Horseback riding & Temazcal combo with lunch and mezcal tour

Horseback Riding & Temazcal Combo with Lunch and Mezcal Tour
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (107 reviews)
Location: Mazatlan, Mexico
Price: $180 per person
Duration: About 4.5 hours
Supplier: Veraneando Adventure

Traveling in Mazatlan doesn’t have to be all about beaches and city streets. For those craving a taste of authentic rural life, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the countryside, nature, and local traditions. For just $180, you’ll get horseback riding through agave fields and along the beach, a temazcal ceremony — an authentic traditional steam bath—, plus a flavorful Mexican lunch paired with mezcals of different flavors, all with door-to-door pickup and drop-off.

What we love about this experience is how it combines the thrill of ziplining over lush forest canopies (though it’s a different tour, it’s often bundled together), with the calming authenticity of a temazcal. The personal touch from guides who are helpful and knowledgeable really enhances the experience. Another highlight is the delicious, generously portioned Mexican lunch that hits just the right note after some outdoor adventure.

A possible consideration is that the drive to the venue takes around an hour, which can feel long if you’re eager to get straight into the action. Also, the physical activity level is moderate — suitable for most but not for those with mobility issues.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy authentic cultural experiences, outdoor adventure, and good food. It’s especially good for those who like a mix of physical activity and relaxing traditions, with plenty of authentic touches that give a real sense of local life rather than touristy clichés.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines horseback riding, temazcal, and local cuisine for a well-rounded day.
• Scenic Views: Expect to see agave plantations, beaches, and countryside scenery.
• Guides and Safety: Guides are praised for their helpfulness and professionalism, making safety a priority.
• Culinary Highlights: Enjoy a satisfying Mexican lunch and a mezcal tasting of multiple flavors.
• Convenient Transport: Pickup and drop-off included from your hotel, condo, or cruise port.
• Moderate Activity: Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, but not ideal for those with mobility restrictions.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Once you’re picked up in Mazatlan, the drive into the countryside sets the tone for a day away from the city’s hustle. The journey itself is part of the charm, with scenic views of small towns, tequileros, and fields of blue agave. As one reviewer, Kristie, pointed out, “All of the guides were so nice and helpful and the ziplining was so fun,” which applies here too — guides are attentive, professional, and safety-conscious, making everyone feel secure whether riding the gentle horses or zipping through trees.

Horseback riding is the first highlight, where you choose your horse and meander through agave plantations, then along the beach. This part offers a chance to appreciate the rural landscape and experience local agriculture firsthand. Riders of all levels can participate, as the pace is relaxed enough for beginners but interesting enough for experienced riders. Several reviews, like that of Lorna, emphasize how safe and well-managed the activity is, noting that “we felt very safe with the team and the harness.”

After riding, the tour moves into a temazcal ceremony — a traditional Mexican steam bath with a history dating back centuries. This is a soothing, communal experience that many find both cleansing and culturally enriching. It’s a chance to relax and connect with local traditions in a setting that’s both rustic and authentic.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

The tour price covers all meals, beverages, and tastings, making it a good value considering the variety of experiences. The lunch, often praised as hearty and authentic, features traditional Mexican fare. Multiple reviewers, including Patty G, note that “the crew for ziplining was very professional and helpful,” which extends to the food service — plentiful, flavorful, and suited to different dietary preferences, including options for those who are dairy-free.

The mezcal tasting is a particular highlight — sampling flavors such as white, reposado, almond, coffee, hibiscus, and tamarind. Reviewers like Beatrice R say, “the meal was absolutely the best meal we’ve ever had on any excursion,” emphasizing the quality and authenticity of the food. This tasting allows you to appreciate how mezcal varies by flavor and aging, deepening your understanding of Mexico’s iconic spirit.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights

You’ll love the scenic views on horseback and zipline — from the lush greenery of the agave fields to the waves lapping at the beach. The countryside drive is often described as “quite scenic,” with stops in small towns like La Noria, where you can buy local crafts and taste fresh cheese and tortillas. Lorna R mentions that “it was quite scenic” and “felt very safe” during the ziplining, which offers a bird’s-eye view of Mazatlan’s natural landscape.

The Ziplining Experience (Optional but Popular)

While this tour primarily focuses on horseback riding and the temazcal, it often pairs with a 12-zipline circuit for those seeking an adrenaline rush. The ziplines are praised for their length and views, with some lines stretching over 300 yards, as Kris G notes. Many reviews mention how professional guides ensure safety and fun, with some even riding upside down or going hands-free, which adds to the thrill.

However, some reviewers, like Stephanie R, felt the landscape was less lush than advertised and found the experience “long, hot, and super dirty,” highlighting that the scenery can vary depending on the season. Still, the overall consensus is that the ziplines provide a fun way to see the treetops and ravines from a different perspective.

Considerations and Tips

• Transportation: The drive is approximately an hour each way, which some might find a bit lengthy, especially if you’re eager to start the fun. The road can be winding, so bring water or a snack if you’re prone to nausea, as some reviews suggest.
• Weather: The tour runs year-round, but the landscape can look very different: green and lush after rains, or dry and arid in the dry season. August and June might be hotter, so dress accordingly.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for riding and ziplining. Lightweight, breathable clothing is best, especially in warmer months.
• Physical fitness: The tour requires moderate physical activity, including horseback riding and ziplining, so it’s suitable for most but not for those with significant mobility issues.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want more than just beach lounging — those eager to get a true feel for local traditions, nature, and rural life. It’s especially ideal for families, adventure seekers, and anyone who appreciates good food and a taste of Mexican culture. The reviews show that many found it to be “one of our favorite experiences,” thanks to the combination of scenic beauty, friendly guides, and authentic food.

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure and culture, and don’t mind a bit of travel time, this tour offers genuine value and memorable moments.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip pickup and drop-off from your hotel, condo, or cruise ship are included, making it very convenient.

How long is the drive to the tour site?
Approximately one hour each way, depending on your location.

What’s the duration of the entire experience?
It lasts about 4.5 hours, including travel, horseback riding, the temazcal, and lunch.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The activity involves moderate physical activity, so children should have moderate fitness levels.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, closed-toe shoes, and sun protection are recommended. Bring water, especially in warmer months.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It requires moderate physical activity, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility limitations.

What’s the quality of the food and drinks?
Reviews consistently praise the hearty Mexican lunch and the variety of mezcal flavors, which add authentic flavor to the day.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Mazatlan’s countryside, combining adventure, tradition, and good food — a memorable way to connect with the local landscape and culture.