Cabo San Lucas: Santiago & Santa Rita Hot Springs Rural Tour

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Introduction: What to Expect from This Day Trip

This 7-hour adventure from Cabo San Lucas offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and relaxing moments — perfect for travelers eager to see beyond the typical beaches. We love that it combines stunning natural hot springs, meaningful cultural stops, and even a chance to enjoy some local snacks and handmade treats.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides bring the history and stories of the region to life, making every stop more engaging. Second, the variety of scenery, from the Tropic of Cancer photo op to waterfalls and canyon swims, keeps the experience dynamic. Third, the all-inclusive setup means less hassle and more time to enjoy the sights.

A possible consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of driving — around 3 hours in total — so if you’re looking for a super relaxed day or have mobility concerns, it’s worth noting.

This trip is best suited for those who want a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, especially if you’re curious about local hotspots and natural springs away from the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Comprehensive Experience: Combines scenic stops, cultural insights, and natural hot springs in one day.
Private & Personalized: Conducted in a private group with a knowledgeable guide.
Authentic Flavors: Enjoy local snacks or create your own BBQ outside Santa Rita hot springs.
Beautiful Scenery: Iconic views at the Tropic of Cancer, waterfalls, and canyon swimming spots.
Value for Money: The price includes transportation, guide, drinks, and access to hot springs.
Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off make planning straightforward.

Looking for more options in Cabo San Lucas? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Pickup & Transportation — Starting the Day Smoothly

The day begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo. The private van, with AC and Bluetooth music, offers a comfortable ride through the Baja landscape. The journey to Santiago takes about 75 minutes, giving you time to settle in and enjoy some tunes or chat with fellow travelers.

Tip: Reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Roberto and Javier, who keep the energy upbeat and share interesting tidbits along the way.

Stop 1: Tropic of Cancer — A Photo & Learning Opportunity

Your first notable stop is at the Tropic of Cancer, a classic photo spot and educational highlight. Here, your guide explains the significance of this parallel line, which marks the northern boundary of the Tropics. The surrounding desert landscape provides a stark but beautiful backdrop for photos.

Authentic feedback notes that this stop offers “great photo opportunities” and “a chance to learn about the geography of the area.” It’s a brief stop, around 30 minutes, but well worth the quick detour for the scenery and knowledge.

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Stop 2: Santiago — Cultural & Culinary Highlights

Next, you arrive in Santiago, a charming town with a historic church as its centerpiece. The visit includes a guided tour of the church and nearby landmarks, giving insight into local architecture and history.

You’ll also have around 30 minutes to indulge in regional foods, snacks, or even a sweet ice cream or handmade snack from a local shop. Several reviews praise the delicious local flavors, describing the treats as “authentic and refreshing.”

For those who prefer savory bites, there’s an option to choose between handmade pizza or salad at the Rancho Agua Viva, complemented by a refreshing kombucha. Alternatively, you can opt for a DIY BBQ experience outside Santa Rita hot springs, which many guests find fun and interactive.

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Stop 3: Sitio de la Mision de Santiago de Añini — Scenic & Historic

This stop offers a scenic view and a chance for more photos, as well as a quick guided tour. The area is known for its tranquil ambiance and beautiful vistas, perfect for a short break.

One reviewer mentioned, “It’s a peaceful spot that gives you a real sense of the local setting, away from tourist crowds.”

Stop 4: Aguas Termales de Santa Rita — Relaxation & Refreshment

A major highlight, the Santa Rita hot springs, provides the perfect spot to unwind. The tour includes access to the thermal waters, which many travelers find soothing after a morning of sightseeing. You can enjoy a refreshing water and the option to make your own BBQ outside (food cost not included).

Guests have appreciated the chance to dip in the shimmering waters and even jump off rocks into the pools — a fun, adrenaline-filled break for adventure seekers.

Stop 5: Waterfalls & Canyon — Adventure & Relaxation

The tour then heads to El Cañón de la Zorra or the Sol de Mayo Waterfall. Here, guests often enjoy swimming or simply relaxing in the sunshine. Some reviews mention that the water is surprisingly cool but inviting, especially after the hot springs.

“Jumping off rocks and taking a dip was the highlight,” one reviewer shared. The natural setting offers a refreshing contrast to the thermal pools.

Final Stop & Return

The last leg takes about 1.5 hours back to Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo. The group usually winds down with more music, stories, or a quick stop at a local shop for craft snacks or souvenirs before being dropped off at your hotel.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides & Personal Touches

Guides like Javier and Roberto are praised for their friendly, informative approach. They share stories about the local culture, geography, and history, making the experience more meaningful. Guests mention that guides’ local knowledge added a lot of value, especially when explaining the significance of each stop.

Scenic & Cultural Diversity

From the iconic Tropic of Cancer line to the tranquil waterfalls, the tour offers a variety of landscapes. The cultural stops, such as Santiago’s church and local snack tasting, offer insights into authentic Baja life away from tourist hotspots.

Food & Drink — A Highlight for Many

The opportunity to enjoy local snacks, ice creams, or craft drinks makes this experience flavorful. The option to make your own BBQ or visit Rancho Agua Viva with its menu adds a fun, interactive element. Guests have called the food “delicious” and “authentic,” noting that it’s a good value considering the included drinks and snacks.

Relaxation & Adventure Balance

Whether you love soaking in hot springs, swimming under waterfalls, or just relaxing in scenic spots, this tour offers a great mix. Many reviews highlight the fun of jumping rocks and splashing in the waters, alongside the more relaxed sightseeing stops.

An Honest Look at Value & Practicalities

Pricing & What’s Included

At $265 per person, this private tour packs in a lot. The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a private guide, transportation, drinks, and access to the hot springs. Notably, food is not included, but you have the flexibility to buy snacks or make your own BBQ, which many find makes the experience customizable and worth the price.

Duration & Timing

The 7-hour window provides a full day of exploration without feeling rushed, though the long drives between stops are worth considering if you prefer shorter outings. Starting times are flexible depending on your hotel location, and the tour accommodates private groups, making it a more personalized experience.

Accessibility & Suitability

While the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users, most physically fit travelers who enjoy some walking and swimming will find it manageable. Remember to bring essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, hats, and water to stay comfortable throughout.

Comfort & Transportation

The private van is praised for its comfort and climate control. Guests mention that the Bluetooth music adds a fun vibe, and the guides keep the atmosphere lively yet relaxed.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This Santiago & Santa Rita Hot Springs Rural Tour offers a well-rounded day out for travelers who seek a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and a touch of adventure. It’s ideal for those interested in exploring beyond the beaches, appreciating authentic regional flavors, and relaxing in thermal waters.

It’s particularly suited for groups or couples looking for a private, flexible experience with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re after a day that combines scenic stops, cultural insights, and hot springs, this tour delivers on all fronts.

Conversely, it may not be suitable if you prefer a more leisurely, less travel-intensive day or have specific mobility restrictions. The long drives and walking at some stops require a reasonable level of mobility and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour private?
Yes, it is conducted in a private group, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional private driver, guided sightseeing, access to Aguas Termales de Santa Rita, drinks, and snacks like ice cream or homemade treats.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes, you can buy your own food at a grocery store during the tour if you want to prepare your own BBQ, which is a flexible option.

How long is the total driving time?
The total driving time is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to Santiago, plus additional time between various stops.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and comfortable clothes suitable for walking and swimming.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the active nature and walking involved suggest it’s better suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with water activities and some walking.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users due to the physical nature of some stops and walking.

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

What language is the tour guided in?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food is not included, but you can purchase meals at local shops or bring your own for the BBQ.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a day trip that offers vibrant scenery, cultural insights, and relaxing hot springs, this private tour from Cabo San Lucas is a solid choice. It balances adventure and leisure well, especially with knowledgeable guides and a flexible setup. While the long drives might be a downside for some, the variety of stops and authentic experiences make it a worthwhile way to see Baja’s countryside and hot springs away from tourist traps.

This tour is perfect for travelers eager to combine scenic exploration with local flavors, keen on a private, curated experience that offers good value for money. If you want a day that’s both fun and insightful, packed with natural beauty and cultural touches, this could very well be your ideal Baja adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: