with a friend,” which sums up the relaxed, friendly vibe.

The Experience of the Guides

Most reviews praise the guides—calling them helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly. Several travelers appreciated the extra touches, like snacks and drinks, which added a thoughtful layer to the trip. Conversely, one review mentioned a guide seeming unprepared, but this seems to be an exception rather than the rule.

Transportation and Timing

The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, with a well-paced schedule that balances sightseeing and free time. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and the small group size enhances comfort and allows for spontaneity in stops or conversations.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

This tour’s appeal lies in its focus on authentic landscapes and local culture. You’ll get a chance to see a genuine waterfall, enjoy a peaceful dam reservoir, and stroll through a colorful Mexican town—all in one day. The free time allocated at each stop adds flexibility, so you can choose to relax, explore, or shop.

A key aspect that many guests mention positively is the knowledgeable guides. Their insights make the scenery more meaningful, whether explaining the geology of the falls or sharing stories about Santiago’s traditions. Many reviewers also appreciated the small group format, which fosters a more relaxed, less rushed experience.

The cost offers good value considering that transportation, guides, and tickets are included. You might find additional activities like ziplining or horse carriage rides at extra cost, but these are optional. The tour provides a well-rounded experience, combining natural beauty with cultural flavor.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and scenic landscapes. It’s perfect if you want a full-day escape from the city but prefer a manageable, small-group setting. Those with mobility limitations should consider the gentle nature of the hikes, but overall, the tour seems accessible.

If you love nature photography, cultural exploration, or just want to relax beside a waterfall with a friendly guide, this tour checks many boxes. However, if you prefer more adrenaline activities or longer hikes, you might want to look into additional options.

Final Reflections

This tour offers a genuine taste of Monterrey’s natural beauty, paired with friendly guidance and comfortable transportation. The stops at Cola de Caballo Waterfall, Boca Dam, and Santiago showcase the region’s diversity—from powerful waterfalls to tranquil lakes and lively town squares.

The value for money is solid, especially considering the included tickets and personalized service. The small group size makes for a more intimate experience, allowing guides to tailor the day a bit and foster friendly conversations.

While a few reviews mention minor hiccups, the overall consensus highlights the stunning scenery and the expertise of the guides. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a cultural explorer, this tour offers a well-rounded day out, full of Instagram-worthy moments and authentic experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation from Monterrey.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

Are tickets to the waterfalls and dam included?
Yes, admission tickets to Cascada Cola de Caballo and Boca Dam are included in the price.

Can I walk to the waterfall?
Yes, the walk up to the waterfall is described as fairly easy and accessible for most visitors.

Is there free time at the stops?
Yes, there is free time at each stop for walking, shopping, or just relaxing.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, activities like horse carriage rides, ziplining, and bungee jumping are available at extra cost.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a camera. Lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable; the gentle walks and scenic views appeal to families, but always check the physical requirements for children.

In summary, if you’re after a balanced, scenic, and culturally enriching day near Monterrey, this tour hits the mark. You’ll leave with a camera full of beautiful images, a few souvenirs, and a deeper appreciation of this region’s natural and cultural charms.