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ATV, Zipline, and Tequila in Puerto Vallarta’s Sierra Madre: The Canopy River Combo - Puerto Vallarta

ATV, Zipline, and Tequila in Puerto Vallarta’s Sierra Madre: The Canopy River Combo

Puerto Vallartamoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

4.5–5.5 hours

Fitness Level

Comfortable with a full active half-day that includes standing, short walks, and gripping handlebars; able to climb stairs to zip platforms.

Overview

Chase a full-spectrum adventure in Puerto Vallarta’s Sierra Madre with an ATV ride to a jungle swimming hole, high-speed ziplines over the Cuale River, a mellow mule ride, and a tequila tasting to finish. It’s a five-hour flow from dirt to water to air—equal parts adrenaline and Jalisco culture.

ATV, Zipline, and Tequila in Puerto Vallarta’s Sierra Madre: The Canopy River Combo

Other
Zipline

Morning heat rises off the Cuale River like a dare. Engines purr to life, and the Sierra Madre folds in around you—green ridgelines stacking toward the horizon while the trail pulls you into the canyon. Dust curls, the throttle answers, and the jungle leans in close as the ATV traces a rugged ribbon of earth toward a cold, clear reward: the natural pools of El Salto. The river moves with intent here, nudging boulders, polishing rock, and inviting a plunge before the next act—the sky.

Adventure Photos

ATV, Zipline, and Tequila in Puerto Vallarta’s Sierra Madre: The Canopy River Combo photo 1

Adventure Tips

Bring your driver’s license

ATV drivers must be 18+ with a valid license, checked on site before you ride.

Budget for mandatory insurance

There’s a required per-person vehicle insurance fee payable on site; bring cash or a credit card.

Dress for splash and speed

Wear closed-toe shoes, a swimsuit under quick-dry layers, and secure any loose items for the ziplines.

Hydrate early and often

Tropical heat builds fast in the canyon—carry a water bottle and sip before you feel thirsty.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Green iguanas basking on riverside limbs
  • Coatis foraging along the forest edge at dawn

History

The terrain here belongs to Ejido El Jorullo, a community landholding that shifted from ranching toward low-impact adventure tourism. Mule travel echoes older freight routes that once linked mountain settlements to the coast.

Conservation

Stay on established routes to prevent erosion on steep volcanic soils, and use biodegradable sunscreen to keep the river’s pools clear. Pack out all trash—canyons concentrate runoff quickly in summer storms.

Adventure Hotspots in Puerto Vallarta

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Closed-toe trail shoes

Essential

Provide grip on dusty trails and secure footing on zip platforms and river rocks.

Quick-dry clothing and swimsuit

Essential

You’ll get dusty and may swim at El Salto; fast-drying layers keep you comfortable.

Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen)

Essential

Canyon sun reflects off water and rock—protect your skin and eyes during midday segments.

summer specific

Lightweight gloves

Helpful for ATV vibration and cooler morning descents in the dry season.

winter specific