Puerto Escondido is famous for its surf, lively vibe, and beautiful beaches, but it also offers some surprisingly soothing hot springs and wellness experiences. What makes this area stand out are its natural thermal pools accessible through unique activities like horseback riding and mountain excursions.
Our favorite? The Hot Springs Horseback Riding Adventure — it combines scenic rides through the countryside with relaxing dips in thermal pools, all away from the crowds.
It’s perfect for those who want a bit of adventure mixed with wellness, and it’s highly rated (5.0/5 from 16 reviews).
If you’re after a more personalized experience, the Horses on The Beach or Hot Springs tour offers the chance to choose between riding along sunset beaches or enjoying steaming hot springs near Manialtepec Town. Or, for travelers who prefer mountain scenery and authentic local encounters, the River Riding and Hot Springs in the Mountain gets high praise for its off-the-beaten-path vibe.
Lastly, the Horseback riding to Atotonilco hot springs provides an immersive trek through lush vegetation, crossing rivers, and relaxing in mineral-rich waters.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each experience, helping you decide which one suits your style—whether it’s a quick trip or a full-day adventure.
1. Hot Springs Horseback Riding Adventure
At number 1, the Hot Springs Horseback Riding Adventure is our top choice for a mix of scenery, relaxation, and authentic local flavor. For around $150 per person, this 5-hour tour takes you on a trail through the countryside outside Puerto Escondido to natural thermal pools. The highlight is riding a well-trained horse — beginners are welcome, as the ride is gentle and tailored for all skill levels.
Once at the thermal springs, you’ll have plenty of free time to swim and soak in the warm waters. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a hassle-free way to escape the busy town. The guide shares local stories and points out wildlife along the ride, adding an educational touch to your adventure.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of riding through untouched nature and enjoying the soothing hot springs without crowds.
The tour’s reviews rave about its peaceful setting and well-organized logistics, with many mentioning how it’s a perfect blend of activity and relaxation. It’s ideal for those who want a full 5-hour experience, with morning or afternoon departures to fit your schedule.
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers looking for a longer, immersive experience with a scenic horseback ride and thermal pools—perfect for nature lovers eager to explore beyond the beaches.
2. Horses on The Beach or Hot Springs
At number 2, Horses on The Beach or Hot Springs offers a flexible, small-group experience that lasts about 3 hours and costs roughly $164. This tour allows you to choose whether you want to ride your horse during sunset along Puerto Escondido’s famous beaches or visit the hot springs near Manialtepec Town.
The tour begins with a stop at Laguna Manialtepec, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by rivers, birds, and other wildlife. If you opt for the beach, you’ll trot along sand dunes and enjoy the sunset as waves crash nearby.
Alternatively, the hot springs provide a steamy, relaxing soak after your ride. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and roundtrip transportation from your hotel makes logistics easy.
What makes this experience appealing is its flexibility—you get to choose between two different scenic experiences, each showcasing Puerto Escondido’s natural beauty. The tour is well-suited for travelers who want a shorter, more relaxed outing with a focus on scenery and wildlife.
Bottom Line: If you’re short on time but want a customizable horseback experience, this is a great choice, especially if you love sunset views or hot springs.
3. River Riding and Hot Springs in the Mountain
Number 3 on our list is River Riding and Hot Springs in the Mountain, a 5-hour adventure that costs about $111.46. This tour is run by a local company that prides itself on taking travelers off the tourist trail to see authentic spots. You’ll explore less-visited mountain areas, crossing rivers and riding through lush landscapes.
The highlight is arriving at a natural hot spring where you can soak and relax after your ride. The guide shares insights into the local environment and community, making this a more immersive experience.
The ride itself involves crossing the Manialtepec River up to three times, which adds a sense of adventure and connection to nature. The guide emphasizes their knowledge of this special environment, making the trip feel personal and meaningful.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine mountain scenery, river crossings, and thermal relaxation in one trip. Its main selling point is the chance to connect deeply with nature and local life, away from crowded tourist spots.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy authentic mountain landscapes and want a relaxed soak in natural hot springs after a scenic ride.
4. Horseback riding to the Atotonilco hot springs
At number 4, the Horseback riding to the Atotonilco hot springs offers a full 6-hour journey that’s perfect for those wanting a deep dive into nature and local culture. For $103, you’ll enjoy a trek through lush vegetation, crossing rivers, and observing a variety of trees and birdlife along the way.
Starting from Puerto Escondido, the trip involves about 75 minutes of riding through trails lined with dense vegetation, then a guided tour of the hot springs. The highlight is bathing in mineral-rich waters that are believed to purify both body and soul. The tour includes multiple river crossings — up to three — which add a fun, active element.
This experience is well-suited for travelers who want a full-day nature adventure combined with relaxing hot springs. Its strength lies in its immersive nature and the opportunity to experience the local environment intimately. The reviews aren’t extensive but emphasize the uniqueness of the journey and the purity of the waters.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a longer, more involved day in the mountains with a rewarding soak.
How to Choose
When deciding between these experiences, consider your budget, available time, fitness level, and interests. If you want a comprehensive horseback ride plus hot springs and don’t mind splurging a bit, the Hot Springs Horseback Riding Adventure is ideal. For a shorter, customizable experience, the Horses on The Beach or Hot Springs offers flexibility and scenic variety.
If you’re after an authentic mountain trek with river crossings and want to connect with local communities, the River Riding and Hot Springs in the Mountain is a great choice. For those interested in a full-day immersion that includes river crossings and a peaceful soak, the Horseback riding to Atotonilco hot springs provides a meaningful adventure.
Book early, especially during peak months, to ensure availability. All these tours offer memorable ways to relax and connect with the natural beauty of Puerto Escondido, whether you prefer beach sunsets, mountain serenity, or thermal pools.
As you plan your trip, remember that Puerto Escondido isn’t just about surfing — its natural hot springs and scenic rides make it a versatile destination for wellness and adventure. Whether you choose a horseback ride through lush forests or a serene soak in mountain thermal pools, these experiences promise a refreshing break from the waves.