Riviera Nayarit is a playground for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its lush jungles, rugged mountains, and pristine coastlines, it offers a variety of tours that showcase the region’s natural beauty and thrill factor. We particularly enjoy the zip-line adventures in Sayulita for their adrenaline rush and stunning views, and the ATV tours that take you through the Sierra Madre mountains for a more rugged, hands-on experience. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a challenging mountain ride, Riviera Nayarit has something to offer.
What makes these tours stand out is their combination of excitement, scenic beauty, and cultural flavor. Many include tastings, swimming, or hiking, so you get more than just a ride — you get a well-rounded adventure. Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best tours, with honest insights to help you choose the right one for your trip.
Quick Overview
Our list features zip-line tours in Sayulita, perfect for thrill-seekers who want panoramic jungle views (see Sayulita: Canopy Tours & Zip-line Adventure). For those who prefer exploring on wheels, we have ATV tours that explore the Sierra Madre mountains, including options for single or double riders, as well as combined ATV and hiking adventures (see Vallarta Riviera Nayarit: ATV Tour Single Rider + hiking). Whether you want a quick thrill or a full half-day expedition, these tours offer something memorable.
Now, let’s dive into each experience to see what makes them special.
1. Sayulita: Canopy Tours & Zip-line Adventure
At number 1 on our list, this zip-line adventure in Sayulita is a fantastic way to get your adrenaline flowing while soaking up some of the region’s most spectacular views. For just $95 per person, you’ll spend about 2 hours flying through the jungle, experiencing 13 zip-lines and 4 suspension bridges. This tour is marked by a 4.8-star rating from 81 reviews, emphasizing its popularity and quality.
The tour begins with a safety briefing from expert guides who have years of experience, ensuring everyone feels comfortable before taking off. You’ll reach heights up to 125 meters above sea level, giving you sweeping views of Sayulita’s beaches and lush green canopy. This is an ideal choice for families or groups looking for a bit of adventure mixed with sightseeing. After your flight, you can unwind with a tequila tasting, a local highlight, and relax by swimming in a crystalline pool or sunbathing on the rocks.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of thrilling zip-lines with a laid-back ending. The guides are praised for their professionalism and humor, which helps the whole family enjoy the experience. It’s a great value, especially considering the panoramic views and the included tasting.
Bottom line: If you want an exhilarating, family-friendly tour with stunning scenery and a relaxing finish, this is a top pick.
2. Riviera Nayarit: ATV Tour Double Rider (Driver and Minor)
Next on our list, the ATV Tour Double Rider offers a chance to explore the Sierra de Vallejo with just $136 per person. This tour, which lasts about 2 hours, boasts a perfect 5-star rating from 2 reviews, highlighting its quality and the satisfaction of past riders. It’s perfect for couples or families where a minor wants to join as a passenger.
This adventure takes you through rugged trails in the Sierra Madre Occidental, guided by experts who will ensure safety and fun. The tour emphasizes exploring the natural beauty of the Sierra de Vallejo, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops and wildlife spotting. You’ll feel the wind and experience the diverse flora and fauna of this mountainous terrain.
This experience is ideal for those who want a guided off-road adventure rather than a solo ride. The inclusion of a pool at the end offers a chance to cool off after the ride. The tour’s high rating suggests it delivers excellent value and memorable scenery, especially for first-timers or seasoned riders looking for a scenic, manageable challenge.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those who want a guided, scenic ATV experience with the flexibility of a double rider, great for families and couples.
3. Double or Single Rider ATV Jungle Tour
For approximately $109 per person, this ATV jungle tour offers another exciting way to explore the rugged terrain of Sierra de Vallejo. Last rated without reviews yet, it promises a 2-hour ride across winding trails, which makes it appealing for travelers seeking an adventurous day out.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on winding terrain and stunning mountain views. Riding solo or with a partner, you’ll weave through hills and forests, with guides who highlight local flora and fauna along the way. The terrain is varied, providing a good mix of slopes and flat sections, making it suitable for most skill levels.
While the reviews are not available, the tour’s emphasis on unique ATV exploration and mountain vistas suggests it will deliver an authentic experience for outdoor lovers. It’s a solid choice if you prefer a more personalized, less crowded adventure, and it’s suitable for those with a bit of riding experience.
Bottom line: This tour offers a fresh, less formal alternative for ATV enthusiasts wanting scenic mountain views, whether riding alone or with a partner.
$109 per person
4. Vallarta Riviera Nayarit: ATV Tour Single Rider + hiking
Finally, at 4 hours long and costing $137, this single rider ATV plus hiking tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine mountain riding with nature walks. Rated without reviews yet, it’s designed for those looking for a deep, multi-sensory experience of Sierra Madre’s mountains and flora.
Starting with a high-quality ATV ride on winding, sloping routes, you’ll marvel at the majesty of the Sierra Madre Occidental. Following the ride, there’s an exploration on foot, allowing you to enjoy the region’s flora and fauna at a relaxed pace. Guides emphasize the natural beauty and ecological diversity, making this suitable for nature lovers with some fitness.
This tour stands out because it combines adventure and tranquility, offering a full-day experience for those eager to see both mountain vistas and local wildlife. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want to maximize their time outdoors and explore on both wheels and foot.
Bottom line: This comprehensive adventure suits active travelers eager to experience mountain landscapes from two perspectives — riding and hiking.
$137 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for Your Trip
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you seek a quick thrill with stunning views, the Sayulita zip-line is a fantastic choice. For a more relaxed, scenic ride with family, the double rider ATV tour offers guided comfort. If you’re an avid rider or love combining mountain hiking with ATV riding, the full-day ATV + hiking experience is ideal.
Book early, especially in peak season, as these tours are popular. Think about your fitness level and what kind of scenery or activity excites you most. Families with kids might prefer the zip-line adventure, while adventure travelers wanting a multi-hour experience might lean toward the ATV + hiking tour.
Final Thoughts
Riviera Nayarit’s outdoor tours offer a diverse range of experiences, from zip-lining over jungles to mountain ATV rides. If you want a quick adrenaline fix, the Sayulita zip-line is hard to beat for its views and fun factor. For those craving a more immersive mountain adventure, the single rider ATV + hiking tour provides a full day of activity in stunning surroundings.
With so many options, you’ll find something to match your interests and fitness level. Be sure to check availability and book ahead — these adventures tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Now, get ready to explore the rugged beauty of Riviera Nayarit and make some unforgettable memories.