Sierra Madre Horseback Riding and ATV Tour

Experience the Excitement of the Sierra Madre with Horseback Riding and ATV Adventures

The Sierra Madre Horseback Riding and ATV Tour in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, offers a thrilling mix of outdoor activities designed for adventure lovers. Priced at $150 per person, this half-day experience typically lasts around 5 hours and is perfect for those wanting to explore more of the area’s natural beauty without a full-day commitment. With a small group limit of 15 to 20 participants, the tour ensures personalized attention from friendly guides.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of horseback riding through lush rainforests and exciting ATV rides across the mountainous terrain. It’s an ideal choice for adrenaline junkies and nature enthusiasts alike, providing more scenic views than exploring on foot. The tour concludes with a delicious Mexican lunch, all included in the price, making it a great value for a well-rounded adventure experience.

While the tour is accessible for most travelers, it’s worth noting that most participants book about 31 days in advance, emphasizing its popularity. The pickup and drop-off are included from designated meeting points, and all taxes and fees are covered, simplifying the booking process.

Key Points

• 5-hour adventure combining horseback riding and ATV riding from Puerto Vallarta
• Small group size ensures personalized guide attention
• All-inclusive price of $150, including lunch and unlimited drinks
• No previous experience needed for horseback or ATV riding
• Scenic stops include the tropical rainforests and Sierra Madre mountains
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

Starting Point at Rancho Capomo with a Tropical Rainforest Journey

The tour begins at Rancho Capomo, nestled in the Sierra Madre rainforest, far from busy tourist areas. The initial visit includes a one-hour free tour of the ranch, where you can see how well the horses are cared for and enjoy the lush surroundings. This peaceful setting sets the tone for a day immersed in nature before the adventure begins.

This meeting point is the hub for the activities, and after the initial exploration, guests are treated to a Mexican-style lunch on-site. The ranch provides a relaxed atmosphere and a chance to acclimate before heading into the forest for horseback riding. The friendly staff and well-maintained horses receive praise for their care and professionalism.

Exploring the Sierra Madre Rainforest on Horseback

The horseback ride takes you along beautiful river paths and through verdant rainforests, offering stunning views of the natural landscape. The ride is suitable for all levels, as no prior experience is necessary, making it accessible for beginners. Riders should be mindful of some balancing sections along the trail, especially near the waterfall stop.

The path to the waterfall is particularly noted as a highlight, and the waterfall itself is well worth the effort, with many describing it as a very beautiful spot. The ride provides a peaceful connection with nature, with guides offering insights about the local flora and fauna along the way.

Thrilling ATV Rides Through Mountain Terrains

Following the horseback adventure, the tour shifts to ATV riding through mountain roads and rural areas. The ATV experience is designed for fun and safety, with no prior riding experience required. Guests share one ATV per rider, though some reviews mention that occasionally, due to group size, sharing may occur.

The ride offers the chance to see more landscapes than on foot, including local villages and farmland, providing a glimpse into rural life in the Sierra Madre. The off-road paths are described as peaceful and exhilarating, with guides ensuring everyone feels comfortable and confident during the ride.

Lunch and Drinks: Authentic Mexican Flavors Included

At the end of the activities, everyone gathers at Rancho Capomo for a delicious Mexican lunch. The menu features homemade tortillas and authentic flavors, praised by guests as outstanding. The meal is served with unlimited drinks, including alcoholic beverages like margaritas and beer, making for a lively, enjoyable conclusion to the day.

Guests appreciate that the lunch is included in the tour price, adding value and convenience. The friendly staff and informal setting contribute to a relaxed and satisfying experience, rounding out the adventure perfectly.

Logistics and Group Size Considerations

The tour departs from designated meeting points at 8:15 am, with pickup included for most locations. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from guides and a more intimate experience. The most common booking window is about 31 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.

The tour duration of approximately 5 hours makes it suitable for travelers with a tight schedule, offering a comprehensive experience without requiring a full day. The activity ends back at the meeting point, providing ease of planning.

What Stops Make This Tour Unique?

The main stops of this tour include Rancho Capomo, where the rainforest trail and waterfall are highlights, and the rural villages visible during ATV rides. The waterfall is praised for its beauty and refreshing appeal, while the riding paths showcase scenic landscapes seldom seen by typical visitors.

Guests also mention the peaceful ATV rides through the countryside, which offer a good balance of adventure and tranquility. The local village visits and farmland views add a cultural touch to the experience.

The Guides and Overall Experience Quality

The guides are frequently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and safety-conscious attitude. Ruben_G highlights that Berto was punctual, funny, and conversational, adding to the overall positive atmosphere. The guides are described as watchful and helpful, ensuring that participants feel safe and engaged throughout.

Guests consistently mention the professionalism of the staff, the beautiful ranch, and the well-cared-for horses. Many reviewers emphasize that the activities exceed expectations in terms of scenery and enjoyment.

Realistic Expectations Based on Guest Feedback

While the tour is highly praised, some reviews hint at minor drawbacks. For example, sharing an ATV might not meet all guests’ expectations, especially if they prefer individual rides. Also, booking early is advisable, as the tour fills up quickly, with most guests reserving about a month in advance.

Most reviewers agree that the waterfall hike can be physically demanding, so guests should be prepared for some walking and balancing. The delicious lunch and unlimited drinks are consistently noted as highlights, making the effort worthwhile.

The Value Proposition of the Sierra Madre Tour

Priced at $150, this tour offers a full spectrum of outdoor activities with all taxes and fees included. The lunch and drinks are part of the package, adding to the perceived value. The small group size ensures personalized service, and the scenic stops provide excellent photo opportunities.

The flexibility, friendly guides, and variety of activities make this tour an attractive option for travelers wanting an adventure-filled half-day in Puerto Vallarta. The positive reviews consistently highlight excellent staff and beautiful scenery as key reasons to book.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour suits adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore more of the Sierra Madre without the need for prior experience. It’s ideal for those with limited time who want a comprehensive outdoor experience, combining horseback riding, ATV riding, and scenic nature.

While generally suitable for most travelers, participants should be comfortable with some physical activity, including balance on horseback and off-road ATV riding. The lunch and drinks provide a great finish, especially for those looking to enjoy some authentic Mexican flavors after the activities.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Adventure Experience

The Sierra Madre Horseback Riding and ATV Tour offers a fun, scenic, and well-organized way to experience Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty. The combination of horseback riding through rainforests and exciting ATV rides across mountainous terrain makes for a balanced adventure.

With friendly guides, delicious included lunch, and beautiful stops, this tour appeals especially to adventure seekers who want more than just beaches. Although sharing ATVs might be a consideration for some, the overall value and scenic highlights make this tour a worthwhile choice for most travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior experience needed for this tour?
No, both horseback riding and ATV riding are suitable for beginners, with guides providing assistance.

What is included in the price?
The $150 fee covers all taxes, fees, handling charges, lunch, unlimited drinks (including alcoholic beverages), and pickup and drop-off from designated points.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, from pickup to drop-off.

What is the best time to book?
Most guests book about 31 days in advance, as the tour is popular and fills quickly.

Are there any physical requirements?
Participants should be comfortable with some walking and balancing, especially during the waterfall hike.

Can I expect to share ATVs?
Yes, most guests share one ATV per person, though some reviews mention sharing due to group size.

Is transportation included?
Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points are included in the package.

What makes this tour different from others?
The combination of horseback riding and ATV riding, scenic rainforest views, and authentic Mexican lunch set this tour apart.

Are there any restrictions on age or health?
Most travelers can participate, but those with specific health concerns should consult with the tour provider directly.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund; cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.