Side by side/rzr in the mountain, waterfull and tequila tasting

Exploring the RZR Mountain Adventure with Waterfalls and Tequila Tasting: A Practical Review

If you’re looking to escape the usual Puerto Vallarta tourist spots and get a taste of authentic local scenery and flavors, this Side-by-Side/RZR adventure might be just the ticket. It promises a mix of off-road thrills, stunning mountain vistas, a refreshing waterfall stop, and a fun tequila tasting experience—all wrapped within about three and a half hours. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and tour details, it sounds like a well-rounded outdoor escapade perfect for those craving a bit of adrenaline mixed with authentic Mexican culture.

What really appeals about this tour are two things: first, the personalized, private experience which can be tailored to your needs, and second, the variety of highlights—from scenic drives to waterfalls to tasting local spirits. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long driving time from Puerto Vallarta’s city center, which some travelers found a bit taxing, especially if you’re prone to dust or prefer a more relaxed pace. Ideal for adventure lovers, families with older kids, or those wanting to see a different side of Puerto Vallarta beyond the resorts, this tour offers a healthy dose of fun and culture.

Key Points

• Customizable private tour suited to your preferences
• Includes safety gear and tequila tasting for a comprehensive experience
• Diverse stops like waterfalls, scenic mountain views, and local farms
• Longer transits from town to start point, so prepare for some driving
• Not suitable for children under 5 years
• Good value for the price of $215, considering the variety of experiences

What the Tour Entails: A Deep Dive

The adventure kicks off at the Unique ATV Tours meeting point in Puerto Vallarta, where you’ll be greeted by friendly guides ready to equip you with all the necessary safety gear. The journey begins with a drive out of town, along dirt roads and winding paths that lead you into the Sierra Madre mountains. The actual RZR (or side-by-side) rides are designed to be both exhilarating and scenic. You can choose to go solo or with a passenger, depending on your comfort level and preference.

The route offers a great chance to see Puerto Vallarta from a different perspective—away from the busy tourist zones and into the lush countryside. As you traverse small streams and rural roads, the landscape slowly transforms into the jungle-clad mountains. This part of the trip is where you’ll really feel the thrill of the all-terrain vehicle, with some reviews noting the guides do a good job of making sure everyone stays safe while still enjoying the ride.

Highlight: The Waterfall Stop at Las Pilitas

One of the most memorable moments is reaching Las Pilitas, a hidden waterfall tucked away in the Sierra Madre. The natural pools around the waterfall are perfect for cooling off after a dusty ride. The lush jungle setting makes for great photo ops, and many reviews highlight the relaxing vibe here. You might enjoy a quick swim or just some time to soak up the scenery. The guides often share interesting local info, adding a bit of context to this peaceful spot.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

From the mountain’s highest points, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline and the river below. These moments are perfect for snapping photos and appreciating the landscape. The guides often point out notable features and keep the group moving smoothly, ensuring everyone gets their share of picture-perfect moments.

Lunch and Tequila Tasting

After a bit of riding, you’ll head to a riverside restaurant—an optional extra if you want to indulge in some regional cuisine. While the food isn’t included in the tour price, many mention the delicious seafood and meats at this stop as well worth the extra cost. It’s a relaxed spot where you can refuel and chat about the ride.

Following lunch, the tour continues with the tequila tasting—a highlight for many. You’ll visit a farm where they grow the fruits used in their tequilas, and your guides will walk you through the process of flavoring and distilling. The tasting features a variety of flavors, including traditional and fruit-infused options, which add a fun twist to the experience. One review notes, “the tequila tasting is at a farm where they grow their own fruit for their tequila,” emphasizing the authenticity.

Return and Reflection

The trip wraps up back at the starting point, with most guests feeling they’ve gained more than just a thrill ride—they leave with new knowledge about tequila, stunning photos, and a fun story to tell. Be prepared for some dirt and dust, as many reviews comment on getting quite muddy—so bring a swimsuit if you want to rinse off or change afterward.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

A common thread in reviews is the friendly, knowledgeable guides, who make the ride both fun and safe. One reviewer said, “The guides were very friendly and had a good system down,” which is reassuring if you’re new to off-road adventures. The guides also do well to manage the group, especially on the busy rural roads, and stop at interesting spots, like the farm or waterfall, rather than rushing through.

The scenery is often praised—stunning views of the mountains and coast, lush greenery, and the peaceful river scenes. The waterfalls and natural pools are described as beautiful and relaxing, making the slightly long drive worth it for many.

The tequila tasting is another big hit, especially for those interested in Mexican culture. Learning about the farm’s process and sampling different flavors adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers appreciate. It’s also a good way to unwind before heading back to the city.

Potential Downsides

While most reviews are positive, some travelers mention the length of the drive from Puerto Vallarta’s city center as a downside, especially if you’re eager to start riding. Also, the tour does involve a fair amount of driving on dirt roads, so if you’re sensitive to dust or prefer more leisurely excursions, this might not be your ideal choice.

A few reviews mention that some stops felt more commercial, with sales pitches or product pushes, which can be a bit of a letdown if you’re expecting a purely natural experience. Also, the cost of lunch is not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to dine at the riverside restaurant.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re craving adventure, love scenic drives, and want a taste of local spirits, this RZR mountain tour is a great pick. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy being outdoors, don’t mind getting a little muddy, and appreciate guided experiences that combine activity with learning. Families with children over 5 years old who are comfortable in an ATV might find it enjoyable, though younger kids are not accepted.

For travelers who prefer a more relaxed, less dusty outing or have mobility challenges, you might want to consider other options. Also, if you’re expecting a lot of time at the waterfalls or a leisurely pace, be aware that the drive involves some significant transit time.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 3.5 hours, including driving, stops, and tasting
• Group Size: Up to 30 travelers, but typically more private if booked as a small group
• Price: $215 per group (up to 2 people), which many find reasonable considering the variety of experiences
• Best Time to Book: Usually booked 6 days in advance, so plan ahead
• What to Bring: Sunscreen, insect repellent, swimsuit if you want to swim, extra cash for lunch or tips
• Accessibility: Near public transportation; moderate physical fitness required, no children under 5 allowed
• Weather: Good weather essential; tour can be canceled for poor conditions with a full refund

FAQs

Can I choose to go alone or with a partner?
Yes, the tour is priced per group of up to 2 people, so you can book solo or with a partner for the same price.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is at a riverside restaurant and costs extra. Many reviews recommend trying the seafood and meats here, which are well-rated.

What safety gear is provided?
All necessary safety equipment is included, which helps ensure a safe ride whether you’re a beginner or experienced.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 5 years old are not accepted, so it’s best suited for older kids and adults.

How intense are the rides?
The rides are designed for moderate physical activity, suitable for those with average fitness levels. Guides keep everyone safe and comfortable.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much walking or physical effort is involved?
Most of the activity involves riding; some stops, like at waterfalls, involve walking around natural pools, but it’s generally manageable for those with moderate fitness.

Final Thoughts

This mountain RZR tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, nature, and culture, making it a good choice for travelers who want more than just beach downtime. The scenic drives, waterfall dip, and tequila tasting combine to create a memorable half-day outing, especially if you’re looking to see a less touristy side of Puerto Vallarta.

Expect friendly guides, stunning views, and a chance to get a little dirty in the process. It’s a solid value for what’s included, and most guests come away with great stories and some new knowledge about Mexico’s spirits. If adventure and authentic experiences appeal to you, this tour might be just the right fit.

This adventure is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, are okay with some driving time, and want a taste of local culture wrapped in a fun, scenic package.