Puerto Vallarta is a city that invites exploration—whether it’s strolling through colorful neighborhoods, sampling authentic street food, or hiking into lush mountains. Its compact size makes walking a practical way to soak up the local vibe, and the tours listed below offer a variety of ways to experience Vallarta beyond just beaches and resorts. We especially love the Canopy Zipline + Jorullo Bridge walk for adrenaline lovers, and the Yelapa Boat & Walking Tour for those craving a mix of nature, culture, and tranquility. With options for all interests and fitness levels, there’s no shortage of memorable ways to get to know Puerto Vallarta on foot.
Quick Overview
Our list covers adventure-focused experiences like ziplining (Puerto Vallarta’s Best Canopy Zipline + Jorullo Bridge walk) and scenic hikes such as the Glass ViewPoint Jorullo. Food lovers will appreciate the Taco Tours and Dinner Taco Walk, which combine walking with tastings at local eateries. For those interested in culture, there are historical walks, ghost stories, and art-focused routes (Private Walk in Puerto Vallarta), as well as full-day adventures like the Yelapa Boat & Walking Tour with Tequila Tasting. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Puerto Vallarta’s Best Canopy Zipline + Jorullo Bridge walk!
If you’re craving adventure, this tour is a fantastic pick. It combines 11 ziplines of varying lengths and speeds, all designed for thrilling views of the rainforest. Plus, it includes a walk over the Jorullo suspension bridge, one of the longest in the world, offering spectacular scenic panoramas. The tour lasts about 5 hours and is perfect for those who want a balance of adrenaline and scenery. The guides are praised for their care and enthusiasm, making this experience accessible even if you’ve never ziplined before.
The highlight for many is the suspension bridge, which provides a unique vantage point over the jungle. Guests often mention the beautiful landscape and the friendly, energetic guides. The tour also offers flexibility with start times and pickup locations, making it easy to fit into your schedule. At $58 per person, the price includes all gear and safety briefings, making it a good value for a full half-day of fun.
Bottom Line: For active travelers seeking a mix of ziplining and scenic hikes, this tour offers a safe, exhilarating experience with excellent reviews.
2. Taco101 – daytime taco walk – all inclusive
Food lovers, this is your chance to dive into Mexico’s most iconic street snack. The Taco101 tour takes you through family-run taco stands and local eateries, where you’ll taste up to ten different tacos with various sauces and toppings. The tour lasts around 2.5 hours and includes drinks, dessert, and a visit to a local corn tortilla factory.
The small group size—only seven people—means plenty of personalized attention. Guests rave about guide Memo, describing him as warm, knowledgeable, and passionate about Mexican cuisine. The tour avoids tourist traps, focusing instead on authentic flavors and local favorites. For $55, it’s a great way to combine walking with culinary discovery, especially if you’re a fan of spicy, flavorful food.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a relaxed, foodie-focused walk that showcases Puerto Vallarta’s authentic street eats and local culture.
3. The best walking tour in the neighborhood of Versalles
This neighborhood has become the culinary heart of Puerto Vallarta, and this tour will show you why. The Versalles walking tour focuses on Mexican cuisine, with a morning version mainly featuring tacos and an afternoon option with restaurants serving traditional dishes like tostadas, sopes, and even pozole.
Led by Roman or Manny, guides with culinary expertise and charm, you’ll visit multiple food venues—over six different stops—enjoying local flavors in a culturally rich setting. The tour is about 2.5 hours, and guests love how the guide explains the cultural significance of each dish. The reviews highlight the delicious food and informative commentary, making it perfect for foodies or curious travelers.
Bottom Line: If you want to explore authentic Mexican food in a lively neighborhood, this walking tour is a flavorful choice.
4. Taco102 – dinner taco walk – all inclusive
For those who prefer dinner over lunch, the Dinner Taco Walk offers a culinary crawl through Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town and downtown, with visits to family-run eateries. You’ll try up to ten different tacos, including meat and vegetarian options, paired with salsas, fresh drinks, and beer.
This 2.5-hour tour emphasizes local favorites, with guides like Memo sharing stories and insights into each stand’s history. Guests consistently praise Memo as personable and knowledgeable, and the tour’s small size guarantees personalized attention. The price at $55 represents good value for an evening of tasting diverse flavors and seeing local life firsthand.
Bottom Line: Perfect for night owls and foodies wanting an authentic evening of tacos and camaraderie.
5. 2 Hour and 30 Minutes Walking Tour in 5 De Diciembre
This tour explores 5 De Diciembre, a neighborhood known for authentic flavors and local charm. It focuses on tacos and spicy foods as you walk through markets and food stalls with a guide. The 2.5-hour experience includes tasting birria, barbacoa, gorditas, and fresh marlin, along with agua frescas.
What makes this tour special is its focus on local culinary traditions and its less touristy vibe, giving a real taste of everyday life in Puerto Vallarta. Guests love how the guide Manny shares insights into the neighborhood’s culture. It’s a good choice if you’re interested in authentic street food and local atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A tasty way to experience everyday Puerto Vallarta, especially if you want to avoid tourist traps.
6. Puerto Vallarta Zipline, Mule ride and Jorullo Bridge Walking
This full-day adventure combines ziplining, a mule ride, and walking across the Jorullo suspension bridge. It starts with pickup near the cruise terminal and heads into a nature park on the Cuale River. You’ll enjoy 11 ziplines, walk over the world’s longest suspension bridge, and ride a mule through scenic trails. The tour also offers tequila tastings and lunch with views.
Guests rave about Eric and the staff, mentioning the safe, fun environment and spectacular scenery. The tour lasts about 5 hours, and at $99, it offers a comprehensive adventure experience suitable for active travelers. Note that some hiking and physical activity are involved, so good shoes are recommended.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurers wanting a full day of nature, adrenaline, and spectacular views.
7. Puerto Vallarta’s Yelapa Boat & Walking Tour with Tequila Tasting
For a relaxed yet active day, consider this full-day tour to the quaint village of Yelapa. Starting with a bus ride and water taxi, you’ll visit a carless fishing village, hike to a beautiful waterfall, and explore local art and history. The tour includes lunch at a beachfront café and a tequila tasting.
The yachting aspect and the chance to see whales in winter make this experience unique. Reviewers mention the peaceful charm of Yelapa and praise the guides’ friendly, engaging style. It’s perfect if you want a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation in a single day.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a combination of hiking, seaside scenery, and local culture.
8. Zip Line, Mules Ride and Walk on the Hanging Bridge
This tour features ziplining, mule rides, and walking over the world’s longest hanging bridge. It’s a 5-hour experience designed for those who want multiple activities in one day. The tour also includes a Mexican meal and drinks, making it a well-rounded adventure.
Guests mention the friendly staff and scenic views, with some noting the hiking involved. At $106.96, it offers a comprehensive experience for active travelers comfortable with physical activity. The photos of the bridge and river scenery are a highlight.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventure seekers comfortable with hiking and outdoor activities.
9. Puerto Vallarta: 3 Hour Eating, Walking, and Shopping Tour
This brief but lively tour explores Puerto Vallarta’s local food scene and markets. It combines street food tastings with art and shopping along the promenade. The 3-hour experience is perfect for crash-course city immersion and includes sampling at multiple stops.
Guide Manny’s local insights make this tour especially appealing. Reviewers mention fabulous food and fascinating sights, making it a solid choice for a short, energetic introduction to Vallarta’s culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those short on time but eager to experience local flavors and sights.
$60 per person
10. Historic Downtown Ghost Walking Tour
For a mystical twist, this ghost tour takes you through historic downtown and the haunted streets of Puerto Vallarta. It covers legendary ghost stories, local folklore, and landmarks like Parque Hidalgo and the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The 1.5-hour private walk is both fun and eerie.
Guests love the engaging storytelling and the atmosphere of discovering Vallarta’s spooky side. It’s great for history buffs or anyone interested in local legends.
Bottom Line: A short, entertaining way to explore Puerto Vallarta’s haunted history.
$27.86 per person
11. Private Walk getting to know the Center of Puerto Vallarta
This personalized tour walks you through downtown Puerto Vallarta, focusing on architecture, cultural sites, and local stories. It includes visits to Gringo Gulch, Zona Romantica, and Cuale Island. The 2-hour walk allows for customized insights and plenty of time for questions.
Guests report the guide’s depth of knowledge and friendly approach. It’s perfect if you want a tailored experience that uncovers hidden corners and local secrets.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a personalized, in-depth look at Vallarta’s heart.
$139.33 per person
12. Cultural Pulse: Lazaro Cardenas Park & Plaza Private Walk
This private tour offers a slow stroll through Lazaro Cardenas Park and Plaza Lazaro Cardenas, focusing on local art, performances, and community life. It lasts around 2 hours and showcases impromptu street performances and art displays.
Reviewers highlight the vibrant atmosphere and the insightful guide. It’s well-suited for culture enthusiasts eager to experience Puerto Vallarta’s lively social scene.
Bottom Line: A deep dive into local arts and community events, perfect for cultural explorers.
$372.00 per person
13. Puerto Vallarta: Walking Tour to Glass ViewPoint Jorullo
This 5-hour walk takes you on a hiking adventure toward the Jorullo ViewPoint, featuring the unique glass floor that offers panoramic mountain and river views. The trek through Sierra Madre Occidental is guided by locals with expertise in the area, including tequila tastings and snacks along the way.
Guests mention the spectacular scenery and the thrill of walking on glass. Good for those with moderate fitness and a love for outdoor pursuits.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a challenging hike with rewarding views, this tour is a top pick.
14. Cultural Pulse: Lazaro Cardenas Park & Plaza Walk
This tour offers an immersive experience through Lazaro Cardenas Park and Plaza Lazaro Cardenas. It emphasizes local art, music, and community gatherings. Duration is around 2 hours, focusing on live performances and urban art.
Guests appreciate the lively environment and the chance to see Puerto Vallarta from a community perspective.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting to absorb local culture in a relaxed setting.
$634 per group up to 4
15. Puerto Plata: Walking Tour with Rum & Chocolate Tastings
While outside Mexico, this walking tour in Puerto Plata combines tastings of local rum and chocolate with visits to museums and artisans’ shops. It’s a delicious way to learn about the country’s exports and cultural traditions.
Ideal for cruise passengers or those interested in regional specialties. The tour lasts about 5 hours and costs $2,000, representing a premium experience.
Bottom Line: A flavorful journey into Dominican Republic’s sweet and spirited traditions.
$2,000 per person
16. Puerto Vallarta: Botanical Garden Walking Tour
This 6-hour tour visits the Vallarta Botanical Garden, famous for its orchid collection and native plants. The tour includes riverside meals, tequila tastings, and a chance to see rescued animals at the sanctuary.
It’s perfect for nature lovers and those intrigued by ecology and conservation. Guests praise the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with Mexico’s flora in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: An enriching experience for botany fans and outdoor enthusiasts.
$122 per person
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Puerto Vallarta
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend exploring. If you’re an adventure seeker, the Canopy Zipline + Jorullo Bridge walk offers thrill and scenery in five hours. If enjoying local cuisine appeals, the Daytime Taco Walk or the Dinner Taco Crawl are excellent choices. For a cultural perspective, guided walks like the Private Walk in Vallarta or art-focused tours help you understand the city’s story.
Consider your budget—tours range from around $27 for a ghost walk to over $372 for a private art tour—and your fitness level, especially for hikes like the Glass ViewPoint. Book early during peak season (winter months) to secure your spot, especially for popular tours.