Puerto Vallarta Best Zipline Canopy + Tequila and Speed Boat Ride

Puerto Vallarta gets a whole new view. This Los Veranos canopy tour pairs 19 zip lines with a tequila tasting finish, plus river time that turns adrenaline into a swim-and-relax kind of afternoon. You start with either a fast speedboat ride across the bay or land transport, then ride the jungle air all the way to the riverfront.

What I like most is how the experience stays active from start to finish. You’ll work between platforms on trails and stairs (not just sit and fly), and the final stretch lets you race on twin cables before you land right into the tequila bar.

One consideration: it’s physical. The course includes steep hiking and lots of steps, and if heat, heights, or your knees/back are a concern, this may feel tougher than you expect.

Key points before you go

• A full 19-line circuit with guidance, water stations, and plenty of time in the air
• Big height moments, including cables around 328 feet / 100 meters up in the system
• Speedboat option (or land transfer) to start the day with views of the bay
• Tequila bar finish right after ziplining, plus waterslides and river access
• Animal sanctuary time on-site, with chances to see marmosets, coatimundi, boas, toucans, and iguanas
• Guides like Pepe, Edgar, and Chica frequently get praised for safety focus and keeping the mood light

A half-day adventure that actually feels like a day

I like tours that give you more than one “wow” moment. This one stacks them: the speedboat or mountain ride to set the scene, the jungle canopy circuit with a lot of lines, then the riverfront where the pace shifts into swimming, sliding, and kayaking.

The biggest win is the way the day is built around variety. You don’t just zip and leave. You finish with tequila, then you still have time to play in the water and see animals at the on-site menagerie.

Is it perfect for everyone? No. The adventure part has real climbing, and it can be hot and humid depending on the day. If you go in expecting easy strolling, you’ll get surprised.

Speedboat start vs land transport: pick the vibe

You have two ways to begin: an optional speedboat ride from the bay, or land transport from your cruise port area (Puerto Vallarta or Nuevo Vallarta). The speedboat is a fun opener because you see the coastline and surrounding terrain from the water before you head into the jungle zone.

In my practical mind, the choice comes down to energy and comfort. If you’re excited by motion and open water views, the speedboat is worth it. If you’d rather reduce variables like sun glare, spray, or seasick risk, the land route makes more sense.

One thing to watch: the tour runs in stages. If you opt for the speedboat, don’t assume staff will automatically put you on the right vehicle. When stages change, ask clearly who you’ll be with next and what you should look for (like wristbands/colored markers), so you don’t miss the boat segment.

The canopy course: 19 ziplines plus real jungle walking

Here’s the core of the thrill: you’ll move through a series of 19 zip lines, hiking between platforms so you actually feel like you’re traveling through the rainforest system. You’ll start with an orientation covering the course layout and ziplining technique, then you’ll suit up and head to the first platform.

The circuit is widely described as exhilarating, with at least one major height reference around 328 feet (100 meters) in the air. That kind of elevation is exactly what makes ziplining feel different from a theme-park ride. You’re looking at jungle canopy, river bends, and long sight lines when you get your turn.

But I’d be honest with you: the ziplines aren’t the only workout. Several guides and safety staff praise how organized the course is, yet many people flag the same issue: there are a lot of steep steps and uphill trail segments. The first part can be especially demanding in heat and humidity.

Practical takeaway:

• Wear shoes with grip. You’ll be hiking and walking between platforms.
• Bring a swimsuit and plan to change into it during the day if the schedule allows.
• Hydrate before you start, not halfway through the climbing.

Also, this is not a “fear of heights” situation for everyone. If heights make you freeze, talk to staff early. The guiding culture here is safety-first, and you may be able to adjust how you approach the pace, but the environment is still high above the ground.

Guides, safety, and the twin-cable race moment

The guides are a major reason this tour gets such strong ratings. Names that show up again and again include Pepe, Edgar, and Chica, plus people like Ramon, Jesus, Fernando, and Mane. The common thread: they explain how to clip in, keep an eye on riders, and help keep the group moving without turning it into a chaos show.

One standout feature is the end-of-course finale: you’ll race on twin cables against a partner. That’s a simple idea, but it changes the energy from “ride one line” to “make it a challenge.” When you finish, the speed and angle of that last push is exactly the kind of adrenaline you remember when the rest of the day is downhill.

If you’re the nervous type, this is still worth knowing: people who felt anxious report that guides stayed encouraging and patient, even helping someone build confidence line by line. That doesn’t mean the course becomes easy, but it does suggest staff take comfort seriously.

Tequila bar finish, waterslides, and river play

After ziplining, you head into a tequila bar and riverfront restaurant for tasting and celebration. Tequila tasting is included, and this is one of those thoughtful tour touches that makes sense after a full canopy circuit. It’s not an afterthought. It’s part of the ending ritual.

Then comes the water-time payoff. You can slide on waterslides, swim in natural river pools, and use provided kayaks and water toys if weather permits. The water area is also where the day shifts from “climb, clip, fly” to “cool down, hang out, and take it easy.”

One practical tip: bring a towel and plan to dry off at least a bit before getting back into the rest of the day. Even with sun, it’s easy to feel sticky and uncomfortable after swimming.

Timing matters here too. One downside that came up is that the day can run longer than expected. Build buffer time so you’re not sprinting back to meet another plan later that night.

The menagerie: wildlife encounters without turning it into a zoo tour

If you love animals, you’ll appreciate the on-site menagerie element. Along with river time, you can observe animals like marmosets, coatimundi, and boas, with additional mentions of squirrel monkeys, toucans, and iguanas.

This isn’t framed like a “sit in a bus and watch a show” stop. It’s more like a chance to slow down and see what’s around the compound after your big zipline exertion. The guides typically provide some context while you’re there, and the wildlife spotting is part of why people feel the day is more than just adrenaline.

If your main goal is pure zipline time, just know you’ll also get pulled into this portion before you leave for the day. It’s usually a nice change of pace.

Food and spending: where your money goes

Lunch and drinks are not included. You’ll buy what you want at the riverside restaurant, and the menu options include things like a Mexican avocado salad and fajitas (with choices such as chicken, marinated flank steak, or shrimp), plus margaritha pizza and warm apple cake.

Here’s what I’d plan for financially:

• The tour price is $120 per person, but you should also budget for a Port Fee of $33 pesos or about $2 USD (not included) for boat departure, plus a Puerto Vallarta admission fee of $2 per person (not included).
• Photos and video services cost extra, and multiple people call them expensive relative to quality. If you care about memories, either budget for it or plan to take your own photos safely (use a strap or method that keeps your phone secure during the action).

I also like that vegan options have been accommodated in at least one case. That said, don’t assume every diet will be handled the same way every day. If you need a specific meal plan, ask ahead when you arrive or confirm with the team at the restaurant.

Portions can be large. People describe the food as good, but also note that it can feel pricey and filling. If you’re trying to maximize your river time, consider eating something lighter or sharing.

Value for $120: who this fits best

At $120 per person, you’re paying for more than ziplining. You’re getting:

• Transportation (land or sea round trip),
• The full zipline circuit with water stations,
• Tequila tasting,
• And the river package (waterslides/swim plus kayaks and water activities if weather allows).

When you compare it to paying separately for a zipline day, a tequila experience, and water access, the combination starts to make sense. You’re also paying for staff time moving a group through a high-energy course and keeping it safe.

This tour is best for you if:

• You want a genuine activity day in nature, not just photos from a viewpoint.
• You’re comfortable with climbing and walking between platforms.
• You like a mix of adrenaline and a relaxed finish by the river.

It’s a weaker match if:

• You don’t handle heights well.
• You have heart issues, chronic back pain, shoulder problems, or you struggle with hills/steps.
• You’re pregnant, or you’re over 285 lbs / 129 kilo (the tour notes this as a restriction and says it’s not recommended).
• You’re trying to keep the day “low effort.” This is not low effort.

What to pack so you don’t lose your day

Do this part early, because the tour includes both hiking and water. Pack for two modes: trail day and river day.

Bring:

• Comfortable shoes for climbing and uneven ground
• Swimsuit and towel
• Sunscreen and insect repellent (bug spray is especially worth it)
• Camera with strap
• Extra cash or a card for lunch, souvenirs, and optional photo packages

One review detail that stuck with me: bug spray can get sold on-site, and people reported not expecting to need it until arriving. If you hate bug bites, save yourself the scramble and bring your own repellent.

Also, keep your phone secure. You’ll be taking pictures, and the action is fast enough that “just hold it” can become a bad strategy.

Should you book this zipline and tequila speedboat combo?

I think you should book if your idea of a great Puerto Vallarta day is active adventure with a payoff. The strongest case is the full bundle: 19 ziplines, a true high-wire feel, a tequila-tasting finale, and then real river play with waterslides and kayaks. The guides’ energy and safety focus (often credited to staff like Pepe, Edgar, and Chica) make a big difference when you’re dealing with heights and steps.

I’d hesitate if you’re worried about steep hiking, heat, or you have health constraints listed by the tour. And if your schedule is tight with a late ship or dinner commitment, give yourself extra time buffer because the day can run longer than the 5-hour estimate.

If you want one simple decision rule: book it if you can handle stairs and you want to spend your day outdoors. Skip it if you’re looking for a sit-down, low-walking excursion.

FAQ

How long is the Puerto Vallarta zipline and tequila speedboat tour?

It’s about 5 hours in total, depending on your selected pickup point.

What’s included in the $120 price?

You get land or sea round trip transportation, the zipline course with water stations, a traditional tequila tasting, and kayaks/water slides/water activities on the river if weather permits.

Is the speedboat required?

No. The tour offers two departure options: you can begin aboard a speedboat and cross the bay, or you can choose land transportation from the cruise port areas.

What’s not included?

Food and drinks at the riverside restaurant are not included. Photo and video services cost extra. You’ll also need to pay a Port Fee (about $33 pesos or 2 USD) for boat departure, and there is a Puerto Vallarta admission fee of $2 per person.

What should I bring?

Wear comfortable shoes. Bring a swimsuit and a towel, plus sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera with a strap. Bring extra cash or a debit/credit card for lunch or souvenirs.

Is there free cancellation?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Within 24 hours of the start time, refunds aren’t offered.