Puerto Vallarta: ATV, Boat Ride, and Waterfall Tour

Experience the Best of Puerto Vallarta in 4 Hours

Imagine zooming across lush landscapes on a rugged ATV, then cooling off by snorkeling at the iconic Mismaloya Arches, followed by a refreshing swim at a scenic waterfall. This 4-hour tour offers a balanced taste of adventure, nature, and local flavor, perfect for travelers eager to see Puerto Vallarta beyond the usual beaches. The tour costs a reasonable fee, with options to reserve now and pay later, making it flexible for your plans.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines thrilling outdoor activities with authentic cultural insights—especially during the tequila tasting, which is both educational and delicious. Plus, the stops at Mismaloya and Edenva waterfall provide stunning photo opportunities and peaceful moments away from the crowds.

A potential consideration is the 30-minute dirt road drive to Edenva—it’s a bumpy ride that might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues. But for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this is part of the charm.

This tour suits active travelers who are interested in a multi-faceted day—combining adrenaline, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences. Families with children over 6, couples, or groups of friends looking for a memorable day out will find plenty to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Variety of Experiences: Combines ATV riding, boat ride, snorkeling, waterfall swimming, and tequila tasting.
• Authentic Encounters: Learn about local tequila production and enjoy regional food.
• Stunning Scenery: Iconic Mismaloya Arches, lush landscapes, and Edenva waterfall.
• Good Value: Four hours of guided adventure with knowledgeable guides.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with full cancellation options.
• Group Size: Small groups ensure personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

A Deep Dive into the Puerto Vallarta ATV, Waterfall, and Boat Tour

Starting Point: Dirty Monkey ATV Adventure

This tour begins at Dirty Monkey, a well-rated local provider with a 4.6-star rating, known for friendly guides and well-organized experiences. The meeting point is conveniently located, making it easy to kick off your adventure without hassle. The group size tends to be small, which means more personalized attention and less feeling like just another face in the crowd.

The Scenic Drive to Mirador los Arcos de Mismaloya

Your first stop is a 10-minute scenic drive to the famous Mirador los Arcos de Mismaloya. This spot offers a quick but spectacular view of the Mismaloya Arches, the large limestone formations that have become one of Puerto Vallarta’s most photographed landmarks. We loved the way our guide pointed out interesting facts about the formation’s geology and history, making the photo stops more meaningful. Expect to snap some memorable shots—perfect for sharing with friends back home.

More Great Tours Nearby

Mismaloya Beach and Snorkeling

Next, the tour heads down to Mismaloya Beach for about 50 minutes of snorkeling in the clear waters of the Mismaloya Arches. The marine life here is lively, and the natural rock formations create a dramatic underwater landscape. Travelers have mentioned that the snorkel spot offers good visibility, and the variety of fish is impressive given the short time in the water.

One reviewer noted: “The snorkeling was surprisingly vibrant, and I loved swimming through the arches to see the marine life swirling around.” Another appreciated how the boat crew helped ensure everyone felt comfortable, especially if this was their first snorkeling experience.

The Natural Edenva Waterfall

After snorkeling, the journey continues on a 30-minute dirt road to Edenva, a charming spot where you can swim in a natural waterfall’s pool. The setting is peaceful and picturesque, with lush greenery all around. While the bumpy ride might not be for everyone, it adds to the sense of adventure. Once there, you’re free to swim, relax, or even enjoy regional food and drinks (not included).

Many guests commented on how refreshing the waterfall swim was, especially after the water activities. One said, “The waterfall was the highlight—it’s beautifully secluded and perfect for cooling off.” It’s an authentic, back-to-nature experience that’s worth the bumpy ride.

Tequila Tasting and Learning

As the tour winds down, you’ll have the chance to taste regionally-produced tequila. Guided by knowledgeable staff, you’ll learn about the production process, regional differences, and proper tasting techniques. The experience strikes a good balance—educational yet relaxed, and you get to sample some genuine flavors.

“I appreciated the tequila tasting—it added a cultural touch to the day,” shared one traveler. Remember, this part is only for adults over 18, and it’s a great way to deepen your understanding of local traditions.

Return and Final Stroll at Dirty Monkey

The tour concludes back at Dirty Monkey, where you can explore the vibrant surroundings of the southern part of Puerto Vallarta. It’s a relaxed end to a busy day, with optional purchases of souvenirs, food, or drinks. You’ll leave with plenty of photos, new knowledge, and a sense of having experienced Puerto Vallarta in a way that many visitors never do.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

A Balance of Adventure and Culture

This experience isn’t just about thrills—it’s about connecting with the local environment and culture. The combination of scenic landscapes, marine and freshwater activities, and local spirits makes it a well-rounded day.

Guides Who Know Their Stuff

Guests consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. They’re there to ensure safety, explain the history behind each site, and keep the energy high. As one reviewer put it, “Our guide was informative, funny, and made us feel safe throughout the adventure.”

Value for Money

At four hours, the tour packs in enough activities to make it worthwhile without feeling rushed. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, safety instructions, and a tequila tasting makes the price well justified—especially considering the personal attention small groups receive.

Authentic and Photo-Worthy

From the iconic arches to the lush waterfall, the stops on this tour offer plenty of opportunities for memorable photos. Travelers love capturing the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta from multiple angles, which makes this tour a great choice for social media enthusiasts.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your driver’s license — necessary for ATV rental and age verification.
• Wear comfortable clothes and sports shoes — especially for the dirt road to Edenva and the water activities.
• Pack swimwear and a towel — for snorkeling and waterfall swimming.
• Apply sunscreen and insect repellent — protect yourself from sun and bugs.
• Bring extra cash or credit card — for souvenirs, tips, food, drinks, and optional insurance ($20 for ATV, $30 for RZR).
• Be prepared for the dirt road ride — it’s bumpy and might be uncomfortable for some.
• Reserve in advance — spots are limited for small groups, and booking allows flexibility with payment and cancellation.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re craving a lively, adventure-packed half-day that mixes nature, culture, and fun, this is a great fit. It’s especially suitable for active travelers, families with older children (over 6), and those eager to explore Puerto Vallarta beyond the beach. It’s ideal if you want authentic experiences and don’t mind a little dirt and splashes along the way.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 6 and older can ride the ATV or RZR, making it suitable for families with kids who meet the age and weight requirements.

What is the maximum weight limit?
The maximum weight is 484 pounds for ATV riders and 880 pounds for RZR, so most people should be comfortable.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required for driving the ATV or RZR, and drivers must be 16 or older with parental permission.

Is insurance included?
No, ATV insurance costs $20 USD per vehicle and RZR insurance costs $30 USD per vehicle; both are non-refundable.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothes, sports shoes, credit card, and cash for extras.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, pregnant women and those under the influence of alcohol or drugs are not allowed to participate.

What if the weather is bad?
The itinerary may change depending on weather conditions, but the tour provider will communicate any adjustments.

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

Final Thoughts

This Puerto Vallarta tour offers a lively mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight that many travelers find rewarding. The guides’ expertise and the variety of stops make it a practical choice for anyone wanting to experience more than just beaches. The combination of snorkeling in the arches, swimming at a waterfall, and tasting regional tequila** provides a memorable snapshot of local life and natural beauty.

While the dirt road ride might not be for everyone, those craving authentic outdoor fun will likely find this tour a highlight of their Puerto Vallarta trip. It’s well-suited for active, curious travelers eager to explore the area in a fun and engaging way.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to add some adventure to your vacation, this tour delivers good value, authentic moments, and plenty of opportunities for great photos. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to see Puerto Vallarta from new angles and come away with stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby