Off-road ATV-QUAD tour in single and double seats

An Authentic Off-Road Adventure in Puerto Vallarta

If you’re craving a more adventurous side of Puerto Vallarta, this off-road ATV-QUAD tour might be just what you need. For around $89, you get roughly 3.5 hours of exploring rugged mountain trails, crossing rivers, and enjoying spectacular views — all with expert local guides leading the way. Whether you prefer to drive your own ATV or go as a passenger, this tour promises a blend of thrilling off-road riding, local culture, and breathtaking scenery.

Two things stand out for us: First, the ability to access areas normally unreachable by traditional tours—imagine reaching mountain viewpoints and river spots that most visitors never see. Second, the local-guided tequila tasting adds a delicious, authentic touch that elevates the whole experience.

One potential consideration? The route doesn’t include crossing the famous Jorullo Bridge as some might expect from the description, which caused some disappointment for a few travelers. Still, the tour’s focus on hidden viewpoints and rivers offers plenty of memorable moments.

This adventure is best suited for active travelers, families with older kids, or those wanting more than just sitting on a bus. If you enjoy outdoor activities, scenic vistas, and learning about local culture, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Access to remote mountain spots: Reach areas most visitors don’t see.
• Scenic views and river stops: Perfect for photo opportunities and relaxing breaks.
• Guided tequila tasting: Authentic local flavor with a fun tasting experience.
• Flexible options: Drive your own ATV or ride as a passenger.
• Family friendly for ages 6 and up: With some restrictions, the experience suits a range of ages.
• Good value: Combines adventure, culture, and scenic beauty for a reasonable price.

Exploring Puerto Vallarta’s Mountain Trails and Valleys

This tour offers a fascinating blend of adventure and culture amid the lush Sierra Madre mountains. From the start, you’ll appreciate the convenient pickup from your hotel, saving you the hassle of organizing transportation, a feature that many reviews highlight positively. The round-trip transfer makes it seamless, allowing you to relax and focus on the adventure ahead.

Once at the meeting point, the actual off-road riding begins. You’ll have roughly 2 hours of driving through rugged trails, crossing streams, and discovering hidden viewpoints. The routes take you to El Jorullo, a mountain viewpoint offering spectacular vistas. Here, you’ll cross the Cuale River bridge and enjoy scenes that will stay with you long after the tour ends.

Travelers rave about the beautiful views and the unique perspective this tour offers — far from the typical tourist spots. Kyle_H, one of the enthusiastic reviewers, called the guides “awesome,” and noted that the highlight was the scenery and the van pickup. When we loved the way guides share local stories and make the experience educational as well as fun, it’s clear that the guides’ knowledge is a real asset.

The Stops: More Than Just Scenic Views

The itinerary includes three main stops, each with its own unique charm:

• El Jorullo: This mountain viewpoint is undoubtedly the highlight, offering panoramic views that provide a perfect backdrop for photos. Crossing the Cuale River on a bridge adds a touch of adventure, making this stop both scenic and fun.

• Río Cuale: A quick 15-minute stop at this river’s viewpoint offers a chance to snap photos of the famous Coyote viewpoint and enjoy the tranquil waters of the river. It’s a brief but memorable glimpse into the natural beauty of the area.

• Rancho Mi Abuelo: This stop is a delightful cultural experience. Here, you can refresh with a drink, bathe in crystal-clear waters, and even try making your own tortillas or learn how to prepare molcajete sauce. The inclusion of tequila tasting adds a local flavor, and many travelers appreciated the chance to learn about the region’s artisanal spirits.

The Experience on the Trail

The riding itself is suitable for most with adult supervision and age restrictions—children from 6 years can join on four-wheelers, and riders over 16 must present a valid license. The group size is limited to 20, ensuring a more personal experience and attentive guides.

Guides such as Chema, praised in reviews, take care to check in on riders’ comfort and safety, especially on the more challenging stretches. One reviewer appreciated their personalized experience, noting that the guide made sure everyone was okay with the terrain and speed.

The Food, Tequila, and Authentic Touches

What makes this tour stand out from other outdoor excursions? The tequila tasting at Rancho Mi Abuelo, of course. It’s a chance to sample local spirits and hear about their artisanal production, adding meaning to the experience. Many reviews mention that guides shared local stories and helped travelers appreciate the cultural significance of the spirits.

The food component is limited here—mainly tortillas and molcajete sauce—but the refreshing drinks and river swims more than compensate. If you’re expecting a full meal, you might find this a light but satisfying break in your day.

The Practicalities and What to Know Before You Book

The price of $89.22 per person offers good value when you consider the scenic access, guided experience, tequila tasting, and transportation included. The duration of about 3.5 hours is ample time for adventure without feeling rushed.

Booking in advance is recommended — on average, this tour is booked 19 days ahead — and arriving 10 minutes early for pickup ensures you don’t miss the van. The pickup location is straightforward, but travelers should specify their hotel or accommodation to get the nearest pickup point.

Insurance is not included in the cost — it’s $20 per vehicle — paid at registration. Riders should be aware of weight limits for double quads (480 lbs for two people in one ATV), and solo riders who choose a double quad must pay the difference at reception.

The tour operates most days with morning or afternoon departures to accommodate your schedule. Remember that the route does not include crossing the Jorullo Bridge, despite some travelers’ expectations, which can be a disappointment if that was your main reason for choosing this tour.

Authentic & Balanced — What Travelers Say

Reviews paint a clear picture: guides like Chema make the experience memorable, blending local knowledge with care for safety. The scenic vistas are a consistent highlight, with many travelers describing the views as “spectacular” and “beautiful,” especially during the mountain stops.

Some mention minor frustrations, such as not crossing the Jorullo Bridge or encountering mosquitoes in certain months—so bringing bug spray might be wise. The tequila tasting is frequently praised as a fun, authentic highlight, adding a genuine local touch.

Other reviews underscore the personalized service, with guides checking on individual comfort and riding skills, which makes the experience suitable for a range of skill levels.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re seeking an active, outdoor adventure that combines scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a dose of adrenaline, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for those who want more than just a bus ride and are happy to get a bit dirty along the way.

Families with older children (ages 6 and up) will find this a memorable outing, especially with the option to ride as a passenger. Couples, groups, or solo travelers looking for a fun, immersive experience will appreciate the personalized guides and authentic stops.

However, if your main goal is to see the famous Jorullo Bridge or prefer a more relaxed, less rugged exploration, you might want to consider other options. Also, those sensitive to mosquitoes or heat should come prepared with repellent and plan for mid-year visits carefully.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from specified meeting points is included, making it easy to focus on the experience without worrying about logistics.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes from pickup to return, with approximately 2 hours of off-road riding.

Can children participate?
Yes, children from 6 years old can join on four-wheelers. Riders over 16 need to present a current license and must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for outdoor activity — closed shoes are recommended, and bring sunscreen and bug spray, especially during warmer months.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, the double quad bike has a maximum weight limit of 480 lbs for both riders combined.

Is the route suitable for beginners?
Guides check on your skill level and comfort, so beginners can enjoy the ride if they follow instructions. The terrain can be rugged, so some basic riding skills are helpful.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers helmet use, a guide, tequila tasting, fuel, and transportation. Food and souvenirs are not included.

What if I want a solo ride?
Solo riders opting for a double quad must pay the additional cost at reception. Single quad rides are available at no extra cost but limited in number.

Does the tour include crossing Jorullo Bridge?
No, the route offers views of the Jorullo Bridge from a distance, but does not include crossing it, which has disappointed some travelers.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Final Thoughts

This off-road ATV tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a wonderful mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight. It’s well-suited for those who love outdoor activities, want to avoid crowded tourist spots, and are eager to explore hidden mountain viewpoints and rivers with knowledgeable guides.

The tequila tasting and authentic stops add a special local flavor, making it more than just a thrill ride. The price reflects a good value for the full experience, especially considering the guides’ expertise and beautiful scenery.

While it might not cover every iconic landmark, it delivers a personalized, engaging perspective on Puerto Vallarta’s mountain scenery. If you’re looking for an active, memorable day that takes you off the beaten path and into the heart of the Sierra Madre, this adventure deserves serious consideration.

In summary: For active travelers, families with older children, or anyone wanting a taste of authentic mountain life combined with adrenaline, this tour offers an excellent balance of fun, culture, and naturally stunning sights. Just come prepared for some rugged terrain and bring your sense of adventure!