Private Tour: ATV SIERRA MADRE rivers with Tequila Tasting

Our review covers an exciting private ATV tour that whisks you through the stunning rivers and mountain trails of the Sierra Madre near Puerto Vallarta. Designed for those with some riding experience, this tour combines off-road adventure, scenic vistas, and authentic Mexican charm.

What we love most about this experience are the personalized attention from dedicated guides and the chance to see a different side of Puerto Vallarta—far from the beach resorts—where you’ll ride through rivers, cross small villages, and enjoy the mountain air. The delicious Mexican meal at a traditional ranch and the opportunity to pick a morning or afternoon departure are nice touches that add flexibility to your day.

A potential consideration is that this tour is geared toward riders with previous experience, so if you’re new to ATV riding, you might want to seek a beginner-friendly option. Also, the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, which means you’ll want to plan for a meal afterward. However, for travelers craving an active, authentic adventure with a touch of local culture, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits adventure lovers, seasoned ATV riders, or anyone eager to explore the wild side of Puerto Vallarta in a private setting. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy scenic drives and a bit of local interaction, like helping out community families with a small ATV fee.

Key Points

• Private ATV experience offers exclusive access and personalized attention.
• Scenic off-road riding includes river crossings and mountain trails.
• Authentic Mexican meal at a rural ranch, with options to skip or enjoy later.
• Flexible scheduling with morning or afternoon options.
• Suitable for experienced riders aged 16 and up with a driver’s permit.
• Cost-effective at around $77 per person, offering a memorable adventure.

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at Xiutla Riders PV in Puerto Vallarta, conveniently located near public transportation. You’re asked to arrive 15 minutes early to fill out waivers, get helmets, goggles, and bandanas, and receive safety instructions. The shop is well-organized, and the staff’s friendliness is often praised in reviews, setting a welcoming tone for the day.

The tour typically starts at 9:00 am, but some guests have appreciated the flexibility in scheduling. The trip lasts approximately 2 hours, which is enough time to enjoy a substantial ride without feeling rushed. Since it’s a private tour, only your group will participate, making the experience more tailored and less chaotic than a big group outing.

The Itinerary – Why It’s Special

The ride kicks off with a safety briefing, including hand signals used by guides to communicate during the ride—crucial for those unfamiliar with off-road adventures. From there, the fun begins as you head into the Sierra Madre mountains. Expect to traverse off-road mountain trails that rumble beneath your wheels and cross rivers, passing through lush scenery that changes from riverside to mountain vistas.

One of the highlights is passing through small villages and crossing the Macota River, which offers an exhilarating splash of water and a break from the dirt trails. This portion of the ride is often described as “a blast” in reviews, with riders loving the sense of adventure and the chance to see local life up close.

The Guide and Equipment

Guides like José, Edson, and Joey are praised for their professionalism, knowledge, and enthusiasm. Reviewers mention how guides make safety a priority, explain hand signals clearly, and are attentive to rider comfort. They also take plenty of action shots, so you can relive the adventure later.

Safety gear includes helmets, goggles, and face masks, ensuring protection without sacrificing comfort. The equipment is in good condition, and the guides go over operating instructions thoroughly, which is reassuring even for experienced riders.

Scenery and Adventure Quality

The scenery is one of the biggest draws. Riders pass through river crossings, lush mountain trails, and small villages, giving a real sense of rural Mexico away from the tourist-heavy zones. The landscape is described as breath-taking, with reviews highlighting “amazing views” and “beautiful places” that make every bump and turn worthwhile.

Many mention how the ride offers a perfect balance of thrilling off-road action and relaxed sightseeing. If you love nature and a bit of adrenaline, this tour delivers generously.

Food and Rest Stops

While the tour does not include food, the itinerary features a stop at a traditional ranch where you can purchase a delicious Mexican meal (own expense). Some reviews emphasize how tasty and authentic the local fare is, making it a good opportunity to enjoy a hearty meal after the ride.

The option to bring a swimming suit adds extra fun—some guests enjoy jumping into rivers or wading through streams during breaks. If you’re interested in helping local communities, you can contribute $3 USD per ATV towards maintaining the trails, which many appreciate as a way to support sustainable tourism.

Cost and Value

At around $77 per person, this tour offers significant value for a private, guided adventure. Considering the personalized attention, quality equipment, scenic variety, and expert guides, it’s a worthwhile investment for adventure-seekers.

Since food and drinks are not included, budget-conscious travelers might plan to dine afterward. The flexibility in timing and the private nature of the tour mean you won’t be stuck in a large group, enhancing the overall experience.

Authentic Reviews and Real Experiences

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. For example, one reviewer called it “probably the best ATV tour” they’d done, highlighting the friendliness and attentiveness of the crew. Others mention the “amazing ride up the mountain,” “great action shots,” and “beautiful, breathtaking places” that make the ride memorable.

The reviews also underscore how well-organized and safe the experience feels, even for riders with some experience. One guest noted, “Our guide was quiet at first but then was amazing,” indicating that guides adapt well to different rider styles and comfort levels.

This adventure is best suited for experienced ATV riders who enjoy a mix of thrill and scenery. If you’re comfortable handling an ATV and want to explore the rugged Sierra Madre landscape, this trip hits the spot. It appeals to those who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, and don’t mind a bit of dirt and water.

Families with teenagers (age 16+ with a driver’s permit) will find this a fun challenge, especially if they’re used to riding or craving a more active day. The tour’s private setup makes it suitable for groups, couples, or adventurous friends looking for a memorable outing.

It’s worth noting that if you’re new to ATV riding or prefer a more relaxed, scenic drive without off-road adventure, you might want to look for a beginner-friendly alternative. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so come prepared for sun, rain, or shine.

This private ATV adventure through the Sierra Madre offers a perfect mix of adrenaline, stunning scenery, and authentic Mexican culture. The guides are knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring a safe and fun ride through rivers, mountains, and villages. The opportunity to support local communities by contributing a small fee adds an ethical dimension that many travelers appreciate.

The highlight for many is the ability to customize stops—whether you want to relax by the river, take photos, or enjoy the mountain views. The delicious Mexican ranch meal is an added bonus, giving you a taste of local cuisine after your thrilling ride.

This tour delivers excellent value, especially considering its private, personalized nature. It’s a fantastic choice for seasoned riders eager for a day of adventure and picturesque landscapes. If you want to explore beyond the beaches and resorts, this ride into the Sierra Madre is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This tour is designed for riders with previous experience, as it’s more adventurous and off-road. Beginners may want to look for a less challenging option.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers fuel, a private guide, helmets, goggles, and face masks. Food and drinks are not included, so plan for meals afterward.

Can I choose morning or afternoon departures?
Yes, you can select your preferred time—either morning or afternoon—making it flexible to fit your schedule.

How long is the ride?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, providing enough time for a thorough adventure without fatigue.

Is there a minimum age?
Yes, the minimum age is 16 with a driver’s permit; children 6 and older can be passengers.

What if it rains?
The tour runs in all weather conditions. Dress appropriately and be prepared for an adventurous day even in rain.

Are meals included?
No, but there is a stop at a traditional ranch where you can purchase authentic Mexican food.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimming suits if you want to swim, and bugspray. You might also consider extra camera gear for capturing the scenery.

Can I help support local communities?
Yes, there’s a $3 USD ATV fee for community families in EJIDO EL JORULLO, which helps maintain the trails.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The activity starts at Xiutla Riders PV, easily reachable via public transportation or Uber.

This detailed review hopefully helps you decide whether this private Sierra Madre ATV tour is right for your next adventure. It promises a memorable day of action, scenic beauty, and cultural connection—just the kind of experience that makes travel truly rewarding.