Sierra Madre Mountains: Day Trips and Tours from Puerto Vallarta

The jungle-cloaked Sierra Madre Mountains offer endless opportunities for epic adventures. Your explorations will take you deep into forest canyons when hidden villages and heritage sites reveal more about this mysterious kingdom.

On a day trip to the Sierra Madre Mountains from Puerto Vallarta you can go horseback riding or hiking. Zip lining and ATV tours are also on the cards for thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline rush.

Here's all you need to know about Sierra Madre Mountains, one of the most exciting day trips from Puerto Vallarta.

How to get to the Sierra Madre Mountains from Puerto Vallarta?

The Sierra Madre Mountains run for about 300 kilometers along the western coast of Mexico. Puerto Vallarta sits at the foot of the range and is a popular jumping-off point for day trips into the rainforest wilderness.

It’s best to explore with a guide as this is a remote area.

Guided tour to the Sierra Madre Mountains from Puerto Vallarta

A guided day tour to the Sierra Madre Mountains is the easiest way to visit this natural paradise. Both small-group and private trips are available, with a range of different activities to choose from.

Excursions last between 2 and 6 hours, with most coming in at the 4-hour mark. Hotel pickups are sometimes offered, depending on the provider.

The journey to the Sierra Madre Mountains from Puerto Vallarta doesn’t take long, so most of your tour time will be spent enjoying activities.

What is the typical itinerary?

Although some Sierra Madre Mountains day trips offer a pickup from your Puerto Vallarta hotel, most have a central meeting point instead. If a road transfer is required to access your chosen activity, this will be provided by minivan.

Some tours, like the ATV excursions, start at the provider premises in Puerto Vallarta.

On arrival, you’ll be kitted up and given a safety briefing. You’ll then head into the Sierra Madre Mountains, keeping an eye out for wildlife as you go. Activities can include hiking, horseback riding, zip lining and ATV rides.

During the day you’ll discover traditional villages and learn about the tropical flora that adds splashes of color to the green jungle. Orchids thrive here, so keep your camera handy. On hiking tours, you’ll have the chance for a refreshing swim before heading back.

Some trips offer lunch or tequila tastings at the end of your exertions. Check the provider details so you know what to expect before you set off. You’ll return to the initial meeting point in Puerto Vallarta after your tour, ready for onward adventures.

What kind of tours are available to go to the Sierra Madre Mountains?

There are several different Sierra Madre Mountains tours available, each featuring a specific activity. Whether you fancy a gentle walk or a fast-paced ATV ride, there’s something here for everyone.

ATV day trip to the Sierra Madre Mountains from Puerto Vallarta

ATV tours are the most popular way to explore the Sierra Madre Mountains. For safety, these excursions usually have a maximum of 9 participants. Beginners are welcome as briefings are provided.

The ATV rides are a fun way to cover a lot of ground in a short space of time. The terrain will be off-road but there’s nothing technical to worry about.

Sierra Madre Mountains day tour by horseback

Perfect for nature lovers and wannabe cowboys, these horseback riding trips give you a unique perspective of the jungle. Combining relaxation with adventure, the tours take you through the countryside, stopping at waterfalls along the way.

Still want more? A zip lining session can also be included on these jaunts to the Sierra Madre Mountains.

Hiking excursion to the Sierra Madre Mountains from Puerto Vallarta

Lace up those boots and prepare for a mini expedition on foot through the lush forest. You’ll be accompanied by a local guide who knows all the best viewpoints.

Sierra Madre hiking tours are ideal for those who want to get closer to nature, without the roar of an ATV scaring everything away.

Private ATV day tour to the Sierra Madre Mountains from Puerto Vallarta

If you prefer to travel more exclusively, then private ATV excursions offer a dash of VIP treatment. It’ll just be you and your group, with your own guide for the duration.

This is a great option for experienced riders who want to push themselves. You can go at your own pace without being held up by other group members.

How much does a day trip to the Sierra Madre Mountains from Puerto Vallarta cost?

A small-group ATV excursion to the Sierra Madre Mountains starts at US$80 per person for a 3.5-hour experience.

Equipment and a guide are provided, as well as complimentary photos and videos. Tours that also include tequila tasting cost US$100 per person.

Hiking tours are US$80 per person for a 3-hour excursion. This includes a guide, bottled water, a professional photographer guide and tequila tasting.

Sierra Madre Mountains day tours by horseback are priced at US$90 per rider. These trips last 5 hours with hotel pickups offered. The price includes a Mexican lunch and open bar, as well as a guide.

If you want to add zip lining to your experience, expect to pay US$120.

A private ATV day tour to the Sierra Madre Mountains from Puerto Vallarta costs US$100 per person. This is for a 3-hour ride and includes an exclusive guide, ATV, helmet, goggles and fuel.

There will be the opportunity to stop for lunch at your own expense.

What will you see and do?

Adventure activities

The Sierra Madre Mountains are all about exploring the wilderness through adventure, with a multitude of activities available.

ATV rides, horseback riding and zip lining are just some of the things you’ll enjoy on a Sierra Madre Mountains day trip from Puerto Vallarta.

On hiking tours, you’ll get to swim in the El Salto Waterfall – a hidden forest oasis by the Cuale River. It’s a great way to cool off in the steamy jungle, and the perfect spot for a picnic if you’ve brought some snacks.

Wildlife

This area is a haven for wildlife, which your guide will point out as you journey through the forest.

Parrots and macaws are frequently seen flying overhead, and keen bird watchers might encounter Mexican jays, violet-crowned hummingbirds and coppery-tailed trogons.

Iguanas are sometimes spotted sunning themselves on tree branches, and curious coatis have also been known to scuttle by.

Tequila factory

On some tours, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a tequila factory after your activities. Tequila is made from the Mexican agave plant, and this delectable amber nectar is one of the country’s greatest exports.

You’ll get to go to the source and taste it for yourself on a tequila tasting Puerto Vallarta.

When is the best time to visit the Sierra Madre Mountains?

It’s warm throughout the year in Puerto Vallarta, so all you need to consider is the rain. The wet season runs between July and September, so avoid this if you prefer to stay dry.

Sierra Madre Mountains day trips are at their best from April to June when the weather is mild and the crowds have yet to arrive. December through March is good too, with cooler temperatures and fewer mosquitoes.

Travel tips

• Book your day trip to the Sierra Madre Mountains in advance to secure the best prices for your chosen date.
• Sturdy hiking shoes are advisable as you’ll be traveling over rough terrain. Make sure you pack the buy spray and sunscreen too.
• If you are driving an ATV, remember to take your license. You’ll be getting dirty on these tours so don’t wear your best clothing.
• Carry some snacks and drinks as these are not usually provided on your excursion.