Puerto Vallarta : Jungle Hike, Hidden Beaches & Adventure Park

Exploring Puerto Vallarta’s Jungle Hike, Hidden Beaches & Adventure Park

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and really experience some of Puerto Vallarta’s natural beauty, this tour offers a wonderful mix of scenery, activity, and local charm. It’s designed to take you through some lesser-known spots and pair that with a bit of adventure, making it ideal for those who want a more authentic feel of the area without too much strenuous effort.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how accessible it is — with a manageable 90-minute hike suited for beginners, it’s perfect for newcomers to outdoor activities. Plus, the combination of beautiful beaches and an adrenaline-filled adventure park makes it a well-rounded day.

Of course, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour covers quite a bit in just over seven hours, so packing some snacks and water is smart. Also, if you’re not keen on guided group outings or prefer more flexibility, this might feel a bit structured for your taste.

This tour is best for travelers eager to combine gentle hiking, stunning photo ops, and some fun at an adventure park — especially if you’re okay with a bit of walking, swimming, and trying new activities in one day.

Key Points

• Accessible for Beginners: The hiking part is about 90 minutes long with easy difficulty, making it suitable even if you’re new to walking or hiking.
• Stunning Photo Opportunities: From tiny beaches to panoramic views of the bay, you’ll get plenty of chances for memorable photos.
• Includes Unique Beaches: Playa Colomitos is known as “the smallest beach in Mexico,” a neat spot that feels almost secret.
• Adventure Fun: The park at Las Animas offers over 20 activities—think suspension bridges, rock climbing, and even a rope web at 20 meters high.
• Food and Relaxation: The tour includes a stop for fresh seafood and time to relax on Playa Las Animas, perfect for unwinding after walking.
• Good Value: For $170, you get transportation, park activities, and access to some of Puerto Vallarta’s quieter treasures — a pretty solid deal considering what’s included.

Diving Into the Details: What This Tour Offers

Starting Point and Early Exploration

The tour kicks off in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romántica, with a pickup at around 9:30 am. It begins with a brief visit to Boca de Tomatlan, a picturesque village where your guide will share a bit of local history and point out the area’s charm. This is a quick stop, just about 10 minutes, mainly to prepare you with water or snacks before hitting the trail.

This initial segment sets the tone, giving you a taste of local life before heading into nature’s more lush and secluded spots.

First Beach Stop: Playa Colomitos

The first real highlight is Playa Colomitos, often called “the smallest beach in Mexico.” You’ll love the way it looks straight out of a postcard — tiny, golden, with clear blue waters perfect for a quick swim or just soaking up the sun. Spending about an hour here, you’ll have time to take photos, dip your toes in the water, or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

This spot is a favorite among those who want a picture-perfect beach without the crowds. Many reviews mention how breathtaking it is, making the effort to reach it worthwhile.

Lunch Break at Playa Las Animas

Next, the tour takes you to Playa Las Animas, where authentic local food awaits. Here, you can indulge in freshly made seafood, with dishes costing around $20 USD — a treat that many say is worth every peso. The relaxed vibe and delicious fare offer a nice break before the next adventure.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll appreciate the chance to taste genuine flavors in a scenic setting. Plus, the beach here is perfect for a quick swim or just lounging with a drink in hand.

Adventure Park: Thrills at Las Animas Beach

One of the tour’s highlights is the Adventure Park at Las Animas Beach. It’s packed with over 20 activities, including suspension bridges, via ferratas, rock climbing, and high rope courses. The park is set about 20 meters above the ground, offering adrenaline-pumping fun amid the treetops.

If you’re someone who loves a bit of adrenaline, you’ll find this part exciting. If you prefer more relaxed experiences, just enjoy watching others or taking a break in the beautiful surroundings. The park’s ticket is included, so it’s a hassle-free way to challenge yourself or just enjoy the scenery from a different perspective.

Relaxing at Playa Las Animas

Finally, the tour winds down with about 90 minutes to unwind at Playa Las Animas again. You can sip a fresh drink, dip your feet in the calm waters, or lounge on the beach. Many folks find this the perfect end to a day filled with activity.

The beach is calm, scenic, and offers a peaceful retreat after a busy day exploring. Plus, you can enjoy your favorite beverages or simply soak up the sun on one of the beachfront bunkhouses.

Transportation and Overall Experience

Transportation is organized smoothly, with water taxis and private rides making the logistics easier, so you won’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or schedules. The entire day is designed to be manageable, with a good balance of activities and downtime.

Group sizes are limited (maximum of 15 travelers), which helps keep things intimate and more personalized. Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, adding context and making sure everyone stays safe and engaged.

Considering the price of $170, the inclusion of transportation, park activities, and access to some of Puerto Vallarta’s more hidden beaches offers solid value. Compared to standalone excursions, you’re getting a well-rounded adventure that combines nature, culture, and fun.

What’s Missing?

A few minor points to consider — the tour does not include food or drinks beyond what’s available at the stops, so bringing some extra snacks and water is wise. Also, photos are not included, so if capturing every moment is important to you, be prepared to purchase or take your own pictures.

Weather can impact the experience—if it’s a rainy day, the hike and activities might be less enjoyable or could be canceled, though a full refund or reschedule is offered in such cases.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure suits travelers who want an active day mixed with scenic beauty and a touch of adventure. It’s excellent for those who enjoy easy hikes, are curious about local beaches, and like trying out new activities like rock climbing or hanging bridges.

If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even solo and like the idea of a guided day that covers a lot of ground without being overly strenuous, this could be a perfect fit. It’s also ideal for those seeking an authentic, less touristy side of Puerto Vallarta.

However, if you’re looking for a relaxed, all-day beach lounging experience or require accommodations for specific dietary or mobility needs, you might find this tour a bit too active or structured.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the hike is about 90 minutes long with a difficulty level suitable for beginners. It’s designed to be accessible for most travelers.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, transportation by water taxi and private vehicle, and access to the Adventure Park at Las Animas Beach.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are stops where you can purchase food, especially fresh seafood at Playa Las Animas.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish.

What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Since you’ll be in and out of water and on the trails, packing light and practical is best.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While it’s generally suitable for most travelers, the adventure park’s activities might be best suited for older children or teens comfortable with heights and physical activity.

In essence, this Puerto Vallarta tour offers a fantastic blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation. It’s perfect for those who want a manageable yet memorable day exploring some of the area’s most beautiful and hidden spots. Whether you’re snapping photos of tiny beaches, testing your courage on high ropes, or simply soaking in stunning views, it’s a day that hits many marks. Just remember to come prepared for a full day of fun and discovery.