Combo Horse Riding and ATV Experience

Discovering the Combo Horse Riding and ATV Experience in Puerto Vallarta

If you’re contemplating a day of adventure in Puerto Vallarta, the Combo Horse Riding and ATV Experience offers a compelling mix of adrenaline, natural beauty, and authentic local flavors. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, it’s a popular choice for travelers craving an active day away from the beaches. This full-day excursion blends jungle exploration, river crossings, waterfall swims, and Mexican cuisine—all within roughly six hours.

What we like most is how it balances thrilling activities like ATV riding with more relaxed moments, such as the scenic horseback ride to a waterfall. The small group size promises a more personalized experience and better interaction with guides who are typically knowledgeable about the area’s natural wonders. A potential consideration is the long day—some travelers might find it a bit packed, especially if you’re looking for a leisurely afternoon. This tour suits those who enjoy active adventures and want to see a less touristy side of rural Jalisco, especially if you’re eager to combine nature with cultural flavor.

Key Points

• Balanced adventure and relaxation: Combining ATV thrills with calming horseback rides and swimming.
• Authentic Mexican meal: A hearty lunch featuring fajitas, guacamole, and tortillas.
• Small group size: Up to 15 travelers, ensuring more personal attention from guides.
• Scenic routes: Traversing jungle trails, river crossings, hanging bridges, and mountain paths.
• Hassle-free transfers: Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points make logistics easier.
• Seasonal water levels: Waterfalls and pools depend on the season, affecting the swimming experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary and Experience Breakdown

The tour kicks off bright and early, with pickup from two designated meeting points around 8:00 am. This is a well-organized start, with air-conditioned transportation to Rancho Capomo, where the adventure begins. The first activity is a scenic 1.5-hour horseback ride deep into the jungle, following the river’s course. The guides are typically attentive, and the ride offers lush views of the Sierra Madre forests—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the natural beauty.

After about an hour and a half in the saddle, the group reaches a waterfall—a highlight of the day. Here, everyone dismounts for a 60-minute hike that includes crossing hanging bridges and wading through rivers to reach the cascade. Once at the falls, there’s time to cool off in the natural pools, which is a refreshing reward. The water levels, of course, depend on the season—a dry spell might mean less water, but the scenery still remains impressive. A brief, steep hill climb follows, where you can run your horse on the descent if you’re feeling energetic.

Next, the adventure shifts gears with a one-hour ATV ride through rugged terrain, splashing across rivers and navigating forest trails. This segment promises plenty of thrills and a chance to see more of the Sierra Madre’s diverse landscape. Afterward, everyone reconvenes at a local ranch for a traditional Mexican lunch featuring fajitas, handmade guacamole, tortillas, and drinks, providing a satisfying end to the active part of the day.

Finally, the group is transported back to the starting point, often arriving around 4:30 pm—so plan your day accordingly.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The guides are a big part of what makes this experience enjoyable. As one reviewer noted, the knowledgeable guides helped make the trip memorable. You’ll appreciate their ability to navigate the terrain and share insights into the local environment and culture.

The scenery throughout is stunning—jungles, rivers, waterfalls, and mountain vistas all combine to give you a true sense of the region’s natural beauty. Crossing hanging bridges adds a touch of adventure and makes the hike to the waterfall more engaging.

The combo format means you get to try different activities without feeling rushed, maximizing your time in the countryside. The inclusion of a Mexican lunch adds cultural flavor and sustains you through the busy day.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs around $235 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. However, when you consider the transportation, multiple activities, a full meal, and guides, it offers good value for those wanting a comprehensive day out. The journey is approximately six hours, making it a full and fulfilling experience.

The small group size makes for a more intimate adventure, with a maximum of 15 travelers. This ensures that guides can give more attention and answer questions, making it perfect for travelers who like a personalized touch.

Transportation is included, with hassle-free pickups from central meeting points—no need to stress about logistics or self-driving. This convenience adds to the overall value, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area.

One note of caution: seasonal variability affects the water levels at the waterfall, which can influence swimming and the visual impact. Dry seasons might mean less water, but the hike and scenery still remain rewarding.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers who enjoy a mix of physical activity and scenic beauty. If you’re someone who enjoys horseback riding, ATV riding, and getting your hands dirty on a trail, you’ll find plenty to love here. Families with older kids, groups of friends, or active couples will feel right at home.

It’s also perfect for those who want a more authentic experience away from busy tourist spots and who value guides who know the area well. If you’re interested in local culture and scenery, combined with some adrenaline rushes, this tour hits the mark.

However, travelers looking for a more relaxed or leisurely half-day might find this full-day itinerary a bit packed. Also, those with mobility issues should be aware of the hilly terrain and water crossings.

Final Thoughts

The Combo Horse Riding and ATV Experience offers a well-rounded adventure that balances thrills with scenic tranquility. Its highlights—friendly guides, stunning vistas, and a hearty Mexican meal—make it a compelling choice for active travelers. While the day can be long and the water levels seasonal, the overall value lies in the variety and authenticity of the experience.

If you’re after a full immersion into the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s countryside, this tour can deliver plenty of memorable moments. It’s especially suitable for those who want to combine outdoor fun with cultural flavor, all wrapped in a small-group setting that feels personal and engaging.

FAQs

What is the starting time of the tour?
It begins at 8:00 am, with pickup from designated meeting points.

Are transportation arrangements included?
Yes, air-conditioned transport is provided from the meeting points to Rancho Capomo and back.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
The horseback ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, taking you deep into the jungle along the river.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. Don’t forget biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent, especially for the hike and outdoor activities.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the terrain and physical activity involved. Those with mobility issues may find some parts challenging.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if plans change.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, scenic beauty, or a taste of local culture, this combo tour delivers on all counts. Just remember to pack your sense of curiosity and a camera—you’ll want to capture these memorable moments.