Arizona
Rancho de la Osa: Ranch Life on the Southern Border
Program No. 23771RJ
Experience life at the most historic ranch in Arizona. Enjoy tranquil trail rides near the Buenos Aires Wildlife Refuge, and learn about grooming, ranch crafts and ancient history.
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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
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Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Feb 16 - Feb 21, 2025
Starting at
1,999DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Feb 2 - Feb 7, 2025
Starting at
2,499Feb 16 - Feb 21, 2025
Starting at
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
At a Glance
Experience authentic ranch life, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of southern Arizona and the Buenos Aires Wildlife Refuge. Hop into the saddle of gentle horses to ramble along easy scenic trails where John Wayne and Pancho Villa once roamed. Learn skills from roping to caring for ranch animals, and study the rich history of the area. Get hands-on lessons riding horses, making tortillas and take part in a tequila tasting. Learn about Navajo Weaving and Native American Jewelry. Plus, choose an extra activity each day, from off-road UTV adventures to sport shooting. This ranch adventure that will give you a window into ranch life on the Southern border.
Activity Level
Outdoor: No Sweat
Riding horses and UTVs, getting on and off horses, walking up to a mile daily on unpaved desert terrain.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Take a field trip to the U.S.-Mexico border to get a better understanding of life on the border.
- Explore the high desert grasslands and wetlands of the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge.
- Enjoy a variety of hands-on classes at the Ranch, from trail riding and roping to art classes, tortilla making and tequila tasting.
General Notes
Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available. Select dates can be taken back-to-back with a sister program, “Ultimate Old West: The White Stallion Ranch Experience (#20193)”. Please check Dates and Prices of both programs for availability and then contact the Ranch directly to make arrangements.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Jerry Freund
Jerry Freund was born on the plains of western Kansas. He has explored the natural world and the world of Native Americans for most of his life. His love of Navajo culture and their weavings has intrigued him for more than 60 years. Though retired, Jerry continues to work in an art gallery of Western art that specializes in Native American art.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Gail True
View biography
Gail True received her first passport when she was seven months old. She spent most of her career working in Human Resources for retail organizations and hospitals. Gail has lived in Arizona, Northern and Southern California, and in West Africa during her time in the Peace Corps. Her travels have taken her to more than 30 countries with plans to visit many more. She looks forward to getting to know her fellow Road Scholars, and to sharing the history and beauty of the true West.
Jerry Freund
View biography
Jerry Freund was born on the plains of western Kansas. He has explored the natural world and the world of Native Americans for most of his life. His love of Navajo culture and their weavings has intrigued him for more than 60 years. Though retired, Jerry continues to work in an art gallery of Western art that specializes in Native American art.
Diego Dunn
View biography
Diego Dunn has extensive knowledge about the desert and edible plants, studying under Charles W. Kane and Peter Bigfoot. He is the owner of Desert Gatherings, which sells native desert seeds and makes products such as prickly pear syrup, hot sauce, and cactus jelly. Diego now uses his knowledge to teach others about the edible Southwestern desert.
Madeline Thorpe
View biography
Madeline Thorpe is a self-taught artist who was born in Tucson, Arizona. Her art is heavily influenced by the things she loves in the Southwest: the Sonoran Desert, the surrounding mountains, and her Hispanic origin. She has worked in various mediums of art including sandblasting. Madeline also authored "Corazon Contento," a cookbook which not only features regional recipes but also recuerdos (family stories), dichos (sayings) and remedios (remedies) from her childhood.
Suggested Reading List
(8 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Rancho de la Osa: Ranch Life on the Southern Border
Program Number: 23771
Medicine in the Old West: A History, 1850-1900
Cowboys & the Trappings of the Old West
True Tales and Amazing Legends of the Old West: From True West Magazine
Early Tucson (Images of America)
Tucson: The Life and Times of an American City
Dude Ranching in Arizona (Images of America)
Line in the Sand: A History of the Western U.S.-Mexico Border
Levi's & Lace: Arizona Women who Made History
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Sasabe, AZ
Program Concludes
Sasabe, AZ
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
14
| 5B |
4L |
5D |
Activity Level
Experience authentic ranch life, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of southern Arizona and the Buenos Aires Wildlife Refuge. Hop into the saddle of gentle horses to ramble along easy scenic trails where John Wayne and Pancho Villa once roamed. Learn skills from roping to caring for ranch animals, and study the rich history of the area. Get hands-on lessons riding horses, making tortillas and take part in a tequila tasting. Learn about Navajo Weaving and Native American Jewelry. Plus, choose an extra activity each day, from off-road UTV adventures to sport shooting. This ranch adventure that will give you a window into ranch life on the Southern border.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Take a field trip to the U.S.-Mexico border to get a better understanding of life on the border.
- Explore the high desert grasslands and wetlands of the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge.
- Enjoy a variety of hands-on classes at the Ranch, from trail riding and roping to art classes, tortilla making and tequila tasting.
General Notes
Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available. Select dates can be taken back-to-back with a sister program, “Ultimate Old West: The White Stallion Ranch Experience (#20193)”. Please check Dates and Prices of both programs for availability and then contact the Ranch directly to make arrangements.
Featured Expert
Jerry Freund
Jerry Freund was born on the plains of western Kansas. He has explored the natural world and the world of Native Americans for most of his life. His love of Navajo culture and their weavings has intrigued him for more than 60 years. Though retired, Jerry continues to work in an art gallery of Western art that specializes in Native American art.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Gail True
Gail True received her first passport when she was seven months old. She spent most of her career working in Human Resources for retail organizations and hospitals. Gail has lived in Arizona, Northern and Southern California, and in West Africa during her time in the Peace Corps. Her travels have taken her to more than 30 countries with plans to visit many more. She looks forward to getting to know her fellow Road Scholars, and to sharing the history and beauty of the true West.
Diego Dunn
Diego Dunn has extensive knowledge about the desert and edible plants, studying under Charles W. Kane and Peter Bigfoot. He is the owner of Desert Gatherings, which sells native desert seeds and makes products such as prickly pear syrup, hot sauce, and cactus jelly. Diego now uses his knowledge to teach others about the edible Southwestern desert.
Activity Level
Outdoor: No Sweat
Riding horses and UTVs, getting on and off horses, walking up to a mile daily on unpaved desert terrain.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(8 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
14 meals | 5B | 4L | 5D |
5 expert-led lectures
7 expert-led field trips
6 hands-on experiences
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Ranch History
Location:
Sasabe, AZ
Meals:
D
Stay:
Rancho de la Osa Guest Ranch
Activity Note
Ranch check-in from 3:00 p.m. Walking several hundred feet over packed dirt terrain between housing and dining hall/meeting room. The ranch is in a dark sky area and has minimal outdoor lighting at night. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 3:00 p.m. After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation: 5:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. For all meals, dietary restrictions and special diets (vegetarian and gluten free) will be accommodated with minimum three weeks advance notice. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Next, we'll enjoy a presentation on the history of Rancho de la Osa with one of the ranch owners.
Dinner:
In the Hacienda at the Ranch.
Evening:
Continue getting to know your fellow participants, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
Horse & Ranch Demos, Border Visit & WIldlife Refuge
Location:
Sasabe, AZ
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rancho de la Osa Guest Ranch
Activity Note
Walking one to two miles over the course of the day over varied terrain. Getting on/off horses (mounting blocks available) or in/out of UTVs; riding horses.
Breakfast:
In the Hacienda.
Morning:
We will begin the day with a horse safety class with ranch staff. This will help prepare us for an enjoyable and safe program experience. Next, we will embark on a field trip to the nearby U.S. – Mexico border, either as a scenic introductory trail ride or as an off-road UTV trip.
Lunch:
In the Hacienda.
Afternoon:
This afternoon, you can choose to try your hand at sport shooting or take a trip to the Buenos Aires Wildlife Refuge. Originally a cattle ranch, the land was purchased by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 1985 to create a refuge for the endangered Masked Bobwhite Quail. The nearly 120,000 acre refuge is a birdwatcher's paradise with spectacular views and a fascinating history. Later on, we'll be treated to a class and demonstration on natural horsemanship, a fascinatingly effective technique for working with horses.
Dinner:
Cocktail hour in the Cantina followed by dinner in the Hacienda.
Evening:
After dinner, we will unwind and enjoy some evening entertainment.
Day
3
Ranch Activities, Navajo Weaving, Native American Jewelry
Location:
Sasabe, AZ
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rancho de la Osa Guest Ranch
Activity Note
Walking one to two miles over the course of the day over varied terrain. Getting on/off horses (mounting blocks available) or in/out of UTVs; riding horses. The extent of the ranch activity is dependent on participants’ choice.
Breakfast:
In the Hacienda at the Ranch.
Morning:
This morning,we'll choose an activity of our choice, which may include a horseback ride or you can take a trip to the nearby Buenos Aires Wildlife Refuge if you did not visit yesterday.
Lunch:
In the Hacienda at the Ranch.
Afternoon:
Next, we'll be joined by a local expert for a presentation about Navajo Weaving. Later, we'll take a horseback ride to a desert location for a Spanish Wine and Cheese tasting (the location is within walking distance for those who don't wish to ride).
Dinner:
Cocktail hour in the Cantina followed by dinner in the Hacienda.
Evening:
After dinner we'll be joined by a local expert for a presentation on Southwest Native American Jewelry.
Day
4
Trail Ride Breakfast, Ranch Activities, Local Culture
Location:
Sasabe, AZ
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rancho de la Osa Guest Ranch
Activity Note
Walking one to two miles over the course of the day over varied terrain. Getting on/off horses (mounting blocks available) or in/out of UTVs; riding horses. The extent of the ranch activity is dependent on participants’ choice.
Breakfast:
We'll ride our horses out to a beautiful location for an "al fresco” cookout, weather permitting. (The cookout site is within walking distance for those who don't wish to ride).
Morning:
We'll ride back to the ranch and a local expert will lead you in crafting your own Native American Medicine Bag to symbolize your personal well-being. (You are welcome to bring something small and meaningful for your bag).
Lunch:
In the Hacienda at the Ranch.
Afternoon:
You'll depart for a walking presentation on herbal and edible plants in the desert with a local expert. Upon returning to the ranch, you'll learn about chiles and how to prepare and use them in cooking.
Dinner:
Cocktail hour in the Cantina followed by dinner in the Hacienda.
Evening:
After dinner we'll gather for evening entertainment.
Day
5
Poker Horseback Ride, Roping & Tequila tasting
Location:
Sasabe, AZ
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rancho de la Osa Guest Ranch
Activity Note
Walking one to two miles over the course of the day over varied terrain. Getting on/off horses (mounting blocks available) or in/out of UTVs; riding horses. The extent of the ranch activity is dependent on participants’ choice.
Breakfast:
In the Hacienda at the Ranch.
Morning:
We'll start the day with a special scenic trail ride and activity – a poker horseback ride where we will draw a card at a series of checkpoints. Our hands will be revealed this evening. (If you do not wish to ride, we’ll have extra cards to draw from prior to the evening poker event.) Or, you may choose to try your hand at sport shorting or go on a nature hike where you'll learn about the flora and fauna surrounding the ranch.
Lunch:
In the Hacienda at the Ranch.
Afternoon:
After lunch we'll have the option to be introduced to proper grooming techniques with the ranch horses, or try your hand at roping. Later on, we'll participate in a hands-on tortilla making class with Ranch Staff.
Dinner:
Cocktail hour in the Cantina; we will reveal our poker hands from this morning's ride. We will share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner in the Hacienda.
Evening:
After dinner, we will enjoy a tequila tasting experience with a local expert. We will learn about the history and unique qualities of Mexcal, Tequila, Bacanora and Sotol, and will have a chance to sample each. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
6
Program Concludes
Location:
Sasabe, AZ
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Ranch check-out by 11:00 a.m. Airport shuttles depart for Tucson; check with your Group Leader for details.
Breakfast:
In the Hacienda at the Ranch. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don't forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
14 Meals
5 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
5 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
- Feb 02, 2025 - Feb 07, 2025
- Feb 16, 2025 - Feb 21, 2025
- Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
- Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 26 Reviews
Sort By:
If you are looking for an Authentic Remote Dude Ranch experience this is the one for you. Just make sure you choose to go later in fall. 2024 Oct. was HOT in 90-100 degrees Old rustic and very very clean with good variety of activities for all. and excellent meals. A+ and A+ hospitality.
— Review left October 12, 2024
This was an outstanding program. Everyone had a wonderful time the staff and program director was top-notch. May go again next year.
— Review left February 23, 2024
If you want a relaxing riding experience in the desert Southwest, this trip is for you! The horses are gentle, clearly loved and given the best of care by the knowledgeable, friendly and often funny wranglers. The food at the ranch is outstanding--delicious, varied and befitting the location. All the people working at the ranch are a delight. It is a very mellow experience--not strenuous or challenging physically--and the more active parts of the day are balanced with educational opportunities.
— Review left February 12, 2024
This program is in a remote area on a rather rustic ranch. There are lots of interactions with horse care and riding. If you are unable to/or do not wish to deal with horses, be prepared to bring a good book, and ride to locations in the ranch UTV. Check on field trips before going as the current list is outdated.
— Review left October 23, 2023
I am an advanced beginner rider. (started in mid 60's) This was a great experience for me to get out of my comfort zone and learn more about riding. Views and range are wonderful. The border wall is something to see. It is not what I expected architecturally. Seeing it in person is impactful. The stories staff shared made me think more about the situation. It is a complex problem we as individuals and as a nation have to address no matter what side of the issue you fall. Thanks Rancho de la Osa for the experience!
— Review left October 14, 2023
This is an authentic dude ranch full of history. The horse rides give you a good feeling for what was once the Old West. All levels of riders are accommodated, even those who were afraid to get on a horse the first day. Road Scholar doesn't permit fast riding (loping), but the walks are interesting even for more experienced riders. I would definitely recommend this one first if you plan to go to the White Stallion Ranch later, which is great and an authentic ranch, but more of a resort.
— Review left February 11, 2023
Ranch life at De la Osa was a great trip that included horseback riding, shooting, roping, tortilla making and more. We learned the history of the site, Navajo weaving, animals in the desert and more!
— Review left October 20, 2022
We like traveling on our own without a group. However, Roads Scholar is the exception because we really found it to be a in-depth learning experience very different from other group experiences
— Review left October 3, 2022
We thoroughly enjoyed our RoadScholar experience at Rancho de la Osa! We learned so much from the staff there and from the expert presenters and enjoyed the trail rides and excursions. In fact, we're already looking forward to our next RoadScholar trip.
— Review left October 3, 2022
The tour guide was great. The ranch is isolated which I wanted. Nice room. Food was good. Participants were fantastic. Weather did not cooperate, it was cold and rainy. Not Road Scholars problem. I realized I do NOT want to be a cowboy, but the other aspects of the trip were good. I’m glad I did it, but I will not go back. I hear they are doing a major renovation this summer.
— Review left April 15, 2022
A knowledgeable, experienced, and gracious staff in an authentic, historical western guest ranch made this trip both enjoyable and educational. Good food, great outings, and accommodations with real character made this a unique and worthwhile experience.
— Review left March 17, 2022
If you want try activities that you can’t do in the city—this is the tip for you. The location is worth getting there and the range of opportunities is fun. The staff and horse wranglers will show you a different way of life. A Cowboy hat is optional, but I recommend you wear one. If you can, plan to stay in the region for as long as you can. Diana from Minnesota (who escaped snow and ice).
— Review left March 7, 2022
Looking for an outdoor adventure with underlying history and current political implications? Try this guest ranch on the Arizona/Mexico border.
— Review left February 27, 2022
This was my favorite Road Scholar trip to date because of the time I was able to spend on and around the horses. It's rustic and very quiet, beautiful weather and great staff.
— Review left February 21, 2022
I recently completed the trip to Rancho de la Osa, Life on the Border and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in ranching and border history combined with horseback riding and physical activity. The accommodations are rustic but perfect for the setting and all the staff members are helpful and knowledgeaboe. It is a trip that will stay with you and I want to go back.
— Review left February 12, 2022
There are two aspects of this program that are just outstanding.
First, the buildings and furnishings of Rancho de la Osa are so beautiful they have been featured in multiple publications including Architectural Digest. The la Osa Cantina, where you can relax and visit with others anytime, was built by Jesuits in 1722.
Second, Ross and Lynne Knox are exceptional people with exceptional knowledge and experience, and they also make you feel like family.
My other favorite part was that at age 74 I learned I could ride a horse! And it’s fun! My travel partner didn’t ride after the first day, but she totally enjoyed the program also.
— Review left October 8, 2021
Great for getting away from the day to day hustle. Wonderful for riding and experiencing the beauty of nature.
— Review left October 7, 2021
One can see Mexico from the ranch: a lovely quiet place far from city noise & traffic. The group leader, Mrs Knox, made sure everyone had an opportunity to participate in all the activities even if it meant setting up a special time. The instructor, Mr Knox, was the closest thing to a frontier man you will ever meet. They did a superior job running this program.
For us, they set up special horseback rides.The scheduled rides were wonderful sightseeing trips while the special rides were more challenging.
The rooms were comfortable, the food plentiful, the other staff very competent & professional with interesting backgrounds & stories.
I hope they will still be there when we return.
— Review left March 14, 2020
Spending time at Rancho de la Osa is a true western ranch experience. Though considered a "dude ranch" there is nothing slick or contrived about it. The ranch is old west charming, with comfortable accommodations, really good food and truly wonderful instructors who will have you riding and roping and participating in other cowboy activities with confidence. Go, find your inner cowboy-or girl-and be glad.
— Review left March 14, 2020
If you love the west and enjoyed cowboy shows like Roy Rodgers and western movies, I highly recommend this trip. In just six days you have the opportunity to experience riding, roping, branding, tortilla making, horse training, mule packing, riding in a UTV and more while being entertained by cowboy poetry and a western singer. Fulfill your western dream and go to Rancho de la Osa. Ross, Lynne, and Adam were wonderful hosts and teachers.
— Review left March 9, 2020
You don't have to ride horses just to enjoy this RS program. There are plenty of other activities to enjoy while staying at the most historic ranch in Arizona. I really enjoyed the animal skull presentation and the field trip to the ruins and petroglyphs. Yow can take advantage of the nature walk. The accommodations are cozy with a fireplace in each room. The food was excellent. if you horseback ride, you will enjoy yourself. Ross and Lynne are wonderful hosts. Presentations were informative and interesting. Loved the tortilla making. it was a great week.
— Review left February 1, 2020
What stunning landscapes, just awesome, especially if you're from the east coast. I've never been to a R.S. with so many options of activities every day, where you could repeat a favorite or try something new. Every meal was delicious, prepared from a great chef. Every morning began with a mesquite wood fire in our room, such a treat. Lynn and Ross were so interesting and accommodating, seeing their skills and hearing their stories made this trip very unique; we left feeling we had some new best friends and really consider going back again. Side note, no need to bring a water bottle with a filter, their well water out of the tap was a 10!
— Review left January 27, 2020
Having never been to Sasabe (although I lived in Robles Junction for several years), I ejoyed this experience.
— Review left January 23, 2020
If you enjoy horseback riding and want an experience on a beautiful, historic ranch, this is the program for you! There are also options for non-riders, plus everyone can have a chance to try out the shooting range, rawhide braiding, and lasso-ing.
— Review left January 20, 2020
It's a great program to learn about the history of cattle ranching and a cowboy's life in Arizona's old west.
— Review left January 19, 2020
Time travel to the old West. What great fun staying at a historic ranch with real life cowboys and cow girls. The horses were steady and dependable. Riding near the Mexico border. Seeing a ghost town. Weather was awesome. Loved it
— Review left January 17, 2020
