Puerto Escondido: Horseback Ride and Hot Springs Tour

If you’re looking to escape the busy beaches of Puerto Escondido for a taste of authentic local life and natural beauty, the Horseback Ride and Hot Springs Tour offers a memorable half-day adventure. Offered by Manglar Bird Watching, this experience combines scenic riding, refreshing river crossings, and a soothing soak in thermal springs—all in the company of local families and vibrant, lush surroundings.

What we find compelling about this tour is its blend of physical activity and tranquil relaxation, along with the chance to connect with authentic Mexican rural life. The ride through verdant vegetation feels like stepping into a nature documentary, and the hot springs reward you with genuine healing properties. However, travelers should consider that it’s not suitable for those with back problems or limited mobility, as it involves horseback riding and some uneven terrain. This tour is a fantastic choice for those who love outdoor adventures and want a meaningful experience away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience with local families and scenic landscapes
• Relaxing hot springs for natural healing and soothing baths
• Multiple river crossings offering a fun and refreshing element
• Includes interaction with locals, providing cultural insight
• Moderate physical activity suitable for most healthy travelers
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later plans

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with Local Hospitality and Scenic Transport

The adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Puerto Escondido, a detail that adds to the ease of planning. The transport takes you to San José Manialtepec, a small town where you’re greeted by a local family. This initial connection sets the tone for a tour rooted in genuine community involvement. It’s worth noting that the group is likely small and personal, ensuring you won’t feel lost in a crowd.

The Horseback Ride: Connecting with Nature

Once on horseback, the journey takes you along a trail surrounded by lush vegetation. The riding experience is described as gentle and approachable, making it accessible for most riders, though some reviews note that it’s best suited for those comfortable with horses. You’ll cross the river multiple times, which is a standout feature—expect the cool, invigorating sensation of the water on your skin, as one reviewer mentioned: “We loved the way the river crossings made the ride even more refreshing.”

The scenery is notable for its variety of trees and plants, and the sounds of birds fill the air, creating a peaceful soundtrack. The guide’s commentary (in English or Spanish) enhances the experience, providing context about the local flora and fauna. This part of the tour lasts around an hour, making it a manageable yet immersive ride that doesn’t exhaust but still invigorates.

The Hot Springs of Atotonilco: A Natural Healing Haven

After the ride, you’ll arrive at the hot springs of Atotonilco. Here, the focus shifts from adventure to relaxation. The thermal baths are lauded for their healing qualities, with one reviewer noting, “Enjoying the hot springs was the perfect way to unwind after the ride.”

The springs are naturally warm, and many travelers take their time soaking in the mineral-rich waters. The experience isn’t just about comfort but also about feeling renewed—something many find especially appealing after a morning of activity. If you wish, you can also swim in the river, adding another layer of refreshment.

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Interacting with Local Life and Enjoying Natural Surroundings

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to connect with a local family in San José Manialtepec before heading back. Their warmth and hospitality offer a glimpse into everyday rural life, enriching the overall experience.

The Sum Up of the Day and Return Journey

After soaking and relaxing, you’ll mount your horse for the return trip, circling back through the same lush landscapes and river crossings. The tour wraps up with a comfortable ride back to your hotel, usually in about five hours total, making it a perfect half-day escape.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour includes a live guide bilingual in English and Spanish, which helps bridge cultural gaps and enhances your understanding of the environment. Pickup is included, with drivers ready to meet you at your lodging, adding convenience.

You’ll want to pack swimwear, towels, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothes, and sports shoes or hiking pants. It’s a good idea to wear sturdy shoes suitable for riding and walking. The experience is weather-dependent, so if rain or storms cancel the tour, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems. Service animals are allowed, and infants can join, sitting on laps.

Cost and Value

At a reasonable duration and price point, this tour offers genuine value, blending cultural experience, outdoor activity, and relaxation. The inclusion of local interaction and a natural hot spring soak makes it more than just a scenic ride—it’s a chance to enjoy authentic rural Oaxaca life.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for outdoor lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those interested in cultural exchange. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy gentle physical activity, as well as those seeking a peaceful way to enjoy Oaxaca’s natural beauty. It’s also perfect for couples, small groups, or families with older children comfortable on horseback.

People with back problems or mobility limitations should consider other options, as the ride involves uneven terrain and river crossings. If you’re after a unique, authentic experience that combines adventure with relaxation—and don’t mind getting a little muddy or wet—this tour is worth considering.

The Sum Up

The Puerto Escondido: Horseback Ride and Hot Springs Tour offers a refreshing change of pace from sunbathing or surfing. It’s a well-rounded adventure that balances engaging outdoor activity with a chance to relax in natural thermal waters. The chance to connect with local families and enjoy the lush scenery makes it stand out as an authentic Oaxaca experience.

For those who enjoy gentle rides, authentic rural interactions, and soaking in healing springs, this tour hits the sweet spot. The positive reviews about the scenery, the river crossings, and the relaxing baths confirm it’s a worthwhile way to spend part of your trip.

Just remember to bring your swimwear, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for a bit of adventure. It’s a small slice of rural Mexico that leaves you feeling refreshed, connected, and inspired by the natural world.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel or lodging in Puerto Escondido, making logistics easy and straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about five hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each component without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothes, and sturdy shoes suitable for riding and walking.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, infants can join, sitting on laps. However, the ride is not recommended for those with back problems or limited mobility.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the experience is not wheelchair accessible, as it involves horseback riding and uneven terrain.

What language is the guide?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, so language barriers are minimal.

Can I swim in the hot springs?
Yes, you are encouraged to swim in the thermal waters and the river, enjoying the natural surroundings at your own pace.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a genuine slice of rural Oaxaca, balancing adventure, relaxation, and cultural connection—ideal for those seeking an authentic and memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby