Cabo San Lucas: Santiago & Santa Rita Hot Springs Rural Tour

Exploring Baja California Sur with the Santiago & Santa Rita Hot Springs Rural Tour

If you’re looking to escape the busy beaches of Cabo San Lucas for a day of relaxing scenery and authentic local charm, the Cabo San Lucas: Santiago & Santa Rita Hot Springs Rural Tour offers a compelling option. At $185 per person for a seven-hour adventure, this guided trip takes you from your hotel to the peaceful town of Santiago, a visit to the majestic Santa Rita hot springs, and a splash of local flavor along the way.

What we love about this tour is how it balances nature, culture, and good old-fashioned relaxation. You’ll get sweeping views from Mirador de Santiago, a chance to soak in thermal waters at Santa Rita, and a break with homemade snacks or ice cream that highlight local craftsmanship. The guides, with their friendly expertise, make the experience more engaging and personal—something you don’t always find in larger, more commercial excursions.

A possible drawback? The tour is a full day packed with activities, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a fair bit of walking and outdoor exposure. It’s not ideal if you’re seeking a leisurely, laid-back experience with little movement or if you have mobility concerns. Still, for those eager to see the countryside, enjoy authentic tastes, and gather memorable photos, this trip hits the mark.

This tour fits best for curious travelers who want more than just a beach day. If you appreciate scenic drives, small-town charm, stunning waterfalls, and thermal springs, then you’re likely to find this experience rewarding and well worth the price.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Stops: Visit the historic church in Santiago and the Tropic of Cancer for photos and insights.
• Natural Wonders: Relax in the thermal waters at Santa Rita and enjoy spectacular views from Mirador de Santiago.
• Local Flavors: Sample handmade ice cream or snacks and choose your meal—pizza, salad, or a BBQ—prepared with fresh ingredients.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotel pickup, guided commentary, snacks, drinks, and access to hot springs included.
• Flexible Food Options: Stop at a grocery store to pick your own ingredients or enjoy the menu at Rancho Agua Viva.
• Active Day: Expect some walking, outdoor time, and aquatic fun, making it perfect for active travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Santiago & Santa Rita Hot Springs Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins with a hotel pickup—conveniently arranged—either from Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo. From there, a comfortable private vehicle whisks you away into the scenic Baja countryside. The tour is designed for small, private groups, which means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The drive itself is a highlight, offering glimpses of Baja’s rugged landscapes, cacti, and desert flora.

The Tropic of Cancer Photo Stop

One of the first stops is the Tropic of Cancer marker—a fun photo opportunity and educational moment about the region’s geography. It’s a simple stop but adds a bit of international curiosity to your day, especially for those interested in geography or just wanting a memorable picture.

Exploring Santiago

Once in Santiago, the town’s charm really shines. The tour includes a visit to its historic church, a simple yet beautiful structure that offers insight into local religious and cultural traditions. You’ll also visit Mirador de Santiago, a viewpoint that rewards you with sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys—perfect for photos and soaking in the peaceful scenery.

A highlight here is the local craftsmanship—small shops often sell handcrafted snacks or artisanal ice cream, which you can sample. Several reviews mention how much visitors appreciated these authentic, locally made treats, describing the ice cream as “delicious” and the snacks as “crafty and tasty.”

Santa Rita Hot Springs and Waterfalls

The thermal waters at Aguas Termales de Santa Rita are the centerpiece. The natural hot springs provide a soothing soak, with enough warmth to relax tired muscles after the drive. The setting is tranquil, with lush surroundings and a peaceful ambiance. Visitors often tell us they loved the way the hot water felt against their skin and appreciated the chance to unwind in nature—not in a crowded resort pool.

Adjacent to the springs, there’s the opportunity to explore waterfalls such as El Cañón de la Zorra or Sol de Mayo Waterfall. Whether you choose to jump off rocks into the shimmering waters or just lounge in the sun, these natural pools are a refreshing break from the tour’s more cultural and scenic stops.

Food and Drinks

Lunch options are flexible. You can either make your own BBQ outside at Santa Rita (by purchasing ingredients at a grocery store of your choice), or visit Rancho Agua Viva, which offers a menu for an additional cost. Many reviews praise the quality of the food and drinks, especially the fresh kombucha and homemade snacks.

The inclusion of drinks and snacks adds value, making this a well-rounded experience. The guides’ friendly commentary often includes local stories about the food and the area’s history, adding a personal touch to the day.

Return and The Sum Up

After a full day of sightseeing, soaking, and snacking, the trip concludes with a comfortable ride back to your hotel, typically in the late afternoon. The experience is well-paced for a seven-hour tour—allowing ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $185, this tour isn’t the cheapest option in Cabo, but it’s packed with diverse experiences that would be costly to replicate independently. Private transportation, guided commentary, snacks, and access to natural hot springs all add up to a package that emphasizes convenience and authenticity. Plus, the small-group format ensures you get more attention and a more personal experience—something larger tours often lack.

Reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Luis and Maria make a difference, sharing interesting insights and local stories that bring the countryside to life. Many travelers appreciated the mix of cultural, scenic, and natural highlights, making the day feel as rewarding as it is relaxing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure suits active travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic views, outdoor activities, and cultural exploration. If you’re comfortable with some walking and outdoor exposure, you’ll love the waterfalls and hot springs. It’s also ideal if you want a more personalized experience—guided, private, and flexible.

However, it’s not suited for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with mobility issues, given the physical nature of some stops. Also, if you prefer a very relaxed, no-activity day, this might feel a bit busy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off? Yes, your professional private driver will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel in Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last? It runs for about 7 hours, allowing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are meals included in the price? Food isn’t included in the base price, but there are options to make your own BBQ or purchase from a nearby restaurant. The tour stops at a grocery store if you choose to bring your own ingredients.

Can I bring my own snacks or drinks? Yes, the tour includes snacks and drinks, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer specific items.

Is the tour suitable for families? It’s best for active individuals or families with older children who can handle walking and outdoor activities. It’s not suitable for very young children or those with mobility challenges.

What should I bring? Pack your hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and comfortable shoes. Remember to wear clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activity.

Are there any restrictions? Smoking is not allowed during the tour. Pregnant women, people with back problems, and wheelchair users should consider suitability before booking.

What language do guides speak? Guides are fluent in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

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Final Thoughts

This tour offers a great way to see a different side of Baja California Sur—beyond the beaches. It combines natural beauty, small-town charm, and local flavors into a full-day adventure that’s both fun and meaningful. You’ll love the chance to soak in natural hot springs, take scenic photos from Mirador de Santiago, and sample homemade snacks that give you a taste of the local lifestyle.

It’s best suited for active travelers eager to experience the countryside, those who enjoy a guided small-group setting, and anyone wanting to connect more deeply with Baja’s authentic flavors and landscapes. If you’re looking for a day that mixes cultural sights, outdoor adventure, and relaxation, this tour offers genuine value and memorable moments.

Experience this trip if you’re craving a day away from the crowds, a splash of nature, and a taste of local life. It’s a well-rounded, personalized way to see the Baja countryside and unwind in thermal waters, all while enjoying the company of knowledgeable guides.

You can check availability for your dates here: