Horseback riding in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta

Horseback Riding in the Mountains of Puerto Vallarta: A Balanced Look

Travelers seeking a taste of Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty might find this horseback riding tour a compelling choice. It offers an adventurous escape from the bustling resort areas and takes you into the sierra mountains, surrounded by lush flora and wildlife. While the journey promises spectacular scenery and unique highlights like crossing the Jorullo Bridge, it’s not without its quirks—mainly, the experience hinges a lot on individual expectations and the guide’s mood.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines nature, adventure, and authentic local experiences—like visiting the Cáale River and enjoying a tequila tasting. It’s also a relatively straightforward outing, with clear logistics and a good mix of physical activity and relaxation. However, a potential drawback is that the tour’s overall enjoyment can depend heavily on the guide’s attitude, as one reviewer noted a less-than-enthusiastic guide.

This activity suits those with moderate physical fitness, an interest in mountain scenery, and a desire for a more personal, off-the-beaten-path experience. If you’re looking for a fun, scenic adventure that mixes horseback riding with some iconic sights, this could fit the bill—just be prepared for possible variability in guide engagement.

Key Points

• Authentic landscape: Ride through lush Sierra Madre mountains and see unique flora and fauna.
• Iconic crossing: Walk across the world’s longest vehicular suspension bridge, the Jorullo Bridge.
• Cultural flavor: Enjoy tequila tasting and local seasonal fruits.
• Comfort & logistics: Includes transport, water, a welcome drink, and a bilingual guide.
• Limitations: The guide’s attitude can impact the experience; a maximum weight of 100 kg/200 lbs applies.
• Value: At $100 per person, it’s a good balance of adventure and cultural experience, especially considering transportation and extras.

An Honest Look at the Experience

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins with a pick-up in an open transport vehicle from the designated meeting point in Puerto Vallarta’s hotel zone. From there, you’re whisked away to a natural park where the adventure begins. The actual horseback ride lasts roughly five hours, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery and take in the sights.

Once mounted, your guide—who should offer insightful commentary about flora and fauna—leads you through the mountain trails. The vistas are what make this tour stand out: sweeping views of the Sierra Madre, dense forests, and occasional glimpses of local wildlife. The ride itself is suitable for most with moderate physical fitness, but keep in mind that horseback riding is a balancing act, and first-timers should weigh their comfort level.

One of the tour’s highlights is reaching the Cáale River, where you’ll get a chance to cool off in the water or simply enjoy a scenic break. This pause offers a welcome moment of refreshment amid the activity. Post-river, you’ll walk across the Jorullo Bridge, which is famously listed as the longest suspension bridge in the world designed for vehicles. Walking across this impressive structure provides a sense of achievement and views that are truly worth the slight adrenaline rush.

The Transport & Group Size

Transportation is included, with a pickup from the meeting point in an open vehicle, which adds an element of adventure from the get-go. The group size is capped at 10 travelers, allowing for a more intimate experience, but also meaning spots should be booked at least two weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons.

The Guide & Overall Atmosphere

We noted that the guide’s demeanor can significantly influence your experience. One reviewer mentioned that the guide “did not make the experience very enjoyable”—possibly due to having a less-than-enthusiastic day. That said, the guide’s knowledge about local flora, fauna, and the bridge is part of what adds value, provided they’re in good spirits.

Food, Drinks, & Extras

Along With the stunning views and bridge walk, the tour includes seasonal fruits, purified water, and a welcome drink. The highlight for many is the tequila tasting, which offers a taste of local tradition and spirit. They also serve one national drink—beer, water, or lemonade—making it a well-rounded, social experience. Food isn’t included, so if you’re hungry afterward or want a more substantial meal, plan to explore local eateries post-tour.

Price & Value

At $100 per person, the tour offers a package that combines adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. You’re paying for transportation, a guided experience, and the unique features like crossing the Jorullo Bridge, which would otherwise be time-consuming or difficult to access independently. The inclusion of tequila tasting and seasonal fruits adds a traditional touch that enhances the authentic experience.

Authenticity and Experience Quality

While most aspects are positive, the review about the guide’s demeanor reminds us that customer service can vary. If you value a lively, engaging guide, you might want to confirm this in advance or set expectations. The horses are reported to be in good condition—an important detail for those concerned about animal welfare.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are interested in Mexican culture, and want to explore beyond the typical beach scene. It’s particularly appealing to those who want a photo-worthy experience — crossing a suspension bridge, riding through lush scenery, and sampling local spirits. However, those with mobility issues or who are uneasy around horses should consider their comfort level, as the tour involves horse riding and walking on uneven terrain.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback riding adventure offers an authentic, scenic taste of Puerto Vallarta’s mountainous landscapes. It’s best for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are eager to see a different side of Mexico — away from the beaches and resorts. The inclusion of the suspension bridge and tequila tasting provides memorable highlights that make it worth the price for many.

The experience is perfect for those seeking a moderate physical activity combined with cultural elements. If you’re after luxury or a highly polished guided tour, this might feel a little rough around the edges — but if you appreciate authentic charm and adventure, it’s a solid choice. Just be prepared for some variability in the guide’s enthusiasm, and keep in mind that the overall enjoyment hinges on your appreciation for scenic, outdoor pursuits.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including transport, riding, and stops like the river and bridge crossing.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transport, a welcome drink, bilingual guide, purified water, seasonal fruits, one national drink (beer, water, lemonade), walk past Jorullo Bridge, and tequila tasting.

Are there any restrictions on weight?
Yes, travelers should not weigh more than 100 kilograms or 200 pounds.

Is prior horseback riding experience necessary?
No, but you should have moderate physical fitness. Beginners can usually enjoy it, provided they’re comfortable with horses and uneven terrain.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, and sturdy shoes for horseback riding. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended, especially in sunny weather.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the physical demands and weight limit suggest it’s best for older children and teens who are comfortable around horses.

Is food provided?
No, food is not included. Plan to eat afterwards or bring snacks.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, making it a relatively personal experience.

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

This guided horseback ride offers a fine balance of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty, perfect for travelers looking to explore Puerto Vallarta’s mountains and local traditions in a fun, memorable way.