Horseback Riding Tour

Discover Puerto Vallarta from a New Perspective with a Horseback Riding Tour

If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta and craving something beyond its famous beaches and lively nightlife, this Horseback Riding Tour offers a refreshing change of pace. For around three hours, you’ll escape the bustling resorts and head into the stunning Sierra Madre Mountains, where you’ll trot through forests, cross rivers, and even stop to swim in the cool mountain waters. With a friendly bilingual guide, transportation included, and a tequila tasting to cap off the experience, it’s an activity that balances adventure with authentic local flavor—all for $109 per person.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: First, the chance to ride through diverse landscapes — from dense forests to rivers — creating a sense of connection with nature that’s hard to find in more conventional tours. Second, the tequila tasting, which adds a bit of local culture and fun to the journey. It’s a great way to sample a true Mexican tradition without leaving the mountains. However, one potential consideration is that the tour is approximately three hours, so travelers with limited mobility or tight schedules might want to plan accordingly.

This experience is perfect for anyone who appreciates outdoor adventure, enjoys animals, or is simply looking to see a different side of Puerto Vallarta. It’s suitable for most travelers, especially those comfortable with a moderate outdoor activity. If you’re eager to combine sightseeing with a bit of physical activity and cultural taste-testing, this horseback riding tour might just be your perfect day out.

Key Points

• Scenic landscapes: Ride through forests, rivers, and mountain trails in the Sierra Madre.
• Authentic experience: Small group, bilingual guide, and a chance to enjoy local tequila.
• Convenience: Hassle-free round-trip transport from Puerto Vallarta.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for most travelers with basic mobility.
• Value: Three hours of adventure with inclusions like water, fruit, and a welcome drink for $109.
• Limited to 30 travelers: Ensures a more personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Horseback Riding Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins conveniently in Puerto Vallarta at David Alfaro Siqueiros 12 in the Zona Hotelera. From here, the transport service whisks you into the Sierra Madre Mountains — a scenic drive that sets the tone for the adventure ahead. With a maximum group size of 30, the journey maintains an intimate feel, avoiding the chaos of large tour groups.

The round-trip transportation included with the tour makes it a practical choice for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of arranging their own transit. Expect to be picked up at your hotel or nearby accommodations; just check the specifics when booking.

The Horseback Ride: Forests, Rivers, and Swimming

Once on site, you’ll meet your guide and the horses that will carry you through this mountain landscape. The ride itself lasts approximately two hours, during which you’ll traverse forested trails, cross the Cuale River, and take moments to cool off with a swim. The inclusion of river stops and swimming opportunities makes this stand out from more traditional horseback tours that stick to dry land.

According to reviews, the scenery is one of the tour’s highlights. You’ll love the way the trail winds through lush greenery, offering glimpses of local flora and fauna. One traveler mentioned, “We loved the way the guide explained the plants and animals along the way,” adding an educational touch to the adventure.

The horses are well cared for, and the terrain is suitable for most riding abilities, though some might find the rivers and uneven paths a bit challenging. If you’re nervous about riding, this isn’t a race — it’s more about enjoying the surroundings at a relaxed pace.

The Tequila Tasting: A Taste of Local Culture

After the outdoor adventure, the tour includes a stop for a tequila tasting. It’s a fun chance to sample this iconic Mexican spirit, learn about its production, and perhaps find a new favorite. The tasting is casual but informative, giving some insight into local traditions and flavors.

Most reviews commend this part as a highlight, especially as it offers a relaxing break and a taste of authentic local culture. Plus, a welcome drink at the start sets a friendly tone, and water and seasonal fruit are also provided to keep you refreshed throughout.

What’s Not Included

While the tour packs in quite a bit, it’s good to know that lunch and additional drinks are not part of the package. Souvenirs, photos, and tips are also extra, so plan accordingly if you want to bring home a memento or tip your guide.

Final Considerations

The tour lasts about three hours — a nice chunk of time that offers a hearty experience without being overwhelming. However, keep in mind that it’s a physically active outing, so wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear. Also, since transportation is included, you won’t need to worry about navigating to remote locations on your own.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This horseback riding adventure is best suited for travelers who appreciate outdoor activities, are comfortable around animals, and want to explore the natural beauty of the mountains. It’s family-friendly, provided participants have the mobility for moderate walking and riding. If you’re seeking a relaxing, culturally enriching experience that combines scenic beauty with authentic Mexican elements, this tour will fit the bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Puerto Vallarta to the Sierra Madre Mountains is included, making it a hassle-free experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately three hours, including riding, swimming, and the tequila tasting.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, and shoes that are safe for riding, like sneakers or closed-toe shoes.

Is it suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues or concerns about riding on uneven terrain should consider their comfort level.

What’s included in the price?
You get the horseback ride, water, seasonal fruit, a welcome drink, tequila tasting, and transportation.

Are there any additional costs?
Lunch, extra drinks, souvenirs, photos, and tips are not included and are paid separately if desired.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 30 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, making communication easy.

What if I’m nervous about riding?
The tour is designed to be accessible, and the guide will assist you. The focus is on enjoying the scenery at a relaxed pace.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a wonderful blend of nature, adventure, and culture. It’s a smart choice for those who want to see the Sierra Madre’s lush forests and rivers without sacrificing comfort or convenience. The inclusion of a tequila tasting adds a delightful local flavor, making this experience feel authentic and memorable.

If you’re seeking a fun, scenic outing that provides a break from beach lounging, this tour is well worth considering. It’s ideal for active travelers, families, or anyone eager to connect with Mexico’s natural landscape in a relaxed, friendly setting.