Experience ATV and Horse Back Riding

When it comes to adding a little adrenaline to your Puerto Vallarta trip, the Sierra Madre Combo Tour offers a one-of-a-kind adventure. While it’s not your typical sightseeing tour, it’s perfect for those who want to explore beyond the usual beachside resorts and experience authentic Mexican landscapes, wildlife, and culture in a fun, active way.

What makes this tour stand out? First, its combination of horseback riding and ATV riding gives you a versatile taste of the rugged Sierra Madre. Second, the opportunity to swim in waterfalls and cross hanging bridges adds a splash of excitement and discovery.

A possible consideration? With such a full day packed into about six hours, it’s a physically engaging experience. Travelers should be prepared for walking, climbing, and splashing around—so it’s best for those in decent shape and ready for some outdoor action.

This tour suits adventurous families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who crave authentic nature experiences and don’t mind getting a little muddy or wet. If your idea of fun involves scenery, activity, and local flavors, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Diverse activities: Combines horseback riding, ATV riding, and water adventure for a full day of fun.
• Authentic scenery: Explore the Sierra Madre’s lush jungle, remote villages, and stunning waterfalls.
• Local cuisine: Enjoy a homemade Mexican lunch with sizzling fajitas, fresh guacamole, and handmade tortillas.
• Active experience: Expect walking, climbing, and splashing—ideal for those who like outdoor adventures.
• Small group feeling: Limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
• All-inclusive value: Ticket price covers transportation, equipment, and meals, making it a straightforward package.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting Out: Pickup and Introduction

Most tours begin with an 8:00 am pickup from designated meeting points. The transportation is air-conditioned, which is a welcome touch after a warm morning. From the start, you sense this is a well-organized trip designed to maximize your day—focused on providing a blend of active adventure and cultural insight.

Horseback Riding: Into the Jungle

The first major activity is a scenic 1.5-hour horseback ride through lush jungle trails along the river. Riding through the tropical scenery, you’ll get a sense of what daily life might be like in these remote parts of Mexico.

The ride is suitable for most participants, but be prepared for uneven terrain. The real highlight is the chance to explore the countryside away from tourist hubs. The reviews praise the stunning views, with many noting how peaceful and beautiful the surrounding landscape is. One traveler commented, “We loved the way the horses and guides took us through the forest, giving us an authentic feeling of the countryside.”

Waterfall Exploration: A Tropical Reward

After the horseback ride, the group hikes toward a hidden waterfall. This part involves crossing hanging bridges, climbing steps, and walking through vibrant tropical vegetation. It’s a chance to get close to nature—think about cooling off in the crystal-clear pools beneath the cascade.

Once at the waterfall, you’ll have about an hour to swim, relax, and take photos. Be ready for some exertion, as you’ll descend from the horses to walk the remaining way. The experience of reaching this secluded spot is often described as magical by past participants, who appreciate the sense of discovery and the refreshing swim.

ATV Adventure: Rugged Terrain and Splashing Fun

Next, your adrenaline kicks in with a one-hour ATV ride through the Sierra Madre’s rugged landscape. You’ll splash across rivers and navigate natural obstacles designed to give you a taste of off-road excitement. The terrain is challenging enough to be fun but not so difficult as to be intimidating, making it suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.

Travelers have commented on how dynamic and exhilarating the ATV portion is, with one noting, “It’s a rush to be zipping through the jungle, feeling the power of the machine and the scenery around you.”

Authentic Mexican Lunch: Savor the Flavors

After a day of activity, the tour concludes with a homemade Mexican meal. The lunch features sizzling fajitas or grilled chicken, complemented by fresh guacamole (made by you!), tortillas, beans, and rice. The meal is hearty and flavorful, providing a true taste of local cuisine.

Many reviews highlight the value of this part of the tour, appreciating that it’s not just a quick snack but a genuine home-cooked experience. It’s a great way to relax, refuel, and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Returning to the Starting Point

By early afternoon, the tour wraps up with transportation back to your initial meeting points. The overall timing allows you to enjoy the day without feeling rushed, leaving you with memorable stories and plenty of photos.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs $235 per person, which might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the inclusion of all activities, transportation, and a full Mexican meal, the value becomes clearer. It’s a comprehensive package that provides a lot of variety in one day.

Group size is capped at 20 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. Because the routes and water levels depend on seasonal weather, you might find less water during dry seasons or more in rainy periods, impacting the waterfall experience slightly. The tour route is flexible, and guides prioritize safety and fun.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking, climbing, and splashing. Biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended to protect both your skin and the environment. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but some physical activity is involved, so keep that in mind.

Summing Up the Experience

This tour offers a well-balanced blend of adventure, nature, and culture. It’s perfect for those who want a more authentic and active day outside the beaches. The different elements—horseback riding through jungle trails, swimming in waterfalls, and riding ATVs—make it a dynamic and engaging experience.

The inclusion of a local-style lunch adds an extra layer of authenticity, giving travelers a taste of Mexican hospitality and cuisine in a relaxed setting. It’s evident from reviews that many find the waterfalls and scenic views to be the highlight, making this a memorable way to connect with the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta.

While it’s a physically demanding tour, most guests find the activities manageable and rewarding. It’s an ideal pick for adventure lovers, families with active kids, or anyone eager to explore Mexico’s wild side in a safe, guided environment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a full-day outdoor adventure that combines scenic beauty with physical activity, this tour is a solid choice. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind getting a little dirty and are excited about exploring natural landscapes rather than just sightseeing from a distance. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Mexico’s rugged terrain will find plenty to enjoy.

It’s worth noting that if your idea of vacation is lounging by a pool or relaxing at a beach, this might be more adventure than you’re after. But if you crave stunning views, authentic experiences, and a good dose of adrenaline, then this tour delivers on all fronts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour fee?
Your ticket covers all activities, including horseback riding, ATV riding, a traditional Mexican lunch, transportation, and equipment.

Are there any age restrictions?
The provided data doesn’t specify age limits, but given the physical nature of the activities, it’s best for those in reasonable health and able to handle walking and climbing.

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?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, with shoes that can handle walking and climbing. Consider wearing biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent for safety.

Can I swim in the waterfall pools?
Yes, once you reach the waterfall, there’s plenty of time to cool off in the pools. Be prepared for some walking and climbing to get there.

What is the ATV ride like?
The ATV journey lasts about an hour, crossing rivers and rugged terrain. It’s designed to be exciting but manageable for most riders.

How many people will be in my tour group?
Tour groups are limited to 20 travelers for a more personalized experience.

What is the best time of year to go?
The water levels in waterfalls vary with seasons—more in rainy season, less in dry. Routes are flexible based on conditions.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation from designated meeting points is included in the price.

Final Thoughts

The Sierra Madre Combo Tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a well-rounded, active way to see a different side of Mexico. It’s a day filled with scenic views, physical activity, and authentic flavors—ideal for those who want to combine adventure with culture. While it demands some effort, the rewards are plentiful: stunning waterfalls, exhilarating rides, and memorable interactions with local landscapes.

If your idea of travel involves authentic outdoor experiences and a touch of adrenaline, this tour is a worthy choice. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to explore Mexico’s wild beauty in a safe, guided setting. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—and a camera to capture those unforgettable moments.