I'm sitting on a horse named Estrella, my hands sweaty as we start down a dusty trail near Puerto Escondido, the ocean breeze mixing with the smell of jungle. I'm no pro rider—my first attempt at getting on was more like a clumsy hop—but figuring out the logistics for horseback riding in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, made this adventure a breeze.
I learned a ton (mostly through trial and error), and I'm here to share the practical stuff so you can hit the trails stress-free. Whether you're a nervous newbie like me or a seasoned rider, let's get you ready for a ride that'll have you grinning ear to ear.
Puerto Escondido is all about that laid-back Oaxacan vibe—surfers, street tacos, and sunsets that feel like a gift. But horseback riding here? It's a whole other kind of magic, taking you through jungles, beaches, and rivers. To make it happen, you need to know how to book, get to the trails, and stay safe while keeping things ethical. I'm breaking it all down like we're chatting over a cold cerveza, so you can focus on the fun.
Booking Your Horseback Riding Adventure
Booking horseback riding tours in Puerto Escondido is super easy, but it helps to know where to start. I went with Puerto Escondido Tours, and they made everything a snap. They're the go-to for horseback riding in Puerto Escondido, offering tours that range from quick beach rides to full-day jungle treks.
You can book online through their website—super user-friendly—or swing by their office in town if you're already here. I found them through a hostel tip, and their quick replies to my questions (like "Will I fall off?") put me at ease.
How to Book Your Perfect Tour
- Pick your tour—beach rides are great for beginners, while lagoon or hot springs tours are longer and more adventurous
- Prices right now are MX$1850–MX$1900, depending on the tour
- Book a few days ahead, especially in peak season
- Call or email to confirm your spot and ask about group sizes
- Check for seasonal deals (like winter discounts or package tours)
My sunset ride along Puerto Suelo Beach was about MX$1850, while the hot springs trip was MX$1900. Smaller groups mean more time to chat with your guide, which is half the fun.
Getting to the Trails
Transportation to horseback riding trails can sound like a hassle, but Puerto Escondido Tours has you covered. Many of their tours include hotel pick-up, which was a lifesaver for me since I was staying at a small guesthouse near Zicatela.
They sent a van to scoop me up, and we were at the trailhead in San José Manialtepec in about 25 minutes. My driver doubled as a hype man, telling me about the herons we'd see on the trail, which got me pumped.
Getting to San José Manialtepec is straightforward—most trails start there, a quiet village just outside Puerto Escondido. If you're driving yourself, it's a quick ride on a well-marked road, but I'd recommend the pick-up option to keep things stress-free.
Best Time to Ride
For beach rides, the starting point might be closer to town, like near Zicatela or La Punta. Either way, Puerto Escondido Tours makes sure you know where to go and when. If you're staying farther out, like in Mazunte, let them know when booking—they can often arrange transport for a small fee.
Safety Guidelines
- Don't sneak up behind horses (they kick!)
- Keep your reins loose but maintain control
- Listen carefully to your guide's instructions
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear
- Stay hydrated and protected from the sun
- Let your guide know about any concerns or health issues
Timing your ride is key to getting the most out of it. The best time for horseback riding in Puerto Escondido is during the dry season, from November to April, when trails are less muddy and the weather's cooler (well, as cool as Oaxaca gets).
Dry season horseback riding in Oaxaca means you're not slipping around or dodging rainclouds, and the views are crystal clear—perfect for those sunset rides. I went in February, and the weather was gold: warm, breezy, and not too sweaty.
Ethical and Safety Considerations
Sunset rides are the sweet spot, especially around 5 or 6 p.m., when the sky turns pink and orange over places like Puerto Suelo Beach. If you're eyeing a lagoon tour, check the tide schedules—some trails can get tricky at high tide.
Avoid peak holiday crowds (like Christmas or Easter) if you want a quieter vibe. I lucked out with a small group, which made the ride feel like a private adventure. Our sunset tour offers the perfect timing to experience the magic of Puerto Escondido's beaches.
Pro Tip
The golden hour (about an hour before sunset) offers the most magical lighting for photos. Book your ride for this time and bring a camera that can handle low light for stunning shots of your adventure.
Practical Tips to Nail Your Ride
Let's talk about keeping things safe and ethical, because that's huge. Horse welfare in Puerto Escondido is a priority for Puerto Escondido Tours. Their horses, like my trusty Estrella, are well-fed, rested, and loved—think of them as four-legged employees, not just animals.
I asked about their care routine, and they were happy to share how they rotate horses to avoid overworking them. It made me feel good knowing Estrella wasn't slogging through trails all day.
Responsible tourism in Oaxaca means respecting the land and its creatures. Puerto Escondido Tours sticks to eco-friendly practices, like keeping trails clean and limiting group sizes to minimize impact.
Why These Details Make the Ride Epic
Safety-wise, they've got you covered. My guide, Juan, gave us a quick rundown on staying safe. They match you with a horse based on your skill level—beginners like me get chill ones like Estrella. I was nervous I'd tumble off, but Juan's tips and a few deep breaths had me feeling like I could handle it (mostly).
A few extra tips to make your ride smooth: wear long pants and sneakers—no flip-flops, unless you want to lose them in the dirt like I almost did. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle; the Oaxaca sun is relentless.
A small backpack for your camera or snacks is handy, but keep it light. If you're on a longer tour, like the hot springs ride, ask about breaks—my group stopped for tacos, and it was a highlight.
Saddle Up and Go
Puerto Escondido Tours is great about pacing the ride for everyone, from kids to seniors. If you're worried about fitness, don't sweat it—most rides are beginner-friendly, but longer ones might leave your legs sore. I wished I'd stretched beforehand; my thighs were not happy the next day.
Tell your guide if you're new or nervous—they'll keep an eye on you and make it fun. On our sunset beach tour, the guides were especially attentive to first-timers.
Figuring out the practical stuff for horseback riding in Puerto Escondido isn't just about checking boxes—it's about setting up an adventure you'll talk about for years. Booking with Puerto Escondido Tours means you're in good hands, getting to the trails is a cinch, and riding at the right time makes those views pop.
Knowing the horses are treated right and the land's respected lets you enjoy every second without a worry. My ride with Estrella had me laughing, sweating, and soaking in Oaxaca's wild beauty, from jungle trails to beach sunsets. I was a nervous wreck at first, but by the end, I was hooked.
Getting ready for horseback riding in Puerto Escondido is half the adventure. It's about booking a tour that fits your vibe, hopping in a van to the trails, and riding with a crew that cares about the land and its horses. Whether you're splashing through rivers or trotting along a beach, you'll leave with a big grin and some stories to tell. I'm already dreaming of my next ride.
Ready to hit the trails? Book with Puerto Escondido Tours for a ride you'll love. Got a horseback riding story or tip from Puerto Escondido? Drop it in the comments—I'm all ears. Now go plan your ride. Oaxaca's trails are calling.