In the Land of Tequila: Horseback Riding in Jalisco Haciendas Central Mexico Mexico Special Offer Available!! Traditional Mexico in Jalisco. Historic haciendas in the land of Tequila, Charreria, and Charros. This tour is a fabled gateway to start your true Mexican experience in the Lagos de Moreno region (North East of Jalisco) which has been deemed as a Pueblo Mágico; a magic town because of its unique cultural, historical, and natural heritage. In this tour, you will ride across historic haciendas, and along sections of the old Camino Real de Tierra Adentro also known as the Silver Route ("The Royal Road of the Interior Land", a 2,560-kilometre-long trade route between Mexico City and San Juan Pueblo, New Mexico, used from 1598 to 1882).  You will canter across sandy trails, hills, and mountains; through alfalfa and corn crops, and reach the spectacular Canyon of Alcazar with its peculiar rock formations. Interact with the local cowboys and participate in their working activities. Of course: all this comes with true Mexican hospitality. And if you want to extend your trip, we suggest a visit to nearby Lagos de Moreno, Guadalajara (Jalisco's capital city - only a 2-hour drive away), the Tequila region (3-hour drive) or even the resort town of Puerto Vallarta (7-hour drive). Progressive Ride (no camping) Family Vacation Suitable for riders over 210 lbs Ride with Western Tack Meeting: Lagos de Moreno Airport: Leon-Guanajuato International Airport (BJX) Transfer: Leon-Guanajuato International Airport (BJX) or Aguascalientes International Airport (AGU) Riders: Min 2 riders Max 10 riders Trip Brochure (PDF) Trip Rating

Special Offer: 15% OFF for groups of 4 or more on the same tour date!

Packages and Options

Click here for updated current rates.

Group Discounts: 15% OFF for groups of 4 or more on the same tour date!

 

Rates Note:

Five and six night stays can be arranged

Transfer and Other Charges:

Pick-up/ drop-off for this trip is from Leon-Guanajuato International Airport or Aguascalientes International Airport anytime on any day of the week.

Please, note that the itineraries below are just an indication and changes can be made at the tour operator's discretion.
For instance, sequence of the haciendas may change from week to week.

Luxury Tour Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

Day 1: Arrival
Guests will be picked up at the airport and transferred to Hotel Hacienda Sepulveda & SPA (50 min by car using highway 45 D toll road). At check-in, our guests will receive a welcome free-cocktail and a courtesy hand massage.
Members of the family (horse fanatics themselves!) and owners of the hacienda for more than three centuries, will give you a tour.
After, an introductory short ride to meet the horses and Jorge Serrano, a.k.a. Pancho.
Welcome dinner to enjoy some food specialties from the Hacienda.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 2:
Option A: Ride to Hacienda San Bernardo
Breakfast in Mamalena Restaurant where you can find the best eggs in the region: Sepulvedanos eggs. Highly recommended!
Today, we will ride to Hacienda San Bernardo, a stunning ride into the Caminos de Arrieros, old trails the vaqueros used as a cattle ride, and where we can do some canters. We will have a wonderful view of the mountains of the Sierra of Cuatroalba, and do a fast pass riding in the road. Be sure to ask our guide about the tales of the first Pilgrims who arrived in Mexico, about the Indians learning how to ride, and the horses the Spanish brought. We will pass by the village of El Ojuelo, and then Las Palomas, where you will see cows and stables. We will cross La Sauceda river, and continue riding beside the Canal.
Hacienda San Bernardo was built in the early 19th century and belongs to the Guerra Family. It is a very nice typical Mexican Finca. The food here is homemade and delicious. We will have the opportunity to visit the Hacienda, the old Trojes barn, and the corrals to see some of their finest cattle. Ride back to Hacienda Sepulveda (2.5 hrs).
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Option B: Ride to La Puerta del Coche Ranch
Today, we will ride towards La Puerta del Coche Ranch, along the old Camino Real (Royal Road). We will have opportunities to canter in some parts of the trail. When we arrive at the La Puerta del Coche Ranch, we will have a nice welcome with Tequila and cold beer. Later, we will have a tour of the ranch.
A nice cowboy's lunch will be served. After lunch, we will ride back to Hacienda Sepulveda: a nice evening ride on well-maintained trails will offer us a good ride.
Arrive in Hacienda Sepulveda for a hot tube and relax time.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 3: Ride to Hacienda San Cayetano
After having breakfast in the garden, we ride towards Hacienda San Cayetano. We will pass by a mesquite forest, where we can canter on the trails, and enjoy the nice landscapes formed by different species of Cactus, Nopales, and Pirules. Then, we will have a lot of fun while we ride ascending and descending the hills in The Canyon of the Alcazar. Also, we will see some cows and bulls.
Pita and Juan Alcazar, the Hacienda owners, will welcome us with a courtesy drink; a cold beer or Tequila, and snacks. Pita will cook us a delicious lunch. In the evening, while sipping a good Mexican wine or Tequila, Pita will show us about the Equinotherapy, which she has been doing for the last 20 years. It is interesting to know more about the theory and allows anyone to learn. Juan will also show us how he trains his registered quarter horses and gives us an explanation of the Mexican rein. At this ranch, they have 30 horses at least, and we can have a look.
Riding approx. 6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 4: Ride to Sabindas Ranch
Today, we will transfer by car to Sabindas Ranch. We will ride around the ranch; across nice landscapes of mesquite and cactus. We will go down the hill and follow the cattle path; see the reservoir at the Sabindas dam and ride by the water. In the rainy season, sometimes, we will have to swim with the horses to get across. We continue riding along the reservoir and will stop at the top, to rest for a while, and water the horses. After a couple of hours of more riding, we will get back to the ranch and have a superb lunch. If Ernesto is in town, he will give us the best of the Mexican BBQ experience! The specialties here are Lechon, (pig) and grilled Fish. After lunch, transfer back to Hacienda Sepulveda.
Today, we will have a special dinner in The Corral de los Magueyes.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 5:
Option A: Ride to Casa Rural La Soledad
A hearty breakfast will be served in the garden.
Horses will be ready and saddled for today’s ride to the village El Cuarenta (The Forty), close to the reservoir also known as El Cuarenta. We will ride on the old Camino Real, used to transport silver and gold in colonial times, passing old bridges. On the way, we will pass by the ruins of Hacienda Cieneguilla with its unique and interesting history. We continue riding in a nice area filled with trees, and we cross and ride along the Lagos river. In this place, we can canter and enjoy lots of tree shadows. We will pass by the village of 1 de Mayo, and continue riding beside the canal of the reservoir of El Cuarenta. We eventually arrive at The Old Rural House of La Soledad, where the owners will receive us and offer a nice lunch. After lunch, we will ride back to Hacienda Sepulveda, taking another road, where we can have two good long canters. We will pass by alfalfa and corn plantations, and then get into the Camino Real.
Riding approx. 6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Option B: Ride to Hacienda La Troje
After breakfast, we ride to Hacienda La Troje. We will cross the Lagos River and ride in a well-maintained trail with lots of mesquite trees. We will see Hacienda La Galera on our way, and pass beside the reservoir of Tlacualeche, where there are many ducks and herons.
We will be welcomed by the Cardenas-Lomelín family, who will offer us a nice lunch. After lunch, we can relax in Hacienda La Troje. You can go to the saloon and enjoy a cold beer or a glass of wine.
In the evening, we ride back to Hacienda Sepulveda.
After some days in the saddle, we recommend you to take a holistic massage in the SPA, or any other treatments the SPA has to offer (extra cost). The steam sauna rooms are also available (extra cost).
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 6: Ride to The Equestrian Centre “ La Herencia”
Ride 2.5 hrs from Sepulveda towards The Equestrian Centre named “La Herencia”. Eugenio Macias, a very well know horse trainer and horse whisper in this area will show us how it is done. We will be able to ride in the arena, do some team penning, and learn how to rope. You will also have the opportunity for some jumping practice if you want.
We will have a Ranchero meal (Cowboy lunch), with a nice cold beer. After lunch, we will take you by car to the town of Lagos de Moreno, a beautiful colonial town- deemed as Pueblo Mágico. You will get a city tour to visit colonial buildings, churches, theatres, museums, restaurants, and more.
Dinner at some restaurant in Lagos de Moreno, and transfer by car to Hacienda Sepulveda.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 7: Ride to Hacienda La Troje
We will ride near the Lagos river, going through some paths and places where we can canter. On the way, we will visit the Hacienda Sanfandila. We will continue riding across corn and alfalfa fields.
We then arrive in Hacienda San Cirilo, Jorge, a.k.a. Pancho, and Lena (his Swiss wife), owners of the Hacienda, will welcome us. Pancho and Lena they are always keen to share their Natural Horsemanship and give us some recommendations to improve our riding style. They will also prepare a special lunch for us.
They will show us their workshop where they do handmade chaps, belts, covers, and saddles. They have developed a unique handmade technique that is not used by many people because of the amount of detail work put in every piece.
Ride back to Hacienda Sepulveda along a nice trail. We will canter and enjoy the evening ride with our good horses.
Riding approx. 5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 8:
Option A: Ride to Hacienda Tlalixcoyan
Today, we go for a ride to a beautiful and authentic hacienda: Hacienda Tlalixcoyan. The first part of our trail, we pass through open fields where they grow alfalfa (main ingredient of a typical Mexican drink called agua de alfalfa, also a premium cattle pasture) and then we start following the ancient Camino Real with its beautiful little bridges.
After an hour and a half, we start following the Lagos River. Riding along this river, we have plenty of shade and plenty of opportunities to do some cantering! On our way to Hacienda Tlalixcoyan, we also pass the deserted hacienda of “Cieneguilla” where sometimes cows stand grazing in the living room- a beautiful sight for pictures! Before arriving at the Hacienda, Pablo Gomez-Portugal, the owner, is already waiting for us on his horse with a bottle of tequila! As we drink our tequila shots on horseback, we get closer to Hacienda Tlalixcoyan, where a superb Mexican meal awaits us, and all homemade by the lady of the house: Horalia. The homemade flan is the best you can find in Mexico! After lunch, the host family will show us their Hacienda.
We hop on our horses and ride back to Hacienda Sepulveda, following the Lagos River, and then taking the old Camino Real.
Riding approx. 5-6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Option B: Ride to Hacienda San Cayetano
We saddle the horses and ride towards Hacienda San Cayetano. We will pass by mesquite forest where we can canter on the trails and enjoy a nice landscape formed by different species of Cactus, Nopales, and Pirules. Today, we will explore another part of this big ranch. We will ride towards El Potrero de la Angostura where, during the rainy season, there is a nice waterfall. We will continue riding and enter El Potrero where the mares are located. In this part of the ranch, there are lots of Palma del Desierto, desert palms.
At the Hacienda, they do cattle drives and cattle branding; hopefully, when you are here, you will happen to see the vaqueros in action and get to participate with them roping the cattle.
We will have Discada for lunch, a vaqueros meal, made on an disc-shaped iron pan over wood fire. This is a delicious food combining beef, pork, chicken, bacon, onions, pepper, pineapple, and something more. We cannot share the recipe as it is a family secret!
Farewell. Special Mexican dinner in the Corral.
Riding approx. 5-6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 9: Departure
Transfer to the airport after breakfast.
Meals included: Breakfast

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In the Land of Tequila Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

Day 1: Arrival
Pick up and transfer to Echological Hotel, a charming hotel located close to the town of Comanja de Corona. Welcome dinner at the restaurant to get to know each other.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Echological Hotel

Day 2: Ride around Comanja Towns
Breakfast at the hotel and then we go to meet the horses. We start our ride by making our way to the city of Comanja Viejo. This old mining town is almost entirely abandoned nowadays. It was deserted by the Spanish settlers many years ago, following the raid of the Chichimeca Indians. The town is now privately owned and efforts were made to restore and maintain the buildings. You will be able to visit the old coin house, the cemetery, the old city hall and the houses of the miners and settlers. You will also have the opportunity to visit the gold mine of El Horcon.
After our visit, we continue riding along trails and old roads. There will be some opportunities to canter on our way to the town of Comanja de Corona. After crossing the town, we will continue riding towards Hacienda La Ferreria, where we will stop for a short visit. This hacienda is a notorious place full of history. It is home to an old foundry —famous for its metal cast fencing— and beautiful gardens.
Following our tour of the hacienda, we mount on our horses again to go to the Restaurant Hacienda Los Caballos. The owner of this place is a famous horse trainer called “Machin”. He will be happy to invite us over for lunch in his restaurant. After lunch, Machin will show us the horses he is training and hopefully he can give us a demonstration. Finally, we will make our way back to Echological Hotel, where we will have time to rest in the evening, before dinner.
Riding approx. 5-6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Echological Hotel

Day 3: Ride across the Sierra de Comanja to Hacienda San Bernardo
After breakfast, we go for a ride in the Sierra de Comanja. We will pass by the reservoir of La Sauceda and enjoy nice views of the Sierra Alta. When the terrain allows us, we will enjoy some canters. However, the trail is mainly through a narrow and rocky path and we might have to cross some creeks along the way. At this point in our ride, the vegetation changes and you will see more nopales (cactus).
Our destination for the day is Hacienda San Bernardo. We will have lunch there and enjoy some local specialties before going for a visit. The Hacienda has a big old barn called troje and a lot of cattle.
Riding approx. 5-6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda San Bernardo

Day 4: Hacienda San Bernardo to Hacienda San Cirilo
After breakfast, we ride to the La Sauceda reservoir and pass through a small village along the way (we can stop to buy a beer or soda). We will make our way to the Camino de Arrieros and pass by Hacienda La Galera as well as the Tlacualeche reservoir along the way, following the canal. We eventually arrive at Hacienda La Troje, where we stop for a visit. Then, we go to Hacienda San Cirilo where we will be welcomed by Pancho and Lena.
This hacienda has been refurnished by the owners and has a nice workshop of leather products (chaps, belts, saddles, etc). You can see how they make leather and make handcraft products.
Riding approx. 4-5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda San Cirilo

Day 5: Hacienda San Cirilo to San Miguel del Cuarenta
After breakfast, we go for a ride to the reservoir called "El Cuarenta" (The Forty) and enjoy some canters along the way. Then, we make our way to Hacienda San Nicolas for a short visit, before continuing riding along nice trails bordered by alfalfa crops. We will arrive in the town of San Miguel del Cuarenta in time for lunch (at Hotel La Soledad Casa Rural). In the afternoon, we have time to relax in the hotel and try the liquor drink called Carajillos.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel La Soledad Casa Rural

Day 6: San Miguel del Cuarenta to Puerta del Coche
Today's destination is a lovely ranch called Puerta del Coche. We will ride on nice trails surrounded by trees and with beautiful landscapes. We arrive at the ranch after some canters, just in time for lunch. For our lunch, we will try authentic Mexican food among real cowboys. After lunch, we go for a ride in the surrounding area and come back to the ranch in the evening.
Dinner will be served at the ranch around 8 pm.
Riding approx. 5.5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Puerta del Coche

Day 7: Puerta del Coche to Hacienda Tlalixcoyan
After a tasty Mexican breakfast, we saddle the horses and make our way to Hacienda Tlalixcoyan. This Hacienda has been owned by the Gomez Family for over 400 years. You will receive a warm welcome from Pablo, the owner, and will have the opportunity to taste Horalia's (Pablo's wife) amazing cooking, using family recipes passed down from generations.
The afternoon is free for you to enjoy.
We will have a bonfire ready for gathering together before dinner.
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Tlalixcoyan

Day 8: Hacienda San Cayetano to Hotel Hacienda Sepulveda
A rancher's breakfast will be served around 8 AM. Then, the horses will be loaded in the trailer and we will transfer by vehicle to Hacienda San Cayetano.
When we arrive at the hacienda, we go for a ride to The Canyon of the Alcazar. A fun trail awaits with many uphill and downhill sections through the Canyon. We will see the cows and bulls of the Hacienda.
After our adventure trail ride, we come back to the Hacienda, where Pita and Juan will offer us a drink and snacks. We will also have the opportunity to taste some local specialties.
Later, Pita will do an Equinotherapy demonstration. She has been doing this for the last 20 years and it is always interesting to know more about this technique. Juan will also give us a demonstration of Mexican rein (also called charra rein).
Finally, we go for one last short ride, to get to the Hotel Hacienda Sepulveda. Farewell dinner in the Corral, or restaurant.
Riding approx. 5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 9: Departure
Breakfast and transfer to the airport.
Meals included: Breakfast

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Combo Luxury & Land of Tequila Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

Day 1: Arrival
Pick up and transfer to Hacienda San Cirilo. This Hacienda is owned by Jorge, a.k.a. Pancho, and his wife Lena from Switzerland. They are devoted horse lovers who enjoy nothing more than working with their horses. They will welcome you with open arms and show you to your room. At San Cirilo, you will live in the ambiance of the rancher life. If there is time, we will pick our horses and do an introductory short ride. Welcome drink will be offered by Pancho and Lena, then we will have a great homemade dinner.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda San Cirilo

Day 2: Ride to La Estancia
 We will have a ranchers breakfast, which is a great way to be introduced to the delicious Mexican food. Then, we saddle up the horses for today’s ride. As soon as we leave San Cirilo, we will pass the Franciscans missionaries (approx. 300 years old), which also offers a good view of the surrounding landscape. Then, we continue our ride, passing by corn and alfalfa fields, crossing rivers and enjoying our first canter.
As soon as we arrive at La Estancia, we will visit this beautiful rural mansion with lots of antiques. We will have lunch there, and after, we will continue riding in the hacienda fields. We will spend our afternoon ride on a large open field and across cactus fields. On our way back to the hacienda, if we are lucky, we will see some deer running around. When we arrive at the Hacienda San Cirilo, Lena starts making dinner while we are outside drinking a nice cold beer or a good Tequila in the fresh and shadowy patio. We will enjoy the delicious Mexican meal that Lena has prepared for us.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda San Cirilo

Day 3: Hacienda San Cirilo to Hacienda San Rafael
Today, we will ride towards Hacienda San Rafael through the old Camino Real where we can do some canters. We will have a wonderful view of the mountains of the Sierra de Cuatroalba. While walking along the road, ask Pancho about the tales of the first Pilgrims who arrived in Mexico, the Indians learning how to ride, or the horses the Spanish brought.
Hacienda San Rafael was built in 1845 and the owner, Mrs. Maria Serrano will welcome you with open arms and show you around. This hacienda is a secretive and special place, with lots of butterflies, birds, and a good ambiance. It offers spacious green areas, and also archery practice is available. The Hacienda caters splendid food, based on old Mexican recipes, spiced with locally grown organic veggies and fashioned in a very special way. Lunch will be served in the Hacienda's Restaurant.
Free evening to do as you like. Hiking is a popular activity in this hacienda, where you can stretch your legs and visit the San Antonio Dam and Cañaditas´s dam. The property is 500 hectares, with many different well-maintained trails to choose from. Dinner in the Hacienda Restaurant.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda San Rafael

Day 4: Ride to Sierra of Cuatroalba and La Sierra of Comanja
Horses saddled, we ride through pine and oak forests to la Sierra de Cuatroalba and La Sierra de Comanja. We start our ride on the old Camino Real where we will pass by Hacienda San José de Los Ranchos, and then, we will start ascending the hills with spectacular views. The landscape will change as we keep ascending. We get an amazing lookout at the peak and continue our descent to Hacienda San José de Los Ranchos. We enjoy an appetizer and cold beer in Hacienda San José de Los Ranchos for a well-deserved break. Afterward, we continue riding towards Hacienda San Rafael. Maria Serrano will offer us a magnificent lunch back at the hacienda. We have a free evening to relax.
Riding approx. 6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda San Rafael

Day 5: Hacienda San Rafael to Hacienda Sepulveda
In the morning, we ride from San Rafael to Hacienda La Labor (3 hours) and stop for a visit to Hacienda Sanfandila, to enjoy its beautiful gardens on the way. Once we reach Hacienda La Labor, we will have the opportunity to see this hacienda and their Lienzo Charro (paddock where the Charros practice). As we continue to Hacienda Sepulveda, we pass through Lagos River, where we will ride through a majestic elm tree forest. We eventually arrive at Hotel Hacienda Sepulveda & SPA, a small luxury boutique hotel, where we are offered a tour and a welcome margarita drink. Lunch in Mamalena Restaurant. Free afternoon to do many activities, such as mountain biking, hiking, fishing, carriage ride, jacuzzi, or swimming pool. The dinner will be traditional Mexican cuisine. The food in this hacienda is from old recipes passed down for many generations in the Serrano's Family.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 6: Ride to Hacienda San Cayetano Ranch
After our delicious breakfast, we saddle up our horses and start our ride to Hacienda San Cayetano Ranch. We cross the Camino Real and take a trail that leads us through a little village called Chipinque. We say hello to the locals, and after having passed through the village, a whole new world of thickly grown cactus fields and magnificent nature awaits us.
Once at San Cayetano Ranch, we go for a ride in the beautiful canyon called Cañon de Los Alcazar where we will find some cows. Jorge, our guide, sometimes gives a small demonstration on how to catch a cow with his rope. We do some nice canters in this canyon and head back for lunch at San Cayetano. The owners, Pita and Juan, they are already waiting for us and the table is prepared for a magnificent Mexican meal! We start with some appetizers and drinks in the outside patio, and then, we move into the dining room to enjoy our meal and shared with the family. Afterward, Pita tells us about her work: she does equine therapy (horse riding therapy for disabled children). If time allows us, we will go by car (around 10 minutes away) to a Potrero where we will see close to 35 mares and their foals. It is always a happy experience to see the mares in stampede coming towards us, as we sound the horn of the car. We jump back in the saddle and head home to the comfort of Hacienda Sepulveda. The horses also feel that we are heading back to their stables. But before, we will have some long canters on a trail leading straight home. We arrive at sunset at the hacienda and let our horses have their well-deserved rest. And we do the same thing!
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 7:
Option A: Ride to Hacienda Tlalixcoyan
Today we go for a 3 hour ride to a beautiful authentic hacienda: Hacienda Tlalixcoyan. The first part of our trail, we pass through open fields where they grow alfalfa (main ingredient of a typical Mexican drink called agua de alfalfa, also a premium cattle pasture) and then we start following the ancient Camino Real with its beautiful little bridges. After 1.5 hours, we start following the Lagos river. Riding along this river, we have plenty of shadow and plenty of opportunities to do some cantering! On our way to Hacienda Tlalixcoyan we also pass a deserted hacienda “Cieneguilla” where sometimes cows stand grazing in the living room: a beautiful sight for pictures! Before arriving at the Hacienda Tlalixcoyan, Pablo Gomez-Portugal the owner is already waiting for us on his horse with a bottle of tequila! As we drink our tequila shots on horseback, we get closer to Hacienda Tlalixcoyan where a superb Mexican meal awaits us, all homemade by the lady of the house Horalia. The homemade flan is the best you can find in Mexico! After lunch, Pablo shows us around in his beautiful hacienda with its magnificent history. After signing their guestbook, we climb back on our horses for our ride back to Hacienda Sepulveda. During the last part of our journey back, we see the sun set and we depend on the moonlight to guide us on our way home… A memorable experience! Optional visit the Colonial town of Lagos de Moreno a UNESCO world heritage.

Option B: Ride to Equestrian Center of La Herencia
The Equestrian Center named “La Herencia” is a 2.5 hour ride away. Eugenio Macias, a regional well-known horse trainer and horse whisper, will show us how the Natural Horsemanship is preformed. We will be able to ride in the paddock and practice our riding skills by learning how to do some team penning, or learn how to rope in the Mexican styles. You can also do jumping. We will have a Ranchero meal (Cowboy lunch), with a nice cold beer. After lunch, we will continue riding 3 hours towards Hacienda Sepulveda.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 8: Ride around Sabindas Ranch
Breakfast is served at 9:00 am and then, transfer by car to Sabindas Ranch. Today, we will ride cross-country in one of our favorite rides (as mentioned by one of our guest riders in their reviews).
This ranch has 1,200 hectares of land and offers a wide variety of trails and landscapes. We will ride mostly on cattle trails where we will do some cantering. Get ready for some climbing up and down the hills that will require your expertise. We will ride along the Sabindas Dam, which is a very old dam built by the great grandfather of the owner. BBQ Lunch with Ernesto Serrano and his family, where we will experience the real Mexican hospitality. Transfer by car to Hacienda Sepulveda in the evening.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda Sepulveda

Day 9: Departure
Breakfast and transfer to the airport.
Meals included: Breakfast

                                        Lagos de Moreno area

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	73	76	81	85	88	84	80	80	79	79	77	74
Average Low Temperature (°F)	44	46	51	55	59	60	59	58	57	53	49	46
Average High Temperature (°C)	23	25	27	29	31	29	27	26	26	26	25	23
Average Low Temperature (°C)	7	8	10	13	15	16	15	15	14	12	9	8
Average Precipitation (days of rain)	1	0	0	1	3	9	13	12	8	4	1	1

Source: NOAA


Seasons
At an elevation of 5,700 feet this region has a very pleasant and moderate climate. With warm summers and mild dry winters the vegetation of the area is primarily nopal cactus, savila (aloe vera), agave, maguey, huizache, and mezquite trees.

April to June are the driest and hottest months but temperatures don’t get uncomfortable thanks to the altitude. Warm days continue later in the year, but afternoon or early evening rain showers can be frequent between June and October. Finally, November to February tend to be the coolest months but the winter in Mexico usually sees mild temperatures.

 

This list is only a guideline for you

Hidden Trails Travel Documents and Trip Voucher (contains important local tour contact info.)

Flight tickets

Passport

Visa (check with your consulate)

RIDING GEAR

Riding pants or Jodhpurs

Riding boots (short) + Minichaps

Riding helmet  (recommended for all trips)

Riding gloves

Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection

Lightweight Rain coat

PERSONAL CLOTHING

Jacket or sweater for cool evenings

Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts

Jeans

Shorts

Underwear and socks

Pyjamas

Bag for dirty clothes

Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes

Swimsuit

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING

Personal Toiletries

Insect protection

Personal medications

Sore cream (for an emergency)

Sewing kit

Torch/ Flashlight

Adapter for electric appliances

Camera and extra film or batteries

Belt pack

Address book and pen (for postcards!)

Sun glasses with strap

Sun protection lotion and lip balm

Average ratings from 4 tour feedbacks (see details below) Horses: (5) Excellent (4) Very Good (3) Good (2) Satisfactory (1) Not Satisfactory Saddle/Tack: Accommodations: Meals: Host/Guide: other Riders: Name Date claudia parks 6/28/2016 helena goodwin 4/19/2010 ardis young 1/24/2010 jeff marvel 2/13/2009

Accommodations
These are all progressive rides where nights are spent in different locations except for Option A (Luxury tour) that is stationary - all nights at Hacienda Sepulveda.

Description
Laundry can be done at Hacienda Sepulveda for a small fee.

Land of Tequila Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Nights 1 & 2: Echological Hotel
Night 3: Hacienda San Bernardo
Night 4: Hacienda San Cirilo
Night 5: Hotel La Soledad Casa Rural
Night 6: Puerta del Coche Ranch
Night 7: Hacienda Tlalixcoyan
Night 8: Hacienda Sepulveda

Combo Luxury & Land of Tequila Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1 & 2: Hacienda San Cirilo
Night 3 & 4: Hacienda San Rafael
Night 5, 6, 7 & 8: Hacienda Sepulveda


Echological Hotel
Ecological hotel offers you to stay in comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, in the heart of the Guanajuato and Jalisco mountains. Wi-Fi is available at this property.


Hacienda San Bernardo
This authentic and historic hacienda (constructed in 1850) offers simple accommodation.

Hacienda San Cirilo
Jorge and Lena have been rebuilding this hacienda dating back to 1865 little by little. Each room has its own style with an ensuite bathroom and overlooks the stables. Wi-Fi is available.

Hotel La Soledad Casa Rural
This hotel offers spacious bedrooms with private bathroom and decorated with local artefacts. Guests can relax in the garden or go for a swim in the outdoor swimming pool. Wi-Fi is not available at this property.

Puerta del Coche Ranch



Hacienda Tlalixcoyan


Hacienda San Rafael
This Hacienda was originally built in 1845 and has been welcoming guests since 2000. It has 11 bedrooms.


Hacienda Sepulveda
The present owners, the Serranos, have had the property for 3 generations. The Hacienda has been a working ranch for 360 years and dates back to the 17th century. It is now a 4-star boutique Hotel with 23 rooms and exquisite spa facilities including a temazcal (ceremonial Indigenous low heat sweat lodge). The Hacienda is even listed in the top 10 best Hotel Hacienda’s in Mexico by Travel & Leisure magazine.
Guests will quickly find themselves feeling at home, assuming that home is filled with exquisite antiques. Each room in the hacienda has its own personality, and all have either a fireplace or antique wood-burning stove for those nippy winter nights. Many of the rooms have arched brick ceilings, and each has its own unique chandelier. Since a number of the rooms have separate full beds, you should specify if you prefer a twin or king-sized beds. Wi-Fi internet is available in all areas, free of charge.
There is nothing better than the pool and spa after a day in the saddle. Other amenities include holistic massage, steam room, Jacuzzi and sauna.

Room Occupancy
For solo travelers willing to share, a single supplement fee is charged if we don’t find you any roommate.



Meals
All meals are included on any of the 3 trip options.

The meals are mostly homemade Mexican food. Lunch is eaten on the trail and breakfasts and dinners are eaten in the restaurants of accommodations. Sometimes it is a buffet, in some cases a BBQ…
Hacienda Sepulveda is proud to serve traditional Mexican dishes prepared with old family recipes and organic local vegetables from the Huerta or brought fresh from the town market. 

Drinks are not included on this trip and guests are not allowed to bring their own bottles.

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to most dietary restrictions with prior notice.

Tack:		Mexican Charro, plus 2 Western and 2 English saddle
Horses:		Quarter, Aztec, Mexican Criollo
Pace:		Moderate with trots and canters - 3 to 6 hrs in the saddle per day | Walk | Trot | Canter |
Level:		(2 to 4 out of 5)    Novice
Age:		Min 14	Max 72
Weight:		Max 265 lbs
Riders:		Min 2 riders	Max 10 riders

The riding country is varied and the pace is adjusted accordingly. On 4 of the 6 riding days the riders have good opportunities for some nice controlled canters, the other 2 days you ride through canyons and rough country with little or no opportunities for faster paced riding - but it is spectacular.
There is 1 guide for every 5 rider.

Passports

Passport valid for at least six months after date of entry required by all nationals referred to in the chart .

Passport Note

(a) Applicants for Blue Tourist Cards should have a valid passport, return/onward ticket and proof of financial means. (b) Tourist Cards must be kept by the visitor during the entire length of stay as they will have to be presented and stamped on leaving.



Visas

Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above, who can obtain a Blue Tourist Card for touristic purposes from their airline on direct flights, at port of entry, or from the Mexican Consulate before travelling, for 180 days, except nationals of Australia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic and Slovenia who can stay for up to 90 days.

Visa Note

(a) Nationals seeking to visit Mexico on business are advised to check with the consulate regarding visa requirements as they may need to apply for a Non Immigrant Business Visitor carnet (FM3). (b) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements 

Passport Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes
Visa Required?
British	No
Australian	No
Canadian	No
USA	No
Other EU	No
Return Ticket Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes

This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult the embassy or consulate for updated info.