Jungle horseback and ziplines, without the big-tour feel. This Rancho Capomo outing trades Puerto Vallarta beach time for a Sierra Madre morning: a horse trek through tropical terrain, a hike toward a waterfall, then zipline runs, with Mexican lunch and national drinks included.

I especially like that your money covers the big expenses up front: entrance fees plus lunch. I also like the human scale of it, including well-trained, gentle horses and guides who keep things moving at a real working-ranch pace.

The main downside to plan around is the ride in: getting out to the ranch takes a while and the road can be bumpy. Also, during dry season you may find the river or waterfall is low or even dry.

Key takeaways before you go

• Small group (max 15) means more hands-on attention and less waiting around.
• Lunch + unlimited national drinks are included, so you can actually budget your day.
• Horse trek plus a hike adds up to real effort, not just a quick photo stop.
• Zipline runs from an exposed ridge can be hot and sunny with limited shade.
• The drive to the Sierra Madre is long and rough in spots, so pack for that.
• There are height and weight rules (and a min drinking age for the bar).

Getting Out of Puerto Vallarta: The Sierra Madre Contrast

This tour works because it changes your scenery fast. Instead of staying in the beach-and-boardwalk rhythm, you head into the Sierra Madre hills and spend time near the village area around Las Palmas—far from the Puerto Vallarta crowds.

Rancho Capomo is the center of gravity for the day. You’re not just “doing an activity.” You’re spending your morning in a working outdoor setting with horses, guides, and a ranch routine. That’s why it feels more like a day trip than a theme-park pickup.

It also helps that the group size stays capped at 15 travelers. Smaller groups tend to mean smoother transitions between horse time, the hike, and the zipline portion. You’re still on a schedule, but you’re not stuck in a long line of strangers.

If you want a Puerto Vallarta excursion that feels more local and less corporate, this one hits that target.

Timing and Transfers: What the 8:15 AM Start Really Means

The tour starts at 8:15 am and runs about 5 hours total. That’s long enough to feel like a full plan, but not so long that you lose your whole afternoon.

You’ll get round-trip transfers from select Puerto Vallarta meeting points, and the activity ends back at the meeting point where you started. In other words, you’re not trying to figure out local transport on your own.

One detail that matters: this ranch is not close. Expect about 90 minutes each way to reach the location. In real-world terms, that means you’ll want to treat the van ride as part of the experience. If you’re sensitive to motion, bring what helps you stay comfortable. Reviews also mention the road can be bumpy, so it’s smart to plan for that.

Also, English is available and you get a mobile ticket, which makes check-in simpler if you’re traveling light.

Stop 1 at Rancho Capomo: The Horse Trek and Waterfall Hike

Most of your “wow” time starts at Rancho Capomo. You’ll ride into the Sierra Madre’s tropical surroundings, moving away from the tourist bubble and toward more natural views.

A typical horse portion is around 90 minutes, with the day described as a trek that can include a hike toward a waterfall destination. The hike takes effort—you don’t just walk to a viewpoint. You’re earning the view.

One thing to plan for: season matters. In the dry season, the river or waterfall may be dry or low. That doesn’t erase the value of the experience, but it can change what you see at the end of the trail. If you’re visiting during a drier stretch, I’d set your expectations to “scenery and jungle pace” instead of “big flowing waterfall.”

Horse quality is a big deal on this kind of tour, and here it’s a clear strength. People describe the horses as well cared for and gentle. That makes the trek feel more relaxed, especially if you’re not used to riding.

There’s also a balance to note: at least one portion of the horse route can pass through a small town area, so you may notice roadside clutter along the way. The trade-off is that you still get the bigger hills-and-valley views after you’re moving beyond the built-up areas.

Zipline in the Hills: Hot Ridge Runs and Approx. 10 Routes

After the horse trek and hiking portion, you switch gears to ziplining. This is the part that tends to deliver the biggest adrenaline payoff.

From the way the day is described, the zipline segment can include about 10 different routes. You might also ride horses up to the start of the zipline lines—so you get more movement before you ever put on the harness.

Here’s what you should know before you show up: ziplining happens on exposed mountain terrain, and in hot dry conditions there’s not much shade. So the heat can catch you if you’re not ready for sun.

Wear long pants and shoes. Reviews are consistent on that point. You’ll be in active terrain, and your gear choices matter more than you think. Also consider bringing a change of clothes if you’re someone who likes to feel fresh after outdoor activities. People specifically recommend this, especially if you expect to get sweaty or carry any dirt from the trail areas.

The zipline itself is described as flying over huge valleys and scenery, including river views. Even if the ride feels more primitive than flashier commercial setups, it’s often that “real place in the hills” feeling that makes it fun.

Lunch, Drinks, and Homemade Tequila Moment

The food is a real selling point here. The tour includes Mexican lunch and unlimited drinks (an open bar with national drinks). That matters because it turns your excursion from “activity with a snack” into a proper meal day.

Lunch is described as delicious and memorable, with one mention of fajitas. The point isn’t fine dining. It’s that you’re eating ranch-style, with enough quality that you don’t feel like the meal is just a checkbox.

Then comes the bonus: homemade tequila. Some days include a tequila tasting as part of the experience. Even if you skip it, the fact that it’s there adds flavor to the day beyond just the transportation and harness time.

One practical note: the bar is for age 18+. If you’re traveling with anyone under 18, they can still participate, but they won’t be part of the drinking portion.

I like that the lunch and drinks reduce decision fatigue. You’re not trying to find a place to eat after you’re done. You’re fed on-site while the day is still rolling.

The Real-World Value of $147 for 5 Hours

At $147 per person, you’re paying for a true package: ranch access, transportation out of town, a full horse trek, a hiking portion, ziplining, plus lunch and unlimited national drinks.

The value story is simple. Many Puerto Vallarta excursions either:

• include the activity but leave you paying extra for food and entrance fees, or
• include food but keep the group larger and the ride shorter.

This one folds in the pieces that usually add up: entrance fees to Rancho Capomo, the meal, and the drinks. Add the small group limit of 15 travelers, and you get a day that feels “complete,” not chopped into paid add-ons.

If you’re the type who likes planning fewer stops and spending less time thinking about logistics once you arrive, this kind of bundled tour often feels like a win. You trade flexibility for convenience, and here the schedule is built to get you out into the Sierra Madre early and back after the main activities.

Who Should Book This (and Who Might Not Love It)

This tour fits best if you want a change of pace from the coast and you’re comfortable with an active outdoor day.

Book it if:

• you want horseback riding plus ziplining in one trip
• you like ranch settings over big, corporate-feeling operations
• you want lunch and drinks included so your day is easier to manage
• you don’t mind a long drive for better scenery

You might reconsider if:

• you’re very sensitive to bumpy rides, since the road out to the ranch can be rough
• you’re expecting a guaranteed waterfall full of water, since dry-season conditions can leave it low or dry
• you’re hoping for mostly shaded activities, since the zipline area can be hot and exposed

There are also physical rules you should check early:

• Minimum weight: 50 pounds
• Minimum height: 1.30 m
• Most travelers can participate, but children must be with an adult
• Minimum drinking age is 18 for the drinks

Also, service animals are allowed, if that’s part of your plans.

What to Bring for a Smooth Sierra Madre Day

You’ll have the best time if you come prepared for heat, walking, and the reality of ranch terrain.

Pack:

• Long pants (zipline and outdoor terrain)
• Closed-toe shoes with grip
• Water. Even with lunch and drinks provided, it helps to stay ahead of the sun
• A change of clothes, if you like to freshen up after getting sweaty or dusty
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen), since at least part of the zipline area has limited shade

One small tip that’s easy to forget: bring something that helps you handle the long drive. If you get motion sick, plan for that before you leave Puerto Vallarta. The excursion is worth it, but the road is part of the deal.

And keep your expectations realistic about the hike. It’s not a flat stroll. It can take effort, and you’ll feel it in your legs after.

Should You Book Sierra Madre Horseback Riding and Zipline?

I’d book this tour if you want an off-the-coast day that feels genuine: small group, ranch food, horses that seem genuinely cared for, and ziplining over big valley scenery. The package pricing makes sense because lunch, entrance access, and drinks are included, and you’re not guessing your costs mid-day.

I’d think twice if you’re chasing a consistently roaring waterfall or you hate bumpy rides and sun exposure. In dry season, the water feature may be underwhelming. And the drive is long enough that comfort matters.

Bottom line: for many people in Puerto Vallarta, this is one of the more complete “get out into the hills” days you can book without turning it into a spreadsheet. If that sounds like your kind of vacation, it’s a strong choice.

FAQ

What’s included with Sierra Madre Horseback Riding and Zipline (Lunch Included)?

It includes pickup and drop-off, Mexican lunch, unlimited drinks (open bar with national drinks), a driver/guide, and entrance fees to Rancho Capomo. Souvenir photos are not included.

How long is the tour and when does it start?

The tour lasts about 5 hours and starts at 8:15 am. It ends back at the meeting point.

Do I get transportation from Puerto Vallarta?

Yes. There are round-trip transfers from select meeting points in Puerto Vallarta.

Are there height and weight requirements?

Yes. The minimum weight is 50 pounds and the required height is 1.30 m. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Is alcohol included, and is there an age limit?

Unlimited drinks are included as an open bar with national drinks. The minimum drinking age is 18 years.

What’s not included in the price?

Souvenir photos are available to purchase, but they are not included in the tour price.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, you won’t receive a refund.