Riviera Maya: Horseback Ride, Zipline, and ATV Adventure

Travelers often tell us about adventures in Riviera Maya that blend adrenaline, nature, and a splash of culture. The Horseback Ride, Zipline, and ATV Adventure offered by Extreme Adventure Cancun promises just that—a whirlwind of fun in the lush Quintana Roo landscape. From amateur horse riders to seasoned thrill-seekers, this tour packs a punch for many types of travelers.

What really drew us in are two standout features: the variety of activities packed into just five hours and the opportunity to explore different parts of the jungle and cenotes in one go. Plus, the guides receive high praise for their friendliness and professionalism, which can make or break a day like this. However, it’s worth noting that this experience is quite physically engaging—you’ll be moving from horseback to ziplining to ATV riding, so it’s best suited for active visitors ready for a full-on adventure.

One thing that could be a consideration for some is the long transportation time—about an hour each way—plus the fact that cameras aren’t allowed during activities for safety reasons. So, if capturing every moment with your camera or phone is a priority, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re after a truly hands-on experience, the overall fun and variety make it worth considering.

This tour is ideal for those who want a mixed adventure—combining wildlife, scenic views, and adrenaline. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and great value for what’s included. If you’re in the Riviera Maya area and craving a day that mixes outdoor activities with some cultural flavor, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Diverse activities: Horseback riding, ziplining, ATV riding, and cenote swimming all in one tour.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for both novices and experienced riders, with activities that cater to all levels.
• High praise for guides: They’re described as friendly, helpful, and engaging.
• Full-day experience in 5 hours: Well-paced, with a mix of action and relaxation.
• Consider transportation time: About an hour each way, which affects overall comfort.
• Camera restrictions: Cameras aren’t permitted during activities for safety reasons.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience Breakdown

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup options from Akumal, Cancún, and Playa del Carmen. From most hotel locations, you’ll be driven in a van for roughly an hour, giving you some time to relax or chat with fellow travelers. Keep in mind, the pick-up process can take some time, especially with multiple stops, and the return trip might also extend beyond the scheduled activity time.

Horseback Riding at El Rey Polo Club

Once you arrive at the El Rey Polo Club, the first activity is horseback riding. This part lasts about 30 minutes and offers a gentle introduction to the day’s adventures. Riders are led through the lush Mayan landscape, traversing quiet dusty roads and forest paths. The experience is suitable for beginners, and guides are attentive, making sure everyone feels comfortable.

Travelers generally mention that the horses are well-tempered and cared for, which is a relief for those who might be new to riding. Several reviews note that the initial horseback ride is a bit slow but becomes more energetic and fun as the guides encourage a lively atmosphere.

Off-Road ATV Adventure

Next comes the ATV ride at Extreme Adventure Park. You’ll hop onto a Honda ATV for about 30 minutes of rugged terrain. The trails are lined with trees, monkeys swinging overhead, and toucans flying past—imagine an immersive jungle experience.

Many reviewers appreciate the high-energy ride and the chance to get muddy and dirty. Some mention that the terrain is pretty rough, so wearing suitable clothes and swimsuits for after is wise. A couple of reviews highlight a desire for a bit more speed, but safety is clearly a priority, and the guides do a good job of managing the pace.

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Ziplining Through the Treetops

The highlight for adrenaline junkies is the zipline experience—flying along 5 ziplines and crossing interactive bridges. This segment lasts around 45 minutes and is often described as “super fun” and “thrilling.” The ziplines are set amid treetops, offering views of the jungle canopy and a chance to challenge your balance.

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their professionalism and safety procedures. You’ll get a safety briefing before, and the guides are attentive throughout, ensuring everyone feels secure. If you’re prone to fear of heights, the experience might be intimidating, but most find it exhilarating rather than terrifying.

Cenote Swimming – A Refreshing Finish

The grand finale is swimming in the Cenote Verde Lucero, a natural freshwater Mayan cenote. The water is described as crystal-clear and refreshing, offering a peaceful respite after all the high-energy activities. Bring your swimwear and a towel—several reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful the cenote is, a perfect spot for relaxing and cooling off.

If you’re lucky, you might spot some local wildlife and enjoy the jungle sounds while floating in the cool waters. Many reviewers say this was their favorite part—highlighting the tranquility after the adrenaline rush.

Cultural & Refreshment Highlights

After the cenote, the tour wraps up at Extreme Adventure Cancun with a few additional touches. Some reviews mention local spirits and traditional dance shows, adding a dash of local flavor. Plus, there’s a variety of local snacks to enjoy, which travelers say are a nice touch to the overall experience.

Final Tips & Extras

• Photos: Professional photos are available for purchase, but reviews note that some include shots of other people, so managing expectations is prudent.
• Cost & Value: The tour costs $129 per person, which is reasonable given the number of activities and inclusions like safety gear and lockers. Many find it good value, especially considering the variety.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and a driver’s license for ATV driving are essential. Remember, cameras aren’t allowed during activities for safety reasons.
• Age & Physical Requirements: Participants must be 18+ to drive an ATV alone or 16+ with an adult. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or anyone over 300 lbs.

What We Appreciate & What to Consider

What truly stands out are the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful scenery—reviews consistently praise the guides for their attentiveness and friendly attitudes. The variety of activities ensures that everyone gets a little bit of everything—an especially good feature for those who want a taste of multiple adventure sports in one trip.

On the flip side, the trip’s length and logistics might be a challenge for some. The transportation time adds a significant chunk to the overall experience—about an hour each way—and could feel lengthy depending on your starting point. Also, if you’re a photographer or like to capture every moment, the policy of no cameras during activities might be frustrating.

The price point is fair considering the scope, but keep in mind that beverages beyond the included local snacks and professional photos are extra. If you’re looking for a purely adrenaline-filled day, this might be slightly on the more relaxed side, especially if your group isn’t keen on the slower pace of horseback riding at the start.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a balanced mix of adventure and nature in a manageable timeframe. It’s suitable for those who want to try different activities—horseback riding, ziplining, ATV riding—and enjoy some downtime in a cenote. The guides’ friendliness and professionalism elevate the experience, making it accessible for first-timers.

It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with friends or even adventurous couples who want a shared experience that’s lively but not overly strenuous. If you’re looking for a quiet, luxury day or are especially concerned about safety and comfort, you might prefer a more tailored or private option.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is mainly designed for adults and older teens, as participants must be 16+ to drive an ATV with an adult, or 18+ to drive alone. It isn’t specifically family-focused or designed for very young children.

How long is the entire experience?
The scheduled activities last around 5 hours, but with pickups and drop-offs, total time including transport can be longer.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and your driver’s license if you want to drive the ATV. It’s also smart to wear clothes that can get muddy or wet.

Are safety gear and insurance included?
Yes, safety equipment is provided for ziplining, ATV, and horseback riding, along with ATV insurance.

Can I buy photos of my experience?
Yes, professional photos are available for purchase, but reviews suggest that some photos include other guests, so manage your expectations.

Is there any cultural aspect to this tour?
While the focus is on adventure, the tour does include small cultural touches like local snacks and a traditional dance show at the end.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility to plan or change your mind.

The Bottom Line

The Riviera Maya Horseback Ride, Zipline, and ATV Adventure offers a well-rounded taste of outdoor fun in a beautiful setting. It’s a reliable pick if you’re after variety, good guides, and value for money. While the transport logistics and camera restrictions might be considerations, the overall experience seems to leave most travelers satisfied.

If you’re someone who loves mixing adventure sports with a touch of nature and cultural flavor, this tour can deliver a lively, memorable day. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a full schedule and are eager to experience multiple highlights of the Riviera Maya landscape in just a few hours.

Ready to add some adrenaline to your Riviera Maya trip? This tour could be the perfect way to break up your beach days with a dose of excitement and natural beauty.

Note: Always check current availability and book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons.

You can check availability for your dates here: