Jungle and Beach Horseback ride Tour in Pacific Coast

Exploring Mazatlan’s Jungle and Beach on Horseback: A Genuine Adventure

Imagine riding a gentle horse through a lush jungle and along a pristine beach—that’s what awaits you on the Jungle and Beach Horseback Ride Tour on the Pacific Coast of Mexico. For about three hours, you’ll be transported to Mr. Lionso Ranch, just a short 15-minute drive from Mazatlan’s lively Golden Zone. The tour, costing $90 per person, includes pickup from your hotel, condo, or cruise port, making logistics hassle-free. You’ll get a chance to choose your own horse, ride through agave fields and jungle, and then relax with a delicious traditional lunch paired with a mezcal tasting at the ranch’s own factory.

What we particularly love about this experience is how personal and authentic it feels. The guides, like Yoel, are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, ensuring you feel safe and well-informed from start to finish. Also, the combination of scenic riding and culinary delights—from homemade tortillas to flavorful beef burritos—sets this tour apart from your average beach excursion. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that this is a moderate physical activity; if you’re not comfortable on horseback or have mobility issues, you might want to assess your comfort level beforehand.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and delicious food. Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced equestrian, the gentle horses and scenic ride are suitable for all. Families with children as young as 2 will appreciate the relaxed pace, and if you’re curious about mezcal, this visit offers a chance to learn and taste in a friendly, family-run environment.

Key Points

• Authentic horseback riding through jungle and beach areas offers scenic, peaceful views.
• All-inclusive experience with lunch, mezcal tastings, and shopping makes for great value.
• Family-friendly with gentle horses and accommodating staff, suitable for children aged 2 and up.
• Convenient pickup from hotels, condos, or the cruise port simplifies logistics.
• Limited group size (max 10 travelers) ensures a personalized experience.
• Highly praised by past guests for safety, friendliness, and authentic atmosphere.

A Closer Look at the Jungle and Beach Horseback Ride Tour

Starting Point: Convenience and Comfort

This tour begins with your pickup from any location in Mazatlan—be it your hotel, condo, or cruise port. The drive to Mr. Lionso Ranch, located just a short 15-minute ride from the Golden Zone, is smooth and comfortable, usually in a climate-controlled van. This short journey means you’ll be quickly immersed in Mexico’s rural landscape, away from city noise, and into the heart of green fields and quiet beaches.

Choosing Your Horse

Once at the ranch, the fun begins with selecting your horse from a lineup trusted for their gentle temperaments. The guides, like Yoel, are noted for their professionalism and clear instructions, making sure even novice riders feel secure. You’ll ride a leader horse at the front, following your guide, and spend approximately one and a half hours riding through agave fields, jungle trails, and along the shoreline. The terrain varies, providing both a scenic and slightly adventurous side to the ride, but the horses are described as gentle and calm, suitable for all comfort levels.

Riding Through the Scenery

The ride’s highlights are undoubtedly the beach views and the jungle trails. Past visitors call it a “wonderful experience,” and mention how the scenery is stunning—waves crashing on one side, lush greenery on the other. One reviewer noted, “We rode through the agave fields and onto the beach. It was beautiful scenery all around.” The quietness of the beach offers a peaceful moment to relax and take photos, making this tour especially appealing for lovers of nature and authentic landscapes.

The Lunch Experience

After the ride, the tour takes you to the ranch’s restaurant, where a traditional Mexican meal awaits. The menu includes cheese flambée, machaca (beef) burritos, guacamole, salsa, and handmade tortillas, all praised for their authenticity and flavor. Several reviews highlighted how tasty the food was, with one mentioning the tequila cheese as a standout. This meal isn’t just a filler but a genuine taste of local cuisine, adding a cultural dimension to your day.

Mezcal and Craftsmanship

A unique feature of this tour is the mezcal factory visit, where you can learn about how mezcal is made right at the ranch. The process is explained to visitors, and then you’re invited to taste all the flavors they produce: reposado, white, coffee, almond, mango, hibiscus, and tamarind. Past guests have raved about the variety of flavors and the quality, with some claiming the mezcal tasting to be surprisingly good—even for those who don’t normally enjoy tequila. The chance to see the production process up close offers a memorable glimpse into local craftsmanship.

Shopping and Final Moments

The tour ends with some time for shopping, where you can purchase local souvenirs, mezcal, or other handmade items. It’s a relaxed way to wind down, and many guests appreciated the opportunity to support the family-run ranch and bring a piece of the experience home.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts roughly three hours, from pickup to drop-off. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the small-group setting ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. This means fewer crowds and more opportunity to ask questions or enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

Cost and Value

At $90 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of activities—horseback riding, authentic food, mezcal tasting, and shopping—making it a good value for those seeking a well-rounded day outside the typical tourist spots. The inclusion of transport, guided riding, and authentic experiences means you’re getting a lot for your money.

Accessibility and Considerations

While most guests find the tour suitable, it does require moderate physical fitness. The horseback ride is about 1.5 hours, and some walking or mounting/dismounting is involved. Children as young as 2 are welcome, but parents should consider their child’s comfort on horseback. Alcoholic beverages are served only to those 18 and older, and the tour is weather-dependent—if it rains heavily, the activity might be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered.

Authentic Experiences That Truly Stand Out

From the authentic hospitality of the guides to the scenic ride along undisturbed beaches, this tour offers a genuine taste of Mazatlan’s natural and cultural riches. Visitors consistently praise the safety, friendliness, and knowledge of the staff, which enhances their confidence and enjoyment throughout. The delicious, homemade-style meal and the mezcal tasting are not just add-ons but integral parts of the experience, offering insight into local traditions.

The scenery—a blend of ocean waves, lush greenery, and agave fields—creates perfect photo opportunities and memorable moments. The quietness of the beach ride provides a rare chance to disconnect, soak in the surroundings, and truly appreciate the landscape.

The Overall Experience and Who Will Enjoy It

This tour is an excellent choice for adventurous families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a mix of nature, culture, and culinary delights. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic local experiences over commercialized attractions. The combination of scenic riding, delicious food, and mezcal tasting makes it a well-rounded outing, perfect for anyone wanting to escape the city for a few hours and connect with Mazatlan’s rural charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the price?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel, condo, or cruise port, making planning easier.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
The ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, during which you’ll enjoy scenic views of the jungle and beach.

Are children allowed to participate?
Yes, children as young as 2 years old can join, though parents should consider their child’s comfort with horseback riding.

What kind of food is served during lunch?
A traditional Mexican meal featuring cheese flambée, machaca burritos, guacamole, salsa, and handmade tortillas.

Can I taste mezcal if I don’t drink alcohol?
The mezcal tasting is available only to those 18 and over, and non-drinkers can opt out or just enjoy the process.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Rain or poor weather may lead to rescheduling or refund.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a meaningful blend of adventure, culture, and scenery in Mazatlan, this horseback riding tour hits just the right notes. You’ll enjoy a peaceful ride through agave fields, lush jungle, and along a quiet beach, all led by attentive, friendly guides. The home-cooked meal and mezcal tasting enrich the experience, offering genuine insights into local traditions. With a small group size and flexible pickup options, it’s a hassle-free way to add an authentic touch to your Mexican vacation.

While it requires a bit of moderate physical activity, the gentle horses and calm pace make it accessible to most visitors. If you’re after a unique, scenic, and culturally rich adventure, this tour is a worthwhile investment. It’s especially perfect if you love nature, good food, and learning about local traditions from friendly hosts who genuinely care about their visitors’ experience.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable day outside the city, this horseback ride tour offers a genuine taste of Mazatlan’s natural beauty and warm hospitality—an experience you’re likely to remember long after you leave.

Note: This review is based on the latest available information and traveler reviews, aiming to give you a balanced picture of what to expect and how to make the most of this adventure.