Puerto Vallarta: Horse Riding Tour w/ Optional ATV & Zipline

If you’re considering a day out in Puerto Vallarta that balances adventure, nature, and local flavor, this horse riding tour with optional ATV and zipline experiences might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a well-rated outing, earning a 4.6 out of 5 from travelers who’ve tried it, and for good reason.

What immediately catches your eye about this tour is how it combines scenic outdoor activities—traversing the lush Sierra Madre jungle, crossing rivers and hanging bridges—with a delicious Mexican meal at the end. Plus, the options to add an ATV ride or ziplining make it flexible whether you’re looking for a little extra thrill or a relaxed ride through the rainforest.

That said, it’s not for everyone. It’s quite active, involving some walking, horse riding, and potentially hiking. If mobility is a concern, or if heights aren’t your thing, you might want to consider your comfort level before booking. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and culture in a beautiful setting, and who are comfortable with some physical activity.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenery: Explore the Sierra Madre jungles, waterfalls, rivers, and hanging bridges.
• Versatile Activities: Horseback riding is the core, with optional ATV and zipline adventures.
• Authentic Mexican Food: Enjoy a hearty meal with fajitas, chicken, guacamole, salsa, and homemade tortillas.
• Guided Experience: Bilingual guides ensure safety and local insights throughout.
• Family-Friendly with Considerations: Not suitable for pregnant women, mobility-impaired, or those with certain health conditions.
• Great Value: At $116 per person, it offers a full day of activities and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting the Day: Convenient Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with pickup from one of three designated locations, including spots in Puerto Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, and nearby areas. The transport is by a white van with the Rancho Capomo logo, which you’ll find waiting no longer than five minutes after the scheduled pickup time. The ride to the ranch takes around 40 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and get into the vacation vibe.

The Horseback Riding Adventure

Once at Rancho Capomo, the core of the day kicks off with a three-hour horseback ride through the lush Sierra Madre jungle. The guides are bilingual, offering commentary and safety tips in both English and Spanish, making it easier for international visitors to feel comfortable.

We loved the way the ride is tailored to different skill levels. Many reviews mention the guides’ professionalism and their ability to match riders with gentle horses, especially helpful for beginners. One guest noted, “I asked for a gentle horse, and I really enjoyed navigating the terrain, including river crossings and boulder fields.”

The route is carefully designed to showcase stunning views and diverse terrain—riding alongside streams, crossing hanging bridges, and climbing steep steps leading to a waterfall. Some sections involve walking, and there are moments where you dismount to continue on foot, climbing or walking up to the waterfall and swimming in the clear river.

The Waterfall and River Stop

The highlight for many is reaching the waterfall, where you can cool off in the refreshing water. The experience of crossing rope bridges and climbing to scenic spots adds a sense of adventure. One reviewer recalls, “The horses and zip lining was fun, but the food was fantastic. Atv was through town, I didn’t like it,” but the waterfall visit remains a favorite for those who enjoy natural beauty.

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Optional Activities: ATV or Zipline

For those craving more adrenaline, you can choose to add either an ATV ride or ziplining. The ATV trail takes you through the jungle, offering a chance to feel the power beneath you and spot local wildlife like iguanas and butterflies. Some travelers, however, mention that the ATV ride is more about seeing the town and the Sierra Madre than a rugged off-road adventure.

The zipline tour happens at an ecological park, featuring 13 lines flying between trees and over rivers. It’s a fantastic way to get a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest, especially if heights aren’t an issue. A few reviews note that the ziplining involves some walking between lines, but most found the experience exhilarating and safe.

Lunch and Cultural Touches

After all the outdoor activities, you’ll head back to the ranch for a delicious Mexican meal. The menu includes fajitas or chicken, with rich guacamole, salsa, fresh handmade tortillas, beans, and rice. Many reviews rave about the food quality, with guests commenting that it’s some of the best Mexican cuisine they had during their trip.

One traveler shared, “Before lunch, we made pico de gallo from fresh ingredients—a nice touch of authenticity.” Beverages include water, juice, and tequila, and alcohol is optional.

The Overall Pace and Group Size

The entire tour lasts about five hours, balancing activity and relaxation. Groups are generally small enough to feel personal, with guides paying close attention to safety and individual needs. This makes it a relaxed but engaging day out, especially appreciated by those who want a mix of adventure and cultural experience.

The Real Traveler Insights

Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the safety measures in place. One reviewer mentions, “Sergio, my guide, was super cool,” emphasizing that the staff makes a difference. The positive atmosphere and friendly staff help create a memorable experience.

Some travelers noted that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, due to the physical activity and walking involved. It’s also worth noting that the tour is active enough that your legs may get hot from the ATV motor or riding, so wearing comfortable, breathable clothes is advised.

Price and Value

At $116 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package of horseback riding, optional ATV and zipline adventures, transportation, and a hearty Mexican meal. Considering the variety of activities, natural beauty, and the cultural experience, most agree it offers good value for the money.

Final Thoughts

This tour is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a full day immersed in nature and adventure, with a taste of local flavor. The combination of horseback riding, waterfalls, and optional thrill-seeking activities like ziplining or ATV riding makes it versatile.

If you’re comfortable with physical activity, enjoy scenic outings, and want a genuine Mexican meal at the end, you’ll find plenty to love here. The guides’ professionalism and the beautiful landscapes make it a memorable part of any Puerto Vallarta trip.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from selected pickup points is included, with a white van waiting at designated spots.
Can I participate if I’m a beginner rider? Absolutely. Many reviews mention the guides’ ability to match riders with gentle horses, and some guests appreciated the challenge as a beginner.
What should I wear? Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and riding are recommended. If you plan to swim, bring swimwear and a towel.
Are there any restrictions? Yes, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility impairments, people with heart problems, or over 264 lbs.
How long is the tour? The total experience lasts about five hours, including transportation, activities, and meal time.
Can I do the activities separately? While you can add ATV or ziplining as options, the core is horseback riding, with the other activities available as add-ons.
What is the food like? Guests rave about the authentic Mexican meal, with flavorful fajitas, chicken, guacamole, salsa, and handmade tortillas.
Is alcohol included? Alcohol is available but optional; many guests enjoyed non-alcoholic drinks like hibiscus juice or water.

In the end, if you’re craving a diverse, scenic adventure that offers a good mix of riding, nature, and cultural bites, this tour is a solid pick. Just prepare yourself for some activity, come with an open mind, and enjoy the spectacular views and friendly guides.

You can check availability for your dates here: