REVIEW · PUERTO VALLARTA
Horseback Riding & Swim: Tequila Tasting, BBQ & Margaritas
Book on Viator →Operated by La Dulce Vista · Bookable on Viator
A river ride, a tequila pour, a quiet swim. This Puerto Vallarta outing pairs horseback riding with a chance to splash in the Mascota River, then shifts gears to a relaxed day at La Dulce Vista for tequila tasting and poolside lunch. I love the hands-on feel of getting matched to a horse for your ability, and I also love the tequila lineup: Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, plus a premium Pink tequila.
The main thing to plan for is change. The river crossing and any swim with your horse depend on conditions, so the day can be more riding and less water on certain weather days.
In This Review
- Key things you’ll want to know
- A river ride, tequila, and a real taste of Jalisco
- From Marina Vallarta to Hacienda Dona Engracia in about 25 minutes
- Horse matching at Hacienda Dona Engracia (calm horses and real support)
- Mascota River riding and the horse swim: plan for Plan A and Plan B
- La Dulce Vista tequila tasting: Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and Pink
- Mexican BBQ lunch and unlimited lemon margaritas at the pool
- What to bring (and what to skip) for a wet, sunny day
- Group size, timing, and who this tour fits best
- Should you book this horseback ride with tequila and swim?
- FAQ
- How long is the horseback riding and swim with tequila tasting tour?
- What’s included in lunch and drinks?
- What tequila will I taste?
- Can I swim with the horse?
- What should I bring, and are towels provided?
- Is there a weight or height requirement for riding?
- What is the cancellation policy if weather isn’t good?
Key things you’ll want to know
- Max 17 people means a smaller, easier-to-manage group day.
- Horse matching by ability helps first-timers feel less stressed.
- Mascota River swim only if conditions permit so bring a swimsuit, but be ready for Plan B.
- Tequila tasting at La Dulce Vista covers Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and Pink, from small batches.
- BBQ lunch + unlimited lemon margaritas keeps the day fun after the ride.
- Towels aren’t included so pack one, especially if you plan to swim.
A river ride, tequila, and a real taste of Jalisco
This is the kind of day that feels like you left the resort world for a while. You start with a horseback ride through the countryside around Puerto Vallarta, with vegetation and river scenery that’s hard to replicate from the marina. Then the pace turns friendly and social at La Dulce Vista: tequila tasting, BBQ, and lots of margaritas.
What makes it especially appealing is that it’s not just riding. You get a true “Mexican afternoon” rhythm: ride, taste, eat, and relax by the pool. And if the river is behaving, you might get the highlight people talk about most: a short swim with your horse.
I also like that the day is guided closely. You’re not thrown onto a horse and left to figure it out. Guides and staff focus on safety and help with mounting and offloading if you need it.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Puerto Vallarta.
From Marina Vallarta to Hacienda Dona Engracia in about 25 minutes
Your tour starts at Av Paseo de la Marina 121, Marina Vallarta. It’s near public transportation, and the tour uses private transportation on a white bus, so you’re not piecing together your own rides.
From the meeting point, you drive about 25 minutes to Hacienda Dona Engracia. Expect the drive to feel warm during sunny parts of the day, so I’d dress with heat in mind and plan to sweat a little before the riding even begins.
The tour runs about 5 hours and ends back at the same meeting point. In real life, a day like this can run a bit long if the group moves at different speeds or if the guides adjust based on river conditions. The good news: it’s built around doing things, not just sitting around.
Horse matching at Hacienda Dona Engracia (calm horses and real support)
At Hacienda Dona Engracia, you get matched with a horse that fits your ability. That matters more than people expect. A calmer horse and the right height/fit can be the difference between a nervous first ride and a genuinely fun one.
You’ll also receive safety instructions before you head out. Staff members are typically attentive, and the vibe is “you’re taken care of” rather than “good luck.” If you’re nervous, you’re not alone. This kind of matching is designed to help people who haven’t ridden in years, and it can also work for true beginners.
There’s one important rider consideration. If you’re over 220 lbs (100 kg), the guidance is that your height must be above 5’7″ (170 cm). That’s for a safe fit and comfort on the horse.
Mascota River riding and the horse swim: plan for Plan A and Plan B
The ride is the scenic heart of the tour. You’ll head out toward the Mascota River and enjoy countryside views and local vegetation. The route can include breaks along the way, which is smart because you’ll likely be in the sun for a stretch.
Here’s the key detail: the horse swim is not guaranteed. You’re instructed to bring a swimsuit because if river conditions permit, you may enjoy a short swim with the horse. If the current or water conditions aren’t right, you’ll still ride, but the “in-water” part may not happen.
That variability shows up as a theme in how the day feels. When the river is good, the experience can be magical—writing through water on horseback is the kind of memory that sticks. When conditions aren’t right, you can still have a full ride, but expect more time on land and possibly less dramatic river crossings.
My advice: treat swimming as a bonus, not a requirement. Bring the gear so you’re ready, but don’t let a weather-dependent plan ruin the day in your head.
La Dulce Vista tequila tasting: Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and Pink
After the ride, you reach La Dulce Vista, which is where the day turns into a food-and-flavor stop. Here’s what you should look forward to: tequila tasting featuring Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and a premium Pink tequila.
The tasting is set up like a proper intro to how tequila changes with aging and style. You taste the lineup side-by-side and learn what differentiates each version. It’s not just drinking to drink; you’re given context so the flavors make sense.
There’s also a fun hands-on element at La Dulce Vista. Many people enjoy making their own salsa, which adds a tasty, interactive break from the day’s earlier motion. If you love food flavors, this part gives you something to do besides just watch.
One more practical note: you’re going to be warm from riding. If you’re sensitive to heat or alcohol, pace your tasting and drink water between pours. Bottled water is included, and it helps you stay comfortable while you sample.
Mexican BBQ lunch and unlimited lemon margaritas at the pool
Lunch is a real part of the value here, not an afterthought. You’ll have a traditional Mexican BBQ lunch, and the menu includes items like chicken and meat, beans, rice, veggies, salsa molcajete, and quesadillas.
Dietary needs are addressed too. There are options for vegetarian, vegan, and pescatarian meals, so you shouldn’t be stuck eating only sides.
Then come the drinks. The tour includes alcoholic beverages, specifically lemon margaritas, and the experience is described as having unlimited margaritas with lunch. Bottled water is also included.
If you want to avoid feeling wrecked, here’s a simple strategy: eat first, then alternate between a margarita and water. Your body will thank you, and you’ll enjoy the pool time more.
Also, if you did get a river ride, you may still be in a wet-suit or damp clothing situation. That’s where having a plan for towels matters.
What to bring (and what to skip) for a wet, sunny day
This tour is very gear-sensitive because you’re combining riding, possible water play, and outdoor heat.
Bring:
- A bathing suit (this is non-negotiable)
- A towel (towels are not included)
- Hat and sunglasses
- Water-friendly shoes that won’t easily slip off and are okay if they get wet
- A backpack or bag for a change of clothes
I also recommend packing sunscreen and a light layer you can use if you get sunburned or if the weather turns. Even in a sunny region, mornings and afternoons can feel different once you’re damp.
What to skip? Anything you’d hate ruining. This day has water potential. If it’s new shoes you can’t stand to get dirty, don’t wear them.
One more small comfort tip: keep your phone secured. You’ll be riding, and guides may take photos along the way if you want. Worrying about your gear can take the fun out of the moment.
Group size, timing, and who this tour fits best
With a maximum of 17 travelers, you get the benefits of a group day without it feeling like a cattle call. It’s also easier for guides to match horses properly and give attention where needed.
The tour is offered in English, and you’ll receive confirmation at booking. You’ll also get a mobile ticket, which makes it simpler on arrival.
Who this suits:
- People who want horseback riding plus a food and tequila stop in one go
- Couples and friends looking for a day away from the marina
- Beginners, since you’re matched to a horse and given safety guidance
Who should think twice:
- Anyone who can’t handle heat for a few hours
- People who absolutely need the river swim (it depends on conditions)
- Riders who don’t meet the height/weight guidance (over 220 lbs/100 kg needs height above 5’7″/170 cm)
Even when you don’t get the swim, the day can still be great. The riding and La Dulce Vista portion are built to work whether the river is perfect or not.
Should you book this horseback ride with tequila and swim?
Book it if you want a day that mixes rural scenery, a genuine horse experience, and a proper Mexican lunch with tequila and unlimited margaritas. The combination is what makes the price feel fair: you’re paying for transportation, guided riding support, tequila tasting, and a full lunch with drinks.
Skip or at least re-think your expectations if you’re traveling at a time when weather or river conditions could limit the water part. You’ll still ride, but the “swim with the horse” moment isn’t guaranteed.
If you’re celebrating something special, I’d still choose it—just go in with flexibility. A great guide team, calm horses, and poolside BBQ can turn a variable day into a memorable one.
If you do book, remember the basics: swimsuit, towel, water shoes, and a hat. Those four items are what keep the day fun no matter what the river decides to do.
FAQ
How long is the horseback riding and swim with tequila tasting tour?
It lasts about 5 hours (approx.) and returns you back to the meeting point.
What’s included in lunch and drinks?
Lunch is included, along with bottled water and alcoholic beverages in the form of lemon margaritas. The lunch includes a Mexican BBQ-style meal, and margaritas are described as unlimited.
What tequila will I taste?
You’ll taste artisanal tequila in styles including Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo, plus a premium Pink tequila.
Can I swim with the horse?
You should bring a swimsuit. If river conditions permit, you may enjoy a short swim with your horse.
What should I bring, and are towels provided?
Bring your bathing suit and a towel. Towel is specifically noted as not included.
Is there a weight or height requirement for riding?
Yes. If you’re over 220 lbs (100 kg), your height must be above 5’7″ (170 cm).
What is the cancellation policy if weather isn’t good?
You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. The experience requires good weather, and if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
