If you’re headed to Cabo San Lucas and craving a taste of adventure, the Side by Side (SxS) tour offered by Cabo Deals might just be your ticket to a memorable outing. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, information from travelers and the details provided paint a picture of a lively, scenic, and adrenaline-filled experience.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone seeking a different way to see the desert landscape, this tour warrants a close look.
What we love about this experience is how it combines off-road excitement with spectacular views of Baja’s rugged terrain and Pacific coastline. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it a convenient choice to fit into a busy vacation schedule. That said, as with any adventure, it’s worth noting the additional costs like entrance and insurance fees, which can add up.
This tour is best suited for those who don’t mind getting a little dusty and are comfortable with moderate physical activity.
It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking to add a dash of adrenaline to their time in Los Cabos without breaking the bank.
Key Points
- Adventure in the Desert: Explore narrow trails, sand dunes, and rugged peaks.
- Scenic Coastline Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Pacific during your ride.
- Hassle-Free Logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off included.
- Cost Considerations: Additional fees cover entrance, collision insurance, and land conservation.
- Duration & Group Size: Approximately 2 hours with small groups up to 10.
- Authentic Experience: Authentic desert landscapes with enthusiastic local guides.
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What to Expect from the Side by Side Adventure
The tour runs for about 2 hours, making it a solid half-day activity that won’t eat up your entire vacation. Starting in Cabo San Lucas, you’ll be picked up from most hotels—a big plus for avoiding complicated logistics. The ride is conducted in a SxS vehicle, which is essentially a sporty off-road vehicle designed for two passengers, offering both exhilaration and comfort.
During your ride, you’ll travel through narrow desert trails, the type that make you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret world of rugged terrain. The route takes in sand dunes, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of slipping and sliding, and rugged peaks that offer spectacular views of the Pacific coastline. These moments of elevation give you the chance to snap photos or simply soak in the vast landscape—an experience many reviews praise.
Throughout the tour, safety gear like goggles, helmets, and bandanas is provided, which is essential for a dusty desert environment. You’ll also receive bottled water—a thoughtful touch that keeps you hydrated during the adventure. The guides are known for their friendly and professional attitude, ensuring your safety and enjoyment.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cabo San Lucas.
The Route and Its Highlights
The desert trails are the core of this experience. They are narrow, often winding, and sometimes challenging, making them suitable for those with a moderate physical fitness level. We loved the way the guide navigates these trails, balancing fun with safety, so even those new to off-road riding can feel confident.
A highlight is the chance to cruise along the Pacific coastline, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking seaside views. The combination of desert landscapes and ocean vistas offers a striking contrast that travelers find memorable. One reviewer noted, “Muy buena atención, lugares muy bonitos,” highlighting the scenic beauty and attentive service.
At the peaks or elevated points, you’ll get what might be called a “reward view”—a sweeping panorama of the coastline and desert stretching out in all directions. These moments are perfect for photos or simply absorbing the rugged beauty of Baja.
Authenticity and Value
While $135 per person might seem like a typical price for such an adventure, it’s important to consider the value of the included amenities and the scenery. The small group size (max 10 people) ensures a more personalized experience, and the hotel pickup/drop-off saves you time and hassle. However, note that there are additional costs, including a $25 entrance fee and optional collision insurance for $45 per vehicle. These are typical for adventure tours in the area but should be factored into your budget.
Travelers who have tried this tour often praise its excellent service and beautiful locations. One reviewer called it “la mejor experiencia,” emphasizing how accessible and affordable the trip feels, especially considering the stunning scenery.
Practical Considerations
Timing-wise, bookings are usually made 6 days in advance, which suggests good availability during peak seasons. The tour operates in small groups, making it more intimate and allowing guides to pay closer attention to safety and individual enjoyment.
Since the tour involves moderate physical activity, travelers should be comfortable in a moderately active state. Expect some bouncing over uneven terrain and a bit of dust, so dressing appropriately—light clothing, sunglasses, and sturdy shoes—is advised.
The meeting point is in Cabo San Lucas, and the activity ends right back where it started, making logistics straightforward. If you’re staying in San José del Cabo, check whether your hotel is within the pickup zone.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This adventure is perfect for thrill-seekers who want to experience Baja’s wild side without the commitment of a full-day excursion. It’s equally suitable for families with older children, provided they’re comfortable with off-road rides. The scenic views are a major draw, making it ideal for travelers who want to combine adventure with spectacular photo opportunities.
Those on a tight schedule will appreciate the 2-hour duration and the included hotel pickup, which simplifies planning. If you’re looking for an activity that’s fun, scenic, and relatively affordable, this SxS tour hits the mark.
The Sum Up
The Side by Side Adventure in Los Cabos offers a balanced blend of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and convenience. Its compact duration and small group size make it a great option for travelers eager to experience Baja’s rugged landscape without spending an entire day on excursions. The stunning views of the coastline and desert are the kinds of sights you’ll remember long after the dust settles.
While the additional fees may seem a bit extra, they are typical for outdoor adventures in the region and contribute to a safe, well-organized experience. This tour is especially appealing to those who value authentic landscapes and small-group intimacy.
If you’re after an activity that combines Mexican desert adventure with coastal vistas and a hassle-free setup, this trip will deliver on that promise. Just be prepared for some dust, a few bounces, and plenty of memorable scenery.
Side by Side Adventure in Los Cabos
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
You get a 2-hour ride in a Side by Side vehicle through desert trails and along the coastline, with goggles, helmets, bandanas, and bottled water provided. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
Are there any additional costs?
Yes, there’s a $25 entrance fee, and collision insurance is optional at $45 per vehicle. There’s also a $15 Land Conservation Fee per person.
What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits groups to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
How physically demanding is this tour?
It requires moderate physical fitness. Expect some bouncing on uneven terrain, and it’s best suited for those comfortable with light physical activity.
Where does the tour start and end?
It starts in Cabo San Lucas and ends back at the same location, with hotel pickup and drop-off included from most hotels.
How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 6 days ahead, which provides good availability during peak times.
Is this suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for older children who are comfortable with off-road rides, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions.
What will the scenery look like?
Expect a stunning combination of desert landscapes, sand dunes, and spectacular views of the Pacific coastline from elevated spots, making it a visual treat.
In summary, this SxS adventure is a fantastic way to see Baja’s wild side while enjoying the comfort of hotel pickup. Whether you’re craving a quick adrenaline fix or want to snap some unforgettable photos, this tour offers good value and a genuine taste of Los Cabos’ rugged beauty.
