Adventure in Los Cabos Margaritas beach in ATV/UTV desert tour

Exploring Los Cabos on an ATV or UTV offers an exciting way to experience the region’s stunning natural beauty. This 3-hour adventure takes you through the varied terrains of desert trails, towering sand dunes, and along the scenic beaches of Margaritas. Starting from Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned minivan, ready for a day of adrenaline and breathtaking vistas. The tour costs around $91.50 per person—a reasonable price considering the mix of scenery, guided expertise, and unique experiences.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances thrilling riding with opportunities to enjoy local flavors—particularly at the tequila tasting at the end. Plus, the personalized attention from guides, like Broulio, helps ensure everyone has a good time, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider. One thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention optional extra charges—such as collision insurance and photos—so budget accordingly if you want to capture every moment.

A possible consideration is that the tour’s highlight can vary depending on your preferences. Some travelers found the beach riding to be a bit tame or less spectacular than expected, especially if they’re after more rugged adventure. This tour is very suitable for those who appreciate scenic rides, natural beauty, and well-organized guides. If you’re looking for a high-adrenaline, off-the-beaten-path experience, you might want to see if other options are available. Still, for most, this tour offers a fantastic balance of fun, scenery, and cultural flavor.

If you want a well-rounded, memorable outdoor experience in Los Cabos without breaking the bank, this ATV/UTV tour could be just the ticket—especially if you’re eager to see some of the region’s most Instagram-worthy spots, learn about local tequila, and enjoy the company of friendly guides.

Key Points

• Diverse terrain: Ride through desert landscapes, sand dunes, and along beaches, offering varied scenery in one tour.
• Expert guides: Guides like Broulio pay close attention and adjust the pace, making it accessible for all skill levels.
• Authentic experiences: Includes a tequila tasting at the end, giving a taste of local culture.
• Good value: For around $91.50, you get hotel pickup, equipment, water, and a scenic adventure.
• Optional extras: Photos and insurance are available but at additional costs—plan accordingly.
• Seasonal highlights: Whale sightings are possible from December to April at rest stops.

A Detailed Look at the Los Cabos ATV/UTV Desert Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup in an air-conditioned minivan, making logistics straightforward. If you’re staying in Cabo San Lucas, expect a pickup about 30 minutes before the scheduled start; from San José del Cabo, plan for about an hour. This small detail saves you the hassle of organizing transport and keeps the focus on the adventure once you arrive.

The Welcome and Equipment Check

Upon arrival at the park, you’ll be fitted with helmet, goggles, and a bandana—all included in the price. These safety essentials are crucial when riding over uneven terrain and dusty trails. The staff is professional, and most reviews emphasize how well they take care of the group, especially if you’re new to riding.

The Ride: Desert Trails, Sand Dunes, and Beaches

The core of the experience is speeding along scenic trails on your own ATV or UTV (depending on your selection). This means you’ll have some independence to explore at your own pace, which many riders find exhilarating. As one reviewer shared, “Broulio paid attention to how well we could keep up and adjusted his speed accordingly,” which reassures those with varying skill levels. Expect a mix of gentle cruising and more challenging sections—going uphill, downhill, and navigating curves.

The landscape is striking: desert vistas with cacti, expansive sand dunes inviting playful rides, and the chance to see the Pacific Ocean from certain vantage points. Riders who love natural scenery will appreciate the variety of backdrops, and many find the combination of desert and beach riding to be a perfect mix.

Rest Stops and Scenic Highlights

The tour includes several rest stops, some with panoramic views that might include whale sightings from December through April. These pauses allow you to catch your breath, take photos, and soak in the scenery. Some travelers note that the trail can be challenging if you’re not used to riding, but guides are attentive and ready to assist.

The Beach and Dunes Experience

The highlight for many is the beach riding along Margaritas Beach. The sensation of the ocean breeze as you zip along the sand is genuinely special. However, some reviews indicate that the beach section may feel less intense or “boring” for thrill-seekers expecting rugged off-road action. One traveler noted, “Nothing spectacular,” but appreciated the calm, peaceful setting.

Tequila Tasting and Photos

After your ride, you’ll head back to the park for a tequila tasting which lasts about 20 minutes. This is a delightful way to wind down, share stories, and sample local spirits. Photos taken during the tour are available for purchase afterward—some reviewers mention they’re expensive, so consider whether you want to invest in capturing memories.

Safety and Additional Costs

The tour is operated in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately with long pants, closed shoes, and eco-friendly sunblock is advisable. For safety, the use of cell phones is strictly prohibited during riding, preventing distractions and reducing the risk of accidents. Optional collision insurance runs around $30–$40 USD, and if you want professional photos, be prepared for extra charges.

Overall Experience and Feedback

This tour receives an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 14 reviews, with many travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. Wes_y described it as “the best trail I’ve been on,” while Marion_J called it “very exhilarating,” emphasizing the attentiveness of the guide, Broulio.

On the other hand, some reviews mention disappointments—like Bill’s comment that the beach ride was “kind of boring” and that there are lots of optional upcharges. It’s worth noting that the experience is tailored more toward scenic riding than high-intensity off-roading.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who cherish natural beauty, local culture, and a bit of adrenaline. If you love guides who pay close attention to safety and pacing and enjoy mixing beach scenery with desert landscapes, you’ll find this tour engaging. It’s also great if you prefer guided, organized rides over doing it solo. Families with children over the age of 6 (UTVs) or 16+ (drivers) will find it accessible, though younger children must be accompanied by an adult.

However, if you’re a thrill-seeker wanting more rugged off-road action or unexpected off-the-beaten-path surprises, you might consider other options. Still, most reviews agree that the scenic views and professional guides make this a worthwhile adventure.

The Sum Up

This Los Cabos ATV/UTV tour offers a balanced mix of scenic landscapes, guided expertise, and cultural touches, making it a solid choice for most travelers wanting a memorable outdoor activity. The well-organized logistics, combined with stunning vistas and friendly guides, ensure that your experience will be enjoyable and safe.

While it may not satisfy those craving extreme off-road thrills, it’s perfect for those seeking a fun, scenic ride with some local flavor. Expect to come away with beautiful photos, a taste of tequila, and a strong sense of having explored some of the most picturesque parts of Los Cabos.

This tour is best suited for adventure lovers, families, and casual explorers eager to see the region from a new perspective. If you appreciate guides who care about your safety and experience, and want a moderately priced adventure that delivers on scenery and fun, this is a compelling option.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour price, with timing depending on your hotel’s location.

How long is the tour?
The actual riding experience lasts about 2 hours, with total tour time around 3 hours including transportation and stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, closed shoes, long pants, and eco-friendly sunblock are recommended for safety and comfort.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 6+ can ride UTVs with an adult, and drivers must be at least 16 years old.

Are the guides professional?
Yes, reviews highlight attentive, professional guides who tailor the ride to your skill level and ensure safety.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation, safety gear, bottled water, and tequila tasting.

Are photos included?
Photos taken during the tour are available for purchase at an extra cost.

Is insurance necessary?
Optional collision insurance is available for around $30-$40 USD.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What’s the best time of year for whale sightings?
Whale sightings are possible from December to April, especially at certain rest stops.

If you’re craving a scenic, well-organized, and culturally enriching adventure in Los Cabos, this ATV/UTV tour offers solid value and plenty of memorable moments.