San Jose Manialtepec is an extraordinary spot in Oaxaca for authentic outdoor experiences. The area’s natural beauty and cultural richness make it perfect for active travelers who want more than just sightseeing. Among the many options, two stand out for their unique blend of nature and local flavor: the Sunset by Horse on the Beach and the Aguas Termales A Caballo.
Both tours offer a genuine connection with the land and its people, but each caters to different interests—whether you’re after a sunset ride or a thermal soak with horseback riding.
Plus, if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable night, the Puerto Escondido: Bioluminescence Night Spectacle provides a magical glow-in-the-dark experience in Manialtepec Lagoon. With options ranging from leisurely sunset rides to nighttime wonders, San Jose Manialtepec is a place that invites you to get outdoors and dive into local traditions and landscapes.
Quick Overview
This list features three standout tours:
– A horseback riding experience at sunset on a virgin beach (Sunset by Horse on the Beach)—ideal for lovers of coastal scenery and gentle rides.
– An authentic horseback adventure with thermal waters and cultural insights (Aguas Termales A Caballo)—perfect for those seeking relaxation with a cultural twist.
– The bioluminescence night tour in Puerto Escondido, where you can see glowing waters that look like shooting stars (Puerto Escondido: Bioluminescence Night Spectacle)—best for night owls and night-sky lovers.
1. Sunset by Horse on the Beach
At number 1 on our list, the Sunset by Horse on the Beach offers a captivating blend of equestrian skill and coastal beauty. This 4-hour tour costs around $115 per person and includes pickup from 26 options around Puerto Escondido and nearby areas, making it convenient no matter where you’re staying.
What makes this experience special is the chance to ride along the pristine, untouched Virgin Beach at sunset. The guides are local experts, passionate about sharing their knowledge of the ecosystem, which adds depth to the ride. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete beginner, the guide’s patience and expertise make this accessible for all skill levels.
The sunset views over the ocean are truly stunning, and the ride culminates in a peaceful moment watching the sky change colors. The tour’s itinerary also includes a brief 30-minute van transfer through the scenic coastline, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxed riding.
The tour receives a solid 4.4/5 rating based on 19 reviews, with many visitors praising the authentic vibe and the intimate connection with nature.
Bottom Line: This is an ideal choice if you love horses and want a memorable sunset experience on the beach. It’s well-suited for a romantic evening or a relaxing outing after exploring Oaxaca’s coast.
2. Aguas Termales A Caballo
Coming in at number 2, the Aguas Termales A Caballo offers a 4.5-hour immersion into cultural horseback riding combined with thermal waters. This tour costs $115 per person and has a perfect 5/5 rating from 2 reviews, indicating how authentic and well-received it is.
The experience starts with horseback riding through river zones, allowing you to witness native wildlife and local landscapes. Guides are locals who share insights about the region’s flora and fauna, enriching the journey. After a scenic ride, the tour includes a visit to natural thermal sulfur waters, where you can soak and benefit from the supposed healing properties of the mineral-rich waters.
The combination of horse therapy and thermal relaxation makes this tour stand out—many visitors describe it as both invigorating and calming.
What’s unique here is the cultural connection, riding with locals who share stories about their traditions and environment. During the ride, you’ll enjoy views of the landscape that reveal the region’s natural beauty and indigenous culture. The small group size ensures a personal experience, and the positive reviews highlight how memorable and authentic the tour feels.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a mix of nature, culture, and wellness, this tour offers a genuine taste of Oaxaca’s rural life with the added bonus of thermal waters.
3. Puerto Escondido: Bioluminescence Night Spectacle
For those after a night-time adventure, the Puerto Escondido: Bioluminescence Night Spectacle is a must-see. This 2.5-hour boat ride costs $44 and is rated 3.6/5 based on 37 reviews. While not as highly rated as the daytime tours, it offers a rare glimpse into one of Mexico’s only bioluminescent lagoons.
The highlight is swimming in waters that glow with each touch, thanks to bioluminescent microorganisms. The spectacle looks like stars falling into the water, creating an otherworldly experience. The tour involves a night boat ride where you can watch the lagoon light up as you paddle or swim, an experience that’s both magical and slightly surreal.
The tour’s lower rating stems from inconsistent reviews, with some visitors mentioning crowded boats or variable light conditions. Still, many find the spectacle worth the price for the chance to see this rare phenomenon. Since this is a natural event, the best times are during the dry season when the bioluminescence is most vibrant.
Bottom Line: Ideal for night owls and those curious about natural phenomena, this experience provides a memorable, luminous glow that stays with you long after.
How to Choose Your Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your interests, fitness level, and time constraints. If you love beach sunsets and riding horses, the first tour (Sunset by Horse on the Beach) offers a relaxed but beautiful experience. For a combination of culture, wellness, and nature, the thermal waters with horseback riding (Aguas Termales A Caballo) provides a more immersive day.
If your focus is on nighttime marvels, the bioluminescence tour (Puerto Escondido: Bioluminescence Night Spectacle) is a spectacular choice—just be prepared for a later evening.
Budget-wise, all three tours are similar in price, with the bioluminescence tour being slightly more affordable. The horseback rides at sunset and thermal waters are better suited for those wanting a longer, more nature-focused outing, while the bioluminescence experience is perfect for a quick, unforgettable night trip.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular sunset rides and bioluminescence tours, as they tend to fill up quickly in high season (December through April).
Final Thoughts
San Jose Manialtepec offers a diverse range of activities that allow you to connect deeply with the natural environment and local culture. If you’re after a tranquil, scenic ride, the Sunset by Horse on the Beach is a top pick. For a wellness-focused day, the Aguas Termales A Caballo combines traditional horseback riding with healing waters, making it a unique blend of relaxation and culture.
And for an extraordinary night-time experience, the bioluminescent lagoon offers a mesmerizing glow that’s hard to find elsewhere.
No matter which tour fits your style, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these distinctive adventures. With their focus on authentic experiences and natural beauty, these excursions will leave you with stories to tell long after you leave Oaxaca.
Happy travels, and enjoy exploring San Jose Manialtepec’s unforgettable landscapes and local traditions!