Puerto Vallarta: ATV Jorullo Bridge Adventure

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with adventure, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of local culture, the ATV Jorullo Bridge Tour in Puerto Vallarta might be just what you’re after. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on the rave reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like a well-rounded experience for those craving a mix of adrenaline and natural beauty. What stands out for us are the expert guides who keep everyone safe, and the stunning views from the Jorullo Bridge and waterfalls. A potential downside? It’s a touristy setting, which might feel a bit commercial for some travelers.

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a fun, active day outside the typical beach scene. It’s also family-friendly for kids over 6 (extra passengers), but not suited for pregnant women, or those with back or heart problems. Overall, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking to combine scenic exploration with some genuine thrills.

Key Points

• Includes scenic ATV riding through the Sierra Madre mountains, offering great photo ops and a sense of adventure.
• Highlights include a visit to “El Salto” waterfall and crossing the spectacular Jorullo Bridge hanging 150 meters above the river.
• Guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and ensure safety, making even first-timers feel comfortable.
• The tour features tequila tasting and traditional snacks, adding a cultural touch to the experience.
• It’s a 5-hour adventure that balances active exploration with relaxing stops.
• Cost is $197 per group, which, when considering the included activities, gear, and expert guiding, offers pretty good value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Adventure

Starting the Journey: From Meeting Point to the Mountains

The tour kicks off with a shuttle service from various spots such as Nuevo Vallarta, Playa de Oro, Puerto Vallarta Hotel Zone, and the Romantic Zone. This flexibility makes it easier to coordinate your day without extra hassle. Once you’re picked up, your guides will brief you on safety and what to expect, which is reassuring, especially if you’re new to ATVs.

After a roughly 45-minute ride through the Sierra Madre Occidental, you’ll be immersed in the landscape that makes Puerto Vallarta such a stunning area. The mountains are lush, full of subtropical greenery, and the views from the trail are usually described as breathtaking.

Riding Through the Sierra Madre

The essence of this tour is its scenic ATV ride. Whether you’re on an automatic or semi-automatic ATV, the guides help you feel confident navigating the rugged terrain. From the reviews, we know that first-timers felt safe riding, and guides kept everyone comfortable even if it was their first time on an ATV.

The trail itself is a mix of dirt paths and more challenging sections, but nothing too intimidating – perfect for beginners or those wanting a gentle thrill. The views of the mountains and surrounding landscape are a big highlight, making the ride feel like a genuine escape into nature.

The Waterfall Stop: “El Salto”

Midway or towards the end of the ride, you’ll stop at “El Salto” waterfall. This spot is described as picturesque and refreshing, a perfect pause to enjoy nature and snap some photos. Since the tour includes a swim-ready kit (bring your swimwear, towel, and change of clothes), it’s a chance to cool off and relax.

Reviewers mention that the waterfall is a popular photo stop and a refreshing break from the ride. It’s one of those moments that make the trip memorable—standing by the waterfall, surrounded by green hills, feeling connected to the landscape.

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Conquering the Jorullo Bridge

The big draw is crossing the Jorullo Bridge, Mexico’s longest suspension bridge. Suspended 150 meters above the Cuale River and stretching 470 meters, the bridge is awe-inspiring. As you walk or ride across it (they offer ATV-guided crossings), you’ll get sweeping, panoramic views of the river and mountains.

Guides are on hand to keep everyone safe, and the experience is described as both thrilling and scenic. Not everyone can handle heights, but the majority of reviews note that safety measures help keep the experience enjoyable rather than nerve-wracking.

Tasting and Cultural Experiences

After the adrenaline-filled parts, the tour eases into some cultural flavor. You’ll enjoy a complimentary welcome drink and a traditional snack, which helps balance out the physical activity. The tequila tasting is a highlight—authentic and fun, adding a relaxed, local touch to your adventure.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts about 5 hours, which includes shuttle time, the ride, stops, and the tasting. It’s well-paced, giving enough time at each point without feeling rushed. The price of $197 is for the whole group, which makes it quite a reasonable deal considering all the inclusions.

Safety is a priority: safety gear is provided, and guides are friendly and experienced. The only extra fee is about $10 USD per ATV for collision insurance, a standard practice in many adventure tours. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, cash, and a change of clothes.

What’s Not Perfect?

Some reviewers mentioned that photos taken during the tour are pricey and only printed, which could be disappointing if you’re expecting digital copies. Also, the tour can feel a bit touristy, which might detract from the authenticity if you’re seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy active outdoor adventures with stunning scenery, this tour is a winner. It’s particularly suited for first-timers or families with kids over 6 who want a safe and fun day out. The combination of ATV riding, waterfalls, and a suspension bridge creates a well-rounded experience.

However, if you’re pregnant, or have back or heart issues, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you prefer quiet, less commercialized adventures, you might find it a bit crowded or touristy. Still, for many, the friendly guides, beautiful landscapes, and adrenaline rush make this trip worth considering.

Final Thoughts

The Puerto Vallarta ATV Jorullo Bridge Adventure offers a good mix of scenic beauty, activity, and culture. It’s a tour that combines the thrill of off-road riding with the awe of crossing Mexico’s longest suspension bridge, all set in a lush mountain landscape.

The experience is enhanced by knowledgeable guides who prioritize safety and fun, making it accessible even for newcomers. The stops at waterfalls and the tequila tasting add layers of enjoyment that elevate the overall value.

While it’s not the most secluded or authentic experience possible, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a lively, memorable day outside the usual beach scenes. It’s best suited for adventure lovers eager to see a different side of Puerto Vallarta, and for those who don’t mind a bit of tourist bustle in exchange for fun and beautiful views.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the shuttle service from various meeting points like Nuevo Vallarta, Playa de Oro, Puerto Vallarta Hotel Zone, and the Romantic Zone is included, making logistics easier.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, including shuttle time, riding, stops, and tasting.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash for extras like photos or souvenirs.

Can I participate if I’ve never ridden an ATV before?
Absolutely. Guides are friendly and helpful, and safety equipment is provided. First-time riders felt safe and confident, according to reviews.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age to drive an ATV is 18, but children over 6 can ride as extra passengers. The maximum weight for single ATVs is 110 kg (242 lbs), and for double ATVs, it’s 220 kg (484 lbs).

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or people with health issues?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, or those with back or heart problems due to the physical activity and terrain.

If you’re craving an active, scenic day with a dash of adrenaline and cultural flavor, this tour seems like a solid pick. Just remember to pace yourself and bring your camera—you’ll want to remember those views long after you’re back home.

You can check availability for your dates here: