Puerto Vallarta: El Salto Waterfall Horseback Riding

If you’re looking for a way to see a different side of Puerto Vallarta, this horseback riding tour to El Salto Waterfall offers a blend of adventure, nature, and authentic Mexican flavors. It’s a full five-hour experience that promises stunning views, a splash in a beautiful waterfall, and an adrenaline rush crossing the world’s longest hanging bridge.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines multiple activities—horseback riding, swimming, and tequila tasting—into one reasonably priced package. Plus, the guides are friendly and speak English, making it accessible for travelers who might not be fluent in Spanish.

A potential snag? It’s a physically active tour, with some walking and riding, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on horseback and in the outdoors.
This experience is perfect for travelers craving genuine natural beauty, small-group adventure, and a taste of local culture—especially those who don’t mind a bit of a workout.

Key Points

• Scenic horseback riding through lush jungles and along the Cuale River.
• Swim in the refreshing waters of El Salto Waterfall’s natural pool.
• Experience the world’s longest hanging bridge on foot, with breathtaking views.
• Includes a tequila tasting with seasonal fruits and a complimentary drink.
• Suitable for ages 8 and up with a weight limit of 220 pounds.
• Duration of about 5 hours, with transportation and guide included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This tour to El Salto Waterfall is a well-rounded blend of outdoor adventure and culture. It starts with a shuttle ride from your meeting point—likely a central location in Puerto Vallarta—to the outskirts of the Sierra Madre mountains. The transportation is generally smooth, and the guides are friendly, making the start of your day relaxed and welcoming.

Once at the starting point, you’ll mount a well-cared-for horse and begin a trail through the jungle. The ride is suitable for most levels, but it’s important to note that you’ll be riding through uneven terrain, which adds to the sense of adventure. The guides share stories about the area, including the legend of the Tiger Cave, adding a layer of local flavor that makes the journey more meaningful.

The Ride and Natural Beauty

The route takes you along the banks of the Cuale River, with lush greenery all around. We loved how the landscape felt untouched—peaceful and vibrant, filled with the sounds of birds and rustling leaves. The horses are generally gentle, and the guides are attentive, making it suitable even for those with limited riding experience.

This part of the tour allows you to enjoy the tranquility of the jungle while gaining a sense of connection to the landscape. The guides’ local knowledge helps you appreciate the flora and fauna you encounter along the way. The ride takes you to the base of the waterfall, where you’ll have the opportunity to swim in the cool, clear waters. The natural pool beneath El Salto Waterfall is a highlight—an invigorating contrast to the jungle’s warmth and humidity.

Crossing the World’s Longest Hanging Bridge

Perhaps the most talked-about feature of this tour is crossing the longest vehicular suspension bridge in the world—but don’t worry, you’ll be walking across it. The sheer height and length make it an exhilarating experience, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forest. From the bridge, you’ll get a unique perspective on the landscape that you can’t find elsewhere.

Several reviewers mention that the bridge crossing is a “must-do” and that it provides a perfect photo opportunity. While it may seem intimidating at first, most feel a sense of accomplishment once across, and the views make it worth every step.

The Tequila Tasting and Refreshments

After the adrenaline of the bridge crossing and swim, you’ll settle in for some well-deserved relaxation. The tour includes a tequila tasting featuring seasonal fruits and a complimentary drink of your choice—likely beer, soda, or house alcohol. This is a good chance to unwind, reflect on your adventure, and sample some authentic Mexican spirits.

Guests often appreciate the casual, friendly atmosphere of this segment, as it provides a taste of local culture in a relaxed setting. The inclusion of fresh fruits adds a refreshing touch and enhances the overall value.

More Great Tours Nearby

What to Expect and Practicalities

The tour lasts around 5 hours including transportation, riding, and stops. The horseback riding segment itself is about 2.5 hours, offering a comfortable pace that allows you to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The shuttle service from the meeting point is included, and the guides speak both English and Spanish, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.

You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes for walking and riding, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, and some cash for tips or souvenirs. The tour is suitable for children over 8 years old, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with back problems. Also, with a 220-pound weight limit, it’s accessible to most.

What Reviewers Say

Many guests highlight the stunning views and the sense of adventure. One reviewer mentioned that “the crossing of the suspension bridge was nerve-wracking but absolutely worth it for the views.” Others appreciated the flexibility and friendly guides, saying, “The guides made the whole experience fun and informative.”

Some noted that the natural pool is perfect for a refreshing swim after the ride, and several mentioned that the tequila tasting added a fun cultural touch to the day.

Overall Value and Suitability

At $129 per person, this tour offers a lot: scenic horseback riding, a natural waterfall swim, the world’s longest hanging bridge, and a local tequila tasting—all in one day. For travelers looking to combine active outdoor fun with cultural insights, this experience packs in considerable value.

It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy small-group adventures, want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, and are comfortable with some physical activity. The price includes transportation, guides, drinks, and the key activities, making it a straightforward and no-hassle choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy nature, small-group adventures, and cultural experiences. It’s perfect for families with kids over 8, groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for a day outside the city. Expect stunning views, a splash of adrenaline, and a taste of Mexico’s natural beauty and spirits.

However, if you’re pregnant, have back problems, or prefer a more relaxed experience, this might not be the best fit. Also, those with limited mobility should consider the walking and riding involved.

FAQs

Is transportation from Puerto Vallarta included? Yes, the shuttle service from the meeting point is included in the tour price, making logistics easier.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, and some cash are recommended.

Can children participate? The minimum age is 8 years old, and children should be comfortable with outdoor activities.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited horseback riding experience? Yes, most rides are suitable for beginners, and guides are attentive to safety.

How long is the horseback ride? The riding portion lasts about 2.5 hours, allowing plenty of time for other activities and sightseeing.

What does the tequila tasting include? It features seasonal fruits and a choice of a complimentary drink, giving a taste of local flavor.

Are there alternative activities if I don’t want to swim? The swim in the waterfall’s natural pool is optional; you can decide to skip it if you prefer.

Is this tour available in the afternoon? Yes, it’s usually offered in both the morning and afternoon, so you can choose what fits your schedule.

Final thoughts

This horseback riding adventure to El Salto Waterfall offers a lively mix of scenic beauty, physical activity, and cultural flavor—ideal for travelers who want to see Puerto Vallarta from a different perspective. The combination of lush jungle views, a swim in a natural pool, the thrill of crossing the world’s longest suspension bridge, and a relaxed tequila tasting makes it an all-around memorable experience.

While it’s not suited for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers—most active and curious visitors will find it a worthwhile splurge. The inclusion of transportation, guides, and drinks adds excellent value for the price, and the authentic feel of the activity makes it stand out from more cookie-cutter tours.

If you’re craving an outdoor adventure filled with natural beauty, local culture, and a touch of adrenaline, this tour should be on your list when visiting Puerto Vallarta.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby