Exploring Puerto Vallarta from the Sky: A Private Tandem Skydiving Review
Skydiving is often considered one of the most adrenaline-pumping ways to see a new place—and in Puerto Vallarta, it’s also one of the most breathtaking. This private tandem skydiving experience promises a safe, professional, and unforgettable adventure, with stunning views of the bay and coastline. While only two reviews exist, their glowing praise speaks volumes about the quality and reliability of Skydive Vallarta.
What we love about this experience? First, the professionalism and experience of the team—they boast over 25 years in the business, with more than 50,000 jumps under their belts and USPA certification. Second, the spectacular scenery—expect soaring over Puerto Vallarta’s coastline with clear views of the sea, mountains, and lush landscape. Third, the personalized nature of this private tour, which ensures you’ll have a dedicated instructor and a more intimate, less rushed experience.
A potential consideration? The cost of $322 per person might seem steep for some, but when you weigh it against the safety, scenery, and expertise provided, many will find it’s a worthwhile splurge.
This adventure is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, high-adrenaline experience with a focus on safety and expert guidance. If you’re comfortable with heights and are craving a unique perspective of Puerto Vallarta, this skydiving tour offers a striking combination of thrill and scenic beauty.
Good To Know
- Experienced Guides: Over 25 years of expertise and USPA certification ensure a safe and professional jump.
- Stunning Views: Expect aerial vistas of Puerto Vallarta’s bay, mountains, and coastline, especially during the 15-20 minute flight.
- Private Tour: Only your group participates, making it more personalized and less crowded.
- Well-Equipped Safety: Use of state-of-the-art rectangular parachutes and soft landings make this a comfortable experience.
- Clear Process: Includes a detailed pre-jump class and thorough safety briefings.
- Flexible Cancellation: Full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
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The Breakdown of the Experience
Meeting and Preparation
Your adventure begins at the Skydive Vallarta offices located in Plaza Península. The team’s location in the busy Zona Hotelera makes it easy to find, with nearby public transportation options. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and given a comprehensive theoretical class that covers the entire jump process, safety measures, and what to expect at each stage. This prep session helps ease any nerves and ensures you’re fully informed before the actual jump.
The Plane Ride
Once briefed, you’ll board a small plane for a 15-20 minute flight over Puerto Vallarta’s stunning bay. The pilot will take you up to altitudes between 9,500 and 11,500 feet, providing incredible panoramic views. Reviewers often mention the flight as a highlight, with one noting the professionalism of the pilot and staff ensuring smooth, scenic skies.
The Jump
At around 8,500 feet, your tandem instructor will prepare you for the free fall. You’ll experience about 40 to 45 seconds of exhilarating free fall, reaching speeds over 200 km/h. The sensation of falling, coupled with the view of the coastline rushing past, is described as both intense and awe-inspiring.
Parachute and Landing
After deploying the parachute, you’ll glide for 5 to 7 minutes, enjoying a serene flight over the sea and land. The use of rectangular, modern parachutes promises soft, comfortable landings on the beach, which many reviewers appreciated, noting how gentle the touch down was. The landing spot on the beach allows for a quick, hassle-free end to the flight, and you’ll often find yourself eager to recount the experience afterward.
Post-Jump and Extras
While the tour does not include photos or videos, many participants choose to bring their own cameras or ask the staff if they offer any packages. The tour ends back at the starting point, with plenty of time to reflect on the breathtaking views and adrenaline rush.
What Makes This Skydiving Experience Stand Out
Safety and Professionalism
The team’s credentials shine through. With over 25 years of experience, and more than 50,000 jumps, safety is clearly a top priority. Multiple reviews praise the instructors, with one reviewer stating, “Victor is running a class AAA operation,” emphasizing their high standards and professionalism. Diego, one of the instructors, is highlighted for his expertise, giving first-timers confidence that they are in capable hands.
Scenic Aerial Views
The highlight for most travelers is the stunning scenery. Expect to see Puerto Vallarta’s lush coastline, mountains, and sparkling bay during your flight and descent. Reviewers have called the views “epic,” and one even mentioned how the flight over the bay was a perfect way to see the city from a new perspective.
Private and Personalized Service
Unlike group skydiving options, this is a private tour, only your group jumps together. This setup allows for a more relaxed experience, with direct interaction with your instructor and less waiting around. It also facilitates a more personalized experience tailored to your comfort level and questions.
Equipment and Comfort
The use of modern, rectangular parachutes ensures a smooth, soft landing, which is especially appreciated by first-timers. The safety procedures and equipment are top-notch, giving travelers peace of mind throughout the process. The soft landings and professional handling of the jump make this a comfortable, stress-free adventure.
Duration and Value
The entire experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, including prep, flight, jump, and landing. While the price of $322 might seem high, it covers everything from briefing to the jump itself, with safety and scenic quality fully included. For thrill-seekers wanting a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience, it offers excellent value.
What Reviewers Say
One reviewer emphasized the professionalism, stating, “Victor is running a class AAA operation,” and praised the team’s experience, with instructors having over a decade of jumps and more than 1,000 jumps each. Another reviewer shared their excitement, calling the experience “epic” and noting how excellent the service and instructors are, even returning for a second jump.
The reviews point out the safety, expertise, and stunning views as the primary reasons travelers keep coming back or recommend it to others. The mention of the soft landings and the well-organized process reassures first-timers that they are in trustworthy hands.
Practical Details and Tips
- Booking in advance is recommended—about 13 days ahead on average—to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
- The tour starts at the offices in Plaza Península, with easy access via public transportation or parking.
- The experience includes a detailed briefing, so no prior experience is necessary.
- Photos and videos are not included, so consider bringing your camera or purchasing extras if available.
- The cancellation policy is flexible, with full refunds possible if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
Who Would Love This Experience?
This skydiving adventure is perfect for travelers who seek an adrenaline rush paired with breathtaking scenery. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable with heights and are looking for a safe, professional environment. Given the private booking setup, it’s also ideal for couples or small groups wanting a personalized, memorable experience.
It’s not just about the thrill; it’s also about seeing Puerto Vallarta from an entirely new perspective. If you’re craving a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with stunning views and expert guides, this skydiving experience is a top choice.
FAQ
Is this experience suitable for first-timers?
Yes, first-timers are very welcome. The tour includes a detailed briefing, and the instructors are highly qualified, making it suitable for those new to skydiving.
How long does the entire experience last?
The entire activity takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, including briefing, plane ride, jump, and landing.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the tandem jump with a certified instructor, safety equipment, and the airport-style briefing. Photos and videos are not included.
Where does the jump take place?
The jump occurs over Puerto Vallarta’s bay, with the meeting point at Skydive Vallarta offices located in Plaza Península in the Zona Hotelera.
What safety measures are in place?
The company uses state-of-the-art rectangular parachutes, highly qualified instructors, and follows safety protocols aligned with USPA standards, ensuring soft landings and secure jumps.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations up to 24 hours before the scheduled jump are fully refundable. Cancellations less than 24 hours before are not eligible for refunds.
Final Thoughts
Choosing to leap out of an airplane over Puerto Vallarta might seem extreme, but with Skydive Vallarta, it’s a carefully managed, exhilarating experience that balances thrill with professionalism. The views alone make it worth the cost, offering a perspective on Puerto Vallarta that postcards can’t match.
Ideal for adventure lovers and those seeking a bucket-list-worthy moment, this skydiving tour combines stunning scenery, expert guidance, and safety at the forefront. It’s a chance to tick off one of the most memorable experiences in Mexico—if you’re ready to feel the wind and see the world from above, this might just be your perfect adventure.
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