Horse Back Riding, Zipline and ATV Experience

Horse Back Riding, Zipline and ATV Experience in Puerto Vallarta: The Adventure You Never Knew You Needed

If you’re craving a day packed with adrenaline, natural beauty, and authentic flavors, this tour in Puerto Vallarta might just be what you’re looking for. For approximately six hours, you’ll find yourself exploring the lush Sierra Madre mountains, riding horseback into a charming village, flying over treetops on ziplines, and splashing through rivers on ATVs. All of this for $235 per person, with most travelers booking about 11 days in advance. The tour is designed for those who love a mix of active outdoor pursuits and culture, topped off with a delicious Mexican lunch.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are the diverse scenery — from river valleys to mountain views — and the hands-on, authentic Mexican meal that you get to prepare yourself. The guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making the adventure both fun and safe. A possible consideration is the physical requirement; if you have back, neck, or heart conditions, or are pregnant, this might not be suitable. But if you’re in good health and love outdoor adventures, this tour offers a fantastic value, especially for those who enjoy a mix of excitement and cultural touches. It’s perfect for active travelers, families with older kids, and anyone wanting to experience more than just beaches during a Puerto Vallarta trip.

Key Points

• Diverse adventures: Horseback riding, ATV tours, and ziplining provide a full sensory experience.
• Authentic flavor: You get to prepare and enjoy a traditional Mexican lunch with fresh ingredients.
• Scenic landscapes: From lush rainforests to mountain views and waterfalls, the scenery is breathtaking.
• All-inclusive convenience: Transportation, equipment, and guides are included, simplifying the logistics.
• Suitable for most: Most travelers can participate, though certain health restrictions apply.
• Limited group size: With a max of 15 travelers, you’ll get personalized attention and space to enjoy each activity.

Exploring Puerto Vallarta’s Wild Side: What You Can Expect

This tour is about combining adventure with authenticity. The journey begins early in the morning from designated meeting points, with air-conditioned transportation whisking you into the countryside. After a brief safety overview, the fun kicks off with horseback riding. You’ll ride your own horse along a river into the vibrant rainforest — a peaceful yet exhilarating way to connect with nature. The guides, Hector and Sergio, earn high praise for their friendliness and professionalism, making sure everyone feels comfortable, regardless of riding experience.

Following the horseback ride, you’ll switch gears and hop onto ATVs. This is where the adventure gets dirtier and wetter. You’ll traverse off-the-beaten-path jungle trails, cross rivers, and navigate muddy paths that keep you alert and excited. The thrill of splashing through water and maneuvering along rugged terrain is truly memorable, especially as you’re surrounded by lush greenery and mountain views. Travelers have described it as “rip through jungle trails, splash across rivers,” which perfectly captures the high-energy nature of this part of the day.

The highlight for many is the secret waterfall, a hidden gem that you reach after crossing hanging bridges and trekking through the jungle. Here, you can take a refreshing dip in natural pools — a perfect way to cool off after the ATV adventure. The water levels may vary depending on the season, but the experience of swimming in a jungle waterfall remains consistently special.

Next, you’ll soar across seven zipline lines that cut through the canopy, offering spectacular views of the mountains and jungle below. The sensation of gliding through the treetops is exhilarating and provides a totally different perspective of the landscape. Many reviews mention how this part of the tour is “the best way to see the jungle,” and that the zipline circuit delivers a true adrenaline rush.

Finally, a hearty Mexican lunch awaits you at a jungle ranch. You’ll get to cook and taste fajitas or grilled chicken with fresh-made tortillas, accompanied by beans, rice, guacamole, and salsa. One guest remarked, “the food was the best we ate the entire trip,” highlighting how the delicious, homemade flavors add a real touch of authenticity and value to the experience.

The Logistics: What’s Included and What to Consider

This all-day tour, priced at $235, includes round-trip transportation, all activities, equipment, and a traditional Mexican meal. The transportation is air-conditioned and conveniently arranged from two different meeting points, making logistics straightforward. The duration is about six hours, with activities scheduled efficiently so you’re not rushed.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with the key restrictions being health-related — expecting mothers, people with back, neck, heart, or dizziness conditions are advised against participating. The maximum weight limit is 250 lbs (120 kg), ensuring safety for all participants. Note that cameras are not allowed during activities for safety reasons, so you’d need to rely on your phone or personal camera outside the zipline, horseback riding, and ATV sections.

While the route and water levels depend on the season, the organizers mention that the itinerary may change based on weather and trail conditions. This flexibility helps ensure safety but might mean slightly different experiences from season to season.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $235, this tour packs in a lot of diverse, active experiences that you’d likely pay more for if booked separately. The inclusion of transportation, all gear, guides, and a hearty lunch means you don’t have to worry about extra costs, making it a convenient option for travelers seeking a full-day adventure. The small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

The positive review from Moriah underscores just how memorable this day can be: “This was our favorite excursion of our whole trip! Hector and Sergio were great. The food was the best we ate the entire trip.” That kind of feedback suggests that this experience also offers a warm, friendly atmosphere, making even the most adventurous parts enjoyable and comfortable.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for active travelers who enjoy nature, physical activities, and cultural experiences. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking more than just relaxing on the beach, offering a genuine taste of Mexico’s lush landscape and vibrant flavors. Families with older children, groups of friends, or couples looking for a memorable day outside the typical tourist spots would find this tour attractive. If you enjoy a mix of thrill, scenic beauty, and authentic cuisine, this is a well-rounded experience worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, air-conditioned transportation from two designated meeting points is included in the tour price.
How long does the tour last? The total experience runs about six hours, from early morning pickup to returning later in the afternoon.
What’s the maximum group size? The tour accommodates up to 15 travelers for a more personal experience.
Are all activities suitable for everyone? Most travelers can participate, but those with certain health conditions or pregnant women should consult the restrictions.
Is there a dress code? Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for outdoor activities; biodegradable sunscreen is recommended.
Can I bring my camera? Cameras are not allowed during activities like ziplining and horseback riding for safety reasons.
What kind of food is served? You’ll enjoy a traditional Mexican lunch with fajitas or grilled chicken, fresh-made tortillas, beans, rice, guacamole, and salsa.
What if I don’t want to do all activities? The itinerary is designed as a full-package experience; partial participation may not be available.
Is the water in waterfalls always accessible? Water levels depend on the season—more in rainy season, less in dry season—but swimming in jungle pools is always a treat.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a wonderful blend of adventure, nature, and culture in Puerto Vallarta. It’s perfect for those who want to explore beyond the beaches and experience Mexico’s lush mountains and vibrant jungle firsthand. From riding horses into a charming village to flying over treetops and cooling off in waterfalls, every part of this day is designed to be memorable and authentic.

The inclusion of a homemade Mexican lunch adds a satisfying and flavorful conclusion to your adventures. The small group size and attentive guides help ensure safety and comfort, making it suitable for most active travelers looking for a well-rounded outdoor experience.

If you’re eager to add a dose of adrenaline to your Puerto Vallarta trip, appreciate stunning views, and enjoy delicious local food, look no further. This tour promises a full day of fun, discovery, and genuine Mexican hospitality — a true highlight for anyone wanting to connect with nature and culture in one exciting package.

Remember: Book well in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on this highly praised, small-group adventure. Prepare for a day full of laughs, splashes, and unforgettable scenery — it’s a trip you’ll talk about long after you return home.