Puerto Vallarta: Jungle Hike, Waterfall Swim & Bay View

Summary

Puerto Vallarta jungle hike with river swims and mountain lookout

You’ll ride local transport from Puerto Vallarta into lush jungle, hike along winding rivers with a guide who knows every plant, swim beneath cool waterfalls with fish at your feet, and end up gazing over the bay from high above. Expect muddy shoes, fresh fruit breaks, laughter—and a moment of real quiet at the top.

What’s the experience like?

We hopped off the city bus just past Puerto Vallarta’s old center, following our guide—Diego—who knew everyone at the stop. The air was thick and green-smelling, like wet leaves after rain (even though it hadn’t rained that morning). Right away we were picking our way through tangled roots and listening to Diego point out which plants you could eat if you got lost—though honestly I’d probably forget by lunch. We crossed the river three times before I stopped caring about my shoes getting soaked.

The path kept changing—sometimes soft mud, sometimes rocks that made me wobble. Diego spotted a bright blue lizard sunning itself on a log; he grinned and said something about local luck if you see one. After maybe an hour (I lost track), we reached the first waterfall. It wasn’t huge but the sound filled up everything around us. I dunked straight in—cold enough to make me yelp—which made everyone laugh. There were tiny fish darting around my ankles and the smell of fruit from someone peeling an orange nearby.

If you still had energy (I did, somehow), there was another trail up to more waterfalls—a bit steeper but worth it for the view at the top. We ended up on a rocky lookout high above the trees, looking down over the bay with all those little boats dotting the water. I didn’t say much then; it felt like everyone was just taking it in quietly. Sometimes I still think about that view when I’m back in my kitchen doing dishes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jungle hike and waterfall swim

• Meet in old center of Puerto Vallarta
• Take urban transport south of city
• Start walking in tropical forest
• Learn about plants, animals, and river
• Follow rough path crossing river multiple times
• Reach first waterfall after one hour
• Take pictures and rest with water and fruit
• Swim in small lake with fish
• Hike to next set of waterfalls
• End at lookout with bay view

Top questions

How long is the jungle hike near Puerto Vallarta?

The guided hike lasts about 4 hours including stops for swimming and resting.

Is transportation included for this waterfall tour?

Yes, local bus fare from central Puerto Vallarta is included in your day trip.

What should I bring for a day trip to Puerto Vallarta waterfalls?

Wear comfortable shoes that can get wet or muddy and bring swimwear for waterfall swimming.

Can kids join this jungle hike & swim?

The minimum age is 9 years old; maximum is 60 years old due to trail difficulty.

Will there be food or snacks during the hike?

A fruit snack is included during one of the rest stops by the waterfall.

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?

Cruise ship guests should check local time differences as schedules may not always align perfectly.

Do we visit Quimixto waterfall during dry season?

Yes, between April and June when rivers run low, Quimixto waterfall is visited instead (boat fare included).

What’s included

Your day includes city bus fare from central Puerto Vallarta into the jungle, guidance along forest trails with river crossings, fresh fruit for a snack by the falls, plus time to swim under waterfalls before heading up to a mountain lookout over Banderas Bay.