Ride a UTV from Puerto Vallarta into the Sierra Madre, hike through jungle trails and swim beneath Las Pilitas waterfall, then sample Jalisco tequila at a riverside stop. This half-day excursion pairs off-road excitement with a cooling oasis and local flavors.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Sunlight filters through towering ceiba and fig trees as a line of side-by-side UTVs threads a ribbon of dirt that skirts the Cuale River and climbs into the Sierra Madre foothills. The machines grunt over stream crossings and rutted climbs; the jungle leans in close—vines tugging at helmets, birds calling from the canopy—until the trail opens on Las Pilitas, a clear waterfall that pours into shallow natural pools daring you to cool off.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness: able to manage short hikes over uneven, sometimes steep and wet terrain and board/exit UTVs.
Wildlife
History
The Cuale corridor has long supported small ranches and agriculture; Jalisco’s cultural identity is closely tied to tequila production and mariachi music from nearby towns.
Conservation
Stick to marked trails and avoid stepping on riparian vegetation; local guides follow leave-no-trace practices to protect fragile river pools and native plants.
Reserve your spot on the Sierra Madre Off-Road Adventure: Jungle Hike, Waterfall & Tequila today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring grip-ready footwear
Waterproof trail shoes or sandals with a good sole help on slippery rocks and muddy approaches to the pools.
Secure valuables
Use a small dry bag or ziplock for phones and wallets—UTV dust and river splashes are common.
Pace hydration
Carry water and sip regularly; heat and dust from the ride dehydrate faster than you expect.
Listen to the guide
Follow instructions for river crossings and vehicle entry/exit to reduce risk of falls or mechanical issues.
Sturdy trail shoes
Provide traction on rocky, muddy streams and while scrambling to pool edges.
Light waterproof jacket or quick-dry layer
Protects against brief tropical showers and keeps you comfortable after swims.
rainy-season
Small dry bag or ziplock
Keeps electronics and documents safe from river splashes and dust.
Sunscreen and hat
Sun protection for exposed stretches of trail and time at the riverside restaurant.
summer