From Las Vegas: Desert Sunset Horseback Ride with BBQ Dinner

From Las Vegas: Desert Sunset Horseback Ride with BBQ Dinner
Location: Nevada, United States
Country: United States
Rating: 4.7 (based on 363 reviews)
Price: $160 per person
Duration: Approximately 6 hours

A Unique Escape from the Bright Lights of Vegas

This tour offers a chance to step away from the constant buzz of the Las Vegas Strip and into the quiet beauty of Nevada’s Southwest Desert. For around six hours, you’ll be riding alongside friendly guides like Hector, who earn rave reviews for their attentiveness and knowledge. The journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup—an essential detail for those who prefer to skip the hassle of renting a car or navigating unfamiliar roads.

Once at the ranch outside the city, the experience truly starts. You’ll saddle up on well-behaved horses, ready for a relaxed ride through the rugged terrain. What makes this trip special? First, the spectacular sunset views that light up the desert horizon, turning the landscape into a canvas of vibrant colors. Second, the combination of horseback riding and outdoor dining—a genuine cowboy experience with a hearty BBQ dinner cooked over a campfire.

One thing to keep in mind: the activity is not suitable for children under six, pregnant women, or those over 250 pounds. Also, you’ll need closed-toe shoes, which are a requirement for safety. If you’re looking for a memorable, authentic adventure that combines scenic beauty, a taste of cowboy life, and good company, this trip could be just your thing. It’s especially popular among first-time riders, thanks to the caring guides and gentle horses, as reflected in many reviews.

Key Points

• Beautiful Desert Scenery: Witness a stunning sunset and expansive views of Nevada’s wilderness.
• Beginner-Friendly: Well-trained horses and attentive guides make this suitable for those new to riding.
• Authentic Cowboy Experience: Enjoy lassoing, sitting on a bull, and learning about cowboy life.
• Delicious Food: Savor a traditional BBQ dinner with steak or mesquite grilled chicken, plus apple pie.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 12 participants, fostering a friendly, personalized experience.
• Pickup & Drop-off Included: Hassle-free transportation from selected hotels on the Strip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Pickup and Arrival at the Ranch

The adventure kicks off with a pickup from your Las Vegas hotel, typically included in the package. The driver, often described as friendly and knowledgeable (with some reviews mentioning a driver/chef like Joe or Dylan), provides a comfortable ride and some local insights along the way. Arriving at the ranch, you’re greeted with warm smiles and cowboy hospitality. The small group setup ensures everyone feels comfortable and not lost in a crowd.

Horseback Riding through Nevada’s Wilderness

Once saddled up, your guides—like Hector, Caesar, or Chanel—offer clear instructions, especially if you’re a first-timer. Many reviewers mention feeling reassured and at ease, thanks to their attentive approach. The horses are described as calm, well-behaved, and knowing the trail, making the ride smooth even for those with little or no riding experience.

You’ll traverse stunning desert landscapes, often with a gentle canter, as you listen to the sounds of coyote howls and spot local wildlife such as jackrabbits and even a ram or vultures. The ride typically lasts around 1.5 hours, with many travelers mentioning how the time flies as they’re immersed in the natural beauty.

Sunset Views and Photo Opportunities

As the sun begins to dip, the horizon lights up with brilliant colors—reds, oranges, and purples. The reviews celebrate this moment as truly unforgettable, with many saying the sunset views are worth the trip alone. Guides often point out interesting features of the landscape and sometimes share stories about the land’s significance to Native tribes and cowboy legends.

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Campfire and BBQ Dinner

Back at camp, your guides set up a cozy atmosphere around the campfire. The meal, cooked by the driver or chef, is hearty and satisfying—think steak or mesquite grilled chicken, baked potatoes, corn on the cob, and freshly baked rolls. Many reviewers highlight the quality of the food, describing it as “delicious,” with the apple pie a recurring favorite.

Some reviews mention the opportunity to sit on a tame bull or try lassoing—adding a fun, interactive element to the evening. The campfire setting allows for relaxed conversation and stargazing, if the weather permits.

Return to Las Vegas

After dinner and some cowboy fun, your transport takes you back to the Strip. Most trips conclude around dusk or early evening, leaving you with a sense of having experienced something authentic and peaceful away from the neon glow.

Authenticity and Experience Value

This tour packs a lot into its six hours. For the price of $160, you’re not only getting a scenic horseback ride but also a chance to enjoy genuine cowboy hospitality and a traditional barbecue dinner. Many reviews emphasize the excellent guides—not only knowledgeable but also friendly and humorous—making the experience feel warm and personalized. The small group size means you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd, which enhances the sense of adventure.

The combination of stunning sunset scenery, well-trained horses, and delicious, hearty food makes this tour stand out as a true taste of Nevada’s outdoors. The value is clear when you consider the included transportation, equipment, guide, dinner, and the chance to try lassoing or sit on a bull, all within a manageable price point.

A Few Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth noting that the activity isn’t suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those over 250 lbs. Also, if you’re expecting an outdoor dinner without some dust or bugs, you might be surprised by the campfire setting. The weather can influence your experience—cloud cover or wind may obscure the sunset, but the scenic ride is still beautiful even in less perfect conditions.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This tour is perfect for beginners and outdoor lovers looking for an authentic cowboy adventure without needing prior riding experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want a peaceful escape into nature, enjoy stunning sunsets, and appreciate home-cooked food after a scenic ride. Families with children over six will find it manageable, especially with attentive guides.

It also appeals to those seeking a memorable, photo-worthy moment—many travelers mention capturing incredible sunset shots. The relaxed pace and friendly environment make it suitable for anyone wanting a laid-back but memorable outdoor experience close to Las Vegas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are experienced and attentive, making beginners feel comfortable. The horses are calm and well trained, and instructions are clear.

What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required for safety. Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and the weather is recommended.

Can children join this tour?
Children 6 years and older are allowed, but they must wear a helmet and meet certain safety requirements.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at selected hotels in Las Vegas are included, making it very convenient.

What is the food like?
You’ll enjoy a hearty barbecue dinner, with options like steak or mesquite grilled chicken, complemented by baked potatoes, corn, and apple pie. Reviews praise the quality and flavor of the food.

How long is the horseback ride?
The ride typically lasts about 1.5 hours, giving enough time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are available free of charge and are required for children 12 and under.

Is this tour accessible for people over 250 lbs?
No, participants over 250 lbs are not suited for this activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

The Sum Up

This horseback sunset tour offers a wonderful mix of scenic Nevada landscape, authentic cowboy fun, and hearty American-style barbecue. Its friendly guides, well-trained horses, and small-group setting create a relaxed, genuine atmosphere that many travelers find memorable. It’s especially well-suited for first-time riders, families, or anyone craving a peaceful outdoor experience just outside Las Vegas.

If you’re after a chance to see the desert in a different light—literally—and enjoy some down-to-earth hospitality, this trip delivers on all fronts. The sunset views alone make it worth considering. Combine that with the friendly guides and tasty food, and you’ve got yourself a genuinely authentic western adventure, far from the bright lights but close enough to make it easy to plan.

This tour is a smart choice for those wanting a blend of scenic beauty, cultural touchstones, and good old-fashioned fun. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a different way to experience Nevada, it’s a memorable outing worth your time and money.

You can check availability for your dates here: