Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta: Private Transfer with Tequila & Sayulita Stops

Summary

Private transfer from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta with local stops and flexible sightseeing

You’ll start your journey in Guadalajara with hotel pickup and a friendly local driver who knows every shortcut—and every good snack stop too. Pause for tequila tasting in Tequila or wander Sayulita’s sunny streets before reaching Puerto Vallarta’s coast. The ride is yours: comfortable seats, bottled water, maybe even some stories you’ll remember long after you’ve unpacked.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the drive from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta to feel like its own little adventure. Our driver, Javier, showed up right on time—he even helped wrangle my overstuffed suitcase into the van without a word of complaint (I saw him smirk at the stickers on it though). The air outside was already warming up, but inside it was cool and smelled faintly like lime. We’d barely pulled away before he asked if we wanted to stop in Tequila—honestly, how could I say no? He said it’s almost a crime not to.

The road out of Guadalajara is busy, but as we got closer to Tequila, everything just slowed down. The blue agave fields looked unreal in the morning haze. Javier told us about his cousin who works at one of the distilleries—he pointed out which one, and I still remember the way he pronounced “Herradura,” rolling the R so hard I tried and failed to copy him (he laughed, so at least someone enjoyed my attempt). We walked around town for a bit—there was this smell of roasting agave everywhere. I bought a tiny bottle that probably won’t make it home unopened.

After that, we had options. You can stop in Tepic or Guayabitos, but we decided on Sayulita because someone told me it’s got this laid-back surfer vibe. It did—not sure if it was the heat or just everyone moving slow after lunch. We grabbed tacos near the plaza; they came wrapped in paper that stuck to my fingers a little from the salsa. There were kids chasing each other barefoot across the street and a guy selling bracelets with his radio playing old cumbia songs. I could’ve stayed longer but honestly, by then I just wanted to see the ocean.

The last stretch into Puerto Vallarta felt quiet—just that salty smell starting to sneak in through the windows and sunlight bouncing off everything. Javier dropped us right at our Airbnb door, waved goodbye like he’d known us forever, then disappeared into traffic. I still think about that drive sometimes—it wasn’t just a transfer; it felt like getting gently nudged into vacation mode before you even unpack your bag.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private transfer from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta

• Pickup in Guadalajara at chosen time
• Load luggage into vehicle
• Travel towards Puerto Vallarta
• Optional stop at Tequila for 120 minutes
• Optional stop at Tepic for 120 minutes
• Optional stop at Guayabitos for 90 minutes
• Optional stop at Sayulita for 120 minutes
• Optional stop at Bucerías for 90 minutes
• Learn about local culture during trip
• Arrive and drop off at desired location in Puerto Vallarta

Top questions

Is this transfer from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta private?

Yes, it’s a private transfer just for your group with an English-speaking driver.

Can we choose where to stop along the way?

Yes, you can pick sightseeing stops like Tequila or Sayulita for up to 2 hours each.

How much luggage can we bring?

Sedans fit 3 suitcases; vans fit up to 7 suitcases plus cabin bags.

Is hotel pickup included in Guadalajara?

Yes, pickup from your hotel or accommodation is included.

Are infant seats available?

Specialized infant seats are available on request.

Is lunch included during the transfer?

No set lunch is included but there’s time for a lunch break at stops.

Will our driver speak English?

Yes, your local driver speaks English and knows the area well.

How long does the whole trip take?

The direct drive is about 5 hours; sightseeing stops add extra time depending on choices.

What’s included

Your trip includes private door-to-door pickup in Guadalajara, an English-speaking local driver who handles your luggage and knows all the best routes, bottled water for everyone onboard, air-conditioned comfort whether you’re riding solo or with friends or family (vans available), all taxes and fees covered—and plenty of chances for sightseeing breaks or lunch along the way before drop-off anywhere you want in Puerto Vallarta.