Flight Over the Horcones: Puerto Vallarta’s Los Veranos Zipline
Nineteen lines, one river, and the fastest way to feel the Sierra Madre move under you.
Morning gathers in the folds of the Sierra Madre Occidental, and the jungle wakes with a hum you can feel in your ribs. The Horcones River murmurs below, polished boulders slick with spray, as a steel cable stretches into green distance like a dare. A guide clips you in, double-checks the carabiners, and nods. The river seems to grin, as if it knows what happens next. You step into the air—the canopy slides under you, palm fronds tilt in slow salute, and the valley rushes forward in a bright, bright blur.
Trail Wisdom
Go hands-free, not gear-free
Bring a phone lanyard or action cam tether; unsecured items can vanish into the canopy. Guides allow cameras if properly secured.
Shoes with bite
Closed-toe footwear with tread makes the short hikes and stair sections between platforms much safer, especially after rain.
Hydrate before you fly
Start drinking water an hour before check-in and top up at the café. The jungle’s humidity catches up fast.
Boat or truck—choose your route
Boat transfers add scenic variety but aren’t available on weekends; trucks are more direct and better for those prone to seasickness.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet eddies just upriver from the café are ideal for a post-zip soak when flows are mellow
- •A short walk to a higher platform near mid-course reveals wide Sierra Madre vistas between runs
Wildlife
Green iguanas sunning on riverside rocks, Coatimundi moving through the understory
Conservation Note
Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent, stay on built paths, and never feed wildlife—river ecosystems are sensitive to human impacts.
Among Puerto Vallarta’s earliest canopy tours, Los Veranos helped popularize ziplining in the Horcones River valley, where historic mule routes once threaded the forest.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Clear views
Challenges: Rising heat by midday, Busy holiday periods
Spring offers warm mornings and drier trails, with long sightlines across the valley. Book ahead for holidays.
summer
Best for: Lush jungle greens, Refreshing river swims
Challenges: Afternoon showers, High humidity and slick steps
Expect brief, tropical downpours and vibrant foliage. The river runs stronger—great for a post-zip dip.
fall
Best for: Quieter crowds, Comfortable shoulder-season temps
Challenges: Occasional late rains, Variable river levels
A calm time to visit with stable weather windows and warm water lingering in the pools.
winter
Best for: Cool, dry air, Peak visibility
Challenges: Higher demand, Cooler river temps
Crisp mornings and panoramic views define winter; whales migrate in the bay and reservations are essential.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential
Good traction makes transitions between platforms safer, especially after rain.
Lightweight long-sleeve sun shirt
Breathable coverage helps with sun and bugs without overheating.
Biodegradable insect repellentEssential
Protects against bites while minimizing impact on river habitats.
Action camera with helmet mount
Hands-free mounting keeps you focused on flying and secures your device.
Common Questions
How long does the Los Veranos zipline tour take?
Plan on about five hours door-to-door, including transfers, safety briefing, ziplining, and time to relax by the river.
Is transportation by boat available every day?
Boat transfers typically run daily except on weekends; confirm availability when booking.
What should I wear for the zipline?
Closed-toe shoes with good grip, comfortable athletic wear, and a light layer for sun protection. Avoid loose jewelry and unsecured hats.
Can I swim in the Horcones River after ziplining?
Yes—there are natural pools by the café where guests often cool off, conditions permitting.
Are there age or weight restrictions?
Yes—zipline tours use safety harnesses that require minimum and maximum limits. Check current restrictions with the operator before booking.
Is food available on-site?
Yes—the riverfront Los Veranos Café serves meals and drinks, and there’s also a tequila tasting experience.
What to Pack
Closed-toe shoes for traction on stairs and trails; a refillable water bottle to stay ahead of the heat; a lightweight sun shirt for UV protection without heavy sunscreen; a phone lanyard or action cam mount to keep devices secure while flying.
Did You Know
Bahía de Banderas (Banderas Bay) spans roughly 42 km across and reaches depths of more than 900 meters, making it one of Mexico’s largest and deepest bays and a winter gathering spot for migrating humpback whales.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a morning slot for cooler temps and fewer crowds; confirm your pickup point—boat vs. jungle truck—at booking; bring cash or a card for lunch and tasting at the café; expect limited cell service in the canyon and download confirmations in advance.
Local Flavor
Refuel back in town with street tacos at Pancho’s Takos in the Romantic Zone, then sample craft ales at Monzón Brewing Co. For a bayside splurge, Mariscos El Coleguita in Marina Vallarta serves generous seafood with sunset views. Cap the day with a stroll on the Malecón and street-side churros.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: PVR (Lic. Gustavo Díaz Ordaz Intl.). Meeting points include Marina La Cruz and Marina Paradise in Nuevo Vallarta. Driving time to the canyon base is roughly 40–60 minutes from central Puerto Vallarta. Cell service is limited in the river gorge. No permits required. Boat transfers are typically unavailable on weekends—confirm transport when reserving.
Sustainability Note
The Horcones River drains a biodiverse canyon; protect it by using reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen, packing out all trash, and keeping out of vegetated banks. Stay on designated paths and platforms to prevent erosion.
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