Experience Horse Riding, ATV & Zipline from Puerto Vallarta

Exploring Puerto Vallarta isn’t just about relaxing on beaches or strolling through charming streets—sometimes, you want to feel the pulse of nature and adrenaline all in one go. This 6.5-hour combo tour takes you from the bustling city to the lush Sierra Madre rainforest, combining horseback riding, ATV excursions, ziplining, and a refreshing waterfall hike. Prices hover around $235 per person, and it’s a popular choice, typically booked about 30 days in advance.

What makes this experience stand out for us is how it seamlessly mixes thrills with authenticity. First, the guides—like Hector, who’s praised for his patience and enthusiasm—bring local knowledge that enriches every activity. Second, the chance to visit a secluded waterfall that’s accessible only through this adventure adds a real sense of discovery.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this tour demands a decent level of physical activity. If you’re not comfortable with hiking or balancing on horseback, parts of the trip might be a challenge. But if you’re active and eager to see Puerto Vallarta from a new perspective, this is a fantastic fit for you.

This tour suits adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a full day of authentic Mexican scenery and fun. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who appreciate delicious local food and guided expertise—both highlighted consistently in reviews.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Adventure: Combines horseback riding, ATV rides, ziplining, waterfall hikes, and a traditional Mexican lunch.
• Authentic Experience: Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the activities both safe and fun.
• Scenic Variety: From jungle rivers and mountain views to waterfalls and forest crossings.
• Physical Engagement: Suitable for active travelers who can handle a bit of hiking and horseback riding.
• Value & Convenience: Includes transportation from designated meeting points and tickets to Rancho Capomo eco-park.
• Highly Rated: Consistently receives top reviews for fun, food, and scenery.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Location and Duration

Starting at Rancho Capomo, near Jalapa, Mexico, the tour kicks off early at 8:00 am. Transportation is included, with air-conditioned vans making the journey comfortable from your designated meeting points. The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours 30 minutes, making it a full but manageable half-day outing.

The Itinerary Break-Down

Horseback Riding into Sierra Madre

You’ll begin with a horseback ride into the mountains, guided by experienced locals like Hector, who’s praised for his patience—crucial when helping newcomers or nervous riders. The ride takes you along stone paths and rivers, offering views of shaded forests and sparkling streams. One reviewer called it a “lovely ride,” highlighting the horses’ reliability and the scenic surroundings.

ATV Trailblazing

Next, strap on a helmet and hop onto an ATV to cruise through rugged jungle trails. You’ll splash through river crossings, powering through thick foliage, and exploring remote areas that most visitors don’t see. This part appeals to those craving adventure and off-road thrill. Reviewers mention how fun and exhilarating the ATV segment is, describing it as “a whole lot of fun” and “a workout but worth it.”

Ziplining: Flying Through the Treetops

The ziplining circuit includes 7 separate lines, offering views of mountains and forests. Most travelers find zipping over the canopy thrilling yet safe, with guides like Hector ensuring everyone feels comfortable—even first-timers. One guest noted that even without prior ziplining experience, the activity was “awesome,” thanks to helpful staff.

Waterfall Hike & Swimming

After bouncing around on land, it’s time for a moderate hike crossing hanging bridges and walking through lush rainforest. The destination: a hidden waterfall where you can swim or relax in the cool, clear pools. Some reviews mention that the waterfall varies in water flow depending on the season—more impressive during rainy months, less so during dry spells. Still, the experience of reaching this secluded spot is a highlight for many.

The Food and Rest Break

No adventure is complete without a satisfying Mexican-style lunch. You’ll enjoy fajitas, hand-made guacamole, and tortillas—all prepared fresh on-site. The food is consistently praised for its authenticity and quality. Drinks are included, making this a relaxing moment to recharge and swap stories with fellow travelers.

Logistics and Practical Tips

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour price are tickets to Rancho Capomo, the zipline circuit, horseback riding, ATV ride, transportation from meeting points, and a traditional Mexican lunch with drinks. Tips are not included but are recommended, as many reviewers suggest bringing cash for gratuities.

What to Wear and Bring

Comfortable clothes and shoes are a must—think sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes. Sunscreen and insect repellent, preferably biodegradable, help protect your skin amid the jungle environment. Cameras are discouraged for safety reasons, so consider using your phone if permitted or leave it behind during the active parts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure caters best to active travelers comfortable with a bit of physical exertion. People with back, neck, heart, or balance issues should think twice, as some activities require stability and endurance. The maximum weight limit is 250 lbs (120 kg), ensuring safety during the physical activities.

Why We Love This Tour

What really makes this experience shine is the combination of adrenaline and authenticity. The guides, like Hector, are attentive and full of local knowledge, adding a personal touch that elevates the adventure. The scenery is simply stunning—rivers, mountains, and waterfalls—giving you a true sense of the Sierra Madre’s natural beauty. The delicious Mexican food is a bonus, allowing you to savor local flavors in a rustic setting.

We also appreciate that this tour provides transportation included, removing hassle and making logistics straightforward. The small group size (maximum 20 travelers) ensures an intimate experience where everyone can participate comfortably.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

Multiple reviewers highlight the friendly guides and delicious food as standout features. Cassandra, who called the tour “amazing,” appreciated the “fun and knowledgeable” guides and the fresh, authentic meal. Ray W. praised the patience of Hector and the quality of the activities, noting that even those who had never ziplined before found it “awesome.”

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the physical demand; the tour involves a fair amount of hiking, riding, and balancing, so it’s best suited for active individuals. Also, the seasonal variability means waterfall intensity might differ, which could disappoint those expecting a powerful cascade during the dry season.

Final Thoughts

This combo tour offers a rich taste of Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty combined with memorable adventure. It’s perfect for active travelers eager to see the rainforest, challenge themselves a bit, and enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine along the way. The mix of guided activities, stunning scenery, and personalized service makes it a worthwhile splurge if you’re craving a full-day outdoor escape.

Whether you’re into horseback riding, ziplining, or waterfall swimming, this experience delivers on all fronts. The small group size and positive reviews suggest you’ll be in good hands, making it easier to relax and enjoy every moment.

If you seek a balanced dose of adventure and cultural authenticity, this tour is a prime pick. Just remember to wear comfortable clothes, bring some cash for tips, and prepare for a day full of fun and nature.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 6 hours 30 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.

Are transportation and tickets included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transport from designated meeting points and all activity tickets.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes suitable for hiking and riding. Bring biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent.

Can I participate if I’m not very active?
This tour requires a decent level of physical activity, including hiking and horseback riding. Those with health issues should evaluate their fitness level.

Is tipping expected?
Tips are not included, but most travelers recommend bringing cash for guides, staff, and waiters.

What is the maximum weight limit?
The maximum weight allowed is 250 lbs (120 kg) for safety reasons.

Are cameras allowed?
Cameras are not permitted during activities for safety reasons, but you may take photos during the scenic parts or before activities begin.

What’s the best season for this tour?
The waterfall’s water level varies seasonally—more impressive during the rainy season but still worth doing year-round.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Horseback Riding Rancho Capomo Tours and concludes back at the same meeting point.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour involves physical activities like horseback riding and hiking, it’s best suited for older children and active teens.

This adventure-packed excursion in Puerto Vallarta promises a day of thrills, natural beauty, and authentic Mexican flavors, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to combine fun and exploration in one memorable outing.