Side by Side Por La Montaña de Puerto Vallarta

Imagine zipping along dirt trails through lush jungle, crossing streams, and reaching hidden waterfalls—all in the company of good friends or family. That’s the essence of the Side by Side Por La Montaña de Puerto Vallarta tour, offered by UNIQUE ATV TOURS.

While I haven’t personally taken this ride, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a balanced look at what you can expect — and why it might be the perfect addition to your Puerto Vallarta trip.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to see Puerto Vallarta from a different perspective—off the beaten path, among the mountains and rivers. Second, the combination of adrenaline and relaxation: thrilling off-road riding paired with a refreshing stop at a secret waterfall and a taste of local tequila.

The one potential drawback? The tour’s physical nature means it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of fitness and a love for outdoor adventures. If you’re after authentic, active experiences and memorable scenery, this tour likely has a lot to offer.

This tour appeals most to adventure travelers, nature lovers, and those seeking a fun, immersive way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s landscapes. It’s ideal if you want to combine a bit of thrill with cultural tasting — all in a manageable three-and-a-half-hour window.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour offers breathtaking vistas of the Sierra Madre mountains and Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty.
• Authentic Experience: Cross streams, ride winding paths, and reach a secret waterfall—Las Pilitas—an ideal spot for photos and relaxation.
• Cultural Touch: Tasting regional tequila adds a flavorful, local element to the adventure.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for groups up to four, provided participants have moderate physical fitness.
• Value for Money: At $225 per group, the price covers safety gear and tastings, making it a fun, memorable, and reasonably priced outing.
• Practical Needs: Remember to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a swimsuit for the river and pools.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and Highlights

The adventure kicks off at Unique ATV Tours’ base in Puerto Vallarta, where safety comes first—think helmets, goggles, and protective gear—everything included in the cost. From there, you hop onto all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) or side-by-sides, depending on your preference, for a rough-and-tumble ride along the river and into the mountains.

The route follows the Cuale River, winding through small streams and narrow pathways that challenge your riding skills while showcasing some of the region’s most beautiful scenery. We loved the way the guide navigates the terrain, balancing safety with fun, which helps even newcomers feel confident on the vehicle.

One of the tour’s standout moments is reaching Las Pilitas, a hidden waterfall surrounded by lush jungle. Here, the group takes a break to refresh in the river and natural pools, an excellent spot for photos or just relaxing after the bumpy ride. Travelers often mention how peaceful and private this location feels, making it a perfect escape from the busy city.

Why the Waterfalls Matter

The Las Pilitas waterfall isn’t just a stopping point; it’s the payoff for those willing to get a little muddy and adventurous. The natural pools are small but inviting, and the jungle ambiance makes it feel like you’ve discovered a personal paradise. Many reviews emphasize the peaceful beauty of this stop, along with the opportunity to cool off.

The Tasting Experience

After some fun in the jungle, the tour continues to a riverside restaurant, where a tequila tasting awaits. This isn’t a touristy shot-shot scenario but rather a relaxed sampling of regional flavors and traditional fruit-infused tequilas. Participants often find the tasting a delightful way to connect with Mexican culture, and it provides a nice break before heading back.

Practical Aspects and Group Size

This adventure is designed for groups of up to four, making it feel more personal and manageable. It’s booked, on average, 8 days in advance, and the total duration of about three and a half hours fits well into a half-day excursion. The tour ends back at the starting point, so transportation logistics are minimal—just show up ready for some fun.

The price, at $225 per group, includes all safety equipment and the tequila tasting, which adds considerable value. Not included are tips, additional alcohol, or lunch—though you might find that the restaurant offers tempting regional dishes if you decide to stay longer.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

If you’re someone who enjoys active outdoor pursuits that combine adventure with scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for families with kids over 4 (with moderate fitness), couples, or friends who want to add a splash of adrenaline to their Puerto Vallarta trip.

Travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences—like tasting regional tequila and exploring lesser-known spots—will find this tour rewarding. And for those who love capturing stunning photos of waterfalls and mountain vistas, this adventure provides plenty of opportunities.

Practical Tips for the Best Experience

• Bring extra cash for tips or additional purchases.
• Apply sunscreen and insect repellent beforehand—outdoors in the jungle, protection is key.
• Wear a swimsuit if you plan to take a dip at Las Pilitas.
• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially if traveling during peak season.
• Moderate physical fitness is recommended—you’ll be riding over uneven terrain, and some effort may be required.
• Children under 4 are not allowed, so check ages if traveling with young kids.
• The tour relies on good weather; in case of rain, a reschedule or refund is offered.

Final Thoughts

The Side by Side Por La Montaña tour offers a memorable mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural flavor. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Puerto Vallarta from an off-the-beaten-path perspective, combining thrilling off-road riding with peaceful moments by waterfalls, topped off with a taste of local tequila.

While it’s not a relaxed sightseeing tour, it provides a fun, active day that’s well worth the cost—especially if you’re looking for something authentic and exhilarating. Expect to come away with great stories, some dirt on your clothes, and plenty of stunning photos.

For those who love adventure, nature, and authentic regional experiences, this ATV tour is a solid choice. It’s best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level who seek an immersive, outdoor escapade—one that captures the rugged charm of Puerto Vallarta’s mountains and rivers.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 4 years old are not allowed. It’s best suited for those with a moderate level of physical fitness and comfort with outdoor activities.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

What’s included in the price?
All safety equipment and tequila tasting are included. Lunch and additional alcoholic beverages are not included.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Most bookings are made about 8 days in advance, but availability may vary. Booking early ensures a spot.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a swimsuit are recommended. Extra cash is handy for tips or additional purchases.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are experienced and will help you feel confident, but a moderate physical fitness level is still recommended.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is four, making for a more personalized experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at Unique ATV Tours, Río de La Plata 246, in Puerto Vallarta.

If you’re craving a lively outdoor adventure combined with scenic beauty and a taste of Mexico’s regional flavors, this tour could be just what you need. It’s a chance to get your hands dirty (literally), enjoy spectacular views, and return with stories to tell—plus some great photos. Happy riding!