Puerto Vallarta: El Eden Horseback Riding

Puerto Vallarta: El Eden Horseback Riding — A Fun Day Out with a Mix of Nature, Film History, and Flavors

If you’re looking for a day that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and a touch of pop culture, the El Eden Horseback Riding tour might just be a trip highlight. While it’s based in Baja California Sur, this experience offers a nice blend of outdoor activity and cultural sights that could appeal to a variety of travelers. We’re not talking about a rollercoaster ride here, but rather a well-rounded experience that’s perfect for those who want to explore some natural beauty and learn about local traditions without a huge time commitment.

What caught our eye about this tour? First, the horseback ride along the Mismaloya River promises gorgeous views and a chance to connect with the landscape, which we love. Second, the visit to Jardín El Edén, a spot famous for being a filming location of the movie “Predator,” adds a layer of fun and curiosity. But, it’s worth mentioning that some might find the 6-hour duration a bit long if you’re tight on time or prefer less active outings. It’s definitely suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and are comfortable with mild physical activity.

All in all, this tour seems best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate scenic rides, film history, and a little local flavor. If you’re after a relaxed day lounging on the beach, it might not be the perfect fit. But if you’re curious about combining outdoor fun with a splash of storytelling and tasting, this could be a memorable choice.

Key Points

• Scenic horseback riding along the lush Mismaloya River offers picturesque views.
• The visit to Jardín El Edén brings a unique film history twist.
• Natural pools and ecological park provide a refreshing break during the day.
• Tequila tasting with a margarita caps off the experience for those interested in local spirits.
• The tour is 6 hours long, so it suits those with a whole day free.
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) means more personalized attention.
• The experience is rated 4.4, indicating generally positive feedback.
• Food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at What You Can Expect

Scenic Horseback Ride Along the Mismaloya River

We loved the way the tour kicks off with a horseback ride through the beautiful Mismaloya River area. The ride lasts about an hour and offers a chance to enjoy the lush flora and fauna of the Sierra Madre Occidental. If you’re a nature lover, this part could be one of the highlights; you’ll ride through areas that are both tranquil and scenic, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos or just soak in the views.

The horses are generally considered friendly and well-behaved, which makes this accessible even if you’re not an experienced rider. That said, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention a certain level of physical activity, so moderate fitness helps.

Visiting Jardín El Edén, the Film Location

Next, the journey takes you to Jardín El Edén, which is not just a beautiful spot but also famous as a filming location for the movie “Predator.” It’s a natural paradise with waterfalls and lush greenery, perfect for a quick exploration. The setting feels almost cinematic, and many find it surprisingly peaceful—especially after the more active part of the day.

Visitors have commented on how breathtaking the scenery is here. You’ll have time to swim in the crystal-clear pools, which is a welcome refreshment after walking around. Keep in mind that the park is an ecological space, so you might want to bring some insect repellent to avoid bites.

Relaxing and Eating at the Ecological Park

After a swim and some exploring, the tour allocates about an hour and a half at the park. While food and drinks are not included, many guests choose to enjoy the restaurant’s offerings or simply relax in the tranquil surroundings. The peaceful environment makes it an ideal spot to unwind, enjoy some local natural beauty, and take pictures.

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Tequila Tasting and Margarita Finale

No trip to Mexico is complete without a taste of its famous spirits, and this tour includes a visit to a tequila distillery. Here, you’ll be greeted with a complimentary margarita and learn about the traditional process of tequila production. The 40-minute tasting session provides an opportunity to sample different varieties, helping you appreciate the nuanced flavors of this iconic drink.

Guests generally find the tequila experience enjoyable and informative, especially if you’re into spirits. It’s a relaxed way to end the tour, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and learn about local traditions.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Price and Value

At $107 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest activity but offers a comprehensive experience that combines several highlights into one day. Considering the included shuttle service, horseback ride, park visit, and tequila tasting, many find it offers fair value—especially for those who want to cover a lot without booking multiple separate activities.

Duration and Group Size

The 6-hour duration makes it suitable for travelers who want a full-day outing but might not want to spend the entire day on a single activity. The small group limit (up to 10 participants) ensures more personalized attention, which many travelers appreciate.

What to Bring

Make sure to come prepared with swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, insect repellent, and cash. The natural pools are inviting, but you’ll need your own supplies if you want to swim comfortably. Plus, carrying cash is handy at the tequila distillery and for any extra purchases.

Not Suitable For

This is important to note: children under 6 years and pregnant women are not recommended to join, mainly for safety and comfort reasons. The physical activity, while gentle, may not suit very young kids or pregnant travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This horseback riding and adventure day is ideal if you’re craving a blend of nature, culture, and a hint of Hollywood history. It suits travelers who enjoy being outdoors, are comfortable with basic physical activity, and want a more immersive experience than simply sightseeing from a bus.

The scenic ride along the river offers memorable views, and the visit to Jardín El Edén adds a sense of discovery and fun. The tequila tasting is a nice touch, especially if you enjoy spirits and want to learn a bit about local traditions. However, keep in mind that food and drinks are extra, so budget accordingly if you’re hungry or thirsty.

If you’re after a relaxing beach day or a tour with a lot of downtime, this might not be the perfect fit. But for those looking to combine activity, scenery, and flavors in one package, it can make for a very rewarding day.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the shuttle service from the designated meeting point is part of the experience, making logistics easier.

How long is the horseback ride?
The horseback ride lasts about 1 hour, offering a relaxed pace to enjoy the scenery.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, insect repellent, and cash for extra purchases or tips.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You can purchase meals or snacks at the ecological park or the tequila distillery.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can children join this tour?
Children under 6 years old are not suitable, as well as pregnant women, due to the physical aspects of the tour.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $107 per person, which covers transportation, horseback riding, park access, and tequila tasting.

Is this tour available in the morning or afternoon?
Both options are typically available, allowing you to choose a time that fits your schedule.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can cancel for a full refund if done at least 24 hours ahead.

In summary, the El Eden Horseback Riding tour offers a well-rounded experience packed with scenic views, a film history twist, and local flavors. It’s a good pick for those wanting an active day out with plenty of variety and beautiful spots to remember. Just be ready for a bit of physical activity, bring some cash and supplies, and you’re set for a memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: