Coastal and Jungle Hiking Tour along 6 Beaches of Puerto Vallarta

Exploring Puerto Vallarta’s Coastal and Jungle Trails: A Deep Dive into the 6-Beach Hiking Tour

Planning a day of adventure near Puerto Vallarta offers endless possibilities, but for those craving a mix of nature, exercise, and authentic scenery, the Coastal and Jungle Hiking Tour along 6 Beaches stands out as a top choice. This guided trek promises a full-day excursion through dense jungle paths, rugged mountain terrain, and pristine hidden beaches, finishing with a delicious seafood meal.

We love that this tour combines active exploration with insider access to some of the region’s most beautiful yet less-visited spots. The knowledgeable guides, praised for their enthusiasm and local insight, turn what could be a strenuous hike into an engaging adventure. Plus, the opportunity to swim in clear waters and enjoy fresh seafood adds an extra layer of appeal.

However, it’s important to recognize that this isn’t a casual stroll — it’s a challenging hike, with steep, rocky sections that demand good physical fitness. If you’re not accustomed to walking on uneven terrain or climbing inclines, it might be tough. But for active travelers who love a challenge and want an authentic experience away from crowds, this tour will fit perfectly.

This experience is best suited for adventurous individuals, outdoor enthusiasts, and those eager to see Puerto Vallarta from a different perspective. Families with kids under 10 or anyone with mobility issues should consider other options, as the terrain can be demanding.

Key Points

• Authentic Hidden Beaches: Visit six remote, pristine beaches accessible only by foot or boat, showcasing the untouched beauty of the region.
• Active and Challenging: The hike involves steep, rocky, and narrow paths, ideal for those with a good level of physical fitness.
• Expert Guides: Guides are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep everyone safe while sharing insights about flora, fauna, and local history.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect stunning coastal views, jungle landscapes, and wildlife encounters like reptiles and native plants.
• Culinary Finale: Conclude your day with a fresh seafood meal at Playa Las Animas, often highlighted as a memorable highlight.
• Value for Money: At $45 per person, with included transportation and boat ride, many reviews emphasize this as a worthwhile value, especially considering the exclusive locations visited.

A Detailed Look at the Adventure

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off in Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant Zona Romántica at a designated bus stop. The tour includes pickup service, which saves the hassle of navigating local transportation. From there, a scenic 30-minute drive along the coastline transports you to Boca de Tomatlán, a charming fishing village that acts as the gateway to your adventure.

Travelers consistently mention how the transportation logistics are straightforward, and the guide’s communication before the tour is prompt and helpful. This initial part sets the tone — relaxed and scenic.

The First Leg: Boca de Tomatlán to Playa Colomitos

Once in Boca de Tomatlán, you begin hiking along the rugged coastline toward Playa Colomitos, the smallest beach in the bay. Here, the crystal-clear waters and white sands are a perfect spot for a brief break. Reviewers like Linda_G note, “Great experience. Our guide was professional, knowledgeable, with a cheerful personality and good sense of humor.”

This section takes about two hours and involves navigating uneven trails and steep inclines. The terrain is rocky and narrow in places, demanding sturdy footwear and a good attitude. Many reviewers mention that the first part can be strenuous, especially on a hot day, but the scenic payoff is worth it. The guide’s storytelling about local flora and fauna helps pass the time — expect to see native plants, colorful birds, and perhaps even a reptile or two.

The Middle Stretch: From Playa Colomitos to Playa Las Animas

Continuing along the coast, the hike becomes more challenging with steeper sections and rugged mountain paths. As you ascend and descend, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the coastline and jungle. The trail is narrow in parts, requiring careful footing and a good level of fitness.

At about the two-hour mark, you arrive at Playa Las Animas, where a well-regarded seafood restaurant awaits. This is a favorite among reviews — Alyson_E raves, “Great guide, wonderful views, and a fabulous lunch!” Many mention how the meal at the restaurant complements the day perfectly, whether it’s fried snapper or a cold margarita. Since the area offers optional activities like parasailing and banana boat rides, you can extend your fun if time allows.

The Final Leg: From Playa Las Animas to Boca de Tomatlán

After your meal, the adventure continues with a boat ride from Playa Las Animas back to Boca de Tomatlán — an hour of relaxing views from the water, often praised for its scenic beauty. The return trip caps off your day with fresh ocean breezes and a different perspective of the coastline.

Finally, a short bus ride returns you to Puerto Vallarta, completing a full day of activity and discovery. The included boat ride is a highlight, offering a peaceful conclusion after the demanding hike.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $45, this tour delivers a lot: transportation, guided hikes, visits to six beaches, and a boat ride — all at a reasonable price. The guided aspect is crucial, especially in an area with dense jungle and rugged terrain, as it ensures safety and enriches the experience with local knowledge.

However, it’s important to note that lunch and drinks are not included, so budgeting extra for meals or beverages is advisable. The guides recommend bringing swimwear, a hat, and sunblock — essentials for comfort and sun protection.

What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their professionalism and friendliness. For example, Eric_A mentions, “Our guides communicated well, were very helpful, and made the day enjoyable.” Several reviews emphasize how the guides made the experience educational — pointing out plants, animals, and sharing local stories.

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, with a maximum group size of 12 travelers. Smaller groups mean more personalized attention, which many reviewers appreciated.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear to handle rocky, uneven terrain.
• Bring sun protection — hats, sunblock, and sunglasses.
• Pack swimwear if you want to swim at the beaches.
• Be prepared for a challenging hike — good physical condition is recommended.
• Consider bringing a camera to capture stunning coastline views and wildlife.
• Book well in advance, as the tour is popular and tends to fill up about 24 days ahead.

The Authenticity and Value of the Experience

This tour offers an authentic look at Puerto Vallarta’s less-visited coastline, away from crowded resorts. Many reviewers highlight that the beaches visited are more pristine and secluded than the typical tourist spots. The inclusion of a boat ride, guided commentary, and a delicious meal makes the $45 price point feel quite reasonable, especially given the quality of the scenery and guide expertise.

The reviews reveal a consistent theme: this tour is an active, immersive way to explore the natural side of Vallarta. Several participants note that guides like Emilian, Jerry, and Hector bring a wealth of local knowledge and safety awareness, making the hike accessible but still challenging for those in good shape.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is tailored for adventurous travelers who enjoy physical activity and want to see Puerto Vallarta from a different angle. It’s ideal for those looking to escape the tourist crowds, explore remote beaches, and enjoy a day of nature and good company.

If you prefer relaxed lounging or have mobility restrictions, this may not be your best fit. The terrain requires strength and stamina, and the hike is not suitable for children under 10 or anyone with joint, mobility, or health issues.

Final Words on the Coastal and Jungle Hiking Tour

This tour offers a compelling mix of physical challenge, scenic beauty, and genuine local flavor. The guides’ expertise and friendliness elevate the experience, making it a memorable highlight for active travelers. The beaches, accessible only on foot or boat, are stunning and offer a glimpse into Puerto Vallarta’s less-visited treasures.

The combination of hiking, wildlife encounters, and a delicious seafood meal makes this a well-rounded day out. While the hike demands good fitness, many reviews confirm that the rewards — spectacular views, secluded beaches, and personal stories shared by guides — make it worth the effort.

In summary, if you’re seeking an authentic adventure that takes you off the beaten path and into the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s wild coastline, this tour is a splendid choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, transportation services including a bus ride from Zona Romántica to Boca de Tomatlán and a boat ride from Playa Las Animas back are included.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, with most of this time spent hiking, relaxing at beaches, or enjoying the boat ride.

Is this tour suitable for kids? It is not recommended for children under 10 due to the challenging terrain and physical demands.

What should I bring? Wear sturdy shoes, bring sun protection (hat, sunblock), and pack swimwear if you want to swim.

What’s the cost? The tour costs $45 per person, offering good value considering the guided hikes, boat ride, and visits to six beaches.

Is this tour suitable for seniors or people with mobility issues? No, due to the steep, rocky, and narrow paths, it’s not suitable for those with mobility limitations or joint issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are drinks or lunch included? No, these are not included, so plan to bring cash or cards for meals and beverages at the beaches.

What is the maximum group size? Up to 12 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Whether you’re craving a physically rewarding day, stunning scenery, or an authentic taste of Puerto Vallarta’s wild side, this tour offers plenty of value and memorable moments. Just come prepared for a good workout and get ready to discover some of Mexico’s best-kept coastal secrets.