General Info

Enjoy 333 days of sunshine a year and year-round midday temperatures around 75F/22C on this Mexico Riding Holiday. Located between the famous pyramids of Teotihuacan, the UNESCO site of San Miguel de Allende and the lively metropolis of Mexico City, this Mexico ranch sits high above the mountain plains and is nestled among more than 500,000 acres of pristine countryside offering limitless guided trails and open-range horseback riding for all abilities. The riding terrain is vast and varied with beautiful mountains, open fields, peaceful lake waters, and lush vistas. Enjoy flowering cacti, picturesque villages, ancient haciendas, and Mexican hospitality.

While riding, stop in one of the pueblos (small towns) for a drink and explore. Your wrangler can introduce you to the locals and highlight points of interest.

If you prefer to exchange time in the saddle for a more robust sightseeing, cultural or shopping tours, guides will take care of every detail. They are proud to share their history and show off their beautiful country. The rides vary in length and terrain. A short ride is from 1 to 3 hours and a full day can be up to 7 hours in the saddle. The countryside surrounding the ranch offers every type of terrain, mountain views, spectacular canyons, winding river paths, lake shore paths, rocky volcanic terrain and open pasture.

If relaxing is more your style, spend your day at the ranch. Unwind with a massage in the spa. Cool off in the infinity pool or soak your muscles in the hot tub. Then, fix a margarita for yourself in the bar…or better yet, have a staff member make one for you!

Packing

In addition to your riding gear, we recommend... 

- Sunscreen, sunglasses and lip balm
- Swimsuit

Ask us for a full list of packing suggestions during your booking for this trip!

About the Horses

Horses include Criollo, Criollo Crosses, Quarter Horses and Quarter Horse Crosses. Horses are matched to riders based on their ability and personality.

Activities/Events

Take an excursion to Mexico City, colonial towns, San Miguel or the colorful markets of Jilotepec.

At the ranch, enjoy swapping stories with fellow travelers from around the world in the beautifully-tended gardens, comfortable lounge, or well-stocked open bar with billiard table. Cool off with a dip in the solar-heated infinity pool. Relieve any aches or pains in the Jacuzzi and hot tub. Or make an appointment for a rejuvenating massage or facial in our spa.

Accommodations/Food

Accommodations
For these Mexico ranch holidays, guest rooms are individually decorated in typical Mexican country style with a modern twist. Much attention is given to the finer details creating a seamless combination of comfort and style. All rooms have private en-suite facilities.

Classic rooms include two double beds, accommodating up to four people.
Deluxe rooms are the same as classic rooms, but are a little larger with extra sitting area.
The Casitas and Suites are luxurious rooms fit for families or honeymoon couples. Each includes a king-sized bed and a large seating area which can be exchanged for two or three twin beds.

Food
The heart of any Mexican home is the fabulous open kitchen. Feast on the finest local ingredients mixed by highly skilled chefs to create authentic Mexican, as well as international cuisine. 

You are welcome to hang out and chat in the kitchen. Many guests have enjoyed watching and learning as meals are prepared. Fresh fruit drinks and cool purified water are always available there. Breakfast and lunch rides to scenic areas are regular events. Don't worry if you are a non-rider, we'll take you to the picnic spots!

According to ranch tradition the meals are served family style, with plenty of second and third helpings and lots of good conversation.

Spices
The meals are specially created to introduce the characteristic flavors of this region. Whether a simple lunch or a festive dinner, you can be assured of great service and attention to detail. Chili is a common ingredient in many of our recipes, but we can always adapt to your taste preferences. Special dietary requirements can be catered for with advanced notice.

The Ideal Traveler

Single women travelers as well as couples and groups will enjoy this Mexico ranch. Those who want to gallop will like the freedom to ride that this ranch allows. Foodies, too, will like the Mexican and international flavors at this guest ranch.

 

A La Carte Riding Vacation

This flexible center based progressive riding vacation allows you to choose your length of stay at the ranch and enjoy a unique ride every day. You may choose to ride as much or as little as you like, taking the time to gain more experience with your horse and improve your skills or push yourself to new limits. Or, you may wish to relax in the beautiful grounds at the ranch, explore the highlights of the area and take an excursion to get to know more of this culturally rich country. Mix and match your interests to have the riding holiday you desire and deserve.

2018 Dates & Rates
$1400 USD* for 4 nights stay
$1732 USD* for 5 nights stay
$2027 USD* for 6 nights stay
$2323 USD* for 7 nights stay

* Rates are subject to changes in currency conversions.

Rates include: Classic room - double occupancy. Unlimited horseback riding. Three meals a day. Afternoon Tea. Open bar at the Ranch (soda, wine, beer, liquor). All amenities except for spa services.

Rates do not include: Supplemental Charges apply for: Taxes (16% VAT and 2% Lodging Tax). Transportation to and from Queretaro International Airport or Mexico City International Airport. Service charge/gratuity - 10% to 15% is customary if you are happy with your stay. Upgrade to a Deluxe Room - USD $50 per room/per night. Upgrade to a Suite or Casita - USD $100 per room/per night

Single occupancy supplement +20% on above rate

Peak Period Rates: Easter, Christmas & New Year +20% on above rate

Highland & Canyon Explorer Riding Vacation

This is a popular progressive horseback riding vacation for the advanced or expert rider through varied landscapes and terrain. Enjoy open-range riding with many canters and gallops. Each day offers something new and gives you the opportunity to discover the real Mexico. Horses will be changed throughout the week so you can be sure to have a fresh horse at all times.

2018 Dates & Rates

8 days / 7 nights
$2,852 USD* 

* Rates are subject to changes in currency conversions.

Rates include: Classic room - double occupancy. Unlimited horseback riding. Three meals a day. Afternoon Tea. Open bar at the Ranch (soda, wine, beer, liquor). All amenities except for spa services.

Rates do not include: Supplemental Charges apply for upgrades to suites or deluxe rooms (Upgrade to a Deluxe Room - USD $60 per room/per night. Upgrade to a Suite or Casita - USD $120 per room/per night), tips you may wish to leave (10 to 15% recommended), transportation to and from the resort (starts at $55 USD + tax per person per way).

Single occupancy supplement +20% on above rate. Please note that there are two rooms available without a single supplement charge for any dates of the year, excluding Christmas and Easter. Ask us to see if these are available for your trip.Peak Period Rates: Easter, Christmas & New Year +20% on above rate

Highland & Canyon Explorer Riding Vacation Itinerary

Saturday: Arrival
You’ll be met at the airport and be driven directly to the ranch. Get settled into your room, explore this beautiful place and discover its many amenities. If time permits, the first afternoon ride takes you to our local village, San Agustin, with its ancient church from the 1700s. During this ride you will be able to familiarize yourself with your horse.

Afterwards relax in the hot tub overlooking the waterfalls with a margarita or go for a swim in our infinity pool. Enjoy your first four- course dinner - a fusion of Mexican and international cuisine – served in the ranch’s dining room.

Sunday: Heroes de Carranza - La Copa - San Juan Daxthi - Santa Cruz
Leaving the ranch, the trail winds through farm land and you will see the rural life of Mexico, local farmers tending to their daily tasks and using traditional methods to work the land. You will notice an intricate network of irrigation canals used to water the crops until the rains come.

Then cross dry stony valleys up to the cliffs at 'la Copa' in Santiago Oxthoc. The waterfalls spring from the rocks and fall into a martini glass shaped rock formation. The sign on the wall says 'viva el 3 de Mayo 1842" or "cheers to the 3 of May 1842". This celebrates when the waterfall miraculously sprang from the wall, a phenomenon attributed to the Virgin of Guadalupe. She is venerated in a small shrine just before the waterfall.

Upon leaving the shrine, you will climb up to the top of the cliffs and onto the high plains. On clear days the views from this stark rocky plateau are spectacular. Make sure
you are well prepared with sun cream as at midday the light is very intense.

Lunch is taken in San Juan Daxthi. On Sundays there is a charming local fruit and vegetable market, on holidays the town hosts a small rodeo. A two-hour ride, with more opportunities to canter and gallop, bring you back to the ranch.

Monday: Cerro del Ahorcado - San Antonio - Xochitlan de las Flores
This ride takes you first to the 'Cerro del Ahorcado' (the hanged man's hill), and then into the steep valley of San Antonio. Both the views from the hill and scenery in the canyon are superb. Don’t forget your camera!

Eventually the trail reaches the small restaurant in San Antonio where you'll take lunch. This restaurant is unique in offering the dubious delights of Mexican 'Telenovelas' (soap operas) on the TV and a collection of 'Santa Muerte' dead saint statuettes lovingly displayed in the corner.

From here you ride to the village of ' Xiochitlan de las Flores' the village of the flowers, after which, the trails follow the hill contours and lead us back to the plains and to the ranch.

Tuesday: San Miguel de la Victoria - Comunidad - Canalejas - Cathedral de Canalejas
The journey today starts in the extinct volcanic landscape of the region. After a little stop for a drink and a snack in San Miguel de la Victoria, the landscape changes as the trails lead into the green forests of Canalejas. These mixed deciduous and coniferous woodlands have delightful tracks for cantering along.

Lunch is taken in the town of Canalejas. Here the barbecue restaurants offer tacos filled to the brim with succulent meat. Suitably tasty vegetarian options can also be arranged.

After lunch and a leg-stretching walk around the small town, the trail rises to the Cathedral of Canalejas. This church, set atop a hill, dominates the local view. It was built on the spot where an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe was found in a rock, which now forms part of the altar.

The ride from the cathedral meanders back through the small surrounding villages of Canalejas to the overnight stables for the horses. Here you are met by the ranch staff and driven back to the ranch for a well-earned swim and relaxing hot soak before dinner.

Wednesday: Canalejas - Lago de Huapango - Agua Escondida
The first part of the ride follows forest trails and crosses hill slope fields; but the real treat of the day is to be found in the wide, flat, well-irrigated lowlands of the lake of Huapango (aprox. 10.000 acres when full), famous for its fishing.

This day's riding takes you to a wide open landscape of low impact agriculture and common rangeland. A paradise for any rider, as there are endless trails to canter and gallop.
Enjoy a picnic on the shores of lake, relax, and prepare for the two hour ride through the small villages and woods to the 'Agua Escondida', where the horses are left stabled overnight. Transportation brings you back to the ranch (aprox. 30 min) where another mouthwatering dinner awaits.

Thursday: Agua Escondida - San Francisco Soyaniquilpan - El Fresno - Atlantes de Tula
Today you are heading south out of the hilly country and woodland trails to San Francisco / Soyaniquilpan. The farm land here is flat, rich, well irrigated and fertile. Taking trails to the
west of the 'Cerro de las Brujas' (the witch’s mountain) the paths divide up the large fields.

In the village of El Fresno Village the horses can be rested at the local shop and then the trail continues down the cobbled streets past the ruins of the hacienda and into a canyon.
This delightful valley leads to a river lined with old cedar trees. Just before reaching the clearing and popular picnic site, the trail takes a small detour up to a small shrine to the Virgin of Guadelupe at the summit. The best waterfalls in the region are hidden just behind the cedar trees and well worth a visit.

After lunch, a short drive then takes you to the archaeological site of the Atlantes of Tula*, which is thought to be the most important Toltec site in Mexico. It gives a great insight into the rich history of this region. In Tula there is a fine market as well as a couple of Western /charro outfitters, so guests wishing to buy hats, boots, belts, belt buckles, shirts, saddles and charro riding tack, can shop to their hearts desire.

Friday: San Miguel de Las Piedras - Los Organos - Vista Hermosa
Back into a more rugged landscape, you would think you were on a western movie set. Ride to 'Los Organos' a place forgotten in time. The trail, passing San Miguel de las Piedras leads into the canyon where wild horses roam. You'll visit the 'Peregrinos Petrificados' a natural rock formation, where it is said that “the Pilgrims turned into stone because they did not want to finish their pilgrimage”.

Your lunchtime picnic will be taken by the river. Goats and sheep graze nearby. Here the river is mixed with a volcanic warm spring so it is quite nice for a swim while the horses are resting.
Homeward bound you climb up out of the canyon. Once you reach the top, you are back on the trails near the village of 'Heroes de Caranza'. After a short drink break, ride back over the railway crossing and back over the open plains and small villages to the ranch. This ride offers the chance to canter / gallop home, sound in the knowledge that after such a long day out a soothing swim and a hot shower await.

Saturday: Departure Day
If you have time, enjoy a short morning ride before we bring you to the airport to catch your flight.

* Itinerary subject to change. Four riders (minimum) must be scheduled for this ride in order to proceed. Supplemental charges apply for this package. Please contact us for rate details.
 

Magic of the Mexican Highlands

Extended progressive horse riding holiday combined with sightseeing for horse lovers who would also like to get to know the rich culture of Mexico during their once of a lifetime riding holiday.

Dates & Rates
13 days / 12 nights 
2018: $4646 USD*

* Rates are subject to changes in currency conversions.

Rates include: Classic room - double occupancy. Unlimited horseback riding. Three meals a day. Afternoon Tea. Open bar at the Ranch (soda, wine, beer, liquor). All amenities except for spa services.

Rates do not include: Supplemental Charges apply for: Supplemental Charges apply for upgrades to suites or deluxe rooms (Upgrade to a Deluxe Room - USD $60 per room/per night. Upgrade to a Suite or Casita - USD $120 per room/per night), tips you may wish to leave (10 to 15% recommended), transportation to and from the resort (starts at $55 USD + tax per person per way).

Single occupancy supplement +20% on above rate. Please note that there are two rooms available without a single supplement charge for any dates of the year, excluding Christmas and Easter. Ask us to see if these are available for your trip.

Peak Period Rates: Easter, Christmas & New Year +20% on above rate

Magic of the Mexican Highlands Riding Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival

You’ll be met at the airport and be driven directly to the ranch (transp. included). Get settled into your room, explore your beautiful surroundings and discover its many amenities. If time permits, the first afternoon ride takes you to Main houseour local village, San Agustin, with its quaint church from the 1700s. During this ride you will be able to familiarize yourself with the style of riding and the horses.

After this, relax in the hot tub overlooking the waterfalls with a margarita from the open, all-inclusive bar or go for a swim in the infinity pool. Enjoy your first 4-course dinner – a fusion of Mexican and international cuisine Tula At– served in the ranch’s dining room and get to know the other guests a little more.

Day 2: Cerro del Ahorcado & Tula – Atlantes Ruins, Western Apparel & Mexican Tack Shops

Saddle up to ride through the village of Vista Hermosa (which means ‘beautiful view’). From there, a steep climb takes you up the Cerro del Ahorcado (the “hanged man’s hill’) offering a 360º view of the surrounding region. A canter beneath the eucalyptus trees takes us down to a lake where the horses love to splash along the shore…

In the afternoon, a short drive takes you to the archaeological site of the Atlantes of Tula. On top of one of the pyramids you will find the great Atlantes, four huge and impressive warrior statues of black basalt. This is followed by a visit to the town center of Tula and some shops around it. Enjoy the vibrant colors and life of the main square before heading back for dinner.Horse Day 3

Day 3: Cerro de las Caballos – Ex Hacienda La Goleta

Start the ride today crossing an old stone bridge ‘El Puente del Muitle’ (built in the late 17th century). The horses follow the beautiful green path towards the ‘Cerro de los Caballos’, the horses’ mountain. The flat fields and quiet unpaved roads offer excellent gallops for confident riders, real thrilling riding!

On the way back encounter ancient churches, lakes and rivers. At the end take a stroll to the old hacienda (estate) of ‘La Goleta’ which was built around 1690 by the Spaniards. The wrought iron windows were brought from Sweden, the tiles covering the front porch from Spain and you can still admire part of the original blue wall paintings.

Day 4: San Miguel de Allende – Architecture, Arts & Shopping

Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the town of San Miguel de Allende is our stop for today. Without a doubt, this place is incredible. Also called ‘The Heart of Mexico’, it will definitely put Mexico in your heart.

A great trip for shoppers and a real treasure for architecture lovers, this colonial city SM Day 5boasts beautiful churches, small town squares, picturesque alleys and many hidden patios (Mexican courtyards). You can find coffee shops, antiques, handicrafts, jewelry, paintings and many other things while you wander around this enchanted town.

We will be spending the night in San Miguel, ensuring you fall under the magic spell this city casts on you. Enjoy our special Sunset Surprise.

Day 5: San Miguel de Allende – La Aurora & Cactus Gardens

Absorb the special atmosphere of San Miguel during breakfast in a lovely courtyard. Take time for a stroll through some other parts of town. Visit the old street market and/or La Aurora – an old factory turned into an exclusive arts and crafts gallery.

Flower Day 6Before heading back to the Rancho, you will visit the famous cactus garden which was sanctified as a peace zone by the Dalai Lama. Enjoy the many different species of native plants and animals and an impressive final view of San Miguel.

Day 6: San Miguel de las Piedras – Los Organos – Peregrinos Petrificados

Today’s ride takes you back in time to a more rugged landscape, like that of a western movie set, to the spiritual and magical ‘Los Organos’. The trail, passing San Miguel de las Piedras, leads into the canyon where wild horses still roam. You’ll visit the ‘Peregrinos Petrificados’ a natural rock formation, where it is said that “the Pilgrims, who found the place so stunning, turned into stone because they did not want to finish their pilgrimage”.

Your lunchtime picnic will be taken by a river where the water is mixed with a volcanic warm spring, inviting a nice swim while the horses are resting.

Homeward bound, you climb up the canyon and pass through the village of Carranza with its church dating from Los Org Day 71697. On to the Presa of La Goleta, where the soft flat lake shore offers you a final opportunity to canter or gallop, arriving at the ranch late afternoon.

Day 7: Xochitlan de las Flores – Ex Hacienda San Antonio

Today’s ride takes you along a picturesque canyon to the village of ‘Xochitlan’. You will be amazed by the sure-footedness of your four-legged friends. Now and then you will enjoy some easy canters between the corn fields.

‘Xochitlan de las Flores’ got its name from the many flowers that grow here due to the temperate climate. Experience the leisurely lifestyle, visit the old church and have a little rest and some refreshment.

On the way to San Antonio, the lunch stop is in a local ‘Fonda’. Heading back the countryside is once again like a Horse Day 8western movie. Then you follow the ‘Camino Real’ an old Spanish road used by the royal carriages.

Day 8: Lake District & Local Market in San Juan Daxthi – La Copa

Start your ride crossing the Rio Rosas and passing through the quaint little village of ‘Los Colorados’. Heading along country lanes you pass through ‘Heroes de Carranza’ before entering the Lake District, which offers incredible views and varied terrain for some delightful and diverse riding.

At the small town of ‘San Juan Daxthi’, enjoy a local, traditional lunch, before taking a stroll through the vibrant, little market.

In the afternoon, the open fields heading back to the ranch are perfect for a canter and the occasional gallop too, if you like. Local cowboys (charros) and farmers use the myriad of trails to tend to their farm plots and small herds.Horse Day 9

If you would prefer you may also take an optional excursion to Tepotzotlan instead.

Day 9: Tandeje, El Fresno & The Waterfalls

This ride takes you to the old hacienda of Tandeje and to the waterfalls of Fresno with its breath-taking, ancient trees. The climb on your horse takes you up to the little sanctuary of the Virgin of Guadalupe from where you have a beautiful view into the canyon below.

This afternoon you have some time to relax at the pool or go for another ride if you prefer.

Day 10: Agua Escondida – San Francisco Soyaniquilpan

Today you are heading south out of the hilly country and woodland trails to San Francisco Soyaniquilpan.

The farm land here is flat, rich, well irrigated and fertile. Taking trails to the west of the ‘Cerro de las Brujas’ the witch’s mountain the paths divide Teo Day 11up the large fields and offer you many chances for long canters and gallops.

Day 11: Teotihuacan – Archeological Site of the Pyramids of the Sun & the Moon

Today, you’ll visit Teotihuacan – the place where the gods were born. The Aztecs believe that the gods created the universe here. This site will prove to be a fascinating and worthwhile experience! Many people today believe that Teotihuacán is a place of great spiritual energy, and it is quite common to witness people meditating at the top of the main pyramids.

Before lunch, you will visit a silver shop. As well as shopping you will learn about a special drink known as Pulque (distilled agave liquor) made in honor of the god of fertility. In the evening, enjoy another relaxing sunset at the Rancho followed by cocktails and dinner.

Day 12: Forest & Cathedral of Canalejas

The journey today starts in the extinct volcanic terrain of the region and then the landscape changes, as the trails lead into the green forests of Canalejas. These mixed deciduous and coniferous woodlands have delightful tracks for cantering.

Lunch is taken in the town of Canalejas. Here the ‘Barbacoa’ restaurants offer tacos filled to the brim with succulent meat. Suitably tasty vegetarian options can also be arranged.

After lunch and a leg stretching walk around the small town, the trail rises to the Cathedral of Canalejas. This cathedral, set on the summit of a hill, dominates the local view. It was built Market 12on the spot where an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe was found in a rock, which now forms part of the altar.

Final Day: Departure Day with Market in Jilotepec– If time permits before departure

Today is market day in the town of Jilotepec, approximately a 30-minute drive from the ranch. You will discover the biggest weekly market in the region with all types of livestock, colorful fruits and vegetables, fashionable sombreros, fine leather boots, tack for horse and rider and great mounds of chilies on offer.

Enjoy a hearty lunch and some riding or R&R before we bring you to the airport (transp. incl.) to catch your flight. You can of course extend your stay at the Rancho for a few days more of fun.

* Itinerary subject to changes. You may always change a cultural excursion for more time in the saddle or if you wish you may book optional excursions – ask for details.     

Related Travel Articles

Traveler Reviews

The entire experience was amazing -- a spectacular setting, wonderful well trained, beautiful horses for every ability level.

- Jim J. from the USA

The premises, rooms, courtyard, pool and shared spaces are beautifully thought out, filled with local art and provide a great atmosphere...

- Wendy M. from Bermuda

What an amazing place! It's almost laughably beautiful, first of all - beyond picturesque.

- Kenneth S. from the USA

We felt like we rode into an old Clint Eastwood movie!

- Phillip E. from Germany

Everything here exceeded my expectations. The accommodations were excellent, the horses terrific, the views breathtaking, the food delicious, and the staff wonderful. This is the best vacation I have ever had, and I have had some pretty amazing vacations....

- Melinda M. from the USA

Can't find any fault at all. First-class service, fantastic horses. Staff friendly and helpful. Very flexible and accommodating. Can not think of a single thing to make it better as already 10/10. Very suitable for single travelers as you soon meet like minded people.

- Jenny R. from the UK

Reading List

Good Books for Horse Lovers and Equestrians

Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior (Paperback) by Temple Grandin
Philosophers and scientists have long wondered what goes on in the minds of animals, and this fascinating study gives a wealth of illuminating insights into that mystery. ---Publishers Weekly

The Horse: A Miscellany of Equine Knowledge (Hardcover) by Julie Whitaker with Ian Whitelaw
The Horse is an informative gallop through everything to do with the horse:  evolution, history, biology, breeds, behavior, training, competition, health, and care—all gathered into an accessible gallery of solid information, essential facts, and fascinating trivia.                                                           

Hunter Seat Equitation (Hardcover) by George H. Morris
A classic by a world-renowned teacher and master equestrian--the definitive work on the art of teaching and riding the hunter seat, now updated to include refinements in Morris's insightful program of riding instruction.

The New Encyclopedia of the Horse (Hardcover) by Elwyn Hartley Edwards
Chronicling the history of the horse, this guide encompasses the early domestication of the horse, classical riding styles, as well as a survey of the great stud farms and current international sporting events.