Puerto Vallarta is not just a beach destination; it’s a fantastic place for outdoor lovers who want to explore lush jungles, secret waterfalls, and secluded beaches. The region’s rugged terrain and tropical climate make it perfect for hiking and trekking. If you’re looking for a guided adventure, the tours here offer everything from easy nature walks to challenging mountain hikes. We especially enjoyed the 4-Hour Jungle Hike and Waterfall Swim, which combines a personal touch with a refreshing dip in waterfalls. Whether you’re after a relaxing stroll or a vigorous climb, Puerto Vallarta’s outdoor tours deliver authentic experiences with stunning scenery.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of hiking and trekking tours, each with its own flair. Some focus on exploring cascading waterfalls like Palo María Waterfalls, while others take you along remote beaches like the Hidden Beaches Hike. For nature enthusiasts, tours like the Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens offer a botanical immersion, and Yelapa Waterfall Hike combines waterfalls with a boat ride. Each option balances adventure with practical details, so you can pick a tour that fits your fitness level, budget, and interests.
1. 4-Hour Jungle Hike and Waterfall Swim
At number 1, the 4-Hour Jungle Hike and Waterfall Swim offers a well-rounded introduction to Puerto Vallarta’s tropical landscape. It’s a perfect choice for active travelers who want a personal experience—small groups of no more than 12—plus a guide who educates about local flora and fauna. The hike includes stops at waterfalls for swimming and snacks, plus exploring caves and swimming with fish in a lake. The reviews speak to its quality: “Diego was such a fun tour guide,” and “Juan made us feel safe and comfortable.” The highlight for many is reaching the viewpoint overlooking the bay. For a shorter, engaging experience that’s easy to fit into your day, this tour delivers great value at $34 per person.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a manageable hike with plenty of water fun and natural beauty, with expert guides making it both fun and educational.
2. Puerto Vallarta: Full Day Hike to 6 Hidden Beaches & Snorkel
Number 2 on our list is the Full Day Hike to 6 Hidden Beaches. This tour combines mountain trekking with beach hopping, taking you to spots like Colomitos Beach and Playa las Animas. It’s a longer, more comprehensive experience—six hours of hiking, swimming, and snorkeling. You’ll trek through lush jungle, learning about the local wildlife, then cool off in turquoise waters. The itinerary includes a water taxi, making the journey both scenic and manageable. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full day of adventure and photo opportunities. The reviews highlight the guide’s helpfulness and the stunning scenery.
Bottom Line: Best suited for energetic hikers looking to explore multiple beaches and enjoy marine life in a day.
3. Hiking Jorullo Point
For those interested in mountain views and rainforest, Hiking Jorullo Point is a standout, rated 5 stars. It offers a three-hour hike in the Sierra Madre Occidental, with options for morning or afternoon departures. The guide shares insights on local flora and fauna, making it educational as well as scenic. The hike involves steep sections but rewards you with breathtaking panoramas and plenty of opportunities for photography. The guide Rafael’s knowledge and kindness shine through, and the view from the top is said to be worth every step. It’s ideal for those wanting a moderately challenging trek with a focus on nature.
Bottom Line: Perfect for hikers who want a rewarding climb with diverse wildlife and spectacular vistas.
4. Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens Hiking Tour
Number 4 is the Botanical Gardens Tour, a four- to six-hour excursion that combines hiking with botanical discovery. It’s more than just a walk—this tour includes access to Mexico’s most visited orchid collection, walking private riverside trails, and meeting rescued animals. The river swimming is a highlight, as is tasting handcrafted tequila. Bengy, the guide, is known for his engaging commentary. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to combine nature with culture, enjoying a relaxed pace amid beautiful scenery. The reviews praise the gardens, the wildlife encounters, and the overall experience.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those who appreciate botanical diversity and want a blend of gentle hiking and culture.
5. Six Hidden Beaches Hike
Ranking fifth is the Six Hidden Beaches Hike. It’s a moderate to strenuous full-day adventure, starting in a small fishing town and ending at Las Animas Beach. You hike along the coast, stopping at beaches like Playa Colomitos and Playa Las Animas, with opportunities to snorkel and swim. The hike involves uneven terrain and some challenging sections, making it ideal for fit travelers. The guide Juan is praised for his knowledge, and many reviews highlight the mesmerizing scenery and the fun of exploring remote beaches. You’ll probably want good footwear and water, but the payoff is pristine beaches rarely seen by travelers.
Bottom Line: Designed for active travelers who want to combine coastal hiking with beach relaxation.
6. Palo María Waterfalls Hike Half-Day Tour
Number 6 features the Palo María Waterfalls Hike, a half-day excursion rated 5 stars. It offers river swimming, bird watching, and waterfall exploration in the Sierra Madre. CurielXperience guides you through lush landscapes, sharing insights about local flora and fauna. The walk is about four hours, making it manageable for most levels, with plenty of photo stops and swimming breaks. The reviews emphasize the guide’s passion and the beauty of the waterfalls. It’s particularly good for nature lovers who want an efficient but memorable outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a scenic, beginner-friendly waterfall adventure with expert guidance.
7. Puerto Vallarta: 4-Hour Jungle Hike and Waterfall Swim
Number 7 is the 4-Hour Jungle Hike and Waterfall Swim, which offers a forest hike with waterfall swimming. It emphasizes learning about tropical species, exploring caves, and enjoying the natural beauty outside Puerto Vallarta. It’s a shorter, more relaxed option that still packs in plenty of highlights, including river dips and mountain views. Its reviews mention friendly guides and a well-paced itinerary. It’s best for travelers who want a quick but authentic nature escape without the intensity of longer hikes.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those on a tight schedule but craving a full experience of jungle scenery and waterfalls.
8. Coastal and Jungle Hiking Tour along 6 Beaches of Puerto Vallarta
Number 8 combines coastal and jungle trekking over six beaches. This challenging, full-day adventure takes you from Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone to remote beaches like Colomitos and Las Animas via hiking and boat rides. Expect rugged terrain, steep inclines, and a lively exploration of beaches accessible only by foot or boat. The guide’s expertise ensures safety and fun, with many reviews praising the scenery and the physical challenge. It’s best suited for fit travelers who love both hiking and beaches, and don’t mind a little sweat.
Bottom Line: For energetic explorers eager to see the most remote and beautiful beaches along the coast.
9. Las Animas to Quimixto Waterfall Half-Day Hiking Tour
Rated 5 stars, Las Animas to Quimixto Waterfall is a relaxed yet scenic hike with waterfalls and swimming. It’s a half-day trip with private transport and a friendly guide. The hike takes you through lush landscapes, culminating in a waterfall where you can swim. Reviewers mention the personable guide and the beautiful scenery. This tour is suitable for families or those wanting a moderate trek with rewarding water features.
Bottom Line: Great for a family-friendly, half-day adventure with natural swimming spots.
10. Mismaloya Waterfalls and Mountain Hike
Number 10 offers a full day of exploring Sierra Madre waterfalls and mountain trails. Starting with breakfast in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, the tour includes river exploration, birdwatching, and swimming in natural ponds. The guide’s extensive knowledge and the scenic views make this a comprehensive outdoor experience. The reviews praise the passion and expertise of the guides, as well as the opportunity to see multiple waterfalls. This is best for those who want a full-day immersion into nature’s quiet side.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking an in-depth, full-day mountain adventure with plenty of water fun.
11. El Nogalito Mountain River- Hiking Tour
Rated 5 stars, this El Nogalito Mountain River tour offers river exploring, waterfall visits, and flora and fauna recognition. It’s a five-hour experience with private transportation, providing a personalized journey into Puerto Vallarta’s jungle. The guide shares stories and insights, making it more than just a hike. The review emphasizes its uniqueness and the guide’s passion. It’s suitable for those wanting a mix of adventure and cultural storytelling.
Bottom Line: An excellent pick for travelers who want a guided, in-depth nature experience in a smaller group.
12. Private Boat Tour to Yelapa with Snorkeling and Waterfall Hike
This private boat tour offers snorkeling, beaches, and waterfalls in about five hours. You’ll visit Los Arcos Marine Park, Yelapa Beach, and the waterfalls—reachable only by boat or foot. The flexibility of a private tour means you can customize stops, making it ideal for families or groups wanting a personalized day. The reviews show high satisfaction, praising the fun captain and the scenic spots. It’s a little pricier at $220, but value is high given the exclusive access and tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best for small groups or families looking for an intimate, flexible day on the water.
13. Puerto Vallarta Waterfall Hike
Rated 4.5 stars, this Waterfall Hike combines jungle trekking with waterfall swimming. The guide Isaac provides interesting commentary, and the hike includes a natural rock water slide and scenic views. It’s a popular choice for travelers seeking a fun, active day. The review about the seafood at the end reflects the local flavor of the experience. This is a solid choice for those who want a lively, memorable outdoor outing.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers wanting a mix of fun, nature, and local cuisine.
14. Remote Hidden Beaches Hike of South Shore
This tour takes you along rugged coastal paths and into the shade of jungle canopies. Starting from Boca de Tomatlan, you’ll visit beaches like Playa Colomitas and Playa Madagascar, with plenty of swimming opportunities. The hike is about 3 hours one way, and it’s quite challenging—best for experienced hikers. The guide’s biologist background ensures informative commentary. Many reviewers highlight the incredible scenery and the adventure of reaching beaches only accessible on foot.
Bottom Line: For confident hikers seeking remote beaches and rugged trails.
15. Private 4 Hour Hiking Adventure + Breakfast in Nogalito Ecopark
Number 15 offers a shorter, private hike in the sustainable Nogalito Ecopark, combined with breakfast. This ecological park emphasizes environmental preservation and is pet-friendly. It’s an excellent choice for nature lovers who want a relaxed walk with cultural and ecological insights. The reviews praise the beautiful scenery and the guide’s friendliness. It’s great for those who prefer a more mellow outdoor experience with the chance to enjoy local food.
Bottom Line: Best for a laid-back, eco-conscious outing with a touch of local flavor.
16. Jungle hike to Palo María Waterfalls
Last but not least, this Jungle Hike to Palo María Waterfalls provides a peaceful, moderate trek through lush surroundings. It’s suitable for nature lovers and photographers alike, with opportunities to swim and explore waterfalls along the Sierra Madre. The guides are knowledgeable, and the scenery is the main attraction. It’s an economical choice at just $35 per person.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, scenic waterfall hike perfect for those wanting a relaxed nature day.
How to Choose Your Perfect Hike in Puerto Vallarta
When selecting a tour, consider your fitness level and interests. Want a quick water dip? The 4-Hour Jungle Hike is ideal. Looking to explore many beaches and snorkel? The Full Day Beach Hike fits the bill. For botanical lovers, the Garden Tour offers a gentle walk with plenty of culture. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer shorter trips like the Waterfall Hike, while adventure seekers should try the Challenging Coastal Hike. Always check the weather and book early, especially in high season, to secure your spot on these popular outings.
Puerto Vallarta’s hiking and trekking tours offer a wonderful way to see a different side of this coastal paradise. Whether you want to walk through waterfalls, explore hidden beaches, or learn about local flora, there’s a tour tailored for you. For nature lovers and active travelers alike, these experiences will be memorable—and worth the effort. Book early, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover Puerto Vallarta’s wild side.