¡Vamonos! Let’s go! This morning, you’ll be collected by a representative of the ranch for the 90-minute drive to Rancho Las Cascadas, where your hosts will be waiting to welcome you. You’ll have plenty of time to settle into your beautiful room, furnished with fine examples of Mexican artisanal craftsmanship, before a relaxed lunch on the terrace by the pool. The afternoon is yours to enjoy – no doubt you’ll say hello to the beautiful horses, and maybe even have a quick ride.

In the evening, you will get to know your hosts and fellow guests over a family-style dinner combining Mexican and international cuisine. The fun continues with cocktails (remember, this ride is all-inclusive!) and a game of pool or darts.

Your first morning at the ranch begins with cafe de olla (Mexican spiced coffee) and an array of freshly prepared breakfast options. Then you will be matched up with a stunning Criollo, Azteca or Quarter Horse and receive an introduction to the Mexican riding style. Mounting up, the charros (Mexican cowboys) will lead a relaxed introductory ride across rolling hillsides.

Back at the ranch, a fantastic home-cooked lunch will be served under the shade of a magnificent old oak known as the Tree of Hearts, overlooking the waterfalls for which the ranch was named. This is the perfect spot to stretch out with a book (or a pillow!) and bask in the serenity.

You can then either stay and relax, or take an afternoon ride to one of the local villages.

Tonight brings another multi-course dinner with fresh local ingredients, and more than a few stories swapped across the table!

Over the course of your stay, you will immerse in the vibrant colours, flavours, sights and sounds of central Mexico, both on and off the horse. You’ll enjoy three hearty daily meals showcasing the flavours of rural Mexico, washed down in the evenings with rich red wine or thirst-quenching cocktails. You’ll ride along peaceful rivers to cascading waterfalls, across highland plains perfect for galloping (if you so choose), and through local villages, where you’ll meet the locals and admire the faded grandeur of old haciendas. Highlights can include riding across cactus-studded prairies straight out of an old Western, and thrilling canters in remote canyons inhabited only by wild horses, soaring eagles and mysterious stones (your guides will tell you more!).

There are over 30 riding routes to choose from, ranging from fast and furious to sedate and scenic. If riding levels or interests differ among guests, your charro guides can lead multiple rides to ensure everyone gets exactly the experience they’re looking for.

You’re also very welcome to spend time relaxing at the rancho, or jump in the vehicles for a half-day excursion to one of the local villages or archaeological sites (of which there are many!). There are plenty more options available, too – see ‘Activities & Excursions’ for details.

This morning, you’ll have one final delicious breakfast, pack your bags and say a fond farewell to your wonderful horses, guides and hosts. Then you’ll be transferred to Mexico City International Airport for your onward travels.

Your hosts can arrange hiking, mountain biking, yoga, tai chi, holistic healing, spa treatments, temezcal (Mexican sauna), mixology and cooking classes, and excursions to nearby world-famous historical sites, local villages and events.

Some activities require additional payment; bookings and payments can be made on-site.

Non-riders are welcome to join their riding companion at this ranch in Mexico. The non-rider rate is the same as the riding rate because there are a plethora of off-horse activities available as outlined above. Some of these are usually charged at an additional rate, but for non-riders are included in the price.

Unless you’re coming from the USA, we strongly recommend flying into Mexico City the day before the ride in case of travel delays.

Transfers between the ranch and Mexico City (either the airport or central Mexico City) are available for $200 USD per person, round trip (to be paid in cash on the day). The journey takes around 90 minutes. Rest assured, getting to and from the ranch is very easy and safe, with great communication from your hosts and clear signage on the transfer vehicle.

On day 1 of your ride, you will be collected by a ranch representative from your chosen location in Mexico City and transferred to the ranch. We recommend morning transfers to maximise your time at the ranch.

On the final day, you will be transferred to your chosen location in Mexico City after breakfast. If you are flying out this day, please ensure your flight departs after 2pm.

**If staying in Mexico City pre or post ride, the Red Tree House B&B comes recommended from fellow globetrotters.