Mazatlán's coast gives way quickly to tropical scrub, palm groves and quiet beaches, and this ATV tour takes you into that landscape on your own quad bike. It is a highly rated outing, with strong reviews from well over a hundred travellers, and it combines the adventure with two familiar extras: a lunch and a tequila tasting. Tours of this type usually include pickup from the city, a safety briefing, a guided ride on dirt tracks through jungle-like vegetation and a stretch along the sand before you stop to eat and taste. Agave country is not far from the coast, and tequila and mezcal tastings are a regular part of excursions in the region, so the tasting makes a natural finish. The mix of speed, scenery and food suits groups of friends, couples and active families, and it gives you a very different side of the region from the old town and the seafront. You do not need prior experience, because guides brief beginners and lead the group.
Before you book
Read the details on age, weight, driving licence and fitness requirements, which vary by operator, and confirm the pickup point, the length of the ride, what lunch includes and whether drivers can share a quad with a passenger. Tell the operator about any back, neck or heart conditions, and about pregnancy, because ATV rides are bumpy. Alcohol and driving do not mix, so ask how the tasting is timed, and plan to enjoy it after the riding is finished.
What to bring
Closed shoes, long trousers or clothes you do not mind getting dusty or muddy, sunscreen, sunglasses, a bandana or scarf for dust and a change of clothes if you can. Operators usually supply helmets and sometimes goggles, but check. Keep your phone in a zipped pocket or a sealed bag, because a bumpy ride and fine dust are hard on electronics. Water is essential, and you should eat a light breakfast.
Make it count
This is a half-day outing, so pair it with a quiet afternoon back in town, perhaps a seafood dinner and an early night, rather than packing in more activities. Because tracks, weather and group sizes change, treat the route and timings as a guide, and follow your leader's instructions on speed and spacing.
Riding in the dry season is generally more comfortable than in the rainy months, when tracks can be slick and muddy. The middle of the day is the hottest. If ATVs are not for you, a Segway tour, a bike tour or a day at Isla de la Piedra offers a gentler way to leave the old town behind.
Book ahead in winter, when group sizes are largest and demand is highest. On the day, listen carefully to the safety briefing, keep a safe distance from the quad in front, take dust seriously by staying back from the leader, and let the guide know straight away if you feel tired or uncomfortable. A tour that finishes with lunch and a tasting is meant to be enjoyed, and the guides are experienced at keeping groups relaxed, safe and well fed from start to finish.
What to expect
The experience
A guided ATV ride on country tracks and along a beach, with a safety briefing, lunch and a tequila tasting.
Best time
Morning departures are cooler; the dry season is generally more comfortable than the rainy months.
How long
A half day including pickup and lunch; confirm exact timings when you book.
Tips
Wear closed shoes and clothes that can get dusty, bring sunscreen and water, secure your phone and check age and weight rules.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active visitors and groups who want a thrill and a taste of the countryside.
- Families
- Check age and weight limits carefully; some operators restrict younger children.
- Couples
- A fun shared adventure, with a relaxed lunch to finish.
- Pair with
- A quiet afternoon back in town and a seafood dinner.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Do I need ATV experience?+
No. Guides give a safety briefing and lead the group, so beginners are welcome. Confirm the age, weight and licence rules with the operator.
What is included?+
The tour combines the ride with lunch and a tequila tasting. Check the product details for pickup, equipment and drinks, because inclusions vary.
What should I wear?+
Closed shoes, long trousers or clothes you do not mind getting dusty, sunscreen, sunglasses and a scarf for dust. Operators usually provide helmets.
Is it suitable for children?+
It depends on the operator's rules for age and weight. Ask before you book, and check whether younger children can ride as passengers.
What is the best time of year?+
The dry season is generally more comfortable, with firmer tracks. Rainy months can make tracks muddy, so ask about the weather policy.
