La Herradura isn’t just a pretty stretch of coastline; it’s a hub for adventurous travelers and nature lovers alike. With its stunning cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and calm seas, the area offers a variety of unforgettable tours and experiences. Whether you want to paddle through caves, snorkel with marine life, or enjoy a relaxing sunset sail, La Herradura has something that will make your trip memorable. Among the options, we especially like the Kayak & Snorkel Tour in Maro-Cerro Gordo Reserve, because it combines physical activity with breathtaking scenery and the chance to see local wildlife up close.
If you’re considering your options, know that La Herradura offers everything from family-friendly boat rides to challenging hikes. We’ve rounded up the best tours, based on reviews, uniqueness, and value, so you can easily find the perfect experience for your interests and energy levels.
Quick Overview
This list features a mix of water-based adventures like kayaking and sailing, as well as land excursions such as hiking. Each offers a different way to experience La Herradura’s natural beauty:
- Kayak and snorkel tours exploring caves and coves (Tour #1, Tour #2)
- Sunset sailing trips with dolphin sightings (Tour #3)
- Wildlife-focused sailing with dolphin watching (Tour #4)
- Hiking along the cliffs for panoramic views and mountain goat sightings (Tour #5)
- Kayaking in Cerro Gordo Natural Park for flora, caves, and secluded spots (Tour #6)
- Coastal kayaking with a historical twist exploring smuggler’s routes (Tour #7)
Now, let’s explore each experience in detail to help you decide which is right for your trip.
1. La Herradura: Kayak & Snorkel Tour Maro-Cerro Gordo Reserve
At number 1 on our list, the Kayak & Snorkel Tour in the Maro-Cerro Gordo Reserve offers a well-rounded adventure combining caves, wildlife, and marine exploration. With a 4.8-star rating from over 220 reviews, it’s clear this tour strikes a chord with travelers. The 2.5-hour guided trip takes you along the rugged cliffs where you can marvel at the spectacular caves and spot various species thriving in this biodiverse area.
What makes this tour special is the combination of kayaking and snorkeling, allowing you to see both above and below the water. Guides are attentive, sharing local history and pointing out sights like sea tomatoes, goats, and coral formations. Two guides often accompany the group, ensuring safety and fun, even if you fall into a cave or get a little tired paddling. Reviewers mention the photos taken during the trip as a lovely bonus, capturing memories of the caves and marine life.
This experience is ideal for active travelers who want a full sensory experience of La Herradura’s coast. Expect to paddle for about 2.5 hours, with snorkel gear available for underwater exploration. Keep in mind, paddling might be tiring for some, especially in windy weather, but the scenery makes up for it.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those who want a mix of adventure, education, and spectacular natural sights—an authentic, memorable experience.
2. La Herradura: Maro Cliffs Kayak and Snorkeling Tour
At number 2, the Maro Cliffs Kayak and Snorkeling Tour is a favorite for its straightforward, fun approach to exploring La Herradura’s beloved coast. For around $23 per person, you get a 2.5-hour trip that lands you in hidden coves and sea caves, with ample time to snorkel among vibrant marine life.
This tour offers an intimate look at turquoise waters and rocky coves that are often inaccessible from land. Guides lead you through the caves and point out marine creatures, making it an excellent option for families or first-time visitors. The reviews praise the friendly guide Anjel and note that the staff is helpful and cheerful. While some mention the masks but not snorkels, most find this minor, given the overall value and beauty of the snorkeling spots.
This trip is best suited for those seeking a balanced water adventure and sightseeing without requiring intense paddling. It works well for all ages, especially if you’re interested in marine wildlife and scenic coastlines.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly, scenic tour that combines kayaking and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, suitable for families and first-timers.
3. La Herradura-Maro-Nerja: Sailing at Sunset
Number 3 on our list is the Sunset Sailing trip along the Costa Tropical, a 2-hour cruise that promises a romantic and relaxing evening. This experience is perfect if you’re looking to unwind while soaking in breathtaking views of the Mediterranean as the sun dips below the horizon.
Boarding a Bavaria 37 cruiser, you’ll enjoy a smooth sail with light refreshments, and if luck is on your side, you might see dolphins leaping alongside the boat. The reviews are glowing, with one traveler calling it “fantastic” and praising the knowledgeable captain and the spectacular sunset. The experience is intimate enough for couples but also enjoyable with friends or family.
A key highlight is the chance to see dolphins, making it more than just a sunset cruise. It’s a peaceful way to end a day exploring La Herradura’s coast, with the gentle sea breeze and soft music creating pure relaxation.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for a romantic evening or a special occasion, especially if you appreciate scenic views with a glass of wine.
4. La Herradura: Sailing with a view of dolphins
Number 4 is the Dolphin-Watching Sailing Experience, which offers a chance to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat. This 2-3 hour trip is ideal for nature lovers and families who want a more active marine adventure.
Departing from Granada Sailing, the yacht cruises along the coastline of the Natural Park of Maro-Cerro Gordo, with the opportunity to observe dolphins, fish, and seabirds. Travelers emphasize the friendly atmosphere and the experience of seeing dolphins close up. Alberto, the guide, is praised for his knowledge and hospitality. The boat is described as “immaculate,” and the experience is relaxed but engaging.
While the tour’s main highlight is dolphin sightings, it also provides a scenic journey past cliffs and coves, with plenty of sun, music, and drinks. It’s suitable for those who want a combination of wildlife spotting and scenic sailing without a strenuous activity.
Bottom line: An excellent choice if you’re eager to spot dolphins and enjoy a peaceful afternoon on the water.
5. La Herradura: Hiking Maro Cliffs – Cerro Gordo
Number 5 is the Hiking Tour along the Maro Cliffs, rated a perfect 5 stars with only 8 reviews. This 3-hour trek takes you through the natural park’s rugged terrain, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean and chances to see mountain goats and marine coves.
This guided hike emphasizes scenic vistas, with stops for photos, wildlife viewing, and swimming in secluded coves. The tour includes snorkeling opportunities and visits some of the most beautiful parts of the coast. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights about the local flora, fauna, and geology.
Ideal for those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits, this tour suits travelers with moderate fitness levels looking for an immersive nature experience. The only potential downside is the limited number of reviews, but their top rating suggests it’s a high-quality, personalized outing.
Bottom line: A great option for travelers wanting a moderate hike combined with snorkeling and scenic coastal views.
6. La Herradura: Kayak Tour in Cerro Gordo Natural Park
Number 6 features the Kayak Tour in Cerro Gordo Natural Park, a 2-hour guided paddle that immerses you in scenic cliffs, caves, and diverse flora. With a stellar 4.9-star rating, this tour benefits from local guides with since 2010 experience and a focus on environmental education.
Participants paddle along the coast, discovering hidden caves and secluded beaches, while learning about the sub-tropical plant life and local wildlife. The tour is praised for its small group size, personalized attention, and the chance to explore areas inaccessible by land.
Suitable for all skill levels, the trip is a peaceful yet engaging way to connect with nature. It’s especially appealing for those interested in flora, fauna, and geological formations. The reviews highlight the beautiful insights provided by guides, making this more than just a paddle.
Bottom line: An ideal choice for eco-conscious travelers and those keen on learning about the natural environment while enjoying some paddling.
7. From La Herradura: Maro Cerro Gordo Kayak Tour
At number 7, this Coastal Kayak Tour offers a 2-hour journey along La Costa Tropical. It focuses on exploring the Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Reserve, with stops for swimming and snorkel exploration. It’s a more casual option, with a slight 3.6-star rating from five reviews, indicating some room for improvement but still a worthwhile experience.
The tour emphasizes the history of smugglers’ routes and mountain goats along cliffs. Its smaller size and guided support make it suitable for those who want a relaxed yet scenic paddle. The emphasis on underwater discoveries lets you glimpse marine life in the clear waters.
While reviews are mixed, the experience remains attractive, especially for those wanting a less crowded, more relaxed paddling trip.
Bottom line: A laid-back, scenic paddle suitable for travelers interested in coastal history and marine life, though it may lack the polish of higher-rated tours.
$34 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
Choosing the right experience depends on your budget, fitness level, and interests. For active travelers who want a full-day adventure, the Hiking Maro Cliffs (Tour #5) offers a combination of scenic views and snorkeling. If you’re looking for a romantic or relaxing evening, the Sunset Sailing (Tour #3) is hard to beat.
Families or those interested in marine wildlife will appreciate the Dolphin Sailing (Tour #4), while budget-conscious travelers can opt for the Kayak & Snorkel in Maro-Cerro Gordo (Tour #2).
Always consider the season—summer days are perfect for water activities, but wind and weather can impact the experience. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular trips like sunset sails or dolphin tours.
Final Thoughts
From kayaking through caves and snorkeling among fish to relaxing on a boat watching dolphins or chasing panoramic views on a hike, La Herradura offers diverse tours and experiences. If you’re a water lover, the Kayak & Snorkel Tour in Maro-Cerro Gordo or the Cerro Gordo Natural Park kayak are top choices. For those wanting a romantic evening, the Sunset Sailing will leave lasting memories.
Travelers seeking a more active and immersive day should consider the Hiking Maro Cliffs. Meanwhile, wildlife enthusiasts will find the Dolphin Sailing a real highlight. Whatever your style, booking early and choosing an experience that matches your interests will ensure a memorable visit to La Herradura.