Hiking Jorullo Point

If you’re considering a guided hike into the Sierra Madre Occidental near Puerto Vallarta, the Hiking Jorullo Point tour is one experience you’ll want to know about. With a perfect 5.0-star rating based on 133 reviews, it’s clear that most travelers find it worthwhile, especially those who appreciate nature, wildlife, and some good exercise. But like any outdoor adventure, it’s not perfect for everyone.

What we love about this tour is how knowledgeable the guides are—they seem genuinely passionate about sharing their insights into the region’s flora and fauna. Plus, the stunning vistas and wildlife sightings regularly earn rave reviews. On the flip side, some mention the hike’s physical demands and the importance of timing, especially in the heat. It’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels who enjoy nature and aren’t afraid of a bit of a workout.

If you’re after a peaceful, nature-filled morning or afternoon with plenty of opportunities for photos, this could be your ideal escape. But if you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or traveling with very young children, you might find the hike more challenging than expected. Still, overall, it offers a wonderful blend of adventure, education, and scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Guided experience with expert guides who share detailed knowledge of local flora and fauna.
• Beautiful natural scenery, including parrots, macaws, orchids, and river oasis.
• Flexible timing options—choose morning or afternoon departures to suit your schedule.
• Inclusion of tequila tasting and photography adds extra flavor to the trip.
• Moderate physical activity needed; not suited for those with mobility limitations.
• Transport included from central Puerto Vallarta meeting points for convenience.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Hiking Jorullo Point tour begins with pick-up from central locations around Puerto Vallarta—places like Marina Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, Plaza Las Glorias, or downtown. The pick-up process is straightforward, although some reviews mention initial confusion about meeting points, so arriving early helps. Once onboard, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive into the Sierra Madre Occidental, which sets the tone for what’s to come: lush, vibrant landscapes that feel worlds away from the city.

The Hike Itself: What You Can Expect

The core of the tour is a guided hike through a rainforest area, with small groups capped at 15 travelers. This size encourages a more personal experience, so guides can share detailed insights and answer questions. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making what might be a challenging walk feel engaging and educational.

The trail involves some elevation change, and the reviews describe it as somewhat challenging, but safe. If you’re reasonably active, you’ll find it manageable—think of it as a good workout that rewards your effort with unforgettable views. The highlight is searching for parrots and macaws in their natural habitat, which adds a lively splash of color and sound to the experience.

The flora is just as fascinating. Your guide will point out orchids unique to this region, and you’ll learn about the different species and their roles in the ecosystem. One thing to note: the tour does not include a waterfall visit, as some might expect from the description, so if waterfalls are your priority, you’ll want to verify this beforehand.

The Oasis and River Swim

After a substantial hike, you’ll reach a peaceful oasis by the Cuale River, a perfect spot to rest and refresh. Many reviewers highlight the opportunity to swim and cool off here, which is particularly welcome if you’re doing the tour in warmer months. The setting is described as beautiful and tranquil, giving you a chance to relax before heading back.

Extras: Tequila and Photography

One of the unique touches of this tour is the tequila tasting included in the experience. It offers a fun way to unwind and connect with local traditions. Plus, the guides are often praised for their professional photography skills—a real bonus if you want high-quality photos of your trip without lugging your camera around.

Practical Considerations and Value

For $100 per person, the tour includes transport, bottled water, professional guides, tequila tasting, and photography services. That’s a fair value considering the personalized experience, scenic beauty, and educational insights offered. However, it’s worth mentioning that food and additional drinks are not included, and souvenirs or DVDs are available for purchase.

The tour duration is about three hours, which makes it a manageable part of your day—especially if you’re looking for a morning or afternoon activity. Keep in mind, it’s recommended for travelers aged 12 and older with moderate physical fitness, so it’s not ideal for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

What the Reviews Say

Reviews paint a mostly glowing picture. Many highlight the expertise of guides like Rafa and Jonathan, who are praised for their friendly, informative, and attentive approach. “All staff were friendly and helpful,” says one reviewer, while another mentions, “The views were breathtaking, and our guide was very knowledgeable.”

Several travelers appreciated the peacefulness of the morning tour, which they found cooler and more tranquil. “I would recommend the morning time peaceful and cooler,” notes one, emphasizing how weather can influence enjoyment. On the other hand, a few reviews mention unexpected challenges, such as intense heat or confusion about meeting points, so planning ahead is wise.

Some reviewers note that the experience can vary depending on your guide—with some feeling the flora and fauna knowledge was a bit lacking or the pace was a little tough. Yet, overall, the small group size and the scenic, wildlife-rich environment keep most happy and coming back.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for nature lovers, active travelers, and those eager to learn about local wildlife. If you enjoy moderate hiking with rewarding views, you’ll appreciate the effort it takes. It’s also a good pick for mature teens and adults who want to combine physical activity, cultural insights, and scenic beauty in one outing.

However, if you’re not comfortable with hiking or have mobility limitations, this might be a bit too demanding. Also, in very hot weather, some might find the trek less enjoyable, so timing your tour in the cooler morning hours could enhance your experience.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Hiking Jorullo Point tour offers a solid mix of adventure, education, and scenic beauty, especially for those who like to get out into nature with a knowledgeable guide by their side. The inclusion of tequila tasting and professional photography adds a layer of fun that you won’t get on every hike.

You’ll love the stunning vistas, abundant wildlife, and insights into regional flora. The small group size helps keep the experience intimate and engaging. The price point reflects the personalized guides, transportation, and extras, making it a reasonable choice if you want a well-rounded outdoor activity.

That said, it’s not a leisurely walk and requires a fair amount of physical effort—so come prepared. If you’re okay with that, you’re likely to come away with unforgettable memories, fantastic photos, and a new appreciation for the Sierra Madre’s natural wonders.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transport from designated central locations in Puerto Vallarta, making it convenient to join without worrying about your own travel arrangements.

What is the best time of day to go?
You can choose between morning or afternoon departures. Many find the morning tour more peaceful and cooler, which can make the hike more comfortable, especially in warmer months.

How physically demanding is this hike?
The hike is described as somewhat challenging but safe. It involves moderate physical activity and some elevation change, suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The minimum age is 12 years old, so it’s geared toward teenagers and adults. The difficulty level might be too high for younger children or those with mobility issues.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and additional drinks are not included, but bottled water is provided. You can buy souvenirs or DVDs if you wish.

What should I bring?
Comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a swimsuit if you plan to swim at the river. Cameras are not allowed during the hike for safety reasons, but the guide’s photography service is available afterward.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and educational outdoor experience in Puerto Vallarta, the Hiking Jorullo Point tour is a solid choice for adventurous travelers who appreciate nature and a good guide. Just keep in mind your physical limits, and you’ll likely find it a memorable part of your trip.