Imagine leaving the bustling streets of Mexico City behind for a day and stepping into a landscape filled with history, rolling agave fields, and colonial haciendas. This 9-hour horseback riding experience is based in the State of Mexico and offers a chance to connect with authentic Mexican culture in a setting that feels worlds away from urban life. Led by friendly guides, you’ll visit two historic haciendas—one over 250 years old and the other nearly 400—and explore the countryside on horseback, all while enjoying regional dishes and learning about Mexico’s traditions.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the chance to ride through scenic landscapes that include agave fields and rural countryside, giving you a real sense of what it’s like to be a Mexican cowboy. Plus, the visit to Hacienda Montecillos offers a wonderful glimpse into pulque production—an ancestral fermented drink—and mezcal tasting, which adds a flavorful twist to the day. We also love that the tour caters to small groups (limited to 6), ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

A slight consideration for some travelers might be the duration—a full day away from Mexico City—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activities and long hours. Also, because of the riding component, it’s not ideal for children under 14, pregnant women, or travelers with certain physical restrictions. Still, for anyone eager to see Mexico’s countryside, taste its traditional drinks, and learn about its culture, this tour offers exceptional value and memorable moments.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences, enjoys scenic landscapes, and wants a taste of real Mexican cowboy life, this horseback riding tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s equally suited for curious travelers seeking cultural insight and outdoor lovers looking for a day in nature.

Key Points

Authentic culture with visits to two historic haciendas.
Scenic horseback riding through agave fields and countryside.
Regional cuisine and drinks including pulque and mezcal tastings.
Small group size enhances personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Historical insights into Mexico’s traditions, including Charrería.
Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in Mexican history and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

For broader city exploration in Mexico City, we've covered these other tours

The Starting Point: Hacienda Santo Tomás

The day begins at Hacienda Santo Tomás, a property with a proud history stretching back 250 years. This hacienda isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a living piece of Mexico’s past, and it sets the tone for the entire day. We loved the way the guide explains the hacienda’s history, making it feel more like a visit with friends than a tourist stop.

Breakfast and Guided Tour: Connecting with the Land

Before heading out on horseback, you’ll enjoy a filling breakfast with regional specialties, probably including items like fresh bread, local fruits, and perhaps some traditional Mexican bites. This is a great way to fuel up for the day ahead. Following breakfast, a 30-minute guided tour provides insight into the hacienda’s history, architecture, and significance.

The Horseback Ride: 2.5 Hours of Scenic Adventure

The core of the tour is the horseback riding through the countryside, which lasts roughly 2.5 hours. You’ll ride through diverse landscapes, including lush rural areas and expansive agave fields. The guides ensure everyone is comfortable, and the terrain is suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.

Travelers consistently mention the stunning views—the way the landscape opens up to wide vistas—making this a highlight. We loved the feeling of being a cowboy, trotting through fields of agave plants, which are the heart of Mexico’s liquor tradition.

More Great Tours Nearby

Hacienda Montecillos: A Historic Pulque Hacienda

Next, you’ll visit Hacienda Montecillos, a 400-year-old pulque estate with deep cultural roots. Pulque, an ancestral fermented beverage made from maguey or pulque agave, is a drink that reflects Mexico’s indigenous traditions. The guide explains how pulque is made, and you can sample some of the product straight from the source. We found this part of the tour fascinating, as it’s not often you get to taste a drink so closely tied to Mexico’s history.

While in Mexico City, here are other experiences we've covered

Tasting Regional and Traditional Dishes

After your ride, you’ll sit down for a main meal featuring typical and seasonal dishes. Everything is prepared fresh, and vegetarian options are available, which many travelers appreciated. The meal provides a much-needed break and an authentic taste of local cuisine, whether it’s traditional stews, tacos, or other regional specialties.

Mezcal and Pulque Tasting: A Flavorful Finish

The tour’s highlight for many is the opportunity to sample pulque and mezcal—two drinks made from agave, but with very different flavors and histories. The guide explains the ancestral techniques used in fermentation, making the tasting both educational and delicious. Kevin from France called it “an experience to remember,” praising the superb taste and the friendly guides who shared their knowledge.

Charrería: Mexico’s National Sport

Finally, there’s a look into Charrería, Mexico’s traditional rodeo-like sport. The guide takes you through a private collection of related memorabilia, revealing the importance of horsemanship and ranching in Mexican culture. Though brief, this cultural segment provides context for the cowboy lifestyle you’ve just experienced.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

This tour is approximately 1 hour from Mexico City, making it a convenient escape. The small group size—limited to 6 participants—ensures everyone gets personalized attention and can ask questions freely. The tour includes transportation to and from the haciendas, so you don’t need to worry about logistics.

What to Wear and Bring

Comfortable outdoor clothing is a must—think jeans, long socks, and sturdy shoes. Pointed shoes are recommended for riding, and the tour provides helmets and sunscreen. Pack a hat or sunglasses if the sun is strong. Since the weather can vary, bring layers and some insect repellent if you’re sensitive.

Duration and Pacing

This is a full 9-hour experience, including breakfast, riding, sightseeing, and meals. The itinerary is well-paced, with breaks for food and rest, making it suitable even for those not used to long days outdoors. Keep in mind, the riding portion is 2.5 hours, so good balance and comfort on horseback are helpful.

Accessibility and Restrictions

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 14, pregnant women, or those with certain physical limitations. It also has weight restrictions (over 220 lbs or 100 kg), so check your eligibility if you’re on the heavier side.

Cancellation Policy and Booking

Flexible cancellation is available—up to 24 hours in advance—for a full refund, making it easy to plan with confidence. You can reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans are still evolving.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Praise

Both reviews highlight the exceptional quality of the experience. Louis from France called it a “magical moment” and praised the warm welcome by Miguel. He appreciated the magnificent haciendas, horses, and landscapes, emphasizing the feeling of being in a western film. The fact that guides speak excellent languages, including French, enhances the experience for international visitors.

Kevin echoed these sentiments, describing the day as “exceptional” and emphasizing the great food, friendly staff, and stunning scenery. The consistent theme is that this tour offers more than just riding; it’s an immersive cultural adventure.

The Sum Up

This horseback riding tour from Mexico City delivers an authentic taste of rural Mexico, combining historical visits, scenic rides, and delicious regional cuisine. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances outdoor adventure with cultural learning, making it ideal for travelers who want a meaningful and memorable day outside the city.

If you’re eager to see Mexico’s countryside, enjoy horseback riding in beautiful landscapes, and taste traditional drinks like pulque and mezcal, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate small group settings and want to connect more deeply with Mexico’s rural traditions.

While it’s not suited for very young children or those with physical limitations, for most outdoor-minded travelers or curious culture-seekers, it’s a day well spent—and one that will leave you with stories of a different Mexico beyond the urban sprawl.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including all activities, meals, and transportation. It’s a full-day experience designed to give you plenty of time to enjoy each part.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing such as jeans and long socks are recommended. Pointed shoes are best for riding, and helmets and sunscreen are provided, so just dress for the weather and outdoor activity.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 14, pregnant women, or people with certain physical restrictions. The horseback riding component requires a certain level of comfort and strength.

What drinks will I taste?
You’ll sample pulque and mezcal, both traditional Mexican drinks made from agave. The tasting offers insights into Mexico’s indigenous fermentation processes.

How far is it from Mexico City?
It’s about an hour away, making it a convenient day trip for those staying in Mexico’s capital.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

In all, this horseback riding experience offers a blend of adventure, culture, and history — perfect for travelers eager to see a different side of Mexico. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious beginner, it promises a memorable day wrapped in scenic beauty and authentic tradition.