Selva y Playas Exóticas, Senderismo en Puerto Vallarta

Experience the Wild Side of Puerto Vallarta: Selva y Playas Exóticas, Senderismo

Imagine starting your day in the lively Puerto Vallarta city center, then hopping on a public bus to a tranquil fishing village called Boca de Tomatlán. From there, your adventure unfolds as you hike along coastal trails and through lush jungles, visiting gorgeous beaches like Colomitos, Madagascar, and Las Ánimas. Guided by knowledgeable locals, this tour offers a balance of physical activity, scenic beauty, and authentic regional flavor, all for just $55 per person and lasting roughly 6.5 hours.

What we love most? First, the expert guidance—your guides are passionate about sharing insights into local flora, fauna, and culture, making every stop more enriching. Second, the stunning scenery—crystal-clear waters, jungle vistas, and wildlife sightings, including birds, iguanas, and whale encounters in winter, create a truly immersive experience.

The one consideration? The hiking can be rugged, with some scrambling over boulders and uneven terrain, so good footwear and moderate fitness are recommended. This trip best suits those who enjoy a physical challenge and are eager to see lesser-visited beaches with fewer crowds, plus they’re open to a mix of adventure and cultural discovery.

If you’re a nature lover, active traveler, or family seeking a deeper connection with the Puerto Vallarta landscape, this tour offers a fantastic, value-packed way to explore the area’s more hidden treasures.

Key Points

• Authentic Coastal Trails: Experience a scenic hike from Boca de Tomatlán to beautiful beaches, through jungle and along rocky coastlines.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides like Moisés and Alejandro are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and willingness to share Mexico’s secrets.
• Cultural & Natural Insights: Learn about local plants, animals, and marine life, and enjoy regional stories along the way.
• Inclusive & Flexible: The tour accommodates different hiking paces, with options to take a water taxi back or hike the whole route.
• Delicious Food & Snacks: Enjoy homemade ceviche, guacamole, chips, and regional candies, adding a tasty highlight to the day.
• Value for Money: Public transportation, boat rides, snacks, and expert guiding included—this trip offers a lot for the price.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

From City to Coastal Trails: Starting Point & Transportation

Your adventure begins in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica at the Nueva Parada de autobuses de el Tuito. The shared city bus fare is included, and the ride down the coast itself is a highlight, offering scenic views and a taste of local life. This transit sets the tone for an authentic experience, away from tourist-heavy spots.

Hike from Boca de Tomatlán to Colomitos Beach

The hike starts with a walk along coastal paths—moderate in difficulty but adventurous. Expect a trail with some steep sections and boulder scrambling, so wear sturdy, lightweight hiking shoes. As one reviewer noted, “the hike is pretty intense,” but the breathtaking views and the sense of accomplishment make it worthwhile.

Along the way, guides like Alejandro and Moisés share stories about the local environment, identifying plants, wildlife, and bird species. This educational element elevates the walk beyond just exercise, turning it into a mini nature class.

Visiting the Beaches: Crystal Clear Waters & Rocky Coastlines

The stops at Playa Colomitos and Madagascar Beach are highlights. Colomitos, often called the tiniest beach in the area, features shimmering, turquoise waters and a small cove perfect for a quick swim. One guest remarked, “the water was cool and refreshing after our hike,” emphasizing how the beaches serve as perfect refreshment points.

Madagascar Beach, accessible via the trail or boat, offers a tranquil escape, often less crowded than the main tourist beaches. Here, you’ll get time to relax, swim, or take photographs of the rugged coastline.

The Final Stretch & Optional Water Taxi

At Las Ánimas, the group often stops for a break at a local restaurant, where regional seafood (not included in the tour price) is served. Guests rave about the homemade ceviche and fresh fruit, describing it as a delicious reward after the hike.

You have the option to take a boat (water taxi) back from Las Ánimas—this is included at no extra cost—making for a scenic, breezy return to Boca de Tomatlán. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated this shortcut, especially after a long hike, with one stating, “the water taxi was a nice end to the trip.”

Nature & Wildlife Encounters

During the winter, whale sightings are possible, adding a magical touch to the day. Guides are attentive and will point out birds, iguanas, and other wildlife, making it a journey rich in nature discovery.

Food & Snacks

A standout feature is the regional Mexican candies and fresh snacks provided along the way. Guests often mention the delicious homemade guacamole and ceviche made by the guides, which turn this tour into a culinary as well as a scenic adventure.

What Makes This Tour Special?

From the passionate guides to the spectacular scenery, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. The small group size—limited to 10 travelers—ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. The flexibility to hike part or all the way back by water taxi allows you to tailor the experience to your energy level.

Considerations & Tips

• The hike involves some scrambling and uneven terrain, so wear good hiking shoes.
• Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, especially in warmer months.
• Carry water and sunscreen, as some parts of the trail are exposed.
• If you prefer a less strenuous experience, opt for the water taxi back from Las Ánimas or Madagascar Beach.
• The cost of lunch at the beach restaurant is not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to eat there.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers, nature enthusiasts, and families with children who are comfortable with some physical exertion. It’s an excellent choice if you want to avoid crowded beaches and instead discover hidden gems along Puerto Vallarta’s coast. Travel lovers who enjoy learning about local plants, animals, and culture will find this tour especially rewarding.

Final thoughts

If you’re looking for a combination of scenic hiking, authentic beaches, and regional flavors, this tour delivers on all fronts. It balances adventure and relaxation, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers. The inclusion of transport, snacks, and expert guides makes it great value and a memorable way to see a different side of Puerto Vallarta—away from the busy resorts and into the wild, wonderful outdoors.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, public bus fare from Puerto Vallarta to Boca de Tomatlán is included, and there’s also a boat ride back from Las Ánimas at no extra cost.

How long does the hike last?
The tour lasts approximately 6.5 hours, with the hike itself taking about an hour and a quarter, depending on the group’s pace and how long you stop at each beach.

What should I wear for the hike?
Wear comfortable, lightweight, and sturdy hiking shoes. Clothes should be suitable for warm weather, and consider bringing a hat and sunscreen.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are options to buy regional seafood and snacks at Las Ánimas.

Can I do the whole hike or just part of it?
Yes, you can choose to hike all the way to Las Ánimas or opt to take the boat back earlier, especially if you want a less strenuous experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
It’s best for those with moderate physical fitness, as the terrain can be rugged. Children and older adults should be prepared for some challenging sections.

What wildlife might I see?
Birds, iguanas, and possibly whales in winter are common sightings, along with various plants and marine life highlighted by guides.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $55 per person, which includes transportation, boat ride, snacks, and guiding. Food at the beach restaurant is extra.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Puerto Vallarta hike offers a genuine taste of the region’s natural beauty, cultural charm, and delicious regional snacks. Whether you’re an active explorer or just eager to see a different side of Mexico’s coast, this trip promises a memorable day amid stunning landscapes and authentic encounters.