Puerto Vallarta: Canopy River Zip Line Tour with Mule Ride

If you’re looking for an adventure-packed day in Puerto Vallarta, the Canopy River Zip Line Tour offers a fantastic blend of thrill, natural beauty, and authentic local flair. For $76 per person, you get about four hours of excitement that includes 11 zip lines, a mule ride, a tequila tasting, and a walk across the Jorullo Bridge. Led by friendly guides, this tour is ideal for anyone wanting a taste of the Sierra Madre’s rugged charm without spending the entire day on the move.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines adrenaline with relaxation—flying through the air on zip lines, then winding down on a mule ride, and finally cooling off in a stunning infinity pool with views that make you forget about the world. Plus, the inclusion of a tequila tasting adds a definite local flavor.

On the flip side, it’s worth noting that transportation logistics could be a consideration. The tour involves a shuttle service, but not necessarily from your hotel, which might require an extra bit of planning.

This tour suits adventurers, nature lovers, and families (with some restrictions), especially those eager to experience Puerto Vallarta’s scenic Sierra Madre scenery while enjoying some fun activities and cultural touches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Thrilling zip lines: Fly over forests and rivers on an 11-zip course, offering varied views and adrenaline rushes.
Authentic mule ride: A relaxing ascent into the mountains, providing a peaceful contrast to zip lining.
Stunning views: The infinity pool and the suspension bridge offer scenic vistas perfect for photos.
Local flavor: Tequila tasting adds a cultural element to the adventure.
Group-friendly: Guides are praised for their friendliness, humor, and professionalism.
Logistics: Shuttle service is included, but hotel pickup isn’t, and pictures aren’t included in the price.

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A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Scenic Setting and Location

The adventure is set in Canopy River Park, a lush area in the Sierra Madre mountains. The park’s natural beauty is immediately apparent as you drive up, with rolling hills and dense forests spreading out before you. The location isn’t just about thrills; it’s about enjoying pristine nature, with a sense of escape from the hustle of Puerto Vallarta city life.

The Zip Line Circuit

The main event is the 11-zip line course. These lines vary in length and speed, offering both quick adrenaline bursts and more leisurely glides. The reviews praise the variety and safety of the runs—no one mentions feeling unsafe, yet several note the “incredible” views and the fun of zipping through the treetops. One reviewer loved that the guides “made a great atmosphere,” which is key to feeling comfortable on such an exhilarating course.

Expect moments of flying high above the canopy, with a chance to “strike funny positions with your partner,” as one traveler noted. The last zip might dip you into the river, adding an extra splash of excitement. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often pulling in those who get stuck, making the experience welcoming for beginners and more experienced zip liners alike.

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The Mule Ride

After the adrenaline, it’s time to slow down with a 15-minute mule ride up the mountain. This is a great way to take in the scenery at a more relaxed pace. Travelers have called it “a great experience,” and it offers a different perspective of the Sierra Madre—tranquil, scenic, and authentically local. The ride is also a chance to appreciate the landscape without the rush of the zip lines.

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Jorullo Bridge and Additional Stops

The tour includes a walk across the Jorullo Bridge, which adds a bit of adventure and offers superb views of the surrounding wilderness. This allows for some memorable photos and a chance to stretch your legs after the zip line and mule ride.

The Infinity Pool and Tequila Tasting

What makes this tour especially appealing is the infinity pool overlooking the mountains—perfect for cooling off and soaking in the scenery. Although not included in the price, many travelers find the pool’s setting to be a highlight. The tour also includes a tequila tasting, giving you a taste of local flavor. This adds an extra layer of culture that’s both fun and educational.

Logistics and Practicalities

The shuttle service is included from select pickup points, which simplifies transportation but requires some coordination. Several reviews mention that the pickup locations can vary, so it’s wise to confirm your meeting point after booking. The tour lasts about 4 hours, typically scheduled in the morning or afternoon, providing flexibility for your day.

Participants should bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable clothes, insect repellent, and sports shoes. Cameras aren’t allowed on the zip lines, but you can purchase photos afterward. The tour is suitable for folks over 5 years old, but it’s not recommended for those with vertigo, or with certain weight or height restrictions, or for seniors over 70.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Reviews highlight the friendly guides, with one saying, “Rafael and his friends were fantastic,” and others emphasizing the stunning views, “magnificent panorama,” and the fun atmosphere. The zip lines are praised for their safety and fun, with many noting that the staff made the experience “worthwhile.”

Some travelers mention that additional transportation like Uber might be necessary if you’re not within easy reach of the meeting point, which could be an extra consideration. A handful of reviews mention difficulty with the boat transfer to the beach, suggesting that those prone to motion sickness may want to weigh that aspect when considering other parts of the trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is a solid choice for families with children over 5, adventure seekers, and nature lovers who want a mix of thrills and scenic relaxation. It’s especially good if you’re after value for money, as the tour packs multiple activities—zip lining, mule riding, a walk, and a tequila tasting—into one affordable package.

While not ideal for those with vertigo or mobility issues, the guides are attentive and make safety a priority, which is reassuring. If you’re eager to experience Puerto Vallarta’s rugged mountains and lush forests without a full day of hiking, this tour strikes an attractive balance.

Final Thoughts

For travelers looking to combine adventure, culture, and stunning scenery, the Canopy River Zip Line Tour offers a well-rounded experience. The friendly guides, variety of activities, and spectacular views make it worth considering, especially if you want to see a different side of Puerto Vallarta—its lush mountains and tranquil rivers.

The value for the price is quite good, given the number of activities included, and the tour’s emphasis on safety and fun ensures a memorable day. It’s best suited for those who want an active, outdoor experience with a taste of local flavor, without the hassle of planning each activity separately.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, shuttle service from select pickup points is included, but hotel pickup isn’t necessarily provided. Confirm your meeting point after booking.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 4 hours, usually scheduled in the morning or afternoon.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable clothes, insect repellent, and sports shoes. Cameras are not allowed on the zip lines.

Are there age or weight restrictions?
Yes. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, people over 70, or those over 250 lbs (113 kg). It’s also not recommended for those with vertigo or with a height under 3 ft 9 in (120 cm).

Does the tour include food?
No, food and additional drinks aren’t included, but a tequila tasting is part of the experience.

Can I purchase photos of my zip line experience?
Yes, photos are available for viewing and purchase after the tour.

Is the infinity pool accessible to guests?
Not included in the price; many find it a wonderful way to relax after the activities, but access may depend on individual arrangements.

In all, this tour offers a delightful combination of thrills, scenic beauty, and local culture—perfect for travelers eager for a memorable day outside Puerto Vallarta’s city limits.

You can check availability for your dates here: