Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

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ATV and Zipline Combo in Puerto Vallarta: Sierra Madre Off-Road & Canopy Adventure

ATV and Zipline Combo in Puerto Vallarta: Sierra Madre Off-Road & Canopy Adventure

Throttle through coastal villages, follow the Cuale River into the Sierra Madre and finish by flying through the jungle canopy—this 4-hour ATV + zip-line combo in Puerto Vallarta pairs off-road terrain with high-elevation viewpoints. Read on for what to expect, what to bring, and how to time your day.

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
4 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Bring your driver’s license

A valid driver’s license is required to operate an ATV and must be presented at check-in.

Closed-toe shoes only

Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes—sandals aren’t allowed on ATVs and limit grip during the zip-line harness.

Carry pesos for food and tips

Lunch isn’t included; small towns en route accept pesos and guides expect customary tips (10–15%).

Start early to avoid heat

Morning departures are cooler and give clearer views; afternoons can be hot and stormy during summer.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Early-morning Malecon stretch past Los Muertos Pier for sculpture views before traffic
  • A roadside fruit stand near the river that serves fresh coconut water and empanadas

Wildlife

  • Howler monkeys
  • Tropical hummingbirds and parrots

Conservation Note

Operators typically limit group size to reduce trail impact; stick to marked trails and avoid feeding wildlife to protect the local ecosystem.

Trails used on the route historically linked coastal fishing communities with mountain ranches and were later used for mule commerce into the Sierra Madre foothills.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Morning (golden hour), Late afternoon for canyon light
Key viewpoints:
  • Malecon coastal stretch at the start
  • Zip-line platforms looking down the canyon rim
  • A shaded river crossing for close-up action shots
Subjects to capture:Action shots on ATVs, Aerial canopy shots over the canyon, Local village life and street vendors

What to Bring

Closed-toe trail shoesEssential

Protects feet for ATV control and provides grip at zip-line platforms.

Sunscreen & sunglassesEssential

Tropical sun is strong along the coast and on exposed ridgelines.

Light long-sleeve layer

A thin jacket or long sleeve helps with early-morning cool and protects from brush.

Small daypack or waist pack

Carries water, pesos, and personal items without interfering with the harness.

Common Questions

Is pickup provided?

No—meeting point is Calle Honduras #135 in Colonia 5 de Diciembre, about half a block from the beach; arrive 15 minutes early.

Are children allowed?

Yes—minimum age is 6; children must be accompanied by an adult and follow staff instructions.

What are the weight limits?

Maximum combined weight per ATV is 400 lbs (180 kg); zip-line limit is 250 lbs (115 kg).

Are helmets provided?

Yes—helmets are included and required for both the ATV and zip-line portions.

What happens in bad weather?

The tour operates rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe; operator may cancel for heavy storms and offer refund per policy.

Is lunch included?

No—lunch is not included; plan to spend approximately $10–$25 USD if you buy food during the tour.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

4 hours

Location

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness: be comfortable mounting/dismounting ATVs and climbing short stairways at platforms.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Puerto Vallarta?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

Check Availability & Book Now