Horseback riding at Rancho Bonanza and Cenote swim

Getting a taste of the Mexican jungle on horseback is one of those experiences that can truly stand out on your Riviera Maya itinerary. This tour, offered by Wisest Travel, provides an opportunity to explore lush landscapes, learn about local flora and honey production, and cool off in a natural cenote—all within a well-paced, family-friendly package. While it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, it’s a flexible, fun adventure perfect for beginners eager to try something new.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines gentle, guided horseback riding with cultural and natural highlights, all wrapped into one accessible package. The knowledgeable guides are clearly passionate about sharing their expertise, making even first-time riders feel comfortable. The inclusion of a cenote swim offers a satisfying cool-down after the ride, and the fact that everything is included — from transportation to snacks — makes this a hassle-free choice. That said, travelers should consider the weight limit of 220 lbs and the need for proper footwear and sun protection.

This tour is best suited for families, couples, or groups seeking an authentic, relaxed outdoor activity that’s easy to fit into a busy day. If you’re looking for an adventure that’s light on adrenaline but rich in scenery and cultural insights, this is a great pick. Now, let’s explore what makes this experience worth considering on your trip.

Key Points

• Accessible for beginners: Designed for people with little or no riding experience, making it ideal for first-timers.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for the whole family, with a maximum group size of 8.
• Includes cultural insights: Learn about local honey and natural products during the ride.
• Natural highlight: Refresh in a beautiful cenote with included towels, lockers, and snacks.
• Logistics: Round transportation from Cancun and Riviera Maya included; flexible cancellation policy.
• Value for money: At $199 per person, it combines multiple activities in one well-organized tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic and Relaxed Jungle Adventure

This tour begins at Rancho Bonanza, an inviting spot right in the heart of the Riviera Maya. From the moment you arrive, the staff and guides create a welcoming environment. According to reviews, the guides like Daniel are experts in handling horses and share their knowledge in both English and Spanish, which enhances the experience. Daniel mentions, “Expert instruction in handling horses,” highlighting the quality of guidance you can expect, especially valuable for those new to horseback riding.

The ride itself lasts around 1 hour and 20 minutes of active trail time, with the total tour spanning approximately 4.5 hours, including transportation, the cenote swim, and free time. The guided ride takes you through jungle landscapes where the scenery is lush, green, and teeming with natural beauty. The riding portion is gentle, making it suitable for beginners and children.

What Makes the Ride Special?

The guides do a great job at making the experience educational and enjoyable. You’ll learn about local flora, the honey made from melipona bees, and the natural gum produced here. As Daniel noted, there’s even a chance to taste honey during the walk to the cenote, adding a fun, interactive element. The small group size (up to 8 people) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Visiting the Cenote: A Refreshing Finish

After the ride, the tour takes you to a stunning natural cenote. This is a highlight for many guests, as swimming in a cenote offers a cool, scenic escape from the tropical heat. The included towels and lockers make changing and storing valuables straightforward, adding to the convenience. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the clear waters, as one reviewer was quick to point out, “A cooling bath in the cenote” is a perfect way to end the adventure.

The cenote swim isn’t just about cooling off; it’s also a chance to enjoy natural beauty and tranquility, often with fewer crowds than more commercialized spots. You’ll have some free time here, with snacks provided, making it a relaxing end to an active morning.

Practical Details and Value

The tour offers round trip transportation from Cancun and Riviera Maya hotels, which is a significant convenience. The price of $199 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the inclusions — horse riding, cenote swim, transportation, lockers, towels, snacks, and expert guides — the value increases. Plus, it’s a half-day activity that balances adventure and relaxation, making it a good choice for those wanting a memorable, low-pressure experience.

The tour is designed to be flexible, with a “reserve now & pay later” option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ideal for travelers with uncertain schedules. Be sure to bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, cash, and closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort.

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Considerations

It’s worth noting that there’s a max weight limit of 220 lbs/100 kg and that the activity isn’t recommended for pregnant women or people with back or heart problems. The activity is also not suitable for infants or those with limited mobility. Access is restricted if you’re under the influence of alcohol or any intoxicant, which aligns with safety standards.

Why Choose This Experience?

If you’re searching for a gentle adventure that includes scenery, cultural insights, and natural beauty, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly appealing if you’re a family, a first-time rider, or someone who simply wants to experience Riviera Maya’s outdoors without strenuous activity or high adrenaline.

The knowledgeable guides and small group size ensure you feel comfortable, informed, and well cared for throughout. The combination of riding, learning, and swimming offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of the region’s natural charm.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

• Beginners and first-time riders looking for a safe, guided experience.
• Families or small groups wanting a relaxed outdoor activity.
• Travelers interested in local culture and natural products.
• Those who prefer a tour with inclusive transportation and amenities.
• Visitors seeking a scenic, low-impact adventure that’s easy to fit into a day.

Not recommended for pregnant women, mobility-impaired guests, or those over the weight limit. If you’re after an adrenaline rush, this might not be the best fit, but for gentle fun in nature, it’s a winner.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, round transportation service from Cancun and Riviera Maya hotels is included. You’ll receive confirmation of pickup times and locations after booking.

How long does the activity last? The total tour duration is about 4.5 hours, with approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes of actual horseback riding.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring? Pack sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, cash, and closed-toe shoes.

Is this suitable for children? The tour is family-friendly, but children should meet the age and health restrictions, mainly due to the weight limit and safety considerations.

Are guides bilingual? Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, making it easier for travelers to understand and ask questions.

Can I do it if I have limited mobility? No, access is not recommended for those with limited mobility or certain health issues like back or heart problems.

Are there additional costs? Photos and souvenirs are not included, and private transportation from other areas may incur extra fees.

Final thoughts

This horseback riding and cenote swim tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and relaxed adventure. The small group size, friendly guides, and inclusive amenities create a comfortable environment for beginners and families alike. While it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers, it provides a genuine, enjoyable taste of Riviera Maya’s outdoors that’s hard to match in terms of value and authenticity.

For travelers seeking a gentle, scenic escape with educational tidbits and a refreshing swim, this experience checks all the boxes. It’s a chance to connect with nature, learn about local products like honey, and enjoy a peaceful moment in stunning surroundings. Just remember to bring your sun protection and closed-toe shoes for a smooth, enjoyable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: