ATV Riding Puerto Vallarta: Sierra Madre Mountains & Spring Waters

You ride the Sierra Madre yourself, not watch from a seat.

Private ATV riding in Puerto Vallarta takes you through dirt roads and mountain terrain to hot spring waters near Ejido El Jorullo, with a live guide, all protective gear and the freedom to set your own pace. Minimum group size is two ATVs; riders must be at least 16 with a valid driver permit, and passengers can join from age 6. The five-hour experience operates in all weather, and you'll pass through traditional Mexican villages away from tourist areas.

Step-by-step itinerary

ATV ride to spring waters and village

• Ride Sierra Madre Mountains
• Explore traditional Mexican village
• Visit hot spring water paradise
• Swim in mineral spring waters
• Taste Mexican food at springs

The Experience

You arrive at the shop and get fitted with helmet, goggles and face mask. The guide briefs you on the machine and the route — dirt roads climbing into the Sierra Madre Mountains that ring Puerto Vallarta, with stops at a traditional village and the natural hot springs. Because this is a private ride, you control how long you spend at each place: more time on the throttle or more time soaking in the mineral water, that choice is yours. The landscape shifts from the edges of town into real Mexico, the kind most visitors never see.

The riding itself is advanced-level terrain — up and down mountain passes, off-road sections that demand focus and skill. You need a high level of physical fitness and a driver permit to book; the minimum age is 16 for riders, though passengers as young as 6 can ride double. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a swimming suit if you want to jump into the spring water to recharge. Bug spray helps. The guide speaks English or Spanish, and the whole experience runs about five hours, rain or shine.

At the hot springs, you can soak in the mineral water or grab Mexican food served on-site. The families from Ejido El Jorullo who maintain the off-roading trails ask for three dollars per ATV if you want to support the upkeep — bring exact change if you're willing. An Uber to the shop costs less than other transport options and gets you there faster if you're staying in Puerto Vallarta proper.

What’s included

• ATV and helmet.
• goggles and face mask.
• live guide in English or Spanish.
• access to the mountain trails and hot spring location.
• Mexican food at the spring.

Good to know

Demanding physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Xiutla Riders Ecoadventure

Is this one for you?This ride suits experienced riders or confident beginners with high fitness and a valid driver permit — the advanced terrain and five-hour duration demand both physical stamina and comfort on rough ground. If spinal injuries, pregnancy or cardiovascular concerns apply to you, this activity is not the right fit.

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Top questions

What's the difference between riding solo and taking a passenger on the ATV?

You can ride alone or double up with a passenger on the same machine. A minimum of two ATVs per booking means at least two riders total, but each ATV can carry one or two people. Passengers must be at least 6 years old.

Do I need my own driver's license to ride an ATV here?

Yes, riders must be at least 16 years old and carry a valid driver permit. Passengers don't need a license but must meet the age requirement of 6 years minimum.

What happens if the weather turns bad during the ride?

The ATV experience operates in all weather conditions, so rain won't cancel your booking. Dress appropriately for the conditions you expect — the mountains can be wet and muddy.

Can I bring my own camera or phone to record the ride?

The operator does not provide video or photo services as part of the booking, so bringing your own camera or phone is the way to capture the ride. Secure it well since you'll be navigating rough terrain.

How far is the hot spring from Puerto Vallarta town, and what's the riding like to get there?

The hot springs sit near Ejido El Jorullo, reached by climbing dirt roads and mountain passes through the Sierra Madre. The terrain is advanced-level off-road riding with significant elevation changes, so expect a physical challenge on the way.

What should I bring besides the gear the shop provides?

Bring a swimming suit if you want to soak in the hot spring water, comfortable walking shoes for the stops, and bug spray for the trails. Bring exact change (three dollars per ATV) if you want to contribute to the families maintaining the off-road routes.