That first horse step into the mountains sets the tone. This Puerto Vallarta tour mixes time on horseback with a walk on the dramatic Puente Colgante El Jorullo and a tequila tasting that’s often the most relaxed part of the day.

I love how the schedule stacks the big moments back-to-back: a guided ride through mountain country, then the bridge walk on foot, then tequila. I also like the small-group feel (up to 10 people), plus the basics handled for you with water, a welcome drink, fruit, and a national drink included.

One thing to consider: the ride isn’t a flat, gentle “vacation pony” experience. Expect steep sections on the approach, and if you’re not used to horses, pay attention to how the tack feels and speak up if you’re uncomfortable.

Key highlights worth planning for

• Small group size (max 10 travelers) keeps the pace more personal.
• About 2 hours on horseback gives you real riding time, not just a quick demo.
• Puente Colgante El Jorullo is a major pay-off: you’ll walk it rather than just see it.
• Guide-led nature talk covers local flora and fauna while you’re in the hills.
• Tequila tasting guidance can be a standout, especially when the lively taster Kevin is involved.
• Included drinks and water mean you can focus on the ride, not budgeting every stop.

Getting There: The Easy Start at Canopy River

The tour meets at Canopy River Oficina Playa de Oro, in the Zona Hotelera area (Playa de Oro 126 F, Zona Hotelera Nte., 48333 Puerto Vallarta). From there, you’re picked up at the meeting point in an open transport.

This matters more than it sounds. Open vehicles move faster to the park area, but you’ll feel the wind. If you get motion-sick, bring what usually helps you. Also plan for sun and dust, since mountain-day tours like this usually run on dry, bright conditions unless weather forces changes.

Once you’re in the park area, you’ll get set up for the ride and then head out with a bilingual guide. That bilingual element is useful here, because the tour isn’t only about sitting on a horse. You’ll also get explanations about what you’re seeing in the surrounding hills.

Horseback Riding Through Puerto Vallarta Mountains

This is the core experience: a guided ride through the mountains of Puerto Vallarta, with the guide explaining flora and fauna along the way. You’re not just transporting from one photo spot to another. The guide’s narration is part of why this works as more than a theme-park ride.

Timing-wise, plan on roughly 2 hours on the actual horse. That’s long enough to notice the rhythm of riding and long enough that your comfort level matters. The full tour runs about 5 hours, so the horse time is only part of the day. There’s also time for setup, walking around the bridge area, and tasting tequila at the end.

What the ride feels like (and where you’ll work a bit)

One practical note I’d take seriously: there can be steep road segments before you reach the main trail. Even if you’re eager, the early part is the hardest part on your legs, and it can feel a bit more intense than the photos suggest.

If you have moderate physical fitness, you’re the target. If you struggle with stairs, steep downhills, or getting on and off with balance, you’ll want to think twice. The good news is that the guide leads, and the tour is built around a manageable day rather than a full-on, all-day trek.

If you’re new to horseback riding

Some riders noted that the bits used can feel harsh, especially for people who aren’t experienced. I can’t speak for every session, but it’s enough to make this advice worth sharing: tell the guide right away if your mouth or hand position doesn’t feel right. You’re paying for a good experience, not for endurance.

Also, listen closely at the start. You’ll enjoy this more if you know how the guide wants you to hold the reins and adjust your posture.

Puente Colgante El Jorullo: The Long Walk on Foot

After the ride, you’ll move into the bridge portion of the day. The big feature is Puente Colgante El Jorullo, described as the longest vehicular suspension bridge in the world. Here, the key part isn’t driving over it. It’s walking it.

The tour includes the chance to walk past the Jorullo bridge area, and you’ll also get the opportunity to cross the suspension bridge on foot. That makes it feel different from most “photo stop” tours, where you stop, snap a picture, and move on. You get time on the bridge itself.

Why this stop is more valuable than a quick view

Walking across a suspension bridge changes your sense of scale. You’ll feel the structure underfoot and you’ll see the valley perspective shift as you move. Even if you’re not chasing adrenaline, this is the kind of stop that gives you a story you’ll remember.

Do note this: suspension bridge walks usually take longer than you expect, because you’ll naturally slow down for views and photos. Build patience into your day. This tour is about the combination—horseback plus bridge plus tequila—not about rushing to tick boxes.

Tequila Tasting: The Chill Finish (With Real Info)

Then you end with tequila tasting. This isn’t only a small pour and a quick cheers moment. The tasting is led by a team member who shares information without turning it into a sales pitch. In past sessions, Kevin has been singled out as friendly, upbeat, and informative while keeping things relaxed.

If you drink, this is the part of the day where you can feel proud of staying engaged. You’ll likely learn enough to tell tequila types apart and understand what you’re tasting. If you don’t want alcohol-heavy vibes, you can still enjoy the process—just keep an eye on how much you’re pouring, especially after time in the sun and on horseback.

What’s included around drinks

Your tour includes:

• a welcome drink
• 1 national drink (beer, water, or lemonade)

Alcoholic beverages are for adults only. You’ll want to pace yourself, since the bridge walk and horse ride are already physical, and you’ll be back out in the open air before you’re done.

Also remember: tips aren’t included. If you want to thank your bilingual guide or the person running tequila, you’ll handle that separately.

What’s Included vs Not: The Value Math

At $85 per person, this tour looks like it has a lot going on. Here’s where the value comes from.

Included features you’d otherwise pay for or manage yourself:

• Transport service to the park area (open vehicle pickup)
• Welcome drink
• Bilingual guide
• Purified water
• Seasonal fruit
• 1 national drink (beer, water, or lemonade)
• Walking elements around Puente Colgante El Jorullo
• Tequila tasting

Not included:

• Food
• Drinks (beyond what’s listed above)
• Tips

So the biggest value factor is that you’re not just buying a horse ride. You’re paying for the full chain: guidance, transport, basic refreshments, and the bridge + tequila finale.

The one catch is food. If you get hungry, you’ll have to handle it on your own outside of what’s included. Plan ahead so you’re not trying to find a snack with limited options after the ride.

Who This Tour Fits Best (and Who Should Skip)

This experience is best for you if you want a day that feels like Puerto Vallarta beyond the beach: mountain air, a real animal-guided trail, a signature local structure like El Jorullo, then a tasting that ends things on a warm note.

You’ll probably like it if:

• you have moderate physical fitness
• you’re comfortable riding for about 2 hours
• you want a guided day with nature explanations (not just views)
• you like small groups (max 10 travelers)

You might want to reconsider if:

• you’re very sensitive to steep terrain, especially the approach roads
• you need very gentle, beginner-only handling and aren’t comfortable speaking up about tack comfort
• you strongly prefer all-day rest and minimal walking (the bridge walk adds movement)

If you’re traveling with teens, this could work for the right riders, but I’d still treat it as an active outing, not a soft sightseeing day.

Practical Tips I’d Use Before You Go

These aren’t fancy. They’re just the things that keep the day from turning annoying.

• Wear grippy shoes or boots you trust. You’ll be walking on uneven ground around the bridge approach and during the walk.
• Bring sun protection. You’re outdoors most of the time, and the ride happens in bright mountain light.
• Plan hydration. Purified water is included, but bring an extra habit: take sips early, not only when you’re thirsty.
• If you’re prone to motion sickness, take your usual remedy before pickup.
• For riding comfort, tell the guide quickly if something feels wrong with the tack or your position. Don’t wait until it becomes a problem.

And yes, pack a bit of patience. This is a mountain-day rhythm with a physical start and a walk finale.

Should You Book This Puerto Vallarta Horseback-and-Bridge Tour?

I’d book it if you want a packed 5-hour day that doesn’t feel rushed: horseback riding in the mountains, a proper walk across Puente Colgante El Jorullo, and a tequila tasting that can be genuinely enjoyable when the host is in a good mood (Kevin has been a highlight in past sessions). The small group size and the included water, fruit, and welcome drink also make it feel like you’re not constantly buying extras.

I’d hesitate if steep terrain, riding comfort, or tack sensitivity are major concerns for you. The experience can be steep and physical at the start, and riding comfort depends on how you and the horse mesh.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for the tour?

The tour meets at Canopy River Oficina Playa de Oro, Playa de Oro 126 F, Zona Hotelera Nte., 48333 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico.

How long does the horseback riding tour take?

The tour lasts about 5 hours (approx.).

What should I expect during the horseback ride?

You’ll ride through the mountains of Puerto Vallarta with a guide who explains local flora and fauna. You’ll also have about 2 hours on the horse.

Do I get to walk on Puente Colgante El Jorullo?

Yes. You’ll have the opportunity to cross the suspension bridge on foot, and you’ll also walk past Jorullo Bridge.

What is included in the price?

Included are transport service, a welcome drink, a bilingual guide, purified water, seasonal fruit, 1 national drink (beer, water, or lemonade), walk past Jorullo Bridge, and tequila tasting.

What is not included?

Food, drinks beyond what’s listed, and tips are not included.

Is the tequila tasting for adults only?

Alcoholic beverages are for adults only.

How many people are in the group?

The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers.

What level of physical fitness do I need?

The tour requires moderate physical fitness.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount paid is not refunded. The tour also depends on good weather.

If you want, tell me your riding experience level and whether you’re comfortable with steep downhills, and I’ll help you decide if this one matches your comfort zone.