Cuadra San Francisco — Local services in Baja California Sur

I had selected Cuadra San Francisco after reading multiple reviews from experienced horse people as well as studying their website. Everything about our experience was outstanding.

First, Karen and Alejandrina were incredibly communicative and accommodating from the minute I reached out via Facebook. I wanted a longer ride, so they suggested combining the desert tour with the beach ride (total of three hours). As an experienced rider, this was ideal for me and my competent novice companion. Secondly, when the weather started to not look good for our original ride, Alejandrina suggested we move up our ride. Although the stable is normally not open for business on Sundays, ones of the guides, Jorje, was willing to work on his day off so that we could still ride this trip in Cabo. It really made our trip that they were willing to do that.

While Jorje's English was as good as our Spanish (limited but enough to be get around), we had a great time on the trail talking about horses, learning to ride, the best time to visit Cabo, and the weather. Jorje himself was a very good rider and always sensitive to the horses' needs.

The ride was beautiful--I think next time I'd opt for the morning as opposed to midday, as the sun does beat down on you. However the scenery was breathtaking, and we had some good canters as well as a beach gallop, which is something I've wanted to do since I started riding 20+ years ago.

The stable and horses are immaculate--honestly it was at the standard I'd expect at a competitive horse show barn in the States. All horses are in good weight, well-groomed, and feet well-kept. Those that need shoes, have shoes--there's a farrier onsite which is great. They do breed some of their own horses there, and the yearlings I saw were well-behaved and in good health. Tack is clean, and if a horse needs boots, they get boots. Hay and water are plentiful for those in turn out, and they do have shelter/shade options

Valente and I had a great conversation about how all the horses at the stable are cross-trained. They can go out on trails, they can be used for dressage lessons, they can be used for jumping lessons, photo shoots, etc. It's good for the horses' mental health as well as their physical health, and it showed. On the trail, our horses' ears were constantly perked and were very much engaged. These are not the "nose to tail" trail horses--the mare I was on was beautifully responsive to the aids. She was quiet if I did nothing, and yet if I picked up the reins or applied leg or seat, she immediately responded. That level of training speaks volumes and honestly made me think about how I could improve my own horses' responsiveness at home.

When I return to Cabo, I will absolutely return to Cuadra San Francisco, and I plan to take lessons as well as ride out on the beach again. This place is a must-do for any experienced horse enthusiast or beginner who wants to enjoy a scenic horseback ride. Worth every penny.

I saw other tour groups and barns during my stay in Cabo, and they just paled in comparison. Cuadra San Francisco is doing everything the right way--by doing right by the horses.

Word to the wise: if you are someone who believes in helmets (like me), I'd recommend bringing your own. While they do have an array of helmets at the barn, they're not adjustable, and it's hit and...

It has always been a dream of mine to ride a horse on the beach. I have the biggest heart for animals, but I couldn’t make myself take one of these “tours” from companies who mistreat their horses by leaving them on the hot beach all day without food or water. I ran across this amazing place while doing a google search. This Equestrian center closes everyday for 4-5 hours during the hottest time of the day, just so their horses aren’t exposed to the blazing heat! I pulled up, and was instantly showered with warm welcomes. All of the horses had shaded stalls, with plenty food and water. Also, they had many caretakers loving on them. My horse was matched with my skill level. I chose a 1 hour ride to the beach. Now mind you, this was my first time riding. All I could think about was getting thrown off the horse, so I was a sweaty, nervous wreak. Despite speaking minimal English, my guide was so wonderful, patient, and kind! He made me feel safe, secure, and confident! The ride to the beach was a little rough for me, only because I was a beginner, but riding back was a breeze. Man, oh man, the walk on the beach was so breathtaking. My guide and I were the only people on the beach! I loved the fact that I had a tour guide who was only catered to me! Thank you for such a memorable experience! If I had just one more day, I would definitely come back and do a...

Perfecta!

My boyfriend and I went on the 1-hr beach ride and it was amazing. I grew up around horses but he doesn't have much experience, yet our guide, Juan, matched us with great horses for our skill sets and gave us an unforgettable riding experience. It was like going on a ride with an old friend – not "touristy" at all. The horses listened to us and weren't the kind to just follow the rump in front of them. This was the best guided riding trip I've had yet, and according to the wranglers, the ride through the hills is even better.

These are real horse folks; they're professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and as a bonus, bilingual. I have a background in animal medicine and training and I can confidently say their horses were very well cared for with excellent temperaments and training. They're also gorgeous animals; our guide was on a grey Lusitano that looked like it came out of a Spanish show ring. They are clearly well-loved, as are the ranch dogs and baby burro I met.

Pricing was EXCELLENT for Cabo, and well worth it (especially for a private ride). Thank you Juan!

I 100% recommend this business if you're...