La Paz: Horseback Riding

Imagine riding along pristine beaches, exploring rugged mountain trails, and unwinding with a glass of local wine—all within a single day. For travelers seeking a genuine connection with Baja California Sur’s landscapes, this horseback riding tour in La Paz offers a well-rounded mix of adventure and relaxation. Priced at $369 per person for a roughly four-hour experience, including a 2.5-hour ride, breakfast or dinner, and access to additional activities like kayaking and mountain biking, it’s designed for those who want more than just the usual tourist sights.

What makes this tour stand out are two key features: the quality of the horses and the care given to the animals and the variety of activities available at Rancho San Lorenzo. The horses are ridden only during the cooler parts of the day, which shows a real concern for their well-being. Plus, the ranch’s expansive 1,000 acres offers a chance to try paddleboarding, kayaking, and mountain biking, making it a full-day experience for outdoor lovers.

One consideration to keep in mind is that this tour might not be ideal for travelers with back problems or animal allergies, given the riding activity and ranch environment. Also, transportation is optional and costs an additional 1,500 Pesos per group, so if you’re relying on it, budget accordingly. This experience appeals most to those craving an authentic Baja adventure with a focus on animal welfare, scenic beauty, and varied outdoor fun.

Key Points

• Authentic Baja experience: Ride on beaches and mountain trails with expert guides.
• Animal welfare focus: Horses are well cared for, only ridden during cooler times, and given quality food.
• Multiple activities: Access paddleboarding, kayaking, and mountain biking at the ranch.
• Flexible dining options: Enjoy breakfast or dinner depending on your ride time.
• All-inclusive feel: The tour includes a full-day ranch pass, making it more than just riding.
• Optional transportation: Can be arranged for 1,500 Pesos per group, adding convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details of the La Paz Horseback Riding Tour

Location and Setting

The tour takes place at Rancho San Lorenzo, a large, working ranch covering 1,000 acres between the Coyote Mountains and the Sea of Cortez. This location offers both stunning views and a variety of terrains—desert, mountains, and beach—that make for an interesting and varied riding experience.

The ranch is described as an animal sanctuary, home to animals like rabbits, foxes, deer, goats, donkeys, horses, and ostriches. This focus on animal welfare is a key part of the experience. The guides emphasize that their horses are never pushed too hard and are regularly checked by licensed veterinarians, which adds a layer of authenticity and responsibility that many travelers appreciate.

The Riding Experience

The centerpiece of this tour is the 2.5-hour horseback ride. You’ll meet your guide, get acquainted with your horse—likely an animal that’s been well cared for—and then set off across a variety of landscapes. The riding is scheduled only in the mornings and evenings to avoid the hottest parts of the day, which benefits the horses and enhances your comfort.

Expect to ride along breathtaking beaches, where the surf meets the sand, and venture into mountain trails with views of the rugged desert landscape. Several reviews praise the “stunning views” and the relaxed, friendly guides who make the ride both safe and enjoyable, even for beginners.

Activities Beyond Riding

One of the biggest attractions of this tour is the access to a full day at the ranch with a ranch day pass included. This grants you the freedom to enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, mountain biking, and more—perfect for those who want to stretch their legs after riding or just enjoy the outdoors at their own pace.

The ranch’s location also makes it ideal for relaxing with a glass of wine—the tour includes a dinner or breakfast depending on your ride time, with many noting how pleasant it is to unwind on the ranch’s beautiful property. The food is described as tasty, with some reviews highlighting the “delicious food and tapas” and “excellent wine selection,” which elevates the experience from just outdoor activities to a laid-back, indulgent outing.

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Food and Dining

The included meal is a highlight for many. Whether it’s a hearty breakfast to start the day or a scenic dinner, the quality of the food matches the natural beauty surrounding you. The meal offers a chance to relax, share stories with fellow travelers, and bask in the peaceful ranch atmosphere.

Practical Aspects and Logistics

Price-wise, at $369 per person, this tour is on the higher end of what you might spend for similar activities, but it includes a lot: the ride, meals, and access to other outdoor activities. It’s important to note that gratuities are not included, and tipping is always appreciated if you feel the guides have gone above and beyond.

Transportation to and from the ranch is optional, and for 1,500 Pesos per group, it can be arranged, which adds convenience if you prefer not to drive or organize your own way there. The maximum group size is 10 people, ensuring a more personalized experience, which many travelers find valuable.

What to bring? Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and breathable clothing. Since the tour takes place outdoors in Baja’s climate, lightweight, sun-protective gear makes the ride more comfortable.

Authenticity and Ethical Considerations

One standout aspect of this experience is the commitment to animal care. Unlike some commercial riding outfits, Rancho San Lorenzo emphasizes animal welfare—horses are only ridden during cooler parts of the day, fed high-quality food, and checked by vets regularly. This focus is appreciated, especially by travelers who care about ethical tourism.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This horseback riding experience suits outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore Baja’s natural beauty on horseback while enjoying additional activities. It’s also great for families or small groups looking for a relaxed day immersed in nature, with the added bonus of good food and wine.

If you’re not comfortable on horseback or have back issues, this might not be ideal. Also, those with animal allergies should consider their sensitivities before booking.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

For travelers eager to experience Baja California Sur’s landscapes in an unforgettable way, this tour offers a wonderful combination of scenic riding, animal welfare, and outdoor activities. It’s perfect for those who value authentic, responsible tourism and enjoy a mix of adventure and leisure.

The inclusion of meals and access to paddleboarding and biking means you’re not just riding and leaving—you’re spending a full day soaking in the ranch’s natural beauty and serenity. The smaller group size and focus on horse well-being add a layer of comfort and authenticity that many travelers seek in outdoor excursions.

This tour is best suited for those who want a balanced experience—a meaningful ride, tasty local food, and plenty of opportunities to relax or explore further. If that sounds like your ideal Baja day, this tour will likely deliver exactly what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation is optional and costs an additional 1,500 Pesos per group. You can choose to arrange it or make your own way to the ranch.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
The actual riding time is about 2.5 hours, which provides enough time to enjoy different landscapes without feeling rushed.

What should I bring for the ride?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and breathable clothing are recommended to stay comfortable outdoors.

Can I do this tour if I’ve never ridden a horse before?
Yes, the tour is suitable for beginners, especially since guides are experienced and the horses are well cared for, and ridden only during cooler parts of the day.

Are the horses well taken care of?
Absolutely. The ranch emphasizes animal welfare, providing high-quality food, regular vet checkups, and avoiding overwork, which assures a responsible riding experience.

What’s included in the tour price?
The tour covers the 2.5-hour horseback ride, a meal (breakfast or dinner), and a full-day ranch pass to access paddleboarding, kayaking, mountain biking, and more.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, particularly those with kids comfortable with riding, but check individual age and health restrictions.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially since the tour can fill up, and they offer flexible cancellation up to 24 hours prior.

Embark on this Baja adventure for a memorable day of riding, exploring, and unwinding in one of Mexico’s most scenic regions. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances fun, ethics, and natural beauty—perfect for those seeking a genuine connection to the land and its animals.

You can check availability for your dates here: