Half Day Excursion - Horseback Riding Adventure in SMA

Our half day excursion with Xotolar and Lio, our guide, was by far the best part of our entire trip to Mexico. We had easy pickup at the hotel by Lio, who brought us to his family’s ranch. On the way, there were sweeping views of the land and a nearby pyramid. On arrival, we learned that this was more than just a family ranch, it was a community of aunts, uncles, and children who all lived on the land. It was a truly special experience to see how this large extended family takes care of the land, animals, and each other. We started with milking a cow with Uncle Felix, with which Lio’s aunt made us fresh cheese that morning. Then, we proceeded on a trail ride. The views were spectacular, the trails tricky and winding, the horses calm and trustworthy. We were guided by Lio and two of his uncles- my boyfriend and I had a private tour. They sang us traditional Mexican songs, kept us entertained, and took charge of being our photographers for the day. We galloped multiple times, including through the river at the base of the canyon. The hills were steep and beautiful. The best part was our companion dog of the trip, Raya, who was a sweet and wonderful pup who loved pets and to play. We also learned that all of the horses used on the ranch were rescued, which made the experience all the more special. Our lunch afterwords was held in a beautiful palapa with sweeping views of the canyon. The food was made with ingredients harvested on the farm and we were able to eat the cheese Lio’s aunt made that morning. It more perfect than we could have imagined and was a true ranch adventure. You should absolutely book this excursion if you are in SMDA.

The trip was truly incredible thanks to this excursion. My mom and I did the horseback ride and also the excursion to the pyramids, and it was phenomenal from beginning to end. The energy that the operators transmit is contagious: you feel excited, curious, and eager to live an adventure. I have gone horseback riding before, but this was much more dynamic. The horses looked well cared for. The scenery was spectacular. It felt very nice and special to ride while we watched the dogs run alongside us during the tour. It was actually my birthday when we took the tour, so they also included a birthday surprise for me, which was very, very fun. And the next day we were also able to, uh, visit the pyramids, which were also truly beautiful. Overall, it was a very well-organized, safe, and pleasant experience. But it was also a very dynamic and interactive experience for my mom and me. We feel that we understood the region and its people a little better thanks to this experience. I would truly recommend this company 100%, and especially taking the horseback riding tour. It was truly magical.

+3

What an absolutely phenomenal experience! It was only my husband and I and they treated us like royalty from the easy hotel pick-up to the attentive focus while we were out on the trail. With clear guidance and instruction from Lio, I found myself actually learning how to be on a horse (which I've never had with trail rides before) and was thrilled to be able to confidently trot, gallop, and create a relationship with my horse so he (Whiskey) was working with me rather than trying to snack... Too bad my attempt at milking a cow didn't go so well, lol, but that was also an amazing experience! We had a long time on the trail, riding down into the valley and back up after a stop at a small store where Lio and his two uncles, who also rode with us, surprised my husband with a candle-lit snack cake and sang happy birthday to him in Spanish. We were seriously moved. The lunch at the end was also hearty and delicious. I highly, highly recommend this phenomenal tour--a great chance to see the beautiful landscape outside of San Miguel de Allende, and to meet some folks who've been working this land for years and years.

My daughter and I went on this horseback riding excursion as part of our trip to San Miguel. The whole operation is well run, on time and a great value for the money. We had such a fun and memorable time. Highly recommend!

Highly recommend this experience to anyone staying in San Miguel de Allende. We did the morning half day horse back riding experience, and were able to get an opportunity to milk a cow and see the home their family grew up in! His sister cooked some amazing food for us to enjoy after our trail ride and we even got to eat cheese from the cow we milked in the morning! It is a family owned ranch and it was amazing to hear and see the history on the ranch. Being on the ranch is a great opportunity to unplug from the world and experience nature. From the moment we were picked up from our hotel in San Miguel, Tomas made us feel safe and just like family! Even though I started off a bit nervous on the horse I quickly felt like a pro with the guidance of Tomas and his brothers! They stay with you entire time and check in throughout the trail, if any of your group is uncomfortable with anything please let them know they will quickly accommodate you! There are also cooking classes if any of your group doesn’t want to ride. Send them a message, and dont Miss out on this incredible opportunity to support a local family while you’re in San Miguel de Allende !

We had an amazing time with Tomás and his family! He picked us up on time and brought us up to his ranch where we met his family and his animals. We set off on a wonderful horse ride ascending steep beautiful greenery on wonderfully trained horses with full western tack. Tomás and his team kept us laughing the entire time. The women of the ranch made cheese which was delicious as well! We had nearly 3 hours of scenic riding and an amazing crew. This was truly the highlight of our TRIP!

Most amazing day with Tomas and his horses . My daughter and I had quite an adventure in the BEST way. We rode on mountainsides , thru a stream and enjoyed the beautiful ranch trails . The horses were most amazing , so sure footed , you could just enjoy the ride . Tomas and his nephews made it fun as well as educational . We would go AGAIN and AGAIN ! You will be in great hands and get to enjoy some amazing food either way homemade cheese - couldn’t ask for more !

This was a great, once in a lifetime adventure. We are first time riders and the staff was very friendly and helpful. The horses were wonderful and easy. The trail was spectacular & view was amazing. Age group was 5 years old to 60 (we were the old ones). It was about a 4 hour ride through the country with a break halfway for beer and snacks. At the end of the day they provided a fabulous dinner. The only downside is our butts are still sore.

My family of four chose this excursion because not only would we get to ride horses, we would also get to see a working ranch. I’m so glad we went this route because Tomas and his family made this experience so memorable. The ride had stunning views and adventurous moments. At the end, Tomas’ family cooked dinner for our group. This meal was one of the best of our entire trip with some of the most beautiful views of our trip. From beginning to end, the whole experience felt very curated and personal.

AMAZING! Galloping on the horses in the open range along the river was fabulous and exhilarating! So happy I did it; great memory! I'm grateful they were able to accommodate me last minute. The door to door service was great and the service was good.