Revolution Trail Ride
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7 Nights: From USD $3,551 pp sharing
Explore Mexico's Revolutionary History On Horseback
Ride through Mexico’s historic heartland, following old trails between colonial towns, mountain landscapes and the places where the country’s revolution began.
The Mexican Revolution Trail Ride is a unique horse riding holiday for confident riders who want to explore Mexico’s history from the saddle. Following historic routes through the Central Highlands, this expedition combines long days on horseback with colonial towns, mountain landscapes and the places where the struggle for Mexican independence and the Mexican Revolution unfolded. It is particularly well suited to riders who enjoy a genuine trail ride with a strong sense of history and a varied route through rural Mexico.
The journey takes place in the state of Guanajuato and the surrounding Central Highlands, travelling between Guanajuato, Dolores Hidalgo, San Miguel de Allende and Atotonilco. The landscape changes as you ride from rugged mountain terrain and open countryside to historic towns, old haciendas and rural communities. Along the way, the route follows trails and landscapes connected to Mexico’s past, including the birthplace of independence at Dolores Hidalgo and the historic area around San Miguel de Allende and Atotonilco.
This is a demanding, expedition-style trail ride for intermediate to advanced riders. Guests should be comfortable spending long days in the saddle and riding across varied terrain, including mountain trails and open countryside. The horses are Mexican Quarter Horses and Aztecas, selected for their experience, temperament and suitability for multi-day trail riding. The journey is not designed as a conventional wildlife safari, although riders will experience the natural landscapes of the Central Highlands, with the opportunity to see native birdlife and other wildlife associated with the region.
With a combination of challenging riding, historic towns and a route that brings Mexico’s past to life, the Revolution Trail Ride offers a different way to explore the country. Rather than simply travelling between cultural landmarks, you experience the landscape at a slower pace, following trails through the Central Highlands and staying in a mix of glamping accommodation, mountain refuges, hotels and rural retreats.
Quick Facts
Location:
Guanajuato, Mexico
Airport:
Del Bajío International Airport
Month:
August - February
Duration:
7 Nights
Group Size:
Min 6
Riding Level:
Intermediate to Advanced
Weight Limit:
110kg / 242lbs
Accommodation:
Glamping Camp, Hotels, Mountain Refuge
Solo Traveller Friendly:
Great for solo travellers who are willing to share. Single rooms are on request and subject to availability.
AN IDEA ON WHAT TO EXPECT
This itinerary is subject to change and should be viewed as an example rather than an exact timetable. The route may vary depending on weather, trail conditions and the difficulty of the terrain. Flexibility is essential, as this is a sporty riding holiday with long days in the saddle and varied terrain. Any changes will be made by your guides with your comfort, safety and overall experience in mind.
On arrival at León-Bajío International Airport, transfer to the historic city of Guanajuato, approximately 35 minutes away. After settling into your hotel, there will be time to relax and get to know the city before meeting your guides and the Mexican Charro team who will accompany you throughout the ride.
This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner in Guanajuato and take in the atmosphere of this colourful colonial city before the riding begins tomorrow.
After breakfast, meet the horses and set off on the first riding day of the expedition. The route heads into the Sierra Central, following historic trails through the mountains and towards the small village of Santa Rosa.
The scenery is a mix of rugged mountain landscapes, traditional villages and old mining areas, with abandoned gold and silver mines dotted along the route. The ride reaches altitudes of around 2,850 metres as you make your way through the Central Highlands. After approximately 27 kilometres in the saddle, arrive at the mountain refuge for the night. There will be time to relax around the fireplace with a drink before dinner.
Today continues through the Sierra Central, with a full day of riding through the mountainous landscapes of the region. The route includes plenty of climbing and descending as the trail winds through the hills and surrounding countryside.
After a long and exciting day on horseback, arrive at Hacienda El Gallinero, a historic estate dating back to the early 18th century. The hacienda has played a role in the history of the region and was later used as a refuge by Pancho Villa.Enjoy dinner in the gardens of the hacienda before settling in for the night.
After breakfast, ride towards Dolores Hidalgo, a town closely associated with the beginning of Mexico’s struggle for independence. The route takes you into the historic town on horseback, with time to explore the centre and learn more about its important place in Mexican history.
The ride then continues along historic trails towards the former Hacienda de la Erre, following sections of the old Royal Road. After some amazing riding through mountainous terrain, return to the hacienda for the evening.
Today’s ride takes you through the dry landscapes and cactus-covered valleys of the Central Highlands as the route continues towards Atotonilco. The trail crosses the grounds of Hacienda de la Erre, one of the historic estates associated with the independence movement.
A picnic lunch is enjoyed near the old chapel at Barrón before continuing towards Atotonilco and the Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco. This historic 18th-century complex is known for its richly decorated interiors and forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, arrive at the accommodation near the Laja River. A dip in the hot-springs swimming pool is the perfect way to relax after a day in the saddle.
After breakfast, leave Atotonilco on horseback and follow historic bridleways towards San Miguel de Allende. These trails were once used to transport silver during the colonial period and later became linked to the revolutionary history of the region.
The landscape changes as the route passes through agave plantations, semi-desert terrain and the rural countryside surrounding San Miguel de Allende. After settling into the hotel, the evening is free to enjoy dinner and explore some of San Miguel de Allende’s lively atmosphere.
Today is a rest day from the horses, giving you time to explore San Miguel de Allende on foot. The historic centre is filled with colourful colonial buildings, churches, cobbled streets and lively squares, with plenty of cafés, restaurants, galleries and shops to discover.
The day is free to enjoy at your own pace before a final dinner in the city. Depending on the evening, there may also be time to experience some of San Miguel de Allende’s traditional nightlife.
After breakfast, the Revolution Trail Ride comes to an end. Guests continuing their travels can arrange a transfer to León-Bajío International Airport, approximately two hours away, or extend their stay in San Miguel de Allende.
For those flying from León, a departure after 2pm is recommended to allow enough time for the transfer to the airport.
ACTIVITIES ON THE REVOLUTION TRAIL RIDE
Here are some of the unforgettable activities you can do while on the Revolution Trail Ride in Mexico
HORSES & TACK ON THE REVOLUTION TRAIL RIDE
THE HORSES
The Mexican Revolution Trail Ride is completed on horses that are well suited to the country's rugged countryside and long days on the trail. Most are Mexican Criollo, Quarter Horse, and Azteca, breeds known for their endurance, calm temperament, and sure footedness. These horses are responsive without being difficult, making them enjoyable partners whether you are riding through open ranchland, mountain tracks, or historic villages. Raised for ranch work, they are fit, reliable, and comfortable covering long distances day after day.
THE TACK
The ride is completed using traditional Mexican Charro or Western saddles, both designed to provide comfort and stability during long hours in the saddle. Charro saddles are a distinctive part of Mexico's equestrian heritage, featuring a deep seat and broad horn that reflect the country's vaquero traditions. Simple western style bridles with shank bits or bosals provide clear communication, while handcrafted leatherwork and traditional detailing add an authentic touch. Together, the tack combines practicality with the rich history and craftsmanship that continue to define horseback riding in Mexico.
GET INSPIRED FOR THE REVOLUTION TRAIL RIDE
DATES & RATES
Open between August and February each year with set departure dates. Please enquire for exact departure dates and availability.
2026 SEASON:
19 – 26 August 2026
06 – 13 September 2026
03 – 10 October 2026
02 – 09 December 2026
7 Nights From:
USD $3,551
per person sharing
Note: Prices are linked to the Mexican Peso – in the case of strong exchange rate fluctuations, the price can be adjusted up to 3 weeks before departure.
2027 SEASON:
24 – 31 January 2027
17 – 24 February 2027
22 – 29 September 2027
01 – 08 December 2027
7 Nights From:
USD $3,875
per person sharing
Note: Prices are linked to the Mexican Peso – in the case of strong exchange rate fluctuations, the price can be adjusted up to 3 weeks before departure.
EXTRAS (Subject to Change)
Single Supplement if not willing to share From:
USD $550
* per person
*subject to change depending on the exchange rate
TRANSFERS (subject to change)
Airport transfers to and from Del Bajío International Airport (León) are not included and can be arranged locally at an affordable rate.
WHERE YOU'LL STAY ON THE REVOLUTION TRAIL RIDE
COLOMITOS RANCH
The first two nights are spent glamping at an authentic Mexican ranch in a small rural community. Accommodation is in twin-sharing tents, with single occupancy available on request and subject to availability. Bathroom facilities are shared, with separate facilities for men and women. The ranch setting offers a simple, rural introduction to the journey, with the peaceful surroundings and open countryside providing a natural setting for the first nights of the ride.
GUANAJUATO HOTEL
Located in Cañada de la Olla, in the southeastern part of Guanajuato, this comfortable three-star hotel provides a convenient base for exploring the historic city and surrounding region. Accommodation is in twin-sharing rooms, with single occupancy available on request and subject to availability. All rooms have private en suite bathrooms, providing a welcome return to comfort after a day spent riding through the Central Highlands.
MOUNTAIN REFUGE
Surrounded by the natural scenery of Mexico's Central Highlands, this mountain refuge offers a peaceful overnight stay in a remote setting. Accommodation is in multi-sharing rooms, with single occupancy available on request and subject to availability. Bathroom facilities are shared, with one bathroom for women and one for men. The fresh mountain air, quiet surroundings and natural landscape create a simple and restful setting after a rewarding day on horseback.
DOLORES HIDALGO HOTEL
Located in the historic centre of Dolores Hidalgo, this comfortable three-star hotel places guests within easy walking distance of the town's historic streets and central landmarks. Accommodation is in twin-sharing rooms, with single occupancy available on request and subject to availability. All rooms have private en suite bathrooms, providing a comfortable base from which to explore this important town in Mexico's history.
ATOTONILCO RETREAT
This peaceful four-star retreat lies a short distance from the Sanctuary of Atotonilco, surrounded by the landscapes and history of the Mexican countryside. Set among mesquite trees and native cacti, the property combines rustic architecture with a tranquil rural atmosphere. Accommodation is in twin-sharing rooms, with single occupancy available on request and subject to availability. All rooms have private en suite bathrooms, making this a comfortable final base near the historic villages and cultural landmarks of the region.
THE DESTINATION
Guanajuato
Guanajuato is a historic city in the central highlands of Mexico, built among steep hills and narrow valleys. Founded as a mining settlement, its historic centre contains colourful colonial buildings, plazas, churches and winding alleyways that reflect the city’s Spanish and Indigenous heritage. The Historic City of Guanajuato and Adjacent Mines was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. Today, Guanajuato is also one of Mexico’s most important centres for traditional Day of the Dead celebrations.
Dolores Hidalgo, Cradle Of Mexican Independence
Dolores Hidalgo is a historic town in the state of Guanajuato and is widely regarded as the birthplace of Mexican independence. On 16 September 1810, Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla called for the beginning of the struggle against Spanish rule from the town’s parish church. Today, Dolores Hidalgo retains its colonial character and is also known for its ceramics, traditional crafts and colourful historic centre, set among the dry hills and agricultural landscapes of the Central Highlands.
San Miguel De Allende & The Sanctuary Of Atotonilco
San Miguel de Allende is a historic city in Mexico’s Central Highlands, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and important role in the country’s history. Nearby Atotonilco is home to the Sanctuary of Jesús Nazareno de Atotonilco, an 18th-century church renowned for its richly decorated interior and often described as the ‘Sistine Chapel of Mexico’. Together, the two sites form a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting the region’s blend of Spanish colonial and indigenous cultural influences.
HOW WE CARE FOR OUR HORSES
Our horseback adventures are hand-picked for their quality and care of their horses. Here’s how the horses on the Revolution Trail Ride are kept in tip-top shape for your safaris. The horses are on top of the hierarchy and receive very special care:
- The horses are carefully inspected before and after each riding day for their general health, body condition, hydration, hooves, horseshoes, tack-related rubbing or pressure, fatigue, lameness and any signs of discomfort
- They receive access to clean mountain streams and natural ponds along the route, and whenever conditions allow, they graze freely during rest stops and at the end of each riding day. Their diet is supplemented with hay and concentrate feed whenever necessary
- Regular breaks are scheduled throughout each riding day to allow the horses to rest, rehydrate and have their tack checked
- Horse and rider pairings are carefully considered according to the rider’s weight, height and riding experience, as well as the horse’s temperament, ensuring the most suitable match for each journey
- Reserve horses are maintained to reduce individual workloads whenever necessary
- When not working, the horses live in open spaces where they can move freely, graze and interact socially with other horses
- Mexican Quarter Horses and Azteca horses are selected for their appropriate temperament, experience, physical condition and training for multi-day trail rides, as well as their suitability for the terrain, climate and altitude of the regions in which they work
- All saddles, saddle pads, girths, bridles and other riding equipment are regularly inspected, with each horse’s tack individually fitted to prevent pressure points, rubbing or discomfort
- A selection of Mexican Charro and Vaquero saddles in different styles and sizes is available to achieve the best possible fit for both horse and rider
- The horses receive ongoing preventive healthcare, including regular deworming, veterinary care, equine dentistry, routine hoof care and shoeing whenever required by the terrain and working conditions
- The horse care team handles the horses with patience, respect and a sound understanding of equine behaviour, while guides continuously monitor their physical condition and behaviour throughout the expedition
Please chat to us if you have any more questions about this.
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