Horseback Riding Tour

If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta and craving something beyond the usual beaches and nightlife, a horseback riding tour in the Sierra Madre Mountains offers a refreshing change of pace. This tour promises a half-day of riding through forests, crossing rivers, and even stopping for a swim—all wrapped up with a tequila tasting to cap off the experience. While it’s not a full-day adventure, the blend of nature, culture, and relaxation makes it a compelling option for those looking to see a different side of Mexico.

What we really appreciate is the opportunity to connect with the landscape on horseback. Riding through lush forests and along the Cuale River offers a more intimate way of experiencing the region’s natural beauty. Plus, the inclusion of a tequila tasting adds a fun, local flavor that many travelers enjoy. On the flip side, some might find the tour’s focus on a few key activities limits variety, especially if they prefer more diverse adventures. This tour is well-suited for nature lovers, beginners, and anyone eager for a laid-back, authentic experience outside the hotel zone.

Key Points

• Authentic mountain scenery with forests and rivers for a natural escape.
• Gentle horseback riding suitable for most fitness levels.
• Includes a tequila tasting, adding a cultural touch to the outdoor adventure.
• Hassle-free round-trip transportation from Puerto Vallarta saves time and effort.
• Shorter duration, ideal for those with limited time or looking for a relaxing half-day activity.
• Small group size (up to 30 travelers) for a more personal experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Horseback Riding Tour

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Starting from your hotel or designated pickup point in Puerto Vallarta, you’ll be transported in a comfortable vehicle to the Sierra Madre Mountains, about a short drive from the city. The ride itself sets a relaxed tone, giving you a glimpse of the transition from urban buzz to tranquil nature. Once there, your guide, who is bilingual, will introduce you to your horse—an essential step for beginners and seasoned riders alike.

The riding portion lasts around two hours, during which you’ll traverse forested paths and cross the Cuale River. The terrain is generally gentle, making it accessible for most riders, but it’s wise to communicate any concerns to your guide beforehand. The highlight for many is the chance to stop and swim in the river, which offers a refreshing break and a chance for some fun photos. The natural setting is lush and peaceful, with the sounds of water and birds creating an authentic outdoor experience.

After riding, you’ll enjoy a tequila tasting session. This isn’t just about sipping; it’s an opportunity to appreciate Mexico’s proud tequila heritage, often with expert guidance explaining the different varieties. The tasting is typically accompanied by a welcome drink, making it a relaxed and social way to finish the excursion before heading back to Puerto Vallarta.

The Value of Hassle-Free Transportation

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the included round-trip transport. It eliminates the stress of finding your own way to the mountains and ensures a smooth start and finish to the day. The meeting point is conveniently located in the Zona Hotelera, making it easy to reach from most accommodations.

Group Size and Personal Attention

With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour maintains a mostly intimate atmosphere, allowing guides to offer personalized attention. This is especially important for beginners or those who might be a little nervous about riding.

What’s Not Included

While the tour covers most essentials—horseback riding, a tequila tasting, water, fruit, and transportation—it does not include lunch, additional drinks, souvenirs, or photos. If you’re hoping to snap lots of pictures or pick up a keepsake, plan to do so on your own.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, nature-focused activity that combines outdoor adventure with cultural insights. It works well for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a gentle ride and a taste of local product. If you’re seeking high-adrenaline or multi-day rides, this might not be the right fit. But if you value authenticity and scenic beauty, it’s a worthwhile choice.

Analyzing the Experience: Is It Worth the Price?

At $109 per person, the price might seem high for just three hours, but it’s important to consider what’s included. The transportation, guided horseback ride, water and fruit, and tequila tasting all add up to a well-rounded experience. You’re not just paying for the ride but also for the convenience and culture.

Compared to other excursions, this tour offers a focused, authentic experience rather than a cookie-cutter tourist activity. It’s especially good for those who want a taste of the mountains and the chance to connect with nature, without the commitment of a full-day or multi-day adventure.

The Experience Provider

Operated by GoPralia, the tour benefits from a professional and bilingual guide, which helps make the experience accessible and informative. You can expect a smooth process from booking to return, with the possibility of canceling up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback riding tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a balanced mix of scenic outdoor activity and cultural insight, wrapped up in a manageable half-day format. It’s perfect for those seeking a gentle adventure that’s accessible and fun, especially if you’re interested in experiencing Mexico beyond the beaches and into the Sierra Madre’s lush landscape.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo and enjoy nature, this tour provides a genuine taste of the local environment. It’s also a good choice for anyone curious about tequila, as it combines a scenic ride with a social tasting. Just remember, it’s a relatively short experience, so if you crave more mountain adventures or high-energy rides, you might want to explore other options.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel or accommodations in Puerto Vallarta is part of the package, making logistics simple.

Is the tour suitable for beginners? Absolutely. The ride is gentle and designed to be accessible for most travelers, with guides available to assist and ensure safety.

How long does the horseback riding last? The riding portion is approximately two hours, with additional time for the river swim and tasting.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothes suitable for riding, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. Since the tour doesn’t include photos, bringing your phone or camera is recommended.

Are drinks or lunch included? No, lunch and drinks are not included, but water and seasonal fruit are provided during the ride, and the tequila tasting is part of the experience.

What is the group size? Tours are limited to a maximum of 30 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

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

Whether you’re after a peaceful escape into nature, a taste of local culture, or both, this horseback riding tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience the mountains and rivers of Mexico with ease and authenticity.