Zihuatanejo: Horseback Riding on the Beach

Zihuatanejo: Horseback Riding on the Beach offers an authentic, relaxed way to experience Mexico’s stunning coastline. For just $54 per person, you get a 1- or 2-hour ride along the pristine shores, with the option of ending your adventure with a hearty country meal. Guided by friendly bilingual guides, this trip is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, even if you’ve never been on a horse before.

What we love about this experience is the combination of beautiful coastal views and a laid-back atmosphere, making it feel more like a leisurely outing than a tourist trap. The fact that horses are well-trained and responsive means you can focus on soaking in the scenery rather than worrying about your mount. We also appreciate the personalized small group setting, limited to just five participants, which ensures more attention and a relaxed vibe.

One consideration is that the tour involves transportation from your hotel or the pier, so if you prefer to explore independently, you’ll need to coordinate that. Also, if you’re not comfortable around horses or have mobility issues, it’s worth noting that the activity is gentle but still involves some walking and riding.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic views, and a touch of local flavor. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a memorable activity that combines nature and culture will find this deeply satisfying.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal ride: Experience Zihuatanejo’s beaches from horseback, enjoying sea breezes and beautiful views.
• Flexible durations: Choose between a 1-hour or 2-hour ride, with the longer option including a meal.
• No experience necessary: Friendly guides ensure an easy and safe experience for all skill levels.
• Small group setting: Limited to just five people, enhancing the personal touch.
• Includes transportation: Pickup from your hotel or the main pier simplifies logistics.
• Authentic local touch: The 2-hour tour with lunch offers a traditional country meal, adding flavor to your adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Ride Along Zihuatanejo’s Beaches: A Detailed Review

When it comes to experiencing the charm of Zihuatanejo, nothing beats a horseback ride along the beach. The tour is designed to be accessible and memorable, allowing travelers to enjoy the natural beauty of Mexico’s Pacific coast without requiring previous riding experience. Priced at $54 per person, it offers a decent value, especially considering the included transportation and, for some options, a hearty meal.

The Itinerary: From Pickup to Sunset Views

The adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel or the main pier, usually in air-conditioned comfort. This door-to-door service is a real plus, removing the hassle of finding the ranch on your own, and making the experience feel special from the start. Once at Playa Larga Ranch, you’ll meet your guide—who, based on reviews, tends to be friendly, fluent in both English and Spanish, and eager to ensure everyone is comfortable.

The moment you saddle up, you’ll notice the well-trained horses that are responsive and calm, making the ride suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. The guides seem to tailor the experience to your comfort level, allowing you to go faster than a walk if you wish, or stick to a gentle trot.

The scenery is the star here. Riding along the shoreline, you’ll enjoy the sensation of the sea breeze and watch the waves roll in. The beach is described as pristine, and some reviews mention spotting interesting marine life, such as stingrays, which adds a bit of excitement to the simple pleasure of riding.

The Longer Tour with Lunch: A Taste of Local Flavor

For those opting for the 2-hour ride with lunch, after the initial beach adventure, you’ll take a short break at a local restaurant. Here, a hearty country meal of chicken or beef is served with a comforting bowl of soup, complemented by a cold beer or soft drink—perfect after an active ride. The review from Stephanie highlights how “Ramon was an excellent guide,” taking photos and customizing the route to avoid mosquitoes, which shows the guides’ attentiveness.

Post-lunch, the ride continues, offering a different perspective along the beach. This part of the trip is especially appealing for sunset riders, who can witness a stunning display of colors as the sun dips into the Pacific. Morning rides are quieter and cooler, ideal for those who prefer a peaceful start to the day.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

You should anticipate a relaxed, scenic ride, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy the natural surroundings. The guides are eager to ensure your safety and comfort, making it suitable even for first-time riders. On top of that, the small group size means more personalized attention, and the guides often go out of their way to make the experience memorable.

From the review by Stephanie, we learn that the horses are responsive and well-behaved, and the guides are knowledgeable and friendly. She also appreciated the flexibility to go faster if she wanted, and the stop to take photos and enjoy the scenery. Her mention of the “beautiful beach” and the stingray sighting suggests that this isn’t just a ride—it’s a small adventure that offers genuine moments of connection with nature.

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Practical Details: Timing, Cost, and Group Size

• Duration: Rides last between 1 and 2 hours, allowing you to choose based on your energy and interest.
• Price: At $54, the tour provides good value, especially considering transportation and the optional meal.
• Group Size: Limited to just 5 participants, ensuring a calm, personalized experience.
• Languages: Guides speak both English and Spanish, making it accessible for international travelers.
• Cancellation: Fully refundable if canceled 24 hours in advance—flexibility for travel plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is perfect for beginners and families, as no prior riding experience is needed. It suits travelers seeking a peaceful escape with scenic views and those wanting to combine outdoor adventure with a taste of local cuisine. It’s particularly appealing to those who appreciate small group settings and personalized service.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding experience in Zihuatanejo offers a rare chance to enjoy the coastal beauty at a relaxed pace. The well-trained horses, the friendly guides, and the breathtaking scenery create an authentic and memorable outing. Whether you opt for the shorter ride or the longer version with lunch, you’ll leave with a sense of connection to the landscape and a few great photos to remember it by.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, scenic, and fun activity that combines nature, culture, and a little bit of adventure, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who want a laid-back, personal experience without the crowds or complicated logistics.

FAQ

Is prior horseback riding experience required?
No, this tour is suitable for beginners and no prior riding experience is necessary. The horses are well-trained, and guides will assist you throughout.

How long is the ride?
You can choose between a 1-hour or 2-hour ride, depending on your preference. The longer option includes a stop for lunch.

What does the lunch consist of?
For the 2-hour ride with lunch, you’ll enjoy a hearty country meal featuring chicken or beef, served with soup and a cold beverage.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or the main pier is included, making the logistics straightforward.

What group size can I expect?
The tour is limited to 5 participants, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, accommodating a wide range of travelers.

Can I go faster than a walk?
Yes, if you feel comfortable, guides can let you ride faster than a walk, adding some extra fun.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for riding and beach weather are recommended; don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen.

Is this activity suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the gentle nature and small group size suggest it could be suitable for children, especially if they are comfortable around horses.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, Zihuatanejo’s horseback riding tour is a delightful way to combine gentle adventure, stunning scenery, and a taste of local life. It’s perfect for those who want a memorable, low-key outdoor activity without the need for riding experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful moment along the coast, this tour delivers authentic fun and beautiful views that will stay with you long after you’ve left the beach.

You can check availability for your dates here: