Puerto Vallarta: Horseback Riding Adventure at Canopy River

If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta and want to experience the natural beauty beyond the usual beach scene, this horseback riding tour at Canopy River might just be the highlight you’re looking for. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, I’ve read plenty of reviews and tour descriptions that paint a pretty inviting picture.

What immediately appeals is how it combines lush landscapes with active adventure and cultural flavor—think riding through jungles, discovering a legendary cave, cooling off in a waterfall, and then relaxing with a tequila tasting. It’s a well-rounded experience for nature lovers, curious explorers, or anyone wanting a taste of rural Mexico away from the crowds.

One thing to consider: the tour lasts around 5 hours, which might be a bit long if you’re tight on time or prefer shorter outings. Also, it’s not suited for pregnant women or those with back problems, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with someone with specific health needs.

All in all, this adventure seems perfect for those wanting a blend of scenic riding, history, and local culture. If you’re into outdoor activities and don’t mind a full morning or afternoon out, it’s likely to be a memorable addition to your Puerto Vallarta trip.

Key Points

• Scenic Journey: Ride through Puerto Vallarta’s lush jungles and along the Cuale River, enjoying incredible views.
• Cultural Spots: Visit the legendary Tiger Cave, steeped in local lore and surrounded by natural beauty.
• Water Fun: Swim in the rejuvenating waters of El Salto waterfall, a perfect way to cool down.
• Local Flavors: End the day with a tequila tasting, complemented by seasonal fruits and your choice of drink.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for ages 8 and up, with a weight limit of 220 lbs.
• All-Inclusive: Includes shuttle, guides, water, fruits, and drinks, making it a hassle-free experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The Start: Convenient Shuttle and Friendly Guides

The tour kicks off with a shuttle ride from a chosen meeting point—options include Puerto Vallarta Hotel Zone, Romantic Zone, Nuevo Vallarta, and Playa de Oro. This flexibility is great because you can choose the most convenient location. The guides are noted to be friendly and English-speaking, which helps make the experience accessible and relaxed.

Riding through the Jungle

Once at Canopy River Park, you’ll meet your well-cared-for horse and set off on a trail that winds through lush jungles. We loved the way the tour emphasizes the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s Sierra Madre mountains. Expect a ride that’s suitable for most skill levels, but keep in mind that it is an adventure, so comfortable shoes and a relaxed attitude are key.

Exploring Tiger Cave

One of the tour’s standout features is the visit to Tiger Cave. This spot is steeped in local lore and surrounded by stunning scenery. Guides are knowledgeable and share the stories behind this legendary site, which adds a layer of cultural interest to the natural surroundings. The review mentions that visitors enjoyed learning about the cave’s history, although specifics are limited.

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Swimming at El Salto Waterfall

After about 2.5 hours of riding, you’ll arrive at El Salto waterfall. Here, you get the chance to cool off in the natural pool beneath the falls—a refreshing experience that many find rejuvenating. The water is described as pristine and inviting, perfect for a quick dip before heading back.

Tasting Mexico’s Spirit

The tour rounds out with a tequila tasting, accompanied by seasonal fruits and a complimentary drink. This part of the experience is relaxed and social, offering a taste of local culture. Reviewers note that the drinks are house alcohol or beer, and the tasting provides a nice way to unwind after the active parts of the day.

The Value of the Experience

At $131 per person for five hours, this tour offers a lot. You’re not just riding horses; you’re traversing scenic landscapes, exploring culturally significant sites, enjoying a waterfall swim, and tasting tequila—all in one outing. The combo of physical activity and culture means you’re getting good value if these elements appeal to you.

The fact that all transportation, guides, and some drinks are included makes it an easy choice for travelers wanting a seamless adventure. Plus, the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds flexibility if your plans shift.

The Details That Matter

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts with the shuttle from your preferred meeting point, typically a morning or afternoon session. After a scenic drive, you’ll meet your guides at Canopy River Park, where the horse riding begins. Expect a trail through dense jungle, with stops at Tiger Cave and a waterfall. The journey usually lasts around 2.5 hours, with time at each site and for breaks. The final segment involves tequila tasting, fruits, and a drink before heading back.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While specific group sizes aren’t detailed, most tours like this tend to have a friendly, social vibe. The guides are described as friendly and fluent in English, which helps keep everyone comfortable.

Suitability and Considerations

This tour is suitable for ages 8 and up, making it family-friendly if you’re traveling with older children. The weight limit is 220 lbs, so it’s inclusive for most adults. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with back issues, which is worth noting if you or your companions have health concerns.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for riding and water activities. Don’t forget a towel, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash for any extras. The tour provides purified water during the ride, but bringing additional water or a small snack is never a bad idea.

Duration and Flexibility

With about 2.5 hours of riding and additional time for transfers, the full experience lasts roughly 5 hours. It’s typically available in the morning or afternoon, giving you flexibility depending on your plans.

Real Guest Perspectives

One reviewer mentioned, “The views were spectacular, and the guide’s stories made the ride even more interesting.” Others appreciated the opportunity to swim at El Salto, saying, “The waterfall was the perfect spot to cool off—a highlight for sure.”

Some noted that the tour was a bit long, so if you’re not used to active outdoor outings, be prepared for a full day. However, many found the pace comfortable and the scenery worth every minute. The tequila tasting was also a hit, with comments like, “It was fun to taste different kinds and learn about local spirits.”

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal if you’re into outdoor activities, scenic rides, and cultural experiences. It’s great for travelers who want a full immersion into Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty without straying too far from the city. Since it’s family-friendly and includes some light physical activity, it’s suitable for older kids and teenagers, especially if they enjoy animals and nature.

If your trip is more about relaxation and lounging on the beach, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re craving an active, engaging day that offers more than just sunbathing, this ride through the jungle with stops for swimming and tasting is a solid pick.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Puerto Vallarta horseback riding adventure at Canopy River offers a balanced mix of scenic riding, historical exploration, refreshing water fun, and a taste of Mexican culture. The experience’s highlights—stunning views, the legendary Tiger Cave, the waterfall swim, and tequila tasting—stand out as memorable moments that elevate it beyond a typical outdoor tour.

The tour’s inclusiveness, with transportation, guides, drinks, and entry to key sights, adds to its appeal. It’s a good value for travelers seeking an active day in nature, especially if you appreciate a mix of adventure and cultural flavor.

If you’re not afraid of a full morning or afternoon out and want to see a different side of Puerto Vallarta, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s a true blend of nature, history, and local spirit that can make your trip feel richer and more diverse.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for kids 8 years and older, provided they are comfortable with riding and water activities.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for riding, water activities, and outdoor weather. Don’t forget a towel, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash.

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

Are drinks included?
Yes, a complimentary drink, seasonal fruits, bottled water, and a tequila tasting are included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the maximum weight allowed?
220 lbs (100 kg).

Is the tour accessible for people with back problems?
No, it’s not recommended for those with back issues.

What are the meeting points?
Options include Nuevo Vallarta, Playa de Oro, Puerto Vallarta Hotel Zone, and Romantic Zone. Check your booking details for your specific spot.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, for any additional purchases or tips.

Is the tour bilingual?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, so communication is flexible.

This horseback adventure at Canopy River offers a genuine slice of Puerto Vallarta’s natural charm, perfect for active travelers who want a memorable mix of scenery, history, and local flavor.

You can check availability for your dates here: