Trade the malecón for a dirt ribbon up the Río Cuale and into the Sierra Madre. This compact, three-hour ATV adventure blends ridge views, river crossings, a tequila tasting, and tortilla-making with a local family—an immersive slice of Jalisco beyond the beach.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The engines purr awake at the edge of town as the Río Cuale slips out of the jungle beside you, cool and steady, daring you into the mountains. Helmets click. Goggles drop. Then the guide waves you forward and the convoy rolls into the Sierra Madre foothills—dust curling in the dry season, rain-splashing in summer—on a route where riverbanks, switchbacks, and birdcalls share the same soundtrack. Puerto Vallarta’s beaches sit minutes away, but this is a different coastline: one made of green canyons, red dirt, and sun-cut ridgelines.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable standing on foot pegs and handling light bumps; basic core and grip endurance for 90 minutes of ride time.
Wildlife
History
The route follows old ranch and mining paths that once connected inland agave fields to the coast, linking Jalisco’s mountain communities with the port.
Conservation
Stay on established tracks and give wildlife space to reduce erosion and disturbance; pack out all trash, including cigarette butts and fruit peels.
Reserve your spot on the ATV adventure through the mountains of Puerto Vallarta today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Ride early for cooler temps
Morning departures offer easier heat management and lighter trail traffic, plus clearer views from El Coyote.
Eyes up through crossings
Stand on the pegs, keep steady throttle, and look ahead—not at the front wheels—when fording the Río Cuale’s shallows.
Protect your phone and lenses
Bring a waterproof pouch and a microfiber cloth; dust in the dry season and spray in summer can ruin electronics and photos.
Carry small cash
Tastings are often included but tips, snacks, and à la carte meals at the family restaurant are easiest with pesos.
Closed-toe trail shoes
Good traction and toe protection help when footing is slick at river crossings and viewpoints.
Lightweight rain shell
Short cloudbursts are common June–October; a compact shell keeps you dry without overheating.
summer
UPF long-sleeve and sun hat
Sun protection matters on exposed ridgelines and during tastings and lunch stops.
spring
Waterproof phone pouch
Keeps your phone safe from spray, dust, and mud while still allowing quick photos.