Most visitors come to Cabo for the ocean — and miss the desert entirely. The Baja California peninsula is one of the most dramatic arid landscapes on earth: towering cardon cactus, red sand dunes, dry arroyos opening onto empty Pacific beaches, and granite rock formations shaped by millennia of wind. ATV tours, camel rides, zip lines, and horseback excursions take you into this landscape — most ending with a tequila tasting and ocean views that make the ocean-only crowd wonder what they missed.
ATV Desert Tours
ATV tours run from the outskirts of Cabo into the Migrino desert — cactus-lined trails crossing sand dunes, dry riverbeds, and rocky canyon terrain before opening onto a secluded Pacific beach. Most tours are 2–3 hours, include single or double ATVs (side-by-sides available), and finish with a complimentary tequila tasting. No experience required — guides lead the group at a manageable pace. Minimum age varies by operator (typically 6+ as passenger, 16+ to drive).
Camel Rides
Desert Camel Safari
Cabo's most unexpected experience. Ride a camel along a secluded Baja beach with the Pacific on one side and desert on the other. Tours run 1.5–2 hours, include tequila and Mexican snacks, and are available at morning, midday, or sunset departure times. Sunset rides are the most popular — and the most photogenic. Suitable for all ages and no riding experience needed.
Zip Lines & Canopy Tours
Cabo's zip line courses run through desert canyons — not jungle (a completely different experience from Puerto Vallarta). Eight lines up to 300 feet above the canyon floor, with panoramic Pacific and desert views between platforms. Rappelling descents add variety. Tours run 2–3 hours with full safety briefing, harnesses, and guides on every platform. Minimum weight and age requirements vary.
Horseback Riding
Horseback tours start on desert trails through cactus and rock formations before descending to a secluded Pacific beach. Sunset rides are the most popular — watch the sky change colors from horseback with the sound of waves. Tours finish with a tequila tasting. Two hours, suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Desert by Day. Ocean by Night. Villa Always.
Villa Experience villas in Los Cabos include a concierge who books ATV tours, camel rides, zip lines, and horseback adventures — then arranges a sunset cruise to finish the day.
