ATV Tour, Camel Ride, Tequila Tasting and Mexican Buffet Lunch

If you’re visiting San Jose del Cabo and craving a taste of adventure combined with authentic Mexican flavor, this tour might just be your perfect day out. For $149 per person, you’ll spend about five hours exploring the rugged Baja coast, riding ATVs through desert trails, and taking a camel ride along a deserted beach. Guided by friendly, knowledgeable staff like Juan and Margarita, you’ll get a good mix of thrills, scenic views, and cultural indulgences. What’s especially nice is that they offer round-trip transport from Cabo San Lucas, so you don’t have to worry about logistics — just show up and enjoy.

Two things we genuinely like about this experience are the variety of activities and the quality of the guides. The ATV ride gives you a true sense of Baja’s wild landscape, full of cactus-lined trails and expansive canyon views. The camel safari is surprisingly relaxing and offers stellar photo ops, especially on the beach with crashing waves in the background. Another highlight is the tequila tasting—sampling regional varieties while overlooking the Sea of Cortés adds a lovely touch of local culture. The Mexican buffet lunch rounds out the day with flavorful dishes, including vegetarian options.

One potential consideration is the additional fees—the $25 park entrance fee and the $35 collision fee per ATV are paid at check-in, and the high cost of photos (often around $200) might surprise some travelers. Also, because photos can’t be taken with personal devices during rides, you’ll need to decide if the professional images are worth the expense. The activity also requires a moderate level of physical fitness, with a weight limit of 265 pounds, and a valid driver’s license if you plan to operate the ATV.

This tour suits travelers looking for a fun, all-in-one adventure that combines nature, wildlife, and Mexican culture in a manageable half-day format. It’s especially good for those who want to experience Baja’s natural beauty through different lenses—desert, beach, and canyon—while enjoying some laid-back cultural moments like tequila tasting. Couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate guided experiences with friendly staff will find this tour engaging and well-organized.

Key Points

• Combination of activities offers a broad Baja experience—desert ATV riding, beach camel safari, tequila tasting, and Mexican buffet.
• Small-group format provides personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Guides like Juan, Margarita, Miguel, and others are frequently praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Additional fees for park entrance, collision insurance, and photos can add up, so budget accordingly.
• The scenery is stunning, with ocean views, desert landscapes, and canyon trails.
• Safety gear and rules are strictly enforced, and personal photos are limited during rides.

Exploring the Day Itself: From Desert Trails to Beach Waves

The Meeting Point: Tierra Sagrada

Your adventure begins at Tierra Sagrada, known as the “Sacred Ranch,” a well-situated oceanfront location that feels secluded yet accessible. The guides, like Juan and Margarita, welcome you with warmth and professionalism. Expect to be outfitted with safety helmets and protective gear before starting your ride; safety is clearly a priority.

This initial stop sets the tone for the day—informative but relaxed. You’ll feel reassured knowing that your guides are not only friendly but also eager to share their local knowledge. Many reviewers mention how staff like Nelly, Miguel, and Aleman make the experience memorable with their helpfulness and energy.

ATV Desert Ride: Power and Perspective

The core of the adventure is the single ATV ride through Baja’s rugged terrain. Expect to explore dusty trails, shallow canyons, and cactus-lined paths, with guides leading the way. The ride lasts around an hour—some reviews mention that the duration is just right for a taste of Baja’s landscape without feeling rushed or overly short.

We loved the way the guides tailor the experience, splitting the group for more experienced riders to go faster, which adds a bit of thrill without overwhelming beginners. However, some find the ride a bit basic or short, with one reviewer mentioning it felt like just a quick lap around in a circle. Still, the scenery makes up for it — expansive desert views, rugged cliffs, and distant ocean vistas.

You’ll appreciate the safety measures—helmets are mandatory, and guides walk alongside to ensure everyone is comfortable. For those wanting a little more adrenaline, the option to pay extra for more adventurous riding exists, but for most, this part of the tour is a fun, scenic jaunt.

Camel Ride: Quiet, Photogenic, and Surprising

After the ATV adventure, it’s time for the camel safari—a surprisingly peaceful contrast. Riding along the beach on these gentle humped mammals, you’ll pass by crashing waves and deserted sands, which makes for striking photos and a memorable experience. As one reviewer notes, “The camel ride on the beach was fun,” even if it’s not the most comfortable ride, especially if you’re not used to sitting atop a camel for any length of time.

The camel’s calmness and the beach scenery make it a favorite for many. The guides share interesting tidbits, making it both fun and educational. Keep in mind that personal photography during this part is not allowed, and the professional photos can cost around $200—something to consider if you want those lasting memories.

Tequila Tasting and Mexican Buffet: Flavorful and Relaxing

A highlight of this tour is the tequila tasting session, held at an oceanfront restaurant. You’ll sample regional varieties of tequila and mezcal, often praised for their quality and authenticity. It’s a laid-back moment where you can relax and take in the ocean views while savoring local spirits.

The included Mexican buffet lunch features a variety of dishes, with vegetarian options available. Many reviews mention how tasty the food is, with some noting the margaritas are quite strong. After all the activity, this is the perfect chance to unwind, chat with fellow travelers, and soak up some sun.

Finishing Up: Optional Extras and Practicalities

While most of the tour is included, note that you’ll pay $25 for the park entrance and $35 per ATV collision insurance at check-in. Plus, the photo packages, which many find tempting for their quality, come at a hefty price—around $200. This cost often surprises travelers, so budgeting for it beforehand can save some disappointment.

The tour concludes back at Tierra Sagrada with options to relax on the beach or enjoy the provided food and drinks. Transportation back to your hotel is included, making for a convenient end to a busy day.

Authentic Experiences and Real-World Tips

From multiple reviews, it’s clear that the guides and staff are a significant part of the appeal—they’re knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to make your trip memorable. Whether it’s Juan making the ATV ride exciting or Margarita guiding the camel safari with enthusiasm, their energy stands out.

The scenery in Baja is genuinely stunning, and this tour does a good job of showcasing its variety—from desert landscapes to oceanfront beaches. The combination of activities offers a balanced mix of adrenaline, relaxation, and culture.

One thing to watch out for is the pricing of extras. Photos and certain fees can add up quickly, so think about whether you want those professional images or prefer to focus on the experience itself. Also, readability about additional costs during the booking process is essential; many reviews mention feeling caught off guard by extra charges.

The tour’s small-group size (max 14 travelers) ensures personalized attention, which enhances safety and enjoyment. This intimacy feels less commercial and more like a shared adventure with new friends.

Who Will This Tour Suit?

This excursion is perfect for adventure lovers who want to experience Baja’s natural beauty without spending days on multiple tours. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate guided experiences and friendly staff will find it particularly rewarding. If you enjoy a mix of physical activity, scenic views, and cultural tasting, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you’re looking for a totally personalized or luxury experience, or if strict photography policies and extra fees bother you, you might want to consider other options. This tour is best suited for those who value authenticity, fun, and good value over ultra-luxury or exclusive experiences.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, round-trip transportation from Cabo San Lucas is offered, simplifying your day and saving you from navigating on your own.

How long does the entire tour last? Expect around five hours, which provides enough time for all activities and a relaxed lunch without feeling rushed.

Are there any physical requirements? Moderate physical fitness is recommended, and there’s a weight limit of 265 pounds. A valid driver’s license is required if you plan to operate the ATV.

What’s the cost of extras like photos and entrance fees? The park entrance fee is $25, and the collision insurance is $35. Photo packages can cost around $200, so it’s worth considering if you want those professional images.

Can I take my own photos during the activities? No, personal photography is not permitted during the camel and ATV rides for safety reasons. Photos are taken by staff and sold afterward.

Is vegetarian food available? Yes, the Mexican buffet includes vegetarian options, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

To sum it up, this tour offers a balanced slice of Baja — from rugged desert rides and serene beach safaris to flavorful tequila tastings and local cuisine. It’s a well-rounded introduction to the region’s natural beauty and culture, guided by friendly professionals who genuinely care. While extra costs for photos and fees are something to keep in mind, most travelers find the experience worth the price for the memories and the scenery. Perfect for those seeking a fun, active, and authentic day out in Mexico’s spectacular coast.