Puerto Vallarta: Jungle Side by Side Adventure

If you’re looking for a lively way to explore the natural beauty and local culture of Puerto Vallarta, the Jungle Side by Side Adventure offers a balanced mix of off-road excitement, scenic vistas, and authentic flavors. This tour, offered by Puerto Vallarta Net and rated 4.4 out of 5, promises a thrilling ride through the Sierra Madre mountains, plus stops at charming villages, a jungle bar, and Moro Paraiso for a taste of Mexican cuisine. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to combine adrenaline, nature, and culture in one afternoon.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the stunning panoramic views from the mountain plateaus and the opportunity to learn about tequila production in an informal, engaging way. The scenic rides and the chance to swim in crystal-clear spring-fed pools add genuine refreshment to the experience. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that it’s a rougher ride—not suitable if you’re seeking a smooth, relaxed sightseeing trip. This adventure suits active travelers, small groups, and those eager for a taste of authentic Mexican landscapes and flavors beyond the usual tourist spots.

Key Points

• Adventure and Scenic Beauty: Off-road rides through lush jungles and mountain views.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about tequila making with tastings included.
• Unique Stops: Jungle bar by spring-fed pools and a visit to charming villages.
• Authentic Food: Lunch at Moro Paraiso offers genuine Mexican cuisine (food and drinks not included).
• Group Size & Price: Up to 2 people per vehicle for $192, making it intimate and manageable.
• Duration & Flexibility: A 3.5-hour experience, perfect for a half-day excursion.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Jungle Side by Side Adventure

This tour offers a well-rounded day of off-road exploration, scenic views, and culture. Starting from the tour office in Puerto Vallarta, you’ll be fitted with all the necessary safety gear—helmet, goggles, and a bandana—and introduced to your fully automatic side-by-side vehicle. With up to two passengers per vehicle, it’s a small, personalized experience that keeps the adventure intimate.

The Ride Through Puerto Vallarta’s Jungles and Mountains

The core of the adventure is about roughing it a bit—zooming along approximately 15 miles (24 km) of rugged trails. We loved how the fully automatic vehicles made it easier to focus on the scenery rather than gear shifts. As you bump along the mountain paths, expect breathtaking views of the Sierra Madre and the chance to see some local wildlife, although the focus is more on scenery than wildlife spotting.

The ride isn’t just about the thrill; it’s about feeling connected to the landscape. Expect to pass through quaint villages where traditional Mexican life continues amidst stunning natural surroundings. Many reviews highlighted how these stops provided a genuine glimpse into local culture—far from the tourist trap.

Jungle Bar by Crystal Clear Pools

One of the tour’s most memorable stops is at a jungle bar situated amid spring-fed pools and seasonal waterfalls. This spot offers a perfect break from the adventure—whether you want to dip into the cool water, sip a margarita, or simply relax with the jungle’s sounds around you. The clarity of the pools and the lush environment make this a photo-worthy moment.

Reaching the Panoramic Plateau & Tequila Insights

After relaxing, the tour climbs to a plateau with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Here, you’ll be given insights into tequila production—a nod to local traditions—and enjoy tastings of various flavors. This part of the tour adds a cultural touch, making it more than just a scenic ride.

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Lunch at Moro Paraiso

The final highlight is a visit to Moro Paraiso, a riverside spot known for its authentic Mexican cuisine. The tour doesn’t include food and drinks, but travelers rave about the idyllic setting and the chance to indulge in hearty, local dishes. It’s a lovely way to unwind after the adventure and reflect on the day’s highlights.

Practical Details & Considerations

The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to your Puerto Vallarta itinerary. The tour is usually available in the morning or afternoon, providing flexibility depending on your plans. The price of $192 per group (up to 2 people) offers a good balance of intimacy and value for a half-day adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy outdoor activities, scenic vistas, and cultural experiences, this tour is a strong choice. It’s particularly suited for active travelers, families with children over 5, and those eager to explore beyond the city streets. However, note that it’s not suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems, and drivers must present a valid license.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

The combination of scenic rides, local culture, and relaxing stops makes this a worthwhile excursion for those wanting an authentic, hands-on experience. Compared to other tours that might focus solely on sightseeing, this one offers a balanced mix of adventure and culture at a reasonable price. Plus, with the safety equipment and an English-speaking guide, you can focus on enjoying rather than worrying about logistics.

The small group size (up to 2 per vehicle) ensures a more personalized experience, and the flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind. Many travelers appreciated the informative guides who offered local insights and made the ride enjoyable, even for first-timers.

Final Thoughts – Who Will Benefit Most?

This adventure is ideal for adventurous spirits eager to explore Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty in a fun, active way. It’s perfect if you want a bit of adrenaline, spectacular views, and a taste of local culture all rolled into one experience. The stops at the jungle bar and Moro Paraiso provide a relaxing contrast to the thrill of the ride, making the tour well-rounded.

Travelers who enjoy authentic experiences and don’t mind getting a little muddy or splashed will find this trip highly rewarding. It’s a fantastic choice for small groups or couples looking for a memorable day filled with scenic vistas, cultural insights, and lively outdoor activity.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
You will meet at the tour office in Puerto Vallarta; transportation from your hotel is not included. Directions will be provided upon booking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, clothes suitable for outdoor activity, insect repellent, and sunscreen are recommended. If you plan to swim, bring a towel and swimwear.

Can children participate?
Children over 5 years old can join as passengers, but drivers must be at least 18 with a valid driver’s license. Children under 5 cannot participate.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, this tour is not recommended for pregnant women due to the off-road rides.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers approximately 15 miles of riding, safety equipment, and a tequila tasting. Food and drinks at Moro Paraiso are not included.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

What’s the guide’s language?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication during the experience.

To sum it up, the Puerto Vallarta Jungle Side by Side Adventure offers a lively, action-packed way to see some of Mexico’s most picturesque landscapes and taste its spirits. It’s especially suited for those who crave a blend of nature, culture, and small-group adventure. If you’re prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride and love authentic local experiences, this tour could be a highlight of your Puerto Vallarta trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: