Horseback riding in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta

REVIEW · PUERTO VALLARTA

Horseback riding in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta

  • 4.54 reviews
  • 5 hours (approx.)
  • From $85.00
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Operated by PuertoVallarta.tours · Bookable on Viator

Traveller rating 4.5 (4)Duration5 hours (approx.)Price from$85.00Operated byPuertoVallarta.toursBook viaViator

A bridge and horses in the same day. This Puerto Vallarta outing mixes time on horseback with a walk over the famous Puente Colgante El Jorullo and then ends with tequila tasting. It’s a simple, focused 5-hour adventure that hits the highlights without feeling rushed.

I especially like that it’s a small group tour (up to 10 people) with an included bilingual guide and bottled purified water, plus fruit and a welcome drink. You get just enough structure—ride, bridge time, then tequila—to keep your day moving.

The main thing to consider is physical effort: you should have moderate fitness and be ready for steep sections before you settle into the trail.

Key points to know before you go

  • About 2 hours on horseback: most of your riding time happens after a steeper start.
  • Puente Colgante El Jorullo walking time: this is tied to the world-famous long suspension-bridge reputation.
  • Tequila tasting is a high point: one staff member, Kevin, is known for friendly, non-pushy explanations.
  • Up to 10 travelers: a smaller group can make it feel more personal than big-bus tours.
  • Included drinks and snacks: welcome drink, purified water, seasonal fruit, and one national drink are part of the price.
  • Weather matters: it runs in good conditions, and you’ll get a new date or a refund if it’s canceled for weather.

Horseback in Puerto Vallarta’s Mountains: What You’re Really Signing Up For

Horseback riding in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta - Horseback in Puerto Vallarta’s Mountains: What You’re Really Signing Up For
If you like the idea of mixing nature + adrenaline + a food-and-drink finish, this is a good match. You start in the Puerto Vallarta area, head into the mountains by open transport, then spend time on horseback with a guide explaining what you’re seeing—think plants, wildlife, and local features along the way.

What makes this ride feel more “worth it” than a basic trail tour is the day’s rhythm. You don’t just sit on a horse and call it done. You also get a walking bridge moment and a tequila tasting at the end, which turns the day into a complete mini-experience rather than just a single activity.

The other detail I appreciate: the tour is capped at 10 people. That usually means more room to move around and less time waiting for everyone to adjust gear or get oriented.

Getting There: Pickup, Timing, and the 5-Hour Rhythm

Horseback riding in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta - Getting There: Pickup, Timing, and the 5-Hour Rhythm
Plan your day around a 5-hour outing (approx.). You’ll meet at Canopy River Oficina Playa de Oro, located at Playa de Oro 126 F, Zona Hotelera, Zona Hotelera Nte., 48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico. From there, you’re picked up using open transport.

This matters more than it sounds. Open transport can be breezy, dusty, or sun-warm depending on the day, so bring sunglasses and something light to cover up your face and neck. If you burn easily, add sun protection early—this tour has multiple outdoor stretches.

When the activity ends, you return back to the same meeting point. So you’re not left trying to figure out local transit after you’re done riding and tasting tequila.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Puerto Vallarta

On Horseback: The Steep Start and How Riding Time Works

This is the heart of the day, and it’s where you’ll want to set expectations.

The ride begins once you reach the park area. A guide accompanies you and explains flora and fauna as you move through the mountains. That’s one of the better parts of the experience, because it gives context while you’re out there—so it’s not just “horse, then horse, then stop.”

Here’s the practical note: there can be steep sections at the beginning. One rider experience described steep roads down on horseback before the trail really opens up. If you get nervous on slopes, you’ll feel those first moments. It’s not about being afraid of heights—it’s about how your body and balance handle downhill movement early on.

Also keep this in mind: you’re on the actual horse for about 2 hours according to the ride experiences shared. That’s enough time to feel like you did a real horseback outing, not a quick photo stop—while still keeping the overall day manageable.

Puente Colgante El Jorullo: The Walk-Over Bridge Moment

Horseback riding in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta - Puente Colgante El Jorullo: The Walk-Over Bridge Moment
After the ride, you get time at Puente Colgante El Jorullo. The bridge is billed as the longest vehicular suspension bridge in the world, and you’re given a chance to experience it walking—one of those Puerto Vallarta bucket-list moments that doesn’t require technical travel skills.

Even if you’re not the type who gets excited about bridges, this part works because it’s a change of pace. You go from moving in the mountains on horseback to walking and taking in the views from the bridge area. Plus, it’s a great time to stretch your legs after riding.

One more thing: suspension bridges can feel a little sway-y depending on wind and footing. If you have balance concerns, take it slow, keep your eyes on your steps, and don’t rush across just to beat the group ahead of you.

Tequila Tasting: What You Get, Who Leads It, and How to Enjoy It

Horseback riding in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta - Tequila Tasting: What You Get, Who Leads It, and How to Enjoy It
The day ends with a tequila tasting. This is included, and it’s the sort of finish that makes the whole excursion feel celebratory rather than purely physical.

Alcohol is noted as adult-only, which is standard for tequila tastings. If you’re with anyone who doesn’t drink, you’ll want to decide in advance whether they’ll still do the tasting portion or skip it.

From the people who enjoyed the tasting experience, the standout factor was the staff member Kevin. The vibe reported around Kevin is upbeat and friendly, and he shared a lot of tequila information without being pushy. That’s exactly what you want at the end of a day like this: a guide who explains, but doesn’t turn it into a sales pitch.

If you want to get more out of this tasting, ask straightforward questions like how the tequila is made or what differences they’re pointing to between types. You don’t need to be a tequila expert—just show curiosity.

What’s Included (and Why It Changes the Value)

Horseback riding in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta - What’s Included (and Why It Changes the Value)
At $85 per person for about 5 hours, this tour is priced like an active excursion with transport and multiple inclusions. It’s not just “horses, see ya.” You also get a welcome drink, water, fruit, and a national drink as part of the package.

Here’s what’s included:

  • Transport service
  • Welcome drink
  • Bilingual guide
  • Purified water
  • Season’s fruit
  • 1 national drink (beer, water, or lemonade)
  • Time connected to the Puente Colgante El Jorullo area
  • Tequila tasting

Not included:

  • Food
  • Additional drinks beyond what’s listed
  • Tips

That “not included” part matters for planning. If you only eat before you go, you may find you’re hungry before the tequila tasting ends. Bring a light snack plan for before pickup if that’s your habit, or be prepared to buy something after you’re back.

Also, because this tour includes purified water and fruit, it reduces your risk of feeling wiped out by dehydration or empty stomach during the ride and walking portions. That’s real value on a warm day.

Small Group Riding: Comfort, Pace, and Attention

Horseback riding in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta - Small Group Riding: Comfort, Pace, and Attention
With a maximum of 10 people, this tour tends to feel less like a conveyor belt. A smaller group can mean:

  • Less time waiting for everyone to mount up and move out
  • More chance for the guide to keep an eye on how people are doing during the ride
  • A smoother transition between horseback, bridge walking, and tequila tasting

You still should be ready for a group pace. Horses need handlers, and bridge time is time-limited. But “small group” generally improves how the day feels, especially for activities that involve walking and outdoor steps.

Physical Fitness and Practical Safety Notes

Horseback riding in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta - Physical Fitness and Practical Safety Notes
The tour asks for moderate physical fitness. That fits the reality of horseback riding plus bridge walking. You’ll want basic comfort with being outdoors, sitting in a saddle, and walking on uneven surfaces near a bridge.

There are also clear physical limits:

  • Maximum weight: 100 kg / 200 lb
  • Alcohol is for adults only
  • The activity is noted as having a good weather requirement

If you have concerns about mobility, balance, or back/knee comfort, consider that you may handle both horseback seating and a walking crossing/bridge area afterward. You don’t need to be a gym athlete, but you should be able to move through outdoor terrain without pain taking over.

Who This Tour Fits Best (and Who Might Want Another Option)

Horseback riding in the mountains of Puerto Vallarta - Who This Tour Fits Best (and Who Might Want Another Option)
You’ll likely enjoy this most if you want an active, outdoorsy half-day with a clear payoff at the end. It’s ideal for:

  • People who like horseback experiences and want a guide to explain what they’re seeing
  • Anyone who also wants a memorable Puerto Vallarta photo moment without adding another full excursion
  • Drink-included adults who enjoy tequila tastings and want a friendly explanation

You might want to think twice if:

  • You hate the idea of steep downhill moments early in the ride
  • You’re sensitive to balance changes (suspension bridges can feel a little different underfoot)
  • You’d rather spend time at a slower pace with more time for food and rest

Should You Book This Puerto Vallarta Horseback + Bridge + Tequila Tour?

I’d book it if you want a single, well-rounded day: horses in the mountains, a walk near one of the world-famous suspension bridge sites, and tequila tasting to close the loop. For the money, the inclusion list matters—especially water, fruit, and transport—because it reduces decision fatigue during the day.

My decision rule is simple: if you can handle moderate exertion and you’re okay with some steep riding movement at the beginning, this is a fun way to see more of the Puerto Vallarta area than just the city strip. If that steep start worries you or you’re expecting an ultra-easy ride the whole time, you may feel more stressed than excited.

If you want my practical tip: pack light sun protection, plan for a snack before the tour if you usually get hungry, and keep an open mind for the guideship style—you’ll still have the bridge and the tequila tasting as strong anchors to your day.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding and bridge experience?

It runs for about 5 hours (approx.).

How much does the tour cost?

The price is $85.00 per person.

Where do I meet for the tour?

You start at Canopy River Oficina Playa de Oro, Playa de Oro 126 F, Zona Hotelera, Zona Hotelera Nte., 48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes, it’s offered in English.

What’s the group size limit?

The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers.

What’s included in the price?

It includes transport, a welcome drink, a bilingual guide, purified water, seasonal fruit, 1 national drink (beer, water, or lemonade), time connected to Puente Colgante El Jorullo, and tequila tasting.

Is there any food on the tour?

Food is not included.

Is tequila tasting only for adults?

Yes. Alcoholic beverages are for adults only.

Do I need any physical readiness for the ride?

The tour notes that you should have a moderate physical fitness level, and there is a maximum weight limit of 100 kilograms / 200 pounds.

What happens if weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

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