Rancho Los Bandidos Photos
Recommended Reviews - Rancho Los Bandidos
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
We were in a cruise and Ensenada was one of our stops so we decided to do the horseback riding. Miguel was our tour guide aka Cowboy guide. He was with the bus that picked us up and took us to the ranch. he enthusiastically shared with us about Ensenada and the history of the ranch and what to expect while on the trail. I didn't get a chance to research the horse treatment so I was nervous going in. But it's clear that these horses are well taken care of. Rita, the owner of the ranch, came out to say hello and aided in getting us on the horses, then Miguel and the cowboys led us along the trail. Miguel's energy throughout the entire adventure definitely made the experience even more enjoyable. He has been riding since he was a child, so you are in good hands. Tips: -bring dollars. -Use a fanny pack for the trail. If you need to bring a bag, it can stay safely at the ranch. - Go Hydrated! Although it doesn't seem strenuous, it is a different motion on the body if you're not used to it.
I'll start by saying that I have ridden from the mid-60's until I was in my 40's. We had a horse in the '90's so the fam rode. WHAT I EXPECTED: I expected a 'meh' ride. WHAT I GOT: I got much, MUCH more. The beauty of the ranch, the obvious care and love for the horses, and the quality of the entire operation left me in awe and gave me such a GREAT energy and feeling. WELL worth it. Guest riders, from beginner to intermediate, due to the care and compassion the ranch folks' had for the riders and their horses, had a great time. I chose the earliest ride time, 0900, when the horses were freshest. We started from the ship right on time (it was a cruise excursion, and I wanted to play it safe and not go independent) with Miguel. When we arrived at the ranch, I was immediately impressed with the grounds and the view. I knew I found the right place. Rita Gerrity, a Southern gentlelady originally from Virginia and the owner of the ranch greeted us. She'd lived in Mexico for 30+ years. I really liked her from the start. Personable and professional. She knew her horses, she knew riders, and her horses were VERY well taken care of. They were groomed well, not fat, not thin, not dejected, they looked and 'felt' very contented. You can sometimes tell when a horse is happy, spirited, doesn't like to be ridden, sad, etc. These guys were happy puppies. We went into the main receiving barn area and started getting fitted for helmets. (For fitting, getting a riding helmet is like a motorcycle helmet. It should fit snug and shouldn't move at ALL when you shake your head.) We couldn't take backpacks on the trail due to bouncing, so the others had to leave them in the receiving area. They were perfectly safe. Things in pockets weren't a good idea either, because they'd work their way out of the pockets during the ride. Rita and Miguel asked us about our riding skills and comfort levels around horses, and picked certain horses based on each participant's answers and size. I got Hidalgo, who was a great pinto with a mohawk. I walked over to Hidalgo, put the top of my hand by his nose so he could smell me, and his nose touched my hand. This is the equivalent of the horse handshake and 'hello!'. They had a 'mounting block' for others with shorter legs like me. Rita took pictures of us while we were mounting in the ring, which were available for $10 each after riding. IMO this was a VERY reasonable memento of our experience! Then we were off! We started at a walk, then occasionally trotted. We didn't trot enough for me to 'post', but enough to get the feel for the horse, his gait, his very few quirks. It was a beautiful ride. It was uphill, level, downhill, level, rocky, sandy, a nice trail in the Ensenada hills. The horses totally knew it. Hidalgo was VERY easy to guide, and he responded truly well and easily with just the barest touch of neck-reining. Since I had one of those waterproof lanyard things around my neck and in my shirt with my ID and phone in it, I was able to pull it out, give my phone to Miguel, and he was able to take pics of me on the trail. I highly recommend taking that large plastic lanyard holder to put inside the shirt. We returned to the ranch after around 90 minutes of continuous riding, and were treated to chips, HOT spicy homemade salsa, and punch. Alcoholic drinks were available so I had a celebratory beer. The big barn reception area was SO cool, with bar stools that were saddles! There were hats and purses to purchase as well. Prices were very competitive. I left there with so much energy and joy, it was an amazing experience.
We had such an amazing time! We had booked this excursion through the Royal Caribbean cruise line and it was one of the best experience we've had! Thank you Rita, Miguel and the kind cowboys. I'd definitely book again on our next cruise to Mexico.
We booked an excursion here through Carnival and had the best experience. Miguel was our tour guide, and he was so welcoming and instantly put us at ease. He shared information about Ensenada on the bus ride to the ranch and he talked about other places we could visit after our ride. Once our ride began, my 10 year old daughter was scared and wanted to get off. Immediately, she was brought up on her horse to the front of the line so the lead cowboy could hold her horse and she could walk right behind him. She was instantly calmed. We were lucky to have gorgeous weather and the views were amazing. Highly recommend!!
I just had one of the best trail riding experiences of my life at this place! It was sooo much fun! The owner Rita is a sweetheart, and so was our guide Miguel! He was super helpful and informative! The caballeros were great too! One of them helped me out when my foot started coming out the stirrup! The horses seemed fit and well taken care of. The view is beautiful! And it was refreshing to end with some delicious tacos and margaritas at the saloon. I really want to come back here. I highly recommend this place!
Best horsetrail for me so far. First of all, you ride in really healthy well taken-care of horses. The trail was very private and you get to be on a high area to see the ocean and Ensenada while you ride by some cliffs which were totally safe. Rita, the owner really knows how to take care of her horses, and her guests too. Miguel, the tour guide was very entertaining and has been very helpful especially if you would like to learn a lot about this part of Mexico. We went there on a random weekday during Covid and Rita, the owner accommodated us for a special ride session (plus they have been vaccinated too, ladies and gents). The price was very reasonable too. The experience was great. If you happen to be around Ensenada and would like to ride horses, this is the place to go.
Our group of 9 Girl Scouts booked horseback riding through our carnival cruise. We had Miguel as our tour guide. Rita, the ranch owner, met us right when we arrived. They were fantastic! So accommodating! Great with our kids. The horses were healthy and well trained. The trail was so very picturesque. And Miguel was so helpful to take pictures throughout the ride. Can not recommend this enough! One tip, bring cash to tip the cowboys, tour guide and driver. Pictures are available for them for $10. They have complimentary chips and salsa after the ride. Beer and soda available for purchase after, but CASH ONLY! Have fun!
We went on a trail ride at Ranch Bandidos as an excursion option with Royal Caribbean cruise lines. We were not disappointed! It was really worth the experience. We have minimal horse experience yet our ride was flawless. Miguel, who was our "Cowboy Guide" rode with us on the bus ride there and explained all about the history of the Ranch, the Ensenada area and what to expect during the ride. He is fun, enthusiastic, very experienced and obviously loves his job. The horses were very beautiful, healthy, well behaved and well trained. The trail ride was 4 miles long, simple to handle and quite scenic with views of the Ensenada shoreline. They have a team of experienced "cowboys" that ride along with you. After the ride they served chips & salsa with Rita's (the owner) signature homemade salsa. They have a bar if you want to top it off with a margarita and for $6 you could get 2 homemade chicken tacos that were very tasty and did not disappoint. You can't bring your backpack or put anything in your back pockets, so bring a small fanny pack if you want to bring your phone. Miguel takes pictures of everyone and will take your phone and snap pics for you while you're riding. We were quite impressed and definitely recommend this horse riding ranch.
It was coolest horse riding! We did it in rain in February - no dust, everything green!! :) Beautiful views of ocean!
Had a great experience at this place! Jose was our tour guide and made us so comfortable from start to finish. Very trustworthy and an experience I will never forget. I will admit I was nervous to begin with due to my own fears, however the view and experience all and all was a great time. Went with a group of about 12 people which was comforting that we wouldn't be alone. I will say make sure to pack light no purses (only light or small backpack or fanny pack) i brought my go pro and was able to get some good footage but I made sure to have it on a wrist wrapping go pro stick to ensure It wouldn't fall. I also brought a small shoulder bag that zipper up which was not bulky and didn't get in my way. Be sure to go to the bathroom prior because it is a good hour long ride with no stops. Overall Great choice for activity during your stay at ensenada.
6 months ago
Overall a nice experience, slow easy ride with well mannered horses and safe guides. As an experienced rider this ride is boring but still fun to take in the surroundings. Felt very commercialized though, we did enjoy talking with the guide and the lead cowboy. They do have real bathrooms and provide chips and salsa after the ride. It is very dusty so wear clothes you don't mind getting some dust on. Horses are in great condition and well mannered, one of the better run tour rides I've been on. If your looking to actually ride a horse this isn't for you, I got off the horse normally and got scolded I think they wanted me to like get lifted down or something instead of dismounting like normal. Other than that it was a good experience. read more
1 year ago
hubby and I love this place! Just don't forget to bring CASH! Miguel (i think thats his name) is AMAZING tour guide! The horses all know what to do and as long as you're honest about your horse experience, they assign you to a horse of your level! I got one of the newbies, but I also have years of riding under my belt! read more
A fun trail ride about 25 minutes from the cruise port in Ensenada, the horses looked cared for and were very sure footed and knew their jobs (head to tail pretty much). Helmets were a must and you could leave your bag in their reception area but I suggest taking a Fanny pack that you can wear. The guide who picked us up, Jose, also rode and then dropped us back towards the city so we could shop and walk back. I would recommend this at a great ride for beginners, it went up then down the mountain and there were beautiful views of the ocean and mountain scapes! read more
3 years ago
We were in a cruise and Ensenada was one of our stops so we decided to do the horseback riding. Miguel was our tour guide aka Cowboy guide. He was with the bus that picked us up and took us to the ranch. he enthusiastically shared with us about Ensenada and the history of the ranch and what to expect while on the trail. I didn't get a chance to research the horse treatment so I was nervous going in. But it's clear that these horses are well taken care of. Rita, the owner of the ranch, came out to say hello and aided in getting us on the horses, then Miguel and the cowboys led us along the trail. Miguel's energy throughout the entire adventure definitely made the experience even more enjoyable. He has been riding since he was a child, so you are in good hands. Tips: -bring dollars. -Use a fanny pack for the trail. If you need to bring a bag, it can stay safely at the ranch. - Go Hydrated! Although it doesn't seem strenuous, it is a different motion on the body if you're not used to it. read more
1 year ago
This ranch is an awesome ride! Rita and Miguel are fantastic and the whole crew is helpful. Horses are in great shape and very healthy! The views are amazing! Make sure to try one of Ritas Mango Banana Margs!! read more
3 years ago
I'll start by saying that I have ridden from the mid-60's until I was in my 40's. We had a horse in the '90's so the fam rode. WHAT I EXPECTED: I expected a 'meh' ride. WHAT I GOT: I got much, MUCH more. The beauty of the ranch, the obvious care and love for the horses, and the quality of the entire operation left me in awe and gave me such a GREAT energy and feeling. WELL worth it. Guest riders, from beginner to intermediate, due to the care and compassion the ranch folks' had for the riders and their horses, had a great time. I chose the earliest ride time, 0900, when the horses were freshest. We started from the ship right on time (it was a cruise excursion, and I wanted to play it safe and not go independent) with Miguel. When we arrived at the ranch, I was immediately impressed with the grounds and the view. I knew I found the right place. Rita Gerrity, a Southern gentlelady originally from Virginia and the owner of the ranch greeted us. She'd lived in Mexico for 30+ years. I really liked her from the start. Personable and professional. She knew her horses, she knew riders, and her horses were VERY well taken care of. They were groomed well, not fat, not thin, not dejected, they looked and 'felt' very contented. You can sometimes tell when a horse is happy, spirited, doesn't like to be ridden, sad, etc. These guys were happy puppies. We went into the main receiving barn area and started getting fitted for helmets. (For fitting, getting a riding helmet is like a motorcycle helmet. It should fit snug and shouldn't move at ALL when you shake your head.) We couldn't take backpacks on the trail due to bouncing, so the others had to leave them in the receiving area. They were perfectly safe. Things in pockets weren't a good idea either, because they'd work their way out of the pockets during the ride. Rita and Miguel asked us about our riding skills and comfort levels around horses, and picked certain horses based on each participant's answers and size. I got Hidalgo, who was a great pinto with a mohawk. I walked over to Hidalgo, put the top of my hand by his nose so he could smell me, and his nose touched my hand. This is the equivalent of the horse handshake and 'hello!'. They had a 'mounting block' for others with shorter legs like me. Rita took pictures of us while we were mounting in the ring, which were available for $10 each after riding. IMO this was a VERY reasonable memento of our experience! Then we were off! We started at a walk, then occasionally trotted. We didn't trot enough for me to 'post', but enough to get the feel for the horse, his gait, his very few quirks. It was a beautiful ride. It was uphill, level, downhill, level, rocky, sandy, a nice trail in the Ensenada hills. The horses totally knew it. Hidalgo was VERY easy to guide, and he responded truly well and easily with just the barest touch of neck-reining. Since I had one of those waterproof lanyard things around my neck and in my shirt with my ID and phone in it, I was able to pull it out, give my phone to Miguel, and he was able to take pics of me on the trail. I highly recommend taking that large plastic lanyard holder to put inside the shirt. We returned to the ranch after around 90 minutes of continuous riding, and were treated to chips, HOT spicy homemade salsa, and punch. Alcoholic drinks were available so I had a celebratory beer. The big barn reception area was SO cool, with bar stools that were saddles! There were hats and purses to purchase as well. Prices were very competitive. I left there with so much energy and joy, it was an amazing experience. read more
4 years ago
We had such an amazing time! We had booked this excursion through the Royal Caribbean cruise line and it was one of the best experience we've had! Thank you Rita, Miguel and the kind cowboys. I'd definitely book again on our next cruise to Mexico. read more
2 years ago
We booked an excursion here through Carnival and had the best experience. Miguel was our tour guide, and he was so welcoming and instantly put us at ease. He shared information about Ensenada on the bus ride to the ranch and he talked about other places we could visit after our ride. Once our ride began, my 10 year old daughter was scared and wanted to get off. Immediately, she was brought up on her horse to the front of the line so the lead cowboy could hold her horse and she could walk right behind him. She was instantly calmed. We were lucky to have gorgeous weather and the views were amazing. Highly recommend!! read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
4 years ago
I just had one of the best trail riding experiences of my life at this place! It was sooo much fun! The owner Rita is a sweetheart, and so was our guide Miguel! He was super helpful and informative! The caballeros were great too! One of them helped me out when my foot started coming out the stirrup! The horses seemed fit and well taken care of. The view is beautiful! And it was refreshing to end with some delicious tacos and margaritas at the saloon. I really want to come back here. I highly recommend this place! read more
6 years ago
Best horsetrail for me so far. First of all, you ride in really healthy well taken-care of horses. The trail was very private and you get to be on a high area to see the ocean and Ensenada while you ride by some cliffs which were totally safe. Rita, the owner really knows how to take care of her horses, and her guests too. Miguel, the tour guide was very entertaining and has been very helpful especially if you would like to learn a lot about this part of Mexico. We went there on a random weekday during Covid and Rita, the owner accommodated us for a special ride session (plus they have been vaccinated too, ladies and gents). The price was very reasonable too. The experience was great. If you happen to be around Ensenada and would like to ride horses, this is the place to go. read more
Our group of 9 Girl Scouts booked horseback riding through our carnival cruise. We had Miguel as our tour guide. Rita, the ranch owner, met us right when we arrived. They were fantastic! So accommodating! Great with our kids. The horses were healthy and well trained. The trail was so very picturesque. And Miguel was so helpful to take pictures throughout the ride. Can not recommend this enough! One tip, bring cash to tip the cowboys, tour guide and driver. Pictures are available for them for $10. They have complimentary chips and salsa after the ride. Beer and soda available for purchase after, but CASH ONLY! Have fun! read more
3 years ago
We went on a trail ride at Ranch Bandidos as an excursion option with Royal Caribbean cruise lines. We were not disappointed! It was really worth the experience. We have minimal horse experience yet our ride was flawless. Miguel, who was our "Cowboy Guide" rode with us on the bus ride there and explained all about the history of the Ranch, the Ensenada area and what to expect during the ride. He is fun, enthusiastic, very experienced and obviously loves his job. The horses were very beautiful, healthy, well behaved and well trained. The trail ride was 4 miles long, simple to handle and quite scenic with views of the Ensenada shoreline. They have a team of experienced "cowboys" that ride along with you. After the ride they served chips & salsa with Rita's (the owner) signature homemade salsa. They have a bar if you want to top it off with a margarita and for $6 you could get 2 homemade chicken tacos that were very tasty and did not disappoint. You can't bring your backpack or put anything in your back pockets, so bring a small fanny pack if you want to bring your phone. Miguel takes pictures of everyone and will take your phone and snap pics for you while you're riding. We were quite impressed and definitely recommend this horse riding ranch. read more
5 years ago
It was coolest horse riding! We did it in rain in February - no dust, everything green!! :) Beautiful views of ocean! read more
4 years ago
3 years ago
4 years ago
Had a great experience at this place! Jose was our tour guide and made us so comfortable from start to finish. Very trustworthy and an experience I will never forget. I will admit I was nervous to begin with due to my own fears, however the view and experience all and all was a great time. Went with a group of about 12 people which was comforting that we wouldn't be alone. I will say make sure to pack light no purses (only light or small backpack or fanny pack) i brought my go pro and was able to get some good footage but I made sure to have it on a wrist wrapping go pro stick to ensure It wouldn't fall. I also brought a small shoulder bag that zipper up which was not bulky and didn't get in my way. Be sure to go to the bathroom prior because it is a good hour long ride with no stops. Overall Great choice for activity during your stay at ensenada. read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
Best horseback riding I've done through Carnival. The weather wasn't cooperative for the view of the Baja coastline but everything else was spectacular. If you do the Ensenada cruise I highly recommend this excursion. The cowboys were well experienced. Miguel is very knowledgeable of the area and a great guide. The horses were very well taken care of and Rita is a hoot. If you get the margarita after the ride an extra shot of tequila only costs you a Thank you! read more
7 years ago
6 years ago
7 years ago
5 years ago
6 years ago
More info about Rancho Los Bandidos
Carretera Mexico-1D S/N
22760 Ensenada, Baja California
Mexico
Directions
646 226 6918
Call Now
Visit Website
http://rancholosbandidos.mx
Hours
Payment methods
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Other Amenities
From the Business
