Saddle up for a beginner-friendly horseback ride through Riviera Maya jungle, learn about chicle and melipona honey, then cool off with a swim in a freshwater cenote. Practical details and on-site tips help you prepare.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A late-morning light filters through low jungle canopy as riders step into the loose earth, hooves thudding softly under a thick green roof. The guide cues the horses, and the group moves along a compacted trail that threads past sapodilla trees and scrub where the chicle—the natural chewing gum—still bleeds from trunks if you know where to look.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–4.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to mount/dismount and sit in the saddle for 1–2 hours; some standing/walking on uneven ground.
Wildlife
History
Cenotes were sacred to the Maya and served as fresh water sources; the region’s sapodilla trees supplied chicle, historically harvested for chewing gum.
Conservation
Stick to marked trails, use biodegradable sunscreen, and avoid feeding wildlife to protect fragile cenote ecosystems and local biodiversity.
Reserve your spot on the Horseback Riding Tour at Rancho Bonanza and Cenote Swim today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Respect the weight limit
The ranch enforces a 220 lb (100 kg) maximum per rider for safety—confirm before booking and disclose health concerns.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect the cenote’s water and local aquatic life; apply at least 20 minutes before entering the water.
Wear secure footwear
Closed-toe shoes with a low heel and quick-dry clothing make mounting, riding and the post-ride cenote swim far more comfortable.
Hydrate and pace yourself
Tropical heat plus physical activity can dehydrate quickly—carry water and take breaks during the ride and at the cenote.
Closed-toe riding shoes or sturdy sneakers
Protects feet in the stirrups and on rough trails.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
Needed for the cenote swim and dries fast after immersion.
summer
Biodegradable sunscreen
Protects skin and the cenote’s aquatic ecosystem when applied before entry.
Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin based)
Keeps biting insects at bay in humid jungle edges.
summer