Hooves and Heritage: Exploring Oaxaca's Culture on Horseback

I'm swaying on a horse named Luna, her hooves kicking up dust as we trot through a jungle trail near Puerto Escondido, the air thick with the scent of wildflowers and the hum of distant drums. I'm no cowgirl—my first attempt at mounting was more of a hop-and-flail situation—but there's something about riding through Oaxaca's wild landscapes that feels like stepping into a living story.

This is cultural immersion horseback riding with Puerto Escondido Tours & Travel Agency, and it's not just a ride; it's a deep dive into the heart of Oaxaca's history and traditions. Let me take you along for the journey.

Puerto Escondido is known for its surf and sunsets, but its cultural roots run deep, woven with Indigenous traditions, colonial echoes, and a love for horses that goes back centuries. From festivals where horses prance to ancient rhythms to quiet trails where local guides share stories of their ancestors, horseback riding here is a way to connect with Oaxaca's soul.

Horses in Oaxacan Culture: More Than Just a Ride

Horses aren't just animals in Oaxaca—they're part of the fabric of life. I learned this from my guide, Miguel, whose eyes lit up when he talked about growing up around horses in San José Manialtepec. He told me how horses have been central to Oaxacan culture since the Spanish brought them over in the 1500s, transforming everything from farming to festivals.

Today, you'll see them in everyday life—carrying farmers through fields or stealing the show at local fiestas. Oaxaca festivals with horses are a big deal, and Miguel had stories for days. Take the Fiesta de Chila in February, where horse races and parades turn the streets into a blur of color and hoofbeats.

As we crossed a shallow river—me clinging to Luna's reins like a lifeline—Miguel shared more about the historical role of horses in Oaxaca. When the Spanish arrived, horses were a game-changer, helping colonizers like Hernán Cortés move fast and dominate.

The Historical Role of Horses in Oaxaca

Today, that history lives on in places like Manialtepec, where horses still carry folks through jungles and beaches. Riding with Puerto Escondido Tours & Travel Agency, you're not just sightseeing; you're retracing paths that have been used for centuries.

One of the best parts of this tour? The people. Engaging with local communities is what makes horseback riding with Puerto Escondido Tours & Travel Agency so special. Miguel, born and raised near Manialtepec Lagoon, wasn't just a guide—he was a storyteller, sharing tales of his Zapotec roots.

The trail led us to Manialtepec Lagoon, and I swear it's like nowhere else on Earth. This glassy stretch of water, fringed with mangroves, isn't just a pretty view—it's got deep cultural significance. Miguel explained that the Indigenous history of Manialtepec is tied to the Chontal and Zapotec peoples, who've fished and farmed here for centuries.

Engaging with Local Communities and Guides

This wasn't just a ride; it was cultural immersion horseback riding at its best. As we trotted toward Puerto Suelo Beach, the sun dipping low and painting the sky gold, Miguel shared how his family celebrates Day of the Dead with horse parades, honoring loved ones with flowers and music.

Ready to saddle up? Booking with Puerto Escondido Tours & Travel Agency is a breeze—check their website or swing by their office in Puerto Escondido. Prices range from $60–$100 for a 4–5-hour ride, depending on the route. Wear long pants and sneakers (no flip-flops, trust me), and bring sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle.

This ride is more than a checkmark on your Puerto Escondido list—it's a window into Oaxaca's heart. From the historical role of horses to the Indigenous history of Manialtepec, every step feels like a story unfolding. Horseback riding with Puerto Escondido Tours & Travel Agency is your ticket to Oaxaca's cultural and historical roots.