Horse Riding in Puerto Vallarta

A Mexican resort town where clear, warm waters meet lush, green forests, Puerto Vallarta is the perfect destination for anyone who loves to explore and experience nature. And what better way to do so than the same way local ancestors have done for centuries, on horseback?

Whether you're an experienced horse rider or a total beginner, there are plenty of exciting horse riding tours in Puerto Vallarta that will take you through some of the area's most breathtaking inland and coastal scenery.

Here's all you need to know about horse riding, one of the most charming outdoor activities in Puerto Vallarta.

What are the best horse riding tours in Puerto Vallarta?

Horse riding tour in Mismaloya

Mismaloya is a former fishing village turned scenic retreat, just a short 40-minute drive south from the heart of Puerto Vallarta. With its stunning beaches and towering cliffs, it is often cited as one of the most beautiful places on Mexico's pacific coast.

Once saddled into your companion for the day, you make your way through peaceful mountain ranges and along quiet streets to the El Eden Adventure Park.

A quick swim, refreshing drink, or delicious meal at the park's restaurant will then fuel your journey back through rolling hills and past charming colonial-era towns. You can also zipline with your friends for an extra fee.

Horseback riding tour in Cerro Verde with lunch

This tour is an excellent choice if you want to get off the beaten track a bit, and experience Puerto Vallarta's natural beauty beyond its beaches and city center.

Located just a short drive away from town near the small inland town of Las Palmas de Arriba, the Cerro Verde ranch is the gateway to green forests, rolling hillsides and cascading hidden waterfalls – all of you'll see on your horseback adventure.

A hearty lunch surrounded by nature is the cherry on top. And with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you can expect to learn all about the animals, the local culture and the diverse environments through which you ride.

Horse riding tour to Las Palmas Waterfall

Tucked away within the Sierra Madre Mountains, the Las Palmas Waterfall is an idyllic natural escape and a popular — yet seldom crowded — place to soak up some sun and enjoy a refreshing swim in cool waters.

This horseback tour takes you deep into the heart of Puerto Vallarta's lush landscape, where you'll have plenty of time to explore this hidden oasis and take photos with your horse for the day, including at a panoramic lookout.

After getting your dose of nature and dining on traditional Mexican fare, this adventure stops at a local lodge to sample tequila — a quintessential Mexican experience.

Horseback riding tour to Punta de Mita/Sayulita

Located about an hour drive north of Puerto Vallarta, Punta de Mita and Sayulita are both charming coastal towns that offer some of the most stunning white sand stretches in Mexico.

The former is known as a resort area while the latter, 17 kilometers further north, has a laid-back atmosphere with world-class surfing. You can ride along the coast from one to the other and take in sweeping ocean views while also visiting local charming towns like Higuera Blanca along the way.

After you meet your guides at the local ranch — home to donkeys, ponies, water buffalo and more — you can gallop along the wide beach of Litibu if you're brave enough. Then, cap off the day with a tequila tasting at a local eatery.

How much do horse riding tours in Puerto Vallarta cost?

The price of a horse riding tour in Puerto Vallarta ranges from US$80 to US$260, depending on the type of tour and the length of the ride. Most tours are between US$80 and US$150.

The more expensive tours tend to be more comprehensive, offering a wider range of experiences, sights and combination activities such as zip lining or kayaking, while the cheaper tours are generally shorter in length and focus solely on horse riding.

Horse riding tour in Mismaloya

• Around US$55 per person regardless of age

Horseback riding tour in Cerre Verde with lunch

• Adult (12+): around US$100
• Child (4-11): around US$80

Horse riding tour to Las Palmas Waterfall

• Adult (15+): around US$120 to US$130
• Child (10-14): around US$70 to US$80

Horseback riding tour to Punta de Mita/Sayulita

• Around US$100 per person

What is included?

Every horse riding tour in Puerto Vallarta typically includes transport to and from the starting point, as well as all equipment needed for the ride, such as saddle, bridle and foot holds. Some tours also include drinks, snacks or lunch along the way, while others may offer additional activities.

You also get a safety briefing and professional, experienced guides who will lead you on your journey, ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable experience while learning all about the scenery through which you ride.

Where does it start?

The majority of horse riding tours in Puerto Vallarta start with convenient hotel pickup (and drop-off), which can be arranged from most major hotels in the main tourist zone.

If pickup is not offered, you will usually meet your guides at a central location such as Mismaloya Beach. Some tours will have meeting points in Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit, which is just north of Puerto Vallarta while others may begin at a ranch in the countryside.

It's recommended to check the tour itinerary to confirm where you will be picked up, as this can vary from one company to another.

How long does it last?

Puerto Vallarta horse riding tours generally last between 1.5 and 7 hours, depending on the type of tour you choose. Shorter rides tend to be more relaxed, taking in scenic beaches or countryside trails, while longer rides may include a combination of activities such as ATV riding, ziplining or kayaking.

When is the best time for a horse riding tour in Puerto Vallarta?

Mexico is blessed with year-round sunshine, which makes horse riding a great activity any time of the year.

Since you'll be outside, under the sun, it's reasonable to plan your tour at a time when the temperature is more comfortable — generally between November and April. It's also worth considering booking your trip around famous festivals like Dia de los Muertos.

As for the time of day, most tours start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.

Are there any combo available with horse riding tours in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, you have the option of combining a horse riding tour with several other outdoor-based activities such as zip lining, ATV riding, or kayaking. These packages provide the best value for money. Some specific examples follow:

ATV and Horse Riding in Puerto Vallarta

This combo tour takes you to the scenic countryside, where you'll get to ride your horse through the Sierra Madre mountains and valleys. You'll also get an exhilarating ATV ride along dirt trails, rivers and waterfalls.

Horse Back Riding, Zipline and ATV Experience

This adventure-packed combo tour takes you through various rainforest trails on horseback, where you'll get to take in the sights and sounds of nature. You'll also experience a thrilling zipline ride that will send you soaring high above the treetops, before ending with an ATV ride.

Sea safari and horse riding tour in Banderas Bay

Offering a chance to explore both land and sea, this combo tour takes you on a horseback ride through the beautiful countryside before boarding a boat to explore Banderas Bay. You'll get the chance to swim, snorkel or kayak and visit local villages only accessible by boat.

Are children allowed on a horse riding tour in Puerto Vallarta?

The age limits to participate in horse riding tours in Puerto Vallarta vary a lot, depending mostly on the difficulty of the terrain and other activities included.

Some tours that have discounted prices for children under five years old, who need to ride with an adult. On other cases, only adults are allowed. It's advised to confirm with your tour operator before booking.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Puerto Vallarta?

• Boat tours
• Whale watching
• Bike tours
• Scuba diving
• Surf lessons
• Hiking
• Jet skiing
• Dolphin watching
• Buggy tours

Travel tips

• Puerto Vallarta can get very hot, so it's a good idea to use sun protection such as hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Listen carefully to your guide for instructions on how best to handle the animal.
• Be prepared for some physical activity during the tour, so come with adequate footwear that can handle rough terrain.
• Finally, bring along some water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized during your tour.