Day of the Dead & Mystery Villages Ride Central Mexico Mexico Enjoy the best tequilas, listen to mariachi music and ride through sites of great historical value. During our equestrian program, participants will be immersed in one of the most representative Mexican traditions of all time. They will be able to discover Mexico's traditions and actively take part in them, allowing everyone to discover why these festivities have conquered people all around the world. In addition to discovering traditions first-hand, riders will enjoy the warmth and hospitality that distinguishes the Mexican people. They will also be able to taste a variety of dishes of the ancestral gastronomy of Mexico. Guests will also be guided by experts in the mixology of ancestral drinks, and body painting (catrinas). During the first 3 days, we will dedicate ourselves to the Day of the Dead celebrations, in two of Mexico's most beautiful cities. The following days, our adventure on horseback will lead us through the mystery villages and their traditions. Progressive Ride (no camping) Family Vacation Suitable for riders over 210 lbs Ride with Western Tack Meeting: San Miguel de Allende Airport: Guanajuato International Airport (BJX) Transfer: -- Riders: Min 6 riders Max 14 riders Trip Brochure (PDF) Trip Rating

Packages and Options

Click here for updated current rates.

 

Transfer and Other Charges:

Transfers are not available for this trip. You will meet your guide and the rest of the group in San Miguel de Allende for 4 pm on Day 1 of your trip.

Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

Day 1 (October 31st): Arrival
You will be greeted in the city of San Miguel de Allende, a city characterized by its rich traditions, in which popular events and festivals play an important role throughout the year. It is a place full of culture and art.
After checking into your room (around 4 pm), you are invited to our welcome cocktail, during which we will discuss the program. Then, you will have some time to visit the historic city center before dinner (served around 9 pm).
Meals included: Welcome dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in San Miguel de Allende

Day 2 (November 1st): Day of the Dead
Today, we will be able to live with intensity the tradition of the day of the dead. We start with a walking tour, guided through the route of “offerings”. During this tour, we will visit the historic pantheon of San Juan de Dios. Later, we will enjoy a fun mixology workshop, specialized in pre-Hispanic drinks. You will taste and create four cocktails that have transcended the history of Mexico: Tepache, Pulque, Pox and Raicilla.
In the afternoon, we will attend the theatrical performances alluding to the Day of the Dead, which are held in the main square of San Miguel.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in San Miguel de Allende

Day 3 (November 2nd): Guanajuato
After breakfast, we will transfer by car (1 hour drive) to the city of Guanajuato, a colonial city with beautiful buildings that contain the elements of the two main cultures that created them, the indigenous and the Hispanic. The constructions retain their architectural and environmental characteristics and because of this, the city was declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site in December 1988. It is currently considered as the most beautiful colonial city in Mexico. We will visit the historic center, walking through its narrow alleys and discovering houses, squares and gardens. We will visit the “monumental offering” of Guanajuato and “El Tapete de la muerte” (The death carpet) as well as “La Catrina Vive Festival”, enjoying live music with local mariachis.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Posada in Guanajuato 

Day 4 (November 3rd): Mummies & Catrinas
This morning, we visit the "Museum of the Mummies". Here, you will appreciate the mummified remains of our ancestors, some of which date back to 1870. It is considered the current largest collection of natural mummies in the world.
Then, we will go to Rancho Colomitos, where we meet our riding companions. We will get acquainted with our new friends on an introductory ride before dressing up as catrinas (symbol of death and icon of Day of the Dead in Mexico). We will ride as catrinas around the ranch and enjoy a photo and video session.
In the evening, we will enjoy a "Catrinas and catrines" themed dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hacienda near Puentecillas

Day 5 (November 4th): Mystery Villages Ride
This is the day we begin our journey on horseback. We will start by exploring the mystery villages, made up of various communities in which the Chichimeca culture, mining and a Cristero region converge. Today's ride is based on mystery, nourished by the local legends and traditions.
Rancho Colomitos – Calderones 21 km
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Calderones 

Day 6 (November 5th): Local Legends
We continue our journey through the Mystery Villages, visiting ancient communities nestled in the mountains. This region is recognized for its richness in minerals. We will visit the ancient cemeteries of Peregrina and Monte San Nicolás, which have some of the most romantic and mysterious legends. These legends will be narrated by your guides.
Calderones–Santa Rosa 21 kilometres
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Ranch in santa Rosa

Day 7 (November 6th): Ride to Sangre de Cristo
Today's journey will allow us to discover one of the greatest biodiversity areas in the region. We ride through oak forests, pine trees and small communities full of history, nestled in the middle of beautiful mountains, and surrounded by majestic natural landscapes. Our destination for the day is one of the oldest communities in the region, Sangre de Cristo.
Santa Rosa – Sangre de Cristo 26 kilometres
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hacienda in Sangre de Cristo 

Day 8 (November 7th): Historical Ride
For our last riding day, we will explore ancient communities featuring very important historical and cultural aspects such as: Chichimeca Indigenous Culture, the old Cristero War and silver mining. We will ride through the communities of Sangre de Cristo, Mineral de la Luz and San Ignacio. We will also visit the old mine of San Juan, El Zócalo de La Luz and the old Sangre de Cristo cemetery.
At the end of the XIX century, Sangre de Cristo and Mineral La Luz, and San Ignacio became ghost towns.
Sangre de Cristo – La Luz – San Ignacio – Tiros de San Juan 19 kilometres
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hacienda in Sangre de Cristo 

Day 9 (November 8th): Departure
After breakfast, end of our services.
Meals included: Breakfast

                                            Guanajuato area
 

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	73	76	81	86	88	86	82	82	80	79	77	74
Average Low Temperature (°F)	44	46	49	54	57	59	58	57	57	53	48	45
Average High Temperature (°C)	23	25	27	30	31	30	28	28	27	26	25	23
Average Low Temperature (°C)	7	8	10	12	14	15	14	14	14	12	9	7
Average Precipitation (days of rain)	1	1	1	1	4	8	10	9	7	3	1	1

Source: NOAA


Seasons
The climate in the area corresponds to the center of Mexico. Usually, this is an area with a pleasant climate, which will permit to enjoy a mild climate and a wonderful outdoors life, but we strongly recommend, before traveling, checking on the weather in order to make sure you are taking with you the appropriate gear and clothes.

Spring
This time of year is sunny and warm with low humidity.

Summer
Summertime is pleasant with rain usually in the afternoon.

Autumn
This season is sunny and pleasant with cool temperatures and some rain until early December.

Winter
Winters are cold with isolated rains in January, and strong winds in February and March, some snow and ice above 2,200 meters, normally in the mountains of the area. The coldest days are in January and early February.

The rainy season coincides with the hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico, which is from May to October. The largest rainfalls happen in the month of July. On average, the area records 600 mm of rain per year.

In the mornings and in the evenings it is good to have some long sleeved shirts or sweaters to take on the rides. It is always good to pack something of both so you can’t get wrong. Don’t forget your swimming trunks. For riding we recommend jodhpurs or jeans and short boots with half chaps. Training shoes are not really apt for riding as you may not be comfortable and get stuck in the stirrups. In any case you may buy short leather boots in the markets for about US$ 25.- to US$ 35.- depending on the size. We do not provide riding helmets, if you want to use one (recommended) you will have to bring it along. In any case we recommend a hat shielding against the sun. We highly recommend a sun cream with high protection factor which you should use daily. The hotel is fumigated against mosquitoes and there are normally not many around. For the Horse Expedition, you need to bring your own sleeping bag (Comfort Zone -10 ° to 10 ° C), towel, torch, waterproof rain jacket and gloves.
 

This list is only a guideline for you

Travel documents and Voucher

Flight tickets

Passport

Visa (check with your consulate)

RIDING GEAR

riding pants/ jodhpurs: Light weight, stretchy pants that are cool but protect from rubs work best.

Short riding boots/ narrow hiking boots and half chaps (boots should be comfortable for walking)

Riding helmet (recommended for all trips)

A hat with brim for sun protection

Long sleeves in your shirt or blouse

A light jacket + waterproof jacket

A bandana is very useful against the dust

PERSONAL CLOTHING

Another thick jacket or a sweater

Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts

Jeans

Shorts

Underwear and socks

Pyjama

Bag for dirty clothes

Bathing suit (optional)

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING

Personal Toiletries

Insect protection

Personal medications

Sore cream (for the emergency)

Adapter for electric appliances if you come from Europe

Camera and enough extra films and batteries

Sun glasses with strap

Sun Block

** No trip reports found with the tour ID you provided.

Accommodations
This is a progressive ride so nights are spent in different locations.

Description
All accommodations are chosen for authenticity and comfort. The variety allows you to appreciate the diversity of life in Mexico. The described accommodations, are used regularly and most of the time during our trips. However, if for reasons beyond our control, we have to use a different accommodation as the one described, we will use as a replacement a similar hotel, located as close as possible to the intended area.

Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1 & 2: Hotel in San Miguel de Allende
Night 3: Posada in Guanajuato
Night 4: Hacienda near Puentecillas
Day 5: Hotel in Calderones
Night 6: Ranch in Santa Rosa
Night 7: Hotel in Sangre de Cristo
Night 8: Hacienda in Sangre de Cristo

Hotel in San Miguel de Allende
This small hotel offers 14 simple and elegant bedrooms, equipped with a TV, internet access, private facilities and a safe.

Posada in Guanajuato
This beautiful colonial hotel is housed in a historic building, and first opened its doors to the public in 1892. It offers comfortable accommodations with cable TV and private bathroom in the historic center of Guanajuato. Free Wi-Fi is available at this property.

Hacienda near Puentecillas
This charming hacienda was founded during the 16th century as a cattle ranch. The current owners decided to transform this place in order to welcome and accommodate tourists from all over the world. Nowadays, the hacienda is surrounded by plants and trees and provides 32 guestrooms.
Each room is bright and spacious and features a TV as well as an ensuite bathroom.
There is also an outdoor pool where guests can cool off in the evening.

Hotel in Calderones
This unique boutique hotel has 10 bedrooms, each featuring its own style. The rooms all include air conditioning, free Wi-Fi access, ensuite bathroom, a safe and a TV.

Ranch in Santa Rosa
This ranch is surrounded by beautiful mountains. It offers comfortable rooms with shared bathroom. Please, note that there is no internet connection available at this property.

Hotel in Sangre de Cristo
This beautiful complex offers spacious and comfortable dorm-style rooms. The group is usually split into 2 while staying there with one room for ladies and another room for men.
Bathrooms are also shared with one designated bathroom for ladies and another one for men. Up to 8 people can fit in each shared bathroom area.
There is Wi-Fi available at this property.

Hacienda in Sangre de Cristo
This lovely historic hacienda is surrounded by gardens, vineyards and century-old trees. The rooms are simply decorated and come equipped with a TV, a safe and a private bathroom. Guests are welcome to use the outdoor pool to relax in the evening.
Please, note that there is no internet access available at this property.

Room Occupancy
There are no single rooms available on this trip.


Meals
Meals are included from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on the last day (except for lunch on Day 2).

Meals are based on regional Mexican food and include beef, pork, chicken, eggs, fruits, vegetables, cereals, rice, milk, coffee, natural fruit juices, and purified bottled water.
Breakfast and dinners are eaten at the accommodations and lunches are eaten on the trail.

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to most dietary restrictions if given prior notice. However, please note that changes to the menu made locally (without prior notice) might incur additional charges locally.

This trip can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		Charro & Western (English on request) with saddle bags
Horses:		Quarter horse, Azteca and Mexican Criollo
Pace:		Moderate riding pace according to terrain with several trots and some canters. | Walk | Trot | Canter | Gallop |
Level:		(3 to 4 out of 5)    Intermediate
Age:		Min 14
Weight:		Max 240 lbs / 110 kg
Riders:		Min 6 riders	Max 14 riders

Required riding level
Intermediate - A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces and can get on and off without help. At some point, it will be necessary to lead your horse on foot. 
Difficulty of terrain:  60% easy- 25% intermediate – 15% difficult
Physical effort required: 65% easy - 30% moderate - 5% intense
On the trail: 5 riding days

Passports

Passport valid for at least six months after date of entry required by all nationals referred to in the chart .

Passport Note

(a) Applicants for Blue Tourist Cards should have a valid passport, return/onward ticket and proof of financial means. (b) Tourist Cards must be kept by the visitor during the entire length of stay as they will have to be presented and stamped on leaving.



Visas

Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above, who can obtain a Blue Tourist Card for touristic purposes from their airline on direct flights, at port of entry, or from the Mexican Consulate before travelling, for 180 days, except nationals of Australia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic and Slovenia who can stay for up to 90 days.

Visa Note

(a) Nationals seeking to visit Mexico on business are advised to check with the consulate regarding visa requirements as they may need to apply for a Non Immigrant Business Visitor carnet (FM3). (b) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements 

Passport Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes
Visa Required?
British	No
Australian	No
Canadian	No
USA	No
Other EU	No
Return Ticket Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes

This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult the embassy or consulate for updated info.