Puerto Vallarta: Zipline Canopy, Tequila Tasting & Speed Boat

Summary

Puerto Vallarta jungle zipline day with tequila tasting and riverside time

You’ll speed across Banderas Bay to Puerto Vallarta’s lush jungle for 19 zip lines over rivers and treetops. Taste house-made tequila with locals, unwind by natural pools or try kayaking after lunch at a riverside café. End your day meeting rescued monkeys and toucans in an animal sanctuary — it’s adventure with plenty of heart.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to fly right over the jungle? I didn’t, honestly — until we were bouncing along the water on a speed boat, wind in my face, Puerto Vallarta shrinking behind us. Our guide Luis cracked jokes about “Mexican rollercoasters” as we zipped past pelicans and fishing boats. I could smell salt and sunscreen on my arms. There’s an option for land transport too (my friend gets seasick, so she took that route), but I was glad I picked the boat — something about arriving by river just sets the mood.

The main event is those zip lines — 19 of them, stretching above the Horcones River and through this thick green world. My palms were sweating before the first jump (I’m not exactly brave), but the guides really knew their stuff. They checked every harness twice, teased us just enough to break the tension, and then suddenly you’re out there — air rushing in your ears, treetops below. At one point I tried to look down at the river but my helmet kept slipping over my eyes. So yeah, not graceful, but unforgettable.

After all that adrenaline, we wandered down to this open-air café right by the riverbank. The smell of grilled fajitas was everywhere — honestly, I’d earned it after all that screaming. There’s a proper tequila tasting too; I tried saying “reposado” with my best accent and got a laugh from Rosa behind the bar (she said it was “muy valiente”). Some folks jumped into the river pools or grabbed kayaks — I just sat with my feet in the water for a bit. It’s loud with birds and laughter and that splashy sound from people braving the waterslides.

I almost skipped the animal sanctuary at the end (wasn’t sure what to expect), but it turned out to be full of rescued monkeys and these impossibly bright toucans. One monkey tried to steal my friend’s hat — she still brings it up every time someone mentions Puerto Vallarta. The whole thing felt less like a tour and more like being let in on a local secret for a few hours. Walking back up through the trees, sunburned and tired, I realized I hadn’t checked my phone once all day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zipline, river activities, and tasting

• Meet at pick-up point
• Speed boat ride or land transport
• Zipline over jungle and river
• Enjoy meal and tropical cocktails
• Tequila tasting of house blends
• Swim in natural river pools
• Kayak on calm waters
• Play on jungle waterslides
• Visit rescue animal sanctuary

Top questions

How long does this Puerto Vallarta zipline canopy tour last?

The tour lasts about 5 hours depending on your pickup point.

Is transportation included for this day trip?

Yes, round-trip transportation by land or sea is included.

Are meals or drinks part of this tour?

A meal at the riverside restaurant is available for purchase; tequila tasting is included.

What age or weight restrictions apply?

The minimum age is 5 years old; maximum weight is 285 lbs (129 kg).

Can you swim or kayak during this tour?

Yes, swimming in natural pools and kayaking are included if weather permits.

Is there an animal sanctuary visit included?

Yes, you’ll visit a rescue sanctuary with monkeys, toucans, and reptiles.

Do guides speak English on this canopy tour?

Bilingual guides lead all activities throughout the day.

Should I bring anything special for this tour?

Bring comfortable shoes, swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, camera with strap, extra cash or card for lunch or souvenirs.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation by land or speed boat from Puerto Vallarta (just remember there’s a small port fee if you take the boat), access to 19 zip lines with water stations along the way, traditional tequila tasting led by locals, use of kayaks and river slides when weather allows it, plus time at an animal rescue sanctuary before heading back home tired but happy.