Sierra Madre Horseback Riding and ATV Tour

Discover the Sierra Madre Horseback Riding and ATV Tour: An Adventure for Every Explorer

Imagine riding through tropical rainforests, crossing mountain streams, and exploring small villages—all within a half-day of adventure from Puerto Vallarta. For $150 per person, this tour offers roughly five hours of high-energy fun, combining horseback riding, ATV rides, stunning natural scenery, and a delicious Mexican lunch. Led by friendly guides, it’s perfect for those who want an authentic taste of rural Mexico while satisfying their craving for a little adrenaline.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure and authenticity. The guides are known for their friendliness and local knowledge, making the journey feel personal and safe. Plus, the tour’s emphasis on small groups—limited to 15 people—ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd.

That said, if you’re carrying a lot of gear or prefer a very leisurely pace, this might feel a bit more intense than a relaxed sightseeing day. Also, since the tour involves a hike to the waterfall, it’s worth noting that it’s physically a bit demanding—so come prepared for some walking.

This tour suits active travelers looking for an authentic, multi-sensory experience that showcases the natural beauty and rural life of the Sierra Madre, all wrapped in a well-organized package.

Key Points

• Variety of activities: Combines horseback riding, ATV riding, and a hike to a waterfall for a diverse experience.
• Small group size: Ensures personalized attention and a more intimate adventure.
• Authentic scenery: Traverses rural villages, lush forests, and mountain streams—more authentic than typical tourist spots.
• All-inclusive value: Includes taxes, fees, lunch, unlimited drinks, and transportation, offering good value for money.
• Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and safety tips.
• Ideal for active travelers: Perfect for those who enjoy a mix of adventure, nature, and culture.

A Deep Dive into the Sierra Madre Horseback Riding and ATV Tour

What’s the Experience Like from Start to Finish?

From the moment you are picked up at your Puerto Vallarta hotel or designated meeting point, you’re heading into a different world—rural, peaceful, but bursting with activity. The driver, often praised for punctuality and friendliness, takes you to Rancho Capomo, your starting point. Here, the adventure begins with a warm welcome, and you quickly realize this is as much about the scenery and local culture as it is about adrenaline.

The Ranch: Heart of the Adventure

At Rancho Capomo, the setting is idyllic—horses grazing, vibrant greenery, and a sense of calm. This is where you’ll meet your guides and receive your safety instructions. The horses seem well cared for, according to reviews, which is reassuring if you’re a novice or an experienced rider. We loved the way the guides, like Berto, bring humor and local knowledge to the experience, making the tour feel personal rather than just another group activity.

Horseback Riding Through the Rainforest

The first activity involves riding along trails that wind through the Sierra Madre rainforest. The scenery is stunning—towering trees, dense foliage, and the distant sound of waterfalls. Reviewers consistently mention the beautiful ride along the river, with one noting that “the horseback ride was very pleasant” and “the waterfall at the end was worth it.”

The trail is suitable for beginners, with no prior experience needed, which makes it accessible to most travelers. However, a few reviews mention that balancing on the horses requires some attention—so if you have mobility concerns, keep that in mind.

The Waterfall Hike and Swimming Opportunity

After riding, the group hikes to a waterfall, offering a chance to cool off and enjoy nature. The waterfall is often described as “magnificent” and “well worth the effort.” The hike is moderately challenging; travelers describe it as “a little hike,” requiring some physical effort but not overly strenuous. If you’re concerned about walking or hiking, consider your comfort level before the trip.

ATV Riding Through Small Towns and Countryside

Next, it’s on to the ATV portion—an activity that reviewers say is super fun and well-organized. The ATVs are suitable for beginners; guides ensure everyone feels comfortable before heading out. Many reviews mention the peaceful ride through local villages and rural landscapes, giving an authentic glimpse of Mexican countryside life.

Some guests, however, found the ATV riding to be “only on the road,” which may be less exciting for those expecting off-road adventures. It’s worth noting that for some, sharing an ATV with a companion was a minor disappointment, especially if you’re accustomed to having your own vehicle.

Authentic Lunch and Unlimited Drinks

The tour concludes back at Rancho Capomo with a Mexican lunch featuring homemade tortillas and local flavors. Reviewers rave about the delicious food and generous servings: “the lunch was fantastic,” with “great homemade tortillas.” The open bar, with margaritas, beers, and sodas, keeps the mood festive and relaxed, perfect for winding down after a busy morning.

Overall Value and Experience

At $150 per person, the experience is often praised for its value—especially given the inclusions of transportation, meals, drinks, and all activities. Many reviewers, like Ryan, highlight the top-class staff and guides and the fact that the day exceeded their expectations.

What Do the Reviews Actually Say?

• Guides like Sergio, Hector, and Berto are consistently praised for their friendliness, humor, and local knowledge. They make the tour more engaging and ensure safety.
• The scenery is a standout—riders love the views of forests, mountains, and small villages that feel far from touristy Puerto Vallarta.
• The lunch is a highlight for many, with comments about homemade tortillas and tasty Mexican fare.
• The adventure level is just right for active travelers; some reviews mention that the water hike involves walking, but most found it manageable and rewarding.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviews point out minor frustrations, such as late pickups or sharing ATVs with a partner, which may not suit everyone. Also, the ATV ride might be more road-oriented than off-road, which could disappoint those seeking rugged terrain. The hike to the waterfall, while beautiful, is physically demanding for some, so travelers with mobility issues should prepare accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for adventure-seeking travelers wanting a taste of real Mexico—rural villages, lush forests, and mountain views—without sacrificing comfort or safety. It’s perfect if you enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, local culture, and good food. The small group size and friendly guides make it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who don’t mind a bit of physical activity.

If you’re short on time but craving a full, authentic experience outside the typical tourist spots, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy active days with scenic rewards and a relaxed lunch to cap it off.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points are included in the tour price, making it convenient to start your adventure stress-free.

Do I need prior experience for horseback riding or ATV riding?
No, both activities are designed for beginners, with guides providing instructions and assistance along the way.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, closed-toe shoes for riding, and bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera for the scenic views.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The horseback riding and hike to the waterfall involve some physical effort, particularly walking on uneven terrain. It’s suitable for most active travelers but may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

What is included in the tour?
The price covers all taxes and fees, a Mexican-style lunch, unlimited drinks (including alcoholic beverages), and transportation.

Can I purchase photos of the tour?
Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase if you want to capture the memories.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Final Thoughts

The Sierra Madre Horseback Riding and ATV Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore more of Puerto Vallarta’s surrounding natural beauty and rural life. It’s a chance to swap the beaches for forests, hills, and small villages—delivering authentic scenery and warm local hospitality. With friendly guides, delicious food, and a mix of exciting activities, it provides great value for travelers who want more than sunbathing.

Whether you’re an active traveler craving adventure or simply curious about local life beyond the city, this tour is a solid choice. It balances fun, culture, and nature in a way that leaves you with lasting memories—and a few stories to tell back home.