Puerto Vallarta: Walking Tour to Glass ViewPoint Jorullo

If you’re considering a day that combines adventure, nature, and a dash of thrill, this walking tour to the Jorullo Glass ViewPoint in Puerto Vallarta offers a compelling option. With about five hours of guided hiking through lush Sierra Madre mountains, this trip promises sweeping vistas, a unique glass platform, and a taste of local culture through tequila tasting. It’s a mix of scenic beauty and active exploration, perfect for those who want to experience the local landscape beyond the beaches.

Two things that truly stand out about this tour are the stunning panoramic views from the Glass ViewPoint and the knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape alive with interesting facts about flora, fauna, and local history. However, potential participants should be aware that the tour’s cost might seem high for a shorter experience, especially when considering some reviews mention the absence of waterfalls and other attractions promised in promotional materials. This tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy active days outdoors and are eager for a unique vantage point over Puerto Vallarta’s mountains and coast.

Key Points

• Unique Glass ViewPoint offers breathtaking, panoramic views on a transparent platform.
• Expert-guided hike through Sierra Madre mountains highlights local flora and fauna.
• Cultural experience includes tequila tasting and local snacks.
• Scenic highlights include suspension bridges, mountain vistas, and the Banderas Bay scenery.
• Practical details involve shuttle transfers, a 5-hour duration, and modest group sizes.
• Considerations include the tour’s price and the fact that some attractions like waterfalls may not be included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

A Well-Organized Introduction and Starting Point

Our review begins with the understanding that this tour is organized by Puerto Vallarta Net, offering a straightforward and well-structured experience. Participants are welcomed with a drink and a safety briefing before setting off into the mountains. While the meeting point can vary based on your booking choice, the shuttles are reliable and designed to get you comfortably to the starting trailhead, saving you from any logistical headaches.

The Guided Hike Through Sierra Madre Mountains

Once underway, the real joy begins. The guides are an important part of the experience—they’re knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about sharing the region’s natural beauty. They help you identify indigenous trees and wildlife, turning a hike into an educational journey. The trail itself is described as not overly strenuous—about 2.5 miles (roughly 4 km)—but enough to get your heart rate going, especially under the humid, subtropical sun.

This section of the hike offers stunning views of the mountains, rivers, and the surrounding landscape—something that those who love photography or simply want a quiet moment in nature will appreciate. The path includes some ups and downs, but nothing overly challenging, making it accessible to most fitness levels, provided you’re prepared with comfortable shoes and insect repellent.

The Highlight: Jorullo Glass ViewPoint

The main event is the visit to the Jorullo ViewPoint, a glass platform that juts out from the mountain, offering a truly immersive experience. Walking on transparent flooring over the forest below gives you an adrenaline rush—a perfect blend of awe and slight thrill. The views from here are expansive, encompassing the mountains, valleys, and in the distance, the coastline of Banderas Bay.

While some reviews have pointed out that certain attractions like waterfalls or waterfalls may not be part of this route, the views from the viewpoint make up for those omissions. One reviewer noted, “the view of the entire mountain range is beautiful,” and it’s fair to say that this spot is the real star of the tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

Cultural Touch: Tequila Tasting and Snacks

No trip to Mexico would be complete without a taste of local spirits. After the hike, you’ll enjoy a tequila tasting session, which adds a cultural layer to your adventure. The inclusion of season fruits and a snack provides a well-rounded taste of regional flavors, making this not just a physical activity but also a cultural experience.

The Suspension Bridge and Final Vistas

The tour concludes at a scenic lookout that offers sweeping views across the mountains and Banderas Bay. You’ll also get to cross the longest suspension bridge in the world, a feature that often delights travelers and provides excellent photo opportunities. The guides explain the significance of these structures, adding an educational element to the scenic stops.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At $139 per person, this tour offers a combination of physical activity, cultural exposure, and spectacular scenery. When you consider the guided nature walk, transportation, tequila tasting, snacks, and access to the glass viewpoint, the price is reasonable for the quality and uniqueness of what you get. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want more than just a beach day and prefer active, scenic outings.

However, some reviews highlight that the experience might not include all attractions promised (like waterfalls), which can affect perceived value. One traveler from the Czech Republic mentions that the trip is more expensive than similar options from Canopy River and feels somewhat misleading if waterfalls are expected but not included. Being clear on what’s included—and what’s not—is key to avoiding disappointment.

The Guide’s Role and Group Size

Multiple reviews praise the guides, especially Omar, for their friendliness and knowledge, which significantly enhances the outing. Small group sizes ensure personalized attention, and even if you’re the only booking, you might get a private experience, as one traveler notes. This makes the trip more flexible and enjoyable, especially for those who prefer intimate group settings.

Practicalities and Preparation

Participants are advised to come prepared with comfortable shoes, insect repellent, a towel and change of clothes, especially if they plan to cool down after the hike. The tour’s duration includes shuttle time, so expect around two hours of actual hiking and sightseeing—making it suitable for most morning plans. The inclusion of cash suggests optional purchases or tips, and wearing suitable clothes is recommended given the humid environment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore Puerto Vallarta’s mountainous landscapes beyond the beaches. It suits those who appreciate stunning vistas and active outdoor pursuits, and who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and scenic views. Families with children, solo travelers, or couples looking for a memorable day in nature will find this appealing. However, if waterfalls or more extensive attractions are your primary goal, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re looking for a well-guided, scenic hike that culminates in a spectacular glass viewpoint with panoramic views, this tour delivers. The inclusion of a tequila tasting and cultural snacks adds an authentic touch that elevates the experience beyond just hiking. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge are often highlighted as key positives, making the day both informative and enjoyable.

This adventure is particularly suited for travelers who want a moderate workout combined with unforgettable vistas—perfect for photography, nature lovers, or those curious about local culture. The price is justified by the quality of the scenery and the guided experience, though it’s wise to manage expectations about additional attractions like waterfalls.

In all, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a memorable, active day in Puerto Vallarta’s mountains with a touch of cultural flavor.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes shuttle service, a welcome drink, purified water, seasonal fruits, a snack, tequila tasting, and a guided walk through the mountains with access to the Glass ViewPoint and suspension bridge.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately five hours, with about two hours of hiking and sightseeing. Shuttle transfers are included, so you should plan for the full duration.

Is the hike suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the hike is around 2.5 miles (about 4 km) with some ups and downs but not overly strenuous, making it accessible for most people in decent shape. Be prepared for warm and humid conditions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, insect repellent, a towel, change of clothes, and cash for optional purchases are recommended.

Can I participate if I only want to see the viewpoints?
The tour is designed as a guided hike, but even if you’re not an avid hiker, the guides are accommodating, and you can enjoy the viewpoints and cultural aspects.

Are there any attractions I should expect that might be missing?
Some reviews mention the absence of waterfalls and other features advertised elsewhere. The main highlight is the Glass ViewPoint, along with scenic mountain vistas.

To sum it up, this tour balances active exploration with cultural indulgence, offering an uncommon view of Puerto Vallarta’s mountains. It’s a good pick for travelers who value expert guidance, stunning panoramas, and authentic experiences—especially if they’re comfortable with a moderate hike and want to see a different side of this vibrant region.

You can check availability for your dates here: